News About the Denomination The following news items apply to (or affect) the Free Will Baptist denomination scattered across the nation and around the world.To read more about Free Will Baptists and the various departments that make up the national organization, visit www.nafwb.org. Read a brief history of Free Will Baptists in the United States.

NAFWB Recognized by Visit Tampa Bay

Antioch, TN — The National Association of Free Will Baptists (NAFWB) was honored to be recognized by Visit Tampa Bay’s “Meeting the Moment” program, which honors exceptional meetings and conventions making a positive impact on the city. The prestigious award celebrates the denomination’s commitment to leave a positive impact on the National Convention host city, leading by example in the meeting industry.

The “Meeting the Moment” program annually highlights organizations that go beyond traditional event planning to prioritize sustainable practices and community engagement. The NAFWB was honored in the category of Community Engagement Excellence for dedication to IMPACT Tampa projects and the positive impression left by our attendees.

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized in Visit Tampa Bay’s ‘Meeting the Moment’ program,” said Ryan Lewis, convention manager. “Our team is committed to creating events that benefit not only attendees but also the community and the host city.”

Learn more about the 2025 National Convention at nafwb.org/convention/.

WNAC Celebrates 90 Years of Faithfulness

Antioch, TN — WNAC invites all Free Will Baptists to attend the organization’s 90th “birthday party” in Kansas City during this summer's National Convention.

“In the Bible, the number nine often symbolizes fruitfulness,” noted director Ruth McDonald. “Since 1935, God has brought an abundant harvest through the self-sacrificing labors of FWB women. In 2024 alone, they gave $482,605 to missions, church planting, and other ministries worldwide.”

The department will mark this milestone through the GIVING90 campaign to raise funds for future ministries.

WNAC offers these opportunities to celebrate and give:

• Laughter & Latte, Monday, July 21: come “dressed to the nines” by adding a fun accessory, hat, or fancy trimming. A card and donation box will be provided for GIVING90 gifts of $9, $90, $900, or more.
  

• Celebration Service, Tuesday, July 22: bring a GIVING90 donation for our ongoing ministry. The department is asking God for an offering of $9,000.
  

• The WNAC Exhibit will also be set up to receive GIVING90 donations.
  

• If you are unable to attend the National Convention in Kansas City, you may join online (nafwb.org/convention) or contribute to GIVING90 by visiting wnac.org/pushpay/.
  

“As we celebrate 90 years of fruitfulness,” McDonald concluded, “it is our prayer God will bring many more years of faithfulness.”

Free Will Baptist Foundation Awards $600,000 in Grants

Antioch, TN — This year, Free Will Baptist Foundation received 48 grant applications totaling $1.9 million. The organization is grateful to the many ministries that took time to apply.

After deliberation, the Foundation awarded $425,000 toward 18 grants and $175,000 toward eight infrastructure grants. Congratulations to the 2025 grant recipients and infrastructure grant recipients! Find the full list of recipients at fwbgifts.com/.

Free Will Baptist Foundation Makes Leadership Adjustment

Antioch, TN — On May 6, 2025, the Board of Directors of Free Will Baptist Foundation made the following statement:

The Board of Directors of the Free Will Baptist Foundation has made the difficult but necessary decision to dismiss our Chief Executive Officer (General Director), effective immediately. This action follows the confirmation of conduct that violates our organization's ethical standards and leadership expectations.

A leadership transition plan is in development, and the Foundation continues to operate with the mission entrusted to us. We ask for your continued prayers and support as we move forward in humility and resolve, dedicated to honoring Christ in all we do.

— Scott Coghill, Chair