Province V to Host “Big Provincial Gathering” and Youth Event in Kalamazoo This Summer

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Episcopalians from across the Midwest will gather in Kalamazoo, Michigan, this summer for the Big Provincial Gathering (BPG), a dynamic, collaborative event designed to inspire, equip, and connect lay and clergy leaders in ministry. Hosted by Province V of The Episcopal Church, the gathering will take place July 30–August 1 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and nearby partner sites. Structured as an interactive “ministry fair,” the BPG offers participants the opportunity to share ideas, showcase successful programs, and learn practical strategies for strengthening congregational life. Workshops and conversations will focus on real-world ministry challenges and innovations, with an emphasis on collaboration and resource-sharing across dioceses. The event’s plenary leader will be the Rev. Canon Dr. Lorenzo Lebrija, who will guide participants in exploring faithful, creative approaches to ministry in today’s church.

Running concurrently with the Big Provincial Gathering is the Provincial Youth Event (PYE), a parallel program for students who have completed grades 6–12. Centered on the theme “We Will, With God’s Help,” the youth event invites participants into a shared exploration of the Baptismal Covenant and what it means to live faithfully in community. Youth participants will engage in worship, reflection, and community-building activities, while also joining portions of the larger gathering. The program includes lodging, meals, and structured opportunities for spiritual growth and leadership development.

Both events begin July 30, with pre-event trainings and youth programming, and conclude August 1. The Big Provincial Gathering will be hosted at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Kalamazoo, with additional programming at First Presbyterian Church, located nearby. Youth lodging will take place at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Portage. For more information, contact the Rev. Heather Barta.