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.

“Gathered in purpose, strengthened in community, renewed in mission.”

CBA 2026 Annual Conference Logo
San Antonio conference location Conference gathering

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–12:00 PM
Financial Literacy & Wellness TIG 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
  • CEO Large Plan
  • CEO Small/Medium Plan
  • Clergy Wellness
  • Chief Financial Officers
  • Chief Investment Officers
  • Client Services
  • Information Technology
1:30–3:00 PM
Church Alliance Core Lawyers Working Group
(For CLWG Members Only)
3:15–4:45 PM
TIG Meetings
  • Communications, Marketing and Education (CMEG)
  • Disability & Life
  • Executive Level “Right Hand” Professionals
  • Growth Leaders
  • Human Resources
  • Internal Oversight
  • Retirement Benefits
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 AM–5:00 PM
Registration
7:00 AM–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
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 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 AM–12:00 PM
Plenary Session: Social Determinants of Health
12:00–1:15 PM
Lunch
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.
2:15–3:30 PM
Lone Star Learning Sessions
  • Everyone Wants AI. Now What? Leading GenAI with Discipline
  • Beyond the Check: Grants as a Tool for Leadership, Capacity Building, and Strategic Growth
  • The New Reality of Retirement: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities for America's Retirees
  • Mental Health & Well-Being in Faith Communities
  • Risk Management: Understanding, Identifying, and Mitigating Risk
  • The Future of Healthcare Costs: Navigating the Impact on Faith-Based Plans
3:30–3:45 PM
Networking & Refreshment Break
3:45–4:45 PM
Plenary: The Changing Landscape of Faith in America
Ryan Burge
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 research, this session explores declining church attendance, changing patterns of belonging, and generational shifts shaping faith in America.
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

Full Attendee Registration

$475

Includes full access to sessions, networking events, and conference 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

Book Your Housing
Hotel Address:
Hyatt Regency Riverwalk
123 Losoya Street
San Antonio, TX 78205
Hyatt Regency Riverwalk

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.

Browse official Riverwalk dining options and explore restaurant listings.

Explore Riverwalk Restaurants →

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.

Register Today!