2025 National Convention | July 20-23 | Kansas City, MO
Countdown to Kansas City
By Victoria Matlock
Kansas City became a significant spot on the still-developing American map in the early 1800s when trappers and traders began settling along the banks of the Missouri River after the Louisiana Purchase. First dubbed Westport Landing, the community later became The Town of Kansas, and finally, in 1889, evolved into Kansas City.
Located directly upon the three primary trails feeding the Western Expansion (Oregon, California, and Santa Fe), the city exploded in population. By the mid-to-late 1800s, Kansas City had become the major railroad hub for those moving goods, cattle, and natural resources between the cities in the East and the growing Western frontier.
By the turn of the 19th century, suburbs were being built beyond the city center, and today, with more than 200 years of history behind it, Kansas City has developed into a large and diverse metropolitan area with a growing economy and unique culture. July 20-23, 2025, Free Will Baptists will once again have an opportunity to make a mark on Kansas City, as the association returns for the 89th National Convention.
Accept the Mission
Speakers will explore the 2025 convention theme “Accept the Mission.” What is God calling each of us to do? Have we accepted His call, or do we resist His leading? Join us in Kansas City and see how and where God will call you.
Getting Around
The Kansas City Convention Center is conveniently located between the Power and Light District and central downtown. The Kansas City Streetcar offers transportation throughout the city. The free, jump-on, jump-off service spans two miles and stops at 16 popular city destinations.
Sometimes, food is scarce in downtown areas. This is not the case in Kansas City. While Kansas City boasts many wonderful flavors, the city is perhaps best known for its barbecue. This Midwest favorite was introduced in the 1920s by Henry Perry, who began making newspaper-wrapped, slow-cooked pit barbecue. In addition to smoky, savory meat, Kansas City barbecue features a thick, sweet sauce derived from brown sugar, molasses, and tomatoes, and most every restaurant features its own special blend of spices.
Kansas City is proud of its barbecue tradition; the savory development and modifications of the art of barbecue can be traced through the decades. Visitors can enjoy more than a hundred barbecue options throughout the downtown and metro areas.
For those needing a BBQ break (is such a thing possible?) dozens of restaurants of every variety lie within a block of the 16 streetcar stops, so make plans to try local flavors!
Fun for the Whole Family
Families will enjoy endless activities in greater Kansas City. Swope Park offers a family friendly environment with a zoo, playgrounds, walking and hiking trails, and tennis and basketball courts. The River Market offers a local farmer’s market with over a hundred vendors.
Catch a baseball game at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals. Visit dozens of museums available: Shoal Creek Living History Museum, National World War I Museum and Memorial, National Airline History Museum, and the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.
In 2025, the National Association will pass a milestone as we celebrate 90 years together as a denomination (1935-2025). However, being nine decades old hasn’t kept us from trying something new. This year, the states of Kansas and Missouri are working together to help underwrite the cost of the convention. We offer our thanks to our host churches and leaders.
We are excited to spend the week with you! Find more details about next year at nafwb.org/convention.
