When I was in high school there was a song that came out by REO Speedwagon, who happened to be one of my favorite bands at the time, called Keep the Fire Burning. As I penned this article I could not help but hum that song as I was writing. I even put it on youtube as I finished this article.  Even though the song is far from spiritual I do hope that as we move into 2026 we can “Keep the Fire Burning”  that God began in us in 2025. 

As we step into 2026, we do so with deep gratitude for what God has done and great anticipation for where He is leading us next. The year 2025 was not simply a good year for the Baptist State Convention of Michigan—it was a formative one. It was a year marked by prayer, unity, generosity, and Gospel fruit. And now, rather than slowing down or resetting, we are committed to keep moving forward in the direction God began among us.

The evidence of that momentum is clear. In 2025, giving to missions across our convention increased by nearly 15% to almost 1 million dollars. Even more encouraging, our three special mission offerings—State Missions, North American Missions, and International Missions—were up a remarkable 26% to over ½ million dollars. Overall donations from churches and partners rose by more than 6%, reflecting a growing trust in the shared mission God has given us. These are not just numbers; they represent lives being reached, missionaries being sent, and churches being resourced to accelerate Gospel movement across Michigan and beyond.

We also rejoiced in visible spiritual fruit. Baptisms in Michigan were up 15% to over 1,650. And average church attendance increased by nearly 20% to over 22,000 weekly. Those numbers point to people encountering Jesus, believers taking bold steps of obedience, and churches engaging their communities with renewed faith and expectancy. God is clearly at work, and we give Him all the glory!

Much of 2025 was intentionally focused on prayer and on loving and supporting our pastors across the state. We believe that when leaders are prayed for, encouraged, and cared for, churches are healthier and more effective. That emphasis will not fade in 2026. Prayer will remain foundational, and our commitment to walk alongside pastors will remain strong. At the same time, we are expanding our focus. In 2026, strengthening our churches will rise to a high priority in our finances, our energy, and our collective efforts.

One of the most tangible ways we are investing in church strengthening in 2026 is through our 5 regional Strengthening Labs located across the state. These practical, interactive labs are designed to help churches immediately and effectively engage their communities, equip their people, and expand God’s Kingdom in real, measurable ways. Whether your church is small or large, rural or urban, these labs will provide tools, encouragement, and relationships that can make a difference right away. We truly cannot wait for you to attend and experience them!

Church planting was another standout area in 2025. God allowed us to see 20 new churches planted and new congregations join our convention family. These churches represent fresh gospel presence in communities that desperately need the Hope of the Gospel. As we look ahead, 2026 is already shaping up to be another banner year for church planting and new partnerships, and we are excited to see how God will continue to expand His Kingdom through these efforts.

At the heart of all of this is our desire to walk with you. The Baptist State Convention of Michigan exists to help accelerate Gospel movement as we serve, support, and partner with our churches. We are here when you need counsel, resources, prayer, or encouragement—anytime. Together, we are accelerating Gospel movement, not by human strength alone, but by faithfully responding to God’s call on our lives corporately.

The apostle Paul captures this spirit well in Philippians 3:13–14, where he writes that he does not claim to have already arrived, but instead forgets what is behind and presses on toward what lies ahead, straining toward the goal God has set. In its context, Paul is speaking of ongoing faithfulness and growth in Christ, and that same posture guides us now—not resting on past successes, but pressing forward in obedience.

As we move into 2026, the invitation is clear: jump in with us. Pray with us. Partner with us. Let’s continue moving forward together and watch God do even more than we could ask or imagine in the year ahead!