When I was called to pastor Milford First Brethren Church in late 2012, I knew I was
coming into a larger movement that was somewhat foreign to me. In those early
months, I was resourced and relationally connected to The Brethren Church at several
points. This allowed me to get a sense of who we are and how we do things. I quickly
discovered that the Brethren perspectives matched how the Spirit had been leading me.
Those resources and relational opportunities still exist, yet over time, there has been a
growing sense of ambiguity within our denomination. What is our Brethren identity?
What makes us distinct or unique from anyone else?

Beyond some basic answers, it seems our people, and especially our leaders, are
struggling to articulate in-depth responses to those kinds of questions.
It is our desire as the Executive Team of NABCE to intentionally recapture what has
been lost. Our movement has long been guided by men and women of God who not
only shepherded their communities but also grappled with the theological issues of their
day.

This initial conference will seek to capture and define “The Brethren Way” in a variety of
foundational areas of ministry and theology.

2026 NABCE Symposium

February 2-3 at Ashland Theological Seminary.

For those of you who are licensed or ordained, or in the process of becoming either,
your presence is needed as we consider and discuss these matters together. Please
register ASAP and come anticipating an enriching experience.

See you in February!

Lee Compson
Executive Team
National Association of Brethren Church Elders

P.S. Complimentary housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so register
today! And if you have any questions, email me at midwest@brethrenchurch.org