Shifting the Atmosphere 2026
is a national gathering designed to equip congregations with the tools, inspiration, and prophetic imagination needed to transform worship and strengthen community impact. From April 29–May 2, 2026, we will come together in Dallas, Texas, for four days of Spirit-filled formation, practical resourcing, and visionary leadership development.
Hosted at Hamilton Park United Methodist Church by the Junius B. Dotson Institute for Music and Worship in the Black Church and Beyond in partnership with Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century (SBC21), this event is crafted for congregations who are ready to deepen their worship, expand their reach, and reimagine how the Church can meet the spiritual and socio-economic needs of their communities.
Participants will experience interactive workshops, hands-on coaching, dynamic worship, and rich networking opportunities with leaders from across the country. Together, we will explore how Black sacred music, preaching, prayer, and prophetic witness continue to shape congregational vitality and offer hope in our time.
If your ministry team is seeking bold, relevant, and Spirit-led approaches to worship and community engagement, this conference is for you!
This national gathering is open to congregational teams and those involved in congregational leadership—musicians, worship leaders, dancers, pastors, preachers, social-justice and outreach leaders, and those shepherding children and youth—“Shifting the Atmosphere” aims to inspire, instruct, and transform participants through a series of workshops, networking opportunities, and coaching sessions.
Individual registration is $250 until Feb. 28, 2026 ($75 for students). Discounted rates are available of five people or more from single congregations or regional church judicatories.
The Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson, founder and executive director of the Junius B. Dotson Institute, said the spring conference will offer critical coaching for church leaders desiring to affect community transformation through worship and leadership. The Rev. Dr. Michael Bowie, national SBC-21 executive director, said that the spring 2026 training in Dallas will focus on renewal and strategic leadership.
