Are you ready to Arch your expectations for 2026?

The MCCGSL team is cooking up something bigger than a Provel-topped pizza and sweeter than Gooey Butter Cake! We are thrilled to invite you to the MCC West Central USA Network Gathering, hosted right here in St. Louis, MO, from Friday, October 16th to Sunday, October 18th.

Our theme is GATEWAY, and we aren’t just talking about the big shiny monument in our backyard. We are opening the doors to a "Gateway" of possibilities:

• Gateway to Participation for all people 

• Gateway to Community, Liberation, and a Thriving Church 

• Gateway to the Digital Space 

• Gateway to Reconnection 

The "Meet Me in St. Louis" Itinerary (In the Works!):

• Friday: Enjoy a 1st- night kickoff: fun-and-food-gathering is a Dinner Church Worship Service led by Rev. Eli Anthony and Rev. Joy Simpon.  (included in your registration fee)

• Saturday: Spend time in discussions and networking with each other and are renowned experts.  And, lunch is provided on Saturday (also included in your registration fee)

  • Rev. Elder Rich Hendricks (MCC) and Rev. Dr. Kristen Leslie (UMC) and Chaplain Ylisse Bess as our co-presenters/leaders of a timely and interactive discussion around ways MCC continues to follow Rev. Elder Troy Perry's footsteps.  We can all share the ways we can dream and share together -- as we navigate the challenges in our communities and our congregations.  They will help us look at new or continued ways to be the Hope and Love and Support in our Communities.

  • Atem Richardson is a paid "regional equality organizer" with PROMO (the Missouri LGBTQ+ public policy and advocacy organization)

     Atem will lead a Self Interest Training Workshop.

• Sunday: A massive, unified worship celebration! We’re inviting home congregations from near and far to join us online so we can be one big "Spirit of St. Louis." 

Please send your feedback, ideas, and "million-dollar" budget answers to WestCentralUSANetwork@mccchurch.net, who will report back to the planning team.

Let’s make 2026 a year of incredible breakthroughs. We can’t wait to welcome you to St. Louis!