CBA 2026 Annual Conference
Deep in the Heart: Mission. Renewal. Connection.
December 1–3, 2026
Hyatt Regency Riverwalk • San Antonio, Texas
Join benefit leaders from across the country for three days of learning, fellowship, and renewal dedicated to advancing faith-based benefits.
Registration Opens in August
“Gathered in purpose, strengthened in community, renewed in mission.”
Join Us in San Antonio
The CBA 2026 Annual Conference brings together faith-based benefit leaders for three days of renewal, collaboration, and shared mission.
Inspired by the spirit and culture of San Antonio, this year’s gathering reflects the importance of sustaining those who serve in ministry.
Mission — strengthening benefits for clergy and families
Renewal — sustaining long-term wellbeing
Connection — building collaboration across institutions
This flagship event brings together professionals nationwide to exchange ideas, foster innovation, and advance shared impact.
Schedule
Tuesday, December 1
9:00–10:15 AM
CBA Annual Meeting
9:00 AM–1:00 PM
Exhibitor Set-Up
9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Healthcare TIG & Lunch
10:30–11:45 AM
Church Alliance Annual Meeting
12:00–1:00 PM
CBA CEO & Board Lunch
12:00–5:00 PM
Registration Open
1:00–6:30 PM
Exhibits Open
1:30 PM — Conference Begins
1:30–3:00 PM
TIG Meetings
1:30–3:00 PM
Church Alliance Core Lawyers Working Group (For CLWG Members Only)
3:15–4:45 PM
TIG Meetings
5:00–5:30 PM
First-Time Attendee Meet & Greet
5:30–6:30 PM
Networking Reception
6:45–7:00 PM
Welcome & Blessing
7:00–8:15 PM
Dinner & Program
Wednesday, December 2
7:00–5:00 PM
Registration
7:00–6:00 PM
Exhibits Open
7:30–8:45 AM
Breakfast Buffet
9:00–9:30 AM
Morning Reflection & Inspiration
Rev. Dr. Victoria White, Vice President of Grants and Programs, Church Benefits Association
9:30–10:30 AM
Opening Plenary: Economic Wisdom for Faith-Based Benefits: Guiding Your Plan Through Global Trends
David Bahnsen, Founder, Managing Partner & Chief Investment Officer, The Bahnsen Group
Economic uncertainty continues to shape decisions facing faith-based benefit organizations. This session provides a timely macroeconomic outlook and practical insights into retirement plans, healthcare costs, investments, and long-term benefits strategy.
10:30–11:00 AM
Networking & Refreshment Break
11:00–12:00 PM
Plenary Session
1:30–2:00 PM
Clergy Wellness Celebration
Get excited and join Billy Norden and Victoria White as we celebrate the 2027 grant recipients and honor the organizations whose vision and leadership are strengthening clergy wellness. We will reflect on the collective and shared learnings that have emerged through the grant process, honoring the collaboration, creativity, and commitment that shaped this first round. We will look ahead with hope toward the second round of grants in 2028 and the continued possibilities for supporting sustainable, life-giving clergy wellness programs across our member organizations.
2:15–3:30 PM
Lone Star Learning Session:
Everyone Wants AI. Now What? Leading GenAI with Discipline
John Gallo, Vice President, ITS Operations, Church Pension Group
Denny Ferreira, Assistant Vice President, Client Engagement
Organizations are facing growing demand for AI tools and solutions, but without a clear approach, adoption can become fragmented, inconsistent, and difficult to govern. Join the Church Pension Group for a look at how they're approaching AI discovery. They'll share how they evaluate use cases, conduct due diligence, engage stakeholders, measure outcomes, and decide what moves forward—and what doesn't. Attendees will leave with practical ideas and lessons learned that they can apply within their organizations, regardless of where they are in their AI journey.
2:15–3:30 PM
Lone Star Learning Session:
Beyond the Check: Grants as a Tool for Leadership, Capacity Building, and Strategic Growth
Rev. Dr. Victoria White, Vice President of Grants and Programs, Church Benefits Association
Rev. Billy Norden, Assistant Vice President of Grants and Programs, Church Benefits Association
 
Grants can do more than fund programs—they can strengthen leadership, build capacity, and advance an organization's mission. In this interactive session, Victoria White and Billy Norden will explore how to pursue the right funding by aligning grant opportunities with organizational priorities, capacity, and long-term strategy. Participants will learn practical strategies for developing stronger proposals, including framing a compelling need, connecting activities to outcomes, building realistic budgets, and demonstrating readiness for implementation. Drawing on insights from their grant work, Victoria and Billy will share what successful proposals have in common and offer tools to help organizations maximize opportunities and create lasting impact.
2:15–3:30 PM
Lone Star Learning Session:
The New Reality of Retirement: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities for America's Retirees
Roberta Rafaloff, Head of Institutional Income Annuities, MetLife
 ![]() Retirement in America is changing. Longer life expectancies, evolving workforce patterns, inflation concerns, and the shift from defined benefit to defined contribution plans are reshaping how individuals prepare for—and experience—retirement. Join Roberta Rafaloff, Head of Institutional Income Annuities at MetLife, for a data-driven look at the current state of retirement in the U.S. She will explore the financial, demographic, and behavioral trends influencing today's retirees, discuss the growing importance of guaranteed lifetime income, and share insights into how retirement plan sponsors can help participants achieve greater financial security. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the retirement landscape and practical considerations for supporting participants throughout their retirement journey.
3:30–3:45 PM
Networking & Refreshment Break
3:45–4:45 PM
Plenary: The Changing Landscape of Faith in America
Ryan Burge, Ph.D., Professor of Practice, John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics, Washington University in St. Louis
Drawing on survey data and longitudinal research, this session explores declining church attendance, the rise of the religiously unaffiliated, and generational shifts shaping faith in America. Ryan Burge will examine key trends—from denominational changes to evolving patterns of belonging—and connect them to the challenges facing faith-based organizations. Attendees will gain clarity on who is disengaging, who remains connected, and how institutions can respond with purpose. Grounded in data and focused on application, this session will help leaders align mission, pursue renewal, and reimagine connection in a changing environment.
5:00–6:00 PM
Networking Reception
Thursday, December 3
7:00–8:15 AM
Breakfast Buffet
7:00–8:15 AM
Exhibits Open
8:00–10:30 AM
Exhibitor Tear Down
8:30–8:45 AM
Morning Reflection & Inspiration
Rev. Billy Norden, Assistant Vice President of Grants and Programs, Church Benefits Association
8:45–10:15 AM
Washington Update and Church Alliance Report
10:15–10:30 AM
Closing Remarks
10:30 AM — Conference Ends
Registration
Registration Opens in August
Stay tuned for official registration launch details
Full Attendee Registration
$475
Includes full access to sessions, networking events, and materials.
- Topical Interest Group meetings
- All Plenary & Learning Sessions
- Exhibit access
- Meals & Networking Events
- Post-event recordings
Guest Registration
$275
For non-industry guests attending social events only.
- Exhibit access
- Meals & Networking Events
Hotel
Hyatt Regency Riverwalk — San Antonio, TX
The 2026 Annual Conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Riverwalk in the heart of San Antonio.
Group Rate: $225/night
Housing Deadline: November 9, 2026
Hotel Link Available in August
Hotel Address:
Hyatt Regency Riverwalk 123 Losoya Street San Antonio, TX 78205
Partner with Us
Join a distinguished network advancing the health and wellness of those who serve the Church. Sponsorship provides direct access to decision-makers from faith-based benefit organizations.
This is a unique opportunity to elevate visibility, build partnerships, and demonstrate commitment to supporting church workers and ministries.
Unmatched Visibility
Position your brand throughout the conference experience.
Targeted Engagement
Connect directly with leaders in faith-based benefits.
Mission Alignment
Demonstrate commitment to supporting church workers.
For sponsorship inquiries, contact: Cuyler O’Connor, Strategic Partnerships Manager.
2026 Conference Sponsors
Travel Information
Getting to San Antonio
The primary airport for the conference is San Antonio International Airport (SAT), located approximately 15–20 minutes from the Hyatt Regency Riverwalk.
Transportation Options
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft are widely available at SAT with designated pickup zones.
Taxis
Taxi service is available outside baggage claim with flat-rate downtown access.
Rental Cars
Rental car services are available at the airport, though not required for downtown stays.
Local Dining
Dining Near the Riverwalk
Enjoy a wide variety of restaurants within walking distance of the Hyatt Regency Riverwalk — from casual cafés to upscale Texas dining.
Experience San Antonio in December!
While you're in San Antonio for the CBA Annual Conference, take time to explore the city’s rich culture, historic landmarks, and vibrant riverfront.
Riverwalk & Downtown
Stroll the famous Riverwalk, lined with restaurants, shops, and scenic pathways.
Historic Landmarks
Visit iconic sites like The Alamo and nearby missions.
Arts & Culture
Explore museums, galleries, and live performances downtown.
Pearl District
Dining, shopping, and markets in a restored historic brewery district.
Seasonal Highlights
Holiday lights, river decorations, and December events throughout the city.
We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio!
CBA 2026 Annual Conference — Deep in the Heart: Mission. Renewal. Connection.
Registration Opens in August
|
