EXPLORATION 2026 Worship Leaders Reflect the Many Paths of God’s Call 

By Higher Education and Ministry

A diverse group of church leaders will help guide worship and reflection at EXPLORATION 2026, Nov. 6-8 in Orlando, Florida. Participants will hear from the Rev. Lisa Yebuah, the Rev. Dr. Ashlee Alley Crawford, Bishop Carlo A. Rapanut, and the Rev. Albarka Abbo Wakili, whose ministries span church planting, discipleship, episcopal leadership, and global mission. Together, they offer a compelling picture of the many ways can live out God's call in the world.

Rev. Lisa Yebuah

Known for her dynamic preaching and innovative ministry leadership, Rev. Yebuah serves as founding pastor of Southeast Raleigh Table in North Carolina. Rev. Yebuah has helped cultivate a thriving faith community centered on abundant life, hospitality, justice, and spiritual growth. Her ministry challenges individuals to embrace their God-given identity while engaging faithfully with the world around them.

Rev. Dr. Ashlee Crawford

Rev. Dr. Crawford, director of Adult Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries, has devoted much of her ministry to helping people discern and respond to God's call. Through years of work in campus ministry, clergy development, and spiritual formation, Rev. Dr. Crawford has become a respected voice on discipleship and vocational discernment. Her passion for nurturing Christian leaders and lifelong disciples continues to shape congregations and ministry leaders across the denomination.

Bishop Rev. Carlo Rapanut

Bringing a global perspective to the gathering, Bishop Rapanut serves the Desert Southwest Conference and New Mexico Conference. Raised in the Philippines and elected bishop in 2022, Bishop Rapanut has served churches and conference leadership roles across two continents. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to connectional ministry, unity, and preparing the church for a vibrant future.

Rev. Albarka Abbo Wakili

The event's closing worship leader, Rev. Wakili, brings experience shaped by missionary service, pastoral leadership, and global engagement. Originally from Nigeria, Rev. Wakili is passionate about discipleship, young adult leadership, and cross-cultural ministry. His story offers an inspiring witness to the ways God calls individuals to serve across communities, cultures, and borders.

Held Nov. 6-8 in Orlando, EXPLORATION 2026 invites adults ages 18 and older to explore pathways in ministry, mission, and service through worship, workshops, small groups, and intentional conversation with leaders from across the church. Registration remains open, and generous scholarship assistance is available to help make attendance possible for those discerning their next faithful step. Learn more and register.