Join us at the First Baptist Church in Chattanooga for a groundbreaking assembly that unites Cooperative Baptist Fellowship organizations across three states. Our theme, ‘TAG! You’re It!’, invites you to engage in dynamic discussions and workshops focused on children’s ministry. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with fellow faith leaders.
This fall, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship organizations from Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia are coming together for the first time to host a shared annual gathering. The theme, “TAG! You’re It!” celebrates our unique tri-state collaboration and invites us to boldly step into a vibrant future of ministry. This year’s assembly will focus on children’s ministry, exploring innovative approaches and trends that empower us to nurture faith in the next generation. Together, we’ll celebrate beloved community, enjoy meaningful fellowship, and embrace creativity as we learn and grow across state lines. Join us for this special time of connection and inspiration—because when it comes to ministry, you’re it!
Led by Colin Kroll Friday, October 3rd 10:30 a.m.- 4 p.m.
This certification course equips lay leaders, ministers, and others associated with our Fellowship with much needed skills and knowledge for the increasing mental health concerns that seem to be growing in communities across the country.
($40 for digital guidebook and course material requirements)
Led by Jay Kieve Friday, October 3rd 10:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Participation in this pre-conference meets the requirements for a church to participate in the CBF Nurturing Children grant initiative. Jay will use conversation and case studies to cover:
— power dynamics related to all forms of abuse;
— best practices and policy considerations for protecting children and youth;
— considerations for incorporating known sexual offenders into your church.
(no cost)
Inside Brent McDougal’s Book on Prayer Friday, October 3rd 1:30-4:00 p.m.
Much Prayer, Much Power: Practicing Transformative Personal and Congregational Prayer | Pastor Brent McDougal of FBC Knoxville leads participants in how to unlock greater power and confidence in their personal and church prayer life during this inspirational seminar. Drawing from Scripture, the life of George Müller, and practical spiritual principles, participants will learn to pray with expectation, abide daily in God’s presence, persist with faith, and move from prayer to action. You’ll explore conditions for answered prayer, develop a personal plan for powerful, prevailing prayer, learn creative prayer practices, and leave equipped to experience deeper intimacy with God.
10:30 a.m. Pre-Assembly I: Youth Mental Health First Aid Certification
10:30 a.m. Pre-Assembly II: Church Safeguarding a Foundation for Thriving
11:30 a.m. TAG BWIM Luncheon & Conversation
1:30 p.m. Pre-Assembly III: Prayer Retreat with Brent McDougal
4:00 p.m. Resource Fair Opens
4:30 p.m. Childcare Available (3 Age Tracks)
5:00 p.m. Business Session(s)
6:00-7:00 p.m. TAG Fellowship Meal (Wear Your State Colors-Alabama-Purple, Georgia-Green, & Tennessee-Blue)
7:05-8:30 p.m. Worship & Presentation I
8:30 a.m. Childcare Available (3 Age Tracks)
8:45 a.m. Breakouts
9:40-10:00 a.m. Break/Transition
9:50-10:45 a.m. Affinity Groups (9)
11:00 a.m. Worship & Presentation II
12:00 p.m. Fellowship Meal
Departure
Meredith Miller is a pastor, parent, and writer with over 20 years experience in children’s ministry and curriculum.
In 2019 she and her husband Curtis started Pomona Valley Church –a church on Zoom that wants to live the one-anothers, neighbor well, and do justice. And eat.
But for the 5 years prior she was Curriculum Director for the children’s ministry at Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago, Illinois, where she created the framework for lessons that responds to the latest research on kids and faith formation. Since 2007 she’s also been involved with the work of the Fuller Youth Institute.
Meredith holds a Master of Divinity from Fuller Seminary, as well as a B.A. in Religious Studies and Spanish Language & Literature from Westmont College.
Her leadership at the Tri-State CBF Assembly will inspire and guide us as we explore new approaches to nurturing the next generation’s faith.
About Our Host Church: First Baptist Church Chattanooga
This fall, as we gather for the very first TAG Assembly, we’re delighted to be welcomed by First Baptist Church Chattanooga. Just like the tri-state partnership between Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia, FBC Chattanooga reflects a beautiful blend of unity and diversity in ministry.
Firmly rooted in the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, this congregation is far from ordinary. From the rich, resonant notes of the pipe organ, to preaching shared by both women and men, to children joyfully participating in worship, FBC Chattanooga fosters an environment where every person can feel at home in God’s family.
Their embrace is wide and warm—welcoming the curious and the certain, the comfortable and the struggling, the well-fed and the hungry. Here, relationships grow deep, offering nourishment, encouragement, and lasting connection—just like the bonds we hope to strengthen at the TAG Assembly.
Together, we’ll share in the beauty of bold, imaginative ministry and the joy of beloved community within this sacred space. We can’t wait to welcome you to Chattanooga this October!
We are excited to see you in Chattanooga for the TAG States Gathering. We have been overwhelmed with the positive response of those planning on attending the event. To help accommodate the need for places to stay in the downtown area, all previous hotels have added rooms to their held blocks. In addition to this, two new hotels have been added to the offering and are also downtown and close to the church. This is going to be a very busy weekend in Chattanooga and space is limited in these blocks, so do not delay in contacting the hotel of your choice. After you do that, be sure and pre-register for the event!
This year’s TAG isn’t just for adults—it’s designed with every generation in mind. From the youngest preschooler to the wisest grandparent, we’ve built a weekend where everyone finds a place to learn, grow, and belong.
For Preschool & Elementary Kids
Young ones will dive into imaginative play, hands-on crafts, and engaging stories—including a special quilt project where each child will stitch their own piece into a collective masterpiece.
For Youth
Middle and high schoolers will reunite with friends from camp, retreats, and General Assembly, sharing experiences that strengthen both faith and friendships.
TAG isn’t your typical conference—it’s a shared journey of creativity, connection, and renewal for the whole family.
👉 Sign up today and give your children, teens, and yourself a weekend that nourishes spirit and community alike!
Chattanooga is a gem in Tennessee, packed with scenic charm, rich history, and vibrant energy. Start with a stroll or bike ride along the Tennessee Riverwalk – this 13‑mile path boasts boardwalks, public art, marsh viewings, and easy access to Coolidge Park and Ross’s Landing Downtown, the world‑class Tennessee Aquarium dazzles with fresh- and saltwater exhibits, penguins, otters, and even an IMAX theater Then, head up Lookout Mountain—ride the historic Incline Railway to the top for jaw-dropping river panoramas—and don’t miss Rock City’s lush gardens and fairy-tale vistas or Ruby Falls’s dramatic underground waterfall tour Stroll across the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, explore the Bluff View Art District and Hunter Museum of American Art perched above the river, and maybe fit in a vintage train ride at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum or a ghost tour for some local flair. With eclectic eats, farmers’ markets, and arts festivals sprinkled throughout, you’ll leave feeling like you got the full “Scenic City” experience.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of the Tri-State CBF Assembly. Register today to secure your spot and join us in exploring innovative approaches to children’s ministry. Click the link below to sign up and be a part of this transformative event.