EVENTS
Ministry is better together, and through district gatherings, a dynamic annual meeting, great regional events, and local gatherings where we celebrate and learn together, the Central Conference enables shared ministry and relationships among its member churches and institutions.
Through various events, the Central Conference shares the stories of its churches and ministries for the benefit of our collective work in this region. Learn about these opportunities in our conference.
Training for Church Leadership Teams
Join us for a one-day training for church chairs, vice chairs, and anyone planning to take on one of these responsibilities in the near future. The training is intended to provide a strong foundation for lay leaders who fulfill one of these key roles on their leadership team, council, or board.
Cost: $15, registration fee
includes materials and lunch
Date: September 12, 2026
Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Church of the Good Shepherd
Address: 2437 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60432
CCMA FALL RETREAT
The Fall Retreat for Ministers and Spouses is for all members of the Central Conference Ministerial Association (CCMA). Whether you come alone or with your spouse, this is an opportunity for rest, restoration and renewal. It’s an opportunity to connect well with God and with your ministerium family.
Attendee Options:
-
Geneva Bay Center (GBC), Single Occupancy,
two nights, all meals: $307 -
GBC Double Occupancy, two nights, all meals:
$278 -
GBC Triple Occupancy, two nights, all meals:
$252 -
Camp Housing, two nights, all meals, bring own
linens and towels: $202 -
FT Commuter (No Housing), all meals: $149
-
Optional Post Retreat Stay Opportunity
(lodging only): GBC: $72 || Camp Housing: $55
Date: October 4-6, 2026
Location: Covenant Harbor
Address: 1724 W. Main Street Lake Geneva, WI 53147
NextGen Conference
The NextGen Conference is designed for all children, youth, and young adult ministry leaders to find connections, develop leadership skills, be inspired, and be empowered to continue investing in the next generation. You can expect dynamic teaching, passionate worship, breakout sessions led by pace-setting leaders, and opportunities to develop vital relationships. We create this space to partner with you as you engage your call to ministry.
Date: January 16 - 18, 2027
Location: Hyatt Regency Riverfront, Jacksonville, Florida
Address: 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Midwinter 2027
Midwinter isn't just a conference — it's a sanctuary for those who lead and serve. Gather with the Covenant community January 18–22, 2027, at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront in Jacksonville, Florida, and leave strengthened for the work ahead.
Date: January 18 - 22, 2027
Location: Hyatt Regency Riverfront in Jacksonville, Florida
Address: 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202
CCECC Celebration 2027
Our Central Conference Celebration is designed to celebrate the ministries of the Central Conference as well as incorporate the business of the Central Conference Ministerial Association, and the Central Conference Annual Meeting. Harbor Point Ministries annual meeting also takes place during the conference annual meeting. We are grateful that we are moving mission forward together in our conference. We look forward to gathering for this three-day event!
Date: April 29 - May 1, 2027
Location: Zion Covenant Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Address: 1125 N 6th St, Sheboygan, WI 53081
UNITE 2027
Unite is the triennial youth conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church — a formative gathering that invites students into deeper faith, shared life, and God's work in the world. Rooted in Scripture and shaped by the life of the church, Unite creates space for teaching, prayer, service, and joy. Students are called not only to belong — but to be sent.
Registration Rates:
Early Bird: $599 (Aug. 17, 2026 - Jan. 15, 2027)
Regular: $649 (Jan. 16 - Apr. 16, 2027)
Late: $699 (Apr. 17 - Jun. 18, 2027)
Date: July 18-23, 2027
Location: The University of Nebraska - Lincoln
