REFRESH Conference 2026
A dynamic gathering for clergy and lay leaders
October 15–17, 2026 · Hyatt Regency, Louisville, KY
PURPOSE
Join us for a transformative conference designed to pour back into those who pour out — Refresh Conference 2026 is a district-wide gathering designed to strengthen leaders for the work ahead through leadership formation, collaboration, and connection. Across worship, teaching, and guided conversations, clergy and lay leaders will be renewed, resourced, and recharged, so we can return to our local contexts with clarity, unity, and courage.
REGISTRATION OPTIONS
- General Registration (Clergy and Lay Leaders): $155
- NextGen Leaders (Ages 22–40): $129
- Local Church Support Registration: $155
This is a local church support option that helps underwrite the conference. It is not a group registration and does not register any individuals. Individuals still must register separately under Individual Registration.(Please note: This registration is strictly for churches and not for individual registrations. For any required fields that do not apply, please enter "N/A.") - No one-day registration. Attendees pay one rate whether they attend one day or all three.
- Processing fees are included in the registration price.
REGISTRATION ENDS OCTOBER 1, 2026
Your Individual Registration Includes:
- Access to all conference sessions and worship services
- Access to special tracks if selected (Women in Ministry or NextGen Leaders)
- Conference materials
- Three meals included with registration
Note: Church Support Registration does not include conference access or meals since it does not register individuals.
Last day to register is October 1, 2026. All registration transfers and cancellations must be sent to midwestamez@gmail.com, prior to October 1st and from the same email used to register.
Mobile Phone & Text Messaging
Optional — providing your mobile number allows the District to send you important updates, event reminders, and Midwest bulletins via text message. You may opt out at any time by replying STOP.
Conference Track
Conference Needs
List each child/youth attending with their name, age, and dietary needs.
Emergency Contact
First Name
Last Name
Please enter a valid phone number.
Processing fees are included in the registration price.
Tracks: Plenary / Worship · Women in Ministry (WIM) · NextGen · General Track · Pre-Conference (Clergy / Laity / Missionary). This program is preliminary and subject to refinement; speakers, session titles, and final times will be confirmed as the conference approaches.
Wednesday · October 14, 2026
Travel & Arrival Day
Thursday · October 15, 2026
Pre-Conference Day — Workshops & Opening Worship
Friday · October 16, 2026
Full Conference Day — Teaching, Tracks & Worship
Saturday · October 17, 2026
Closing Day — LeadForward Awards & Sending
This program is preliminary and subject to refinement. Speakers, session titles, and final times will be confirmed as the conference approaches.
The Midwest Episcopal District Refresh Conference is a premier annual gathering bringing together more than 150 clergy and lay leaders from across ten Midwestern states and Trinidad and Tobago, representing nearly 100 congregations. Designed as a sacred pause for those who give so much of themselves in service to others, Refresh 2026 creates a dedicated space for pastors and ministry leaders to rekindle their passion, renew their vision, and restore their spiritual vitality.
Held October 15–17, 2026, at Hughlett Temple AME Zion Church in Louisville, Kentucky, this three-day experience weaves together powerful worship, practical workshops, intentional rest, and meaningful connection — all centered on the well-being and long-term effectiveness of those who lead.
This year, we invite mission-aligned businesses, organizations, seminaries, and service providers to invest in the renewal of faith-based leadership by partnering with us through sponsorship and exhibit opportunities.
Sponsorship Levels
- Recognition as the presenting sponsor of Refresh 2026
- Speaking opportunity — 15 min during a general session
- Premier exhibit table in high-traffic area
- Logo on all event materials, district website & signage
- Full-page ad in the digital event program
- Exhibit table in the main hall
- Speaking opportunity — 5 min during a general session
- Logo on event program and conference signage
- Half-page ad in the digital event program
- Exhibit table at the conference
- Quarter-page ad in the digital event program
- Name and logo listed in the digital program
- Name listed in the program as a valued community supporter
- Opportunity to provide branded giveaways for attendee bags
Add-On Opportunities
How to Complete Your Sponsorship
Download the Sponsorship Packet below, complete the commitment form, and return it by August 15, 2026 using one of the following payment methods:
- Check — payable to Midwest Episcopal Area
Mail to: Jones Tabernacle AME Zion Church, 2510 East 34th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46218
Memo: Refresh 2026 Sponsor - Zelle — send to MightyMidwestAMEZion@gmail.com
- Invoice — check the “Request Invoice” box on the commitment form
⚠ Please confirm your interest by August 15, 2026 to ensure recognition in all printed and digital materials.
✉ midwestamez@gmail.com | ☎ 248.358.9307 | 🌐 midwestamez.org
Book your stay at the Hyatt Regency Louisville, the official conference hotel. Enjoy special rates for Refresh Conference 2026 attendees.
Room Rate: $189/night | Parking Rate: $24/night
Hotel: Hyatt Regency Louisville
Address: 320 W Jefferson St, Louisville, KY 40202
Phone: (502) 581-1234