Stay Sharp 2026

True Spirituality

The Holy Spirit "...also indwells, illuminates, guides, equips and empowers believers for Christ-like living and service" (Article 6, EFCA Statement of Faith).

The Bible tells us that Holy Spirit is at work in each and every believer transforming us into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). His work is powerful, personal, and mysterious.

At Stay Sharp 2026, we want to think deeply together about true spirituality, separating fact from fiction, practicing discernment about contemporary ideas and practices and searching out biblical teaching about genuine transformation.

We've asked Greg Strand to help us ponder relevant questions:

• What is true spirituality?
• What is the personal, practical work of the Holy Spirit in believers?
• How should we evaluate contemporary teachings on "spiritual formation?"
• What do Christians mean by "the means of grace?"
• How do we grow as followers of Jesus Christ?

Gather together with other church leaders from across the Allegheny District to do theology in community.

Meet Scott Barber

Scott Barber, the new EFCA Director of Pastoral Theology and Care, will be with us this year and teach on proactive self-shepherding.

Fellowship Dinner

On Monday evening, we will gather in Waterdam Church's fellowship hall for dinner together as a conference and hear updates from district and national EFCA leaders. If you are unable to stay for dinner, please communicate that when you register.

Credentialing Workshop

The District Constitution and Credentials Board will hold an optional workshop on Monday from 5:00-5:40 p.m.

Learn about:

• The benefits and process of credentials within the EFCA
• How to write your license or ordination papers
• Answers to your questions about credentials

Pathways Training Post-Conference Option

New this year! Immediately following Stay Sharp, Waterdam Church is hosting the EFCA Bible Pathways training, a simple means of learning basic hermeneutics and teaching it to others, led by EFCA ReachGlobal staff. A separate registration is required to attend.

Accommodations

There are several local hotels for lodging. Many conference participants will stay at:

Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Meadow Lands
475 Johnson Road
Washington, Pennsylvania, 15301
Reserve online or call 724-222-4014.

Homewood Suites by Hilton, Southpointe
3000 Horizon Vue Dr.
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Reserve online or call 724-745-4663.

Cost

Stay Sharp is provided as a resource to our district churches at no cost. Your continued financial support enables us to provide these events.

We will be taking an offering at Stay Sharp to help pay for the fellowship dinner this year and fund the ministries of the Allegheny District. Please consider a donation of $10 per participant (or $20 for those attending the dinner).