Statement from Dr. Aaron D. Burgner On Being Elected President of the 2026 SBC Pastors Conference
I am deeply humbled and profoundly grateful to have been entrusted with the privilege of serving as President of the 2026 Southern Baptist Convention Pastors Conference. This honor is not one I take lightly, nor is it one I claim for myself—it belongs to the Lord who has graciously allowed me to serve His people in this capacity.
“I thank my God every time I remember you,” as Paul wrote to the Philippians, and that is exactly how I feel about my fellow pastors across our great convention. To be chosen to serve alongside and minister to the faithful men who have devoted their lives to proclaiming God’s Word is both overwhelming and deeply motivating.
Over the past 25 years of pastoral ministry, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible challenges and immeasurable joys that come with shepherding God’s people. From my early days as a student pastor to serving congregations across North Carolina, Florida, Kentucky, and Louisiana, I have been continually reminded that “we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all surpassing power is from God and not from us.”
My prayer for the 2026 Pastors Conference is that it would be a time of genuine encouragement, biblical renewal, and renewed passion for the Great Commission. I long for us to gather not simply as colleagues, but as brothers united in our calling to “preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.”
As we look ahead to 2026, my heart’s desire is threefold:
First, that we would be refreshed in our commitment to Christ-centered biblical exposition. The Word of God must remain central to everything we do, for “faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
Second, that we would be reignited in our passion for the Great Commission. Whether ministering in small rural communities or growing urban centers, we are all called to the same mission: making disciples of all nations.
Third, that we would be renewed in our love for one another as brothers in ministry. The pastoral calling can be isolating, but we need not walk alone. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
I am especially grateful for the faithful partnership of my wife Tiffany, who has walked alongside me in ministry for over two decades, and for the congregation at Lakes Church, who have supported and encouraged my service to our denomination. Their prayers and support make this opportunity possible.
My hope is that the 2026 Pastors Conference will be remembered not for any platform I might provide, but for how God moves among His servants to strengthen, encourage, and equip us for the vital work He has called us to do. May we leave that gathering more committed than ever to faithfully proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ in our communities and to the ends of the earth.
“To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”
I covet your prayers as we begin this journey together, and I look forward to serving each of you in the days ahead.
For His Glory,
Dr. Aaron D. Burgner
Senior Pastor, Lakes Church
President, 2026 SBC Pastors Conference
