Convention Office: Important Notice

Friday, October 9, 2026

Dear Fellow Original Free Will Baptists,

On Thursday, October 8, the Convention Executive Committee approved without dissent a motion directing conferences to delay any vote on the proposed revisions to the “Principles of Church Government” until further notice. The purpose of this delay is to allow additional opportunity for feedback and input before votes are taken.

More than eight years ago, our Convention voted to appoint a committee to revise two of our most important documents: the “Articles of Faith” and the “Principles of Church Government.” The revision committee has completed its work, and the proposed revisions to the “Principles of Church Government,” the second and final part of that work, have been sent to the conferences and associations for consideration and a vote.

As the Executive Committee has monitored this process across the denomination, we have concluded that more time is needed for this important work.

The approved motion reads:

“After lengthy and in-depth discussion, Rev. Barry Stallings made a motion, seconded by Rev. Michael Bryan, that in order to provide conferences opportunity for feedback and input on the proposed revisions of the ‘Principles of Church Government,’ conferences shall delay any vote on the current proposed revisions until further notice.”

The motion carried without dissent.

We recognize that this notice comes shortly before some scheduled meetings and may disrupt plans already made. Following careful deliberation, we believe this delay best serves our denomination at this time.

Please share this notice promptly with those responsible for conference agendas and proceedings. Further information about the process and next steps will be provided as it becomes available.

Thank you for your commitment to and love for our denomination. Please continue to bathe this matter in prayer as we seek to move forward together in Christ.

Dr. R. J. Warren

OFWB Convention President