2026 CNH Missions Conference - Register Now

We are thrilled to invite you to the 2026 Missions Conference for a day of renewal, connection, and vision. After several years away, the CNH Missions Conference is back, and registration is now open!

Date: May 16, 2026 

Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm 

Location: Our Savior Lutheran Ministries - Livermore, CA (MAP) 

Cost: $25 includes snacks and lunch 

Join pastors, ministry leaders, and congregations from across the California–Nevada–Hawaii District on May 16, 2026, at Our Savior Lutheran Ministries in Livermore, CA for a day designed to inspire, encourage, and refocus our shared work of making Christ known. 

This year’s gathering is more than a conference. It’s a moment to reconnect as a district, celebrate where God is already at work, and imagine together what the future of mission can look like in our communities. 

You’ll hear from two outstanding keynote speakers who will challenge and encourage us in the mission ahead...

SPEAKERS

Andy Becker 

Manager of Family Discipleship Office of National Mission — LCMS 

Andy will speak on “Mission Drift: Reclaiming Our Why in a Changing World.” 

In every generation, the Church faces the subtle pull of mission drift—the slow movement away from the core reason we exist. Programs expand, priorities shift, and the pace of cultural change accelerates. In the midst of it all, congregations can lose clarity about their true purpose. 

Together we will rediscover the Church’s unchanging “why”: making Christ known. This keynote will explore how congregations can refocus on the Gospel, align their ministries with their calling, and move forward with renewed clarity and confidence in a rapidly changing world. 

Karl Vaters  Author, Pastor, and Advocate for Small Church Ministry 

Karl has written extensively about the realities and opportunities of small church ministry—where nearly 90% of pastors serve. His passion is helping leaders recognize the unique strengths of smaller congregations and equipping them to lead faithfully and effectively. 

He also believes that large and small churches are not competitors but partners, and that when they work together, the entire Church is strengthened. Karl’s insights will encourage and equip pastors and congregations of every size to thrive in the mission field God has placed before them. 

Whether you are a pastor, church worker, lay leader, or simply passionate about sharing the Gospel, this day will leave you encouraged, connected, and energized for the mission ahead. 

Spots are limited, so be sure to secure your place today. 

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

Need a hotel recommendation in Livermore?   All of these hotels are near the CNH Ministry Center

Hilton Garden Inn 

Holiday Inn & Suites 

Home2Suites (undergoing renovations but still taking reservations)  

Meet Karl Vaters: A Voice for the Pastoral Majority

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to "get big or get out," Karl Vaters is the breath of fresh air you need. With over 40 years of pastoral experience, Karl has dedicated his ministry to debunking the myth that "bigger is always better".

He is the author of game-changing resources that empower the 90% of churches that average under 200 people:

Small Church Essentials: A field-tested guide that helps leaders stop believing lies about church size and start focusing on unique kingdom strengths.

De-Sizing the Church: His latest work (formerly known by the working title Designing the Church) which challenges the "obsession" with numeric science and points us back to biblical vitality.

Karl doesn’t just offer theories; he offers practical tools for healthy, vibrant ministry in your specific context. Whether you are a pastor, a lay leader, or a missions enthusiast, you will leave inspired to see your church as God sees it—vital, effective, and exactly where it needs to be.

Don't miss this opportunity to gather at the CNH Ministry Center and reimagine the future of our missions together.