Information

Discover the Okanagan Missions Conference – a regional gathering designed to equip and connect evangelical churches across the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia. Explore our mission, purpose, and how we aim to strengthen your church's engagement in local and global missions.

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to the most common questions about the Okanagan Missions Conference. We've compiled essential information to help you understand our vision, what to expect, and how your church can participate in this vital regional initiative.

1. What's the main idea behind the Okanagan Missions Conference? Why are we putting this together?

The purpose of the Okanagan Missions Conference is to equip and connect evangelical churches across the Okanagan region with practical, biblically grounded missions training and meaningful relational collaboration. The conference exists to strengthen local churches for both local and global mission engagement.

2. Who would benefit most from attending this conference? Is it for everyone, or specific groups?

The conference is designed for: Pastors and church leaders, missions committee members, missions pastors and coordinators, short-term missions leaders, and individuals sensing a call to missions or cross-cultural ministry. Churches at all stages of missions involvement are welcome.

3. Is this conference affiliated with a specific denomination or organization?

No. The Okanagan Missions Conference is intentionally interdenominational and evangelical in nature. While it may partner with trusted missions organizations and church networks, it is not owned or governed by any single denomination or agency.

4. When and where will the conference take place?

The inaugural conference is planned for Fall 2026. Specific dates and venue details will be announced once planning and hosting arrangements are finalized.

5. What topics will be covered?

Conference sessions are expected to include: Biblical foundations of mission, healthy and effective short-term missions practices, cross-cultural ministry principles, long-term partnership models, missionary care and accountability, and developing a church-based missions strategy. Content will be practical, theologically sound, and directly applicable to local church contexts.

6. Will this conference promote short-term or long-term missions?

The conference recognizes the value of both. Emphasis will be placed on healthy, well-prepared short-term missions and sustainable long-term partnerships, with training designed to help churches discern how best to engage responsibly.

7. Is this a fundraising or recruiting event?

No. The primary focus is training, equipping, and connecting churches and leaders. While missions organizations may be present to build relationships and provide information, the conference is not designed to function as a fundraising or recruitment platform.

8. How will churches benefit from attending?

Churches can expect: Better-equipped missions leaders, greater clarity and confidence in missions decision-making, stronger regional relationships with other churches, access to trusted missions resources and expertise, and renewed vision and encouragement for missions engagement.

9. Will there be opportunities for networking and collaboration?

Yes. Intentional time will be built into the conference for conversation, relationship-building, and connection between churches, leaders, and mission organizations across the region.

10. How large is the conference intended to be?

The conference is envisioned as a regional gathering—large enough to foster broad connection, yet small enough to maintain meaningful interaction and relational depth.

11. Can smaller churches or churches new to missions participate?

Absolutely. The conference is intentionally designed to serve churches regardless of size, resources, or current level of missions involvement. Smaller churches often benefit significantly from shared learning and regional collaboration.

12. Will training be practical or primarily inspirational?

Both, with a strong emphasis on practical application. Sessions will aim to inspire while also providing clear frameworks, tools, and next steps that churches can implement immediately.

13. Who will be speaking at the conference?

Speakers will include experienced missions practitioners, church leaders, and trainers who are aligned with evangelical theology and committed to healthy, church-centered missions. Speaker details will be announced closer to the event.

14. How much will it cost to attend?

Registration costs have not yet been finalized. Fees will be kept as accessible as possible, with consideration for churches sending multiple participants.

15. How can our church stay informed or get involved?

Churches will be able to: Join an interest or mailing list, promote the conference within their congregation, send leaders or teams to attend, and participate in prayer and planning as the conference develops. Details for engagement will be shared as planning progresses.

Ready to strengthen your missions capacity?

The Okanagan Missions Conference aims to foster collaboration and equip churches for greater impact. Stay informed about the inaugural Fall 2026 conference, speaker announcements, and registration details. Let's work together to advance missions in the Okanagan Valley.