God calls us His children. He knows us by name. Jesus said the very hairs on our heads are numbered. So, why do so many of us struggle with a sense of belonging? The Belonging 2025 Conference and General’s Congress in Milwaukee, Wis., June 3-8, 2025, will explore the idea that all of us have a place of belonging, found in Jesus, celebrated with other believers and in community, and leading us to champion God’s mission in the world. This week is designed for anyone connected with The Salvation Army: soldiers, corps attendees, officers, employees, volunteers, family, and friends. In June, it’s the place to be to connect, equip and worship.
A Time for Connecting
There will be many opportunities to see friends and make new ones. During the conference, delegates can connect during meals like networking lunches. Belonging Spaces, grouped around areas of interest or experience, will provide welcoming places strategically placed around the theater and Baird Center. Come discover new ministries and celebrate experiences and people.
A Time for Equipping
Nearly 90 workshops will be offered covering a broad range of topics including areas of ministry, service, partnerships, leadership, spiritual development, skill development, programming, spiritual health and wellness, and relationships.
A Time for Worshipping
Each day of the conference will begin with worship and devotions called “M\orning Connection.” Music and Creative Arts Ministries will play an important part. The musical, “Belongings,” will be performed three times and a variety of musical groups, including the Chicago Staff Band and the Central Territorial Staff Songsters, will participate. As well, the Rising Stars Festival will be held. God’s Word will be shared, and our hearts encouraged by General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham.
Here are some of the daily highlights:
Tuesday, June 3
– Welcome Dinner with Keynote Address by Nona Jones
– Wednesday, June 4
– Morning Connection with Commissioner Evie Diaz
– Workshops • Trade Central • Networking Lunch
– “Belongings” the Musical — Preview Performance
Thursday, June 5
– Morning Connection with Lt. Colonel Nick & Major Kerry Coke
– Workshops • Trade Central • Networking Lunch
– Commencement & Awards Dinner – The General will speak
– “Belongings” the Musical – Opening Night
Friday, June 6
– Morning Connection with Dr. Bill & Rev. Diane Ury
– Territorial Officers’ Councils
– Workshops • Trade Central
– General Session “Belonging to God”
– Youth Afterglow
Saturday, June 7
– Rising Stars Festival Performances & Awards
– General Session “Belonging to the Body”
– SA Gaming Tournament • Trade Central
– “Belongings” the Musical — Final Performance!
– General Session “Belonging to Community “
– Youth Afterglow
Sunday, June 8
– General Session “Belonging to the Mission”
– Commissioning & Ordination of the “Champions of the Mission” session
Many people have signed up since registration opened, but there’s room for more! Cost is just $45 for those who are age 26 or older until March 1, 2025, then it increases to $50. Those 25 and younger register for free! Programming for children, called “Kids’ Congress,” is only $25 per child for the week and includes exciting and fun activities.
Register now to reserve your place in workshops and hotels closest to the Baird Center and the Miller High Life Theatre at www.belonging2025.org
