Rooted, Revived and Reaching

The theme for the Southwest Region Conference in 2026 rests in three words, “Rooted, Revived and Reaching.” As we begin this new year, we believe these three ingredients form the required mix to advance God’s church in our ever-evolving, contemporary and diverse world.

Rooted

It’s been said that a tree without deep roots can’t withstand life’s storms. Likewise, a church that isn’t rooted in the Word of God is unable to stand against the storms of life. But when a church is rooted, it doesn’t shift or move with societal norms, cultural biases or personal preferences.

Jeremiah 17:7-8 says it well, “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought.”

More than ever, we must know what we believe and why we believe it. This is being rooted in the Word.

Revived

Genesis 2:7 teaches that “God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul,” (KJV). Adam had form and a body, but he didn’t come to life until God breathed His Spirit in him.

Similarly, the church can’t come to life until God’s Spirit is breathed in it. Our ministries can’t come to life until God’s Spirit is breathed in them. Our plans can’t come to life until God’s Spirit is breathed in them. Our cities and communities can’t come to life until God’s Spirit is breathed in them.

Yes, we need the Word of God, but we also need the Holy Spirit to breathe in us. We need to be revived by God’s Spirit because it’s the Holy Spirit who gives life and power to God’s church.

Reaching

Finally, our desire in 2026 is to be a reaching church. Christ’s Gospel commission is about reaching people. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” Matthew 28:19-20. 

It’s good to have nice buildings, storied histories, friendly fellowship and wonderful worship in our churches, but God’s church must also be reaching men, women, boys and girls for Jesus Christ. Evangelism through revivals, worship experiences, ministry programs, outreach initiatives and Christlike living, all bathed in love, must be evident in our churches as we seek to reach individuals for God’s kingdom. Evangelism, reaching people, is the lifeblood of the church. Ultimately, it’s why we exist.

As we enter 2026, my prayer is that our churches be “Rooted, Revived and Reaching,” where we’re rooted in the Word, revived by God’s Spirit and reaching souls for God’s kingdom.

By Carlton P. Byrd, D. Min.
President