Register Today for EXPLORATION 2026

Register today to explore your call to ministry at EXPLORATION 2026, a UMC discernment retreat offering guidance, community, and next steps.

Explore God's Call at EXPLORATION 2026, UMC's Vocational Discernment Retreat

By Trip Lowery

Discerning God's call in your life and think that call may be to vocational ministry in The United Methodist Church? EXPLORATION 2026 may offer the clarity you've been seeking. Exploration, a nationwide vocational discernment retreat hosted by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, is set for November 6-8, in Orlando, Florida. Registration is now open for adults 18 and older who are considering a call to vocational ministry. 

Designed as a welcoming and encouraging space, EXPLORATION brings together a diverse group of clergy and lay leaders to support participants as they reflect together on where God may be leading them. Through worship, small groups, workshops, and intentional community time, attendees are invited to explore their call, ask honest questions, and build meaningful connections across the church. 

"Exploration is a time to consider where God is leading you in a safe and encouraging space," said Kyan Stuart, a member of the EXPLORATION 2026 design team. "It's a place where we can form connections, ask difficult questions and grow closer as a connectional church." 

Participants will engage a wide range of topics, including ministry as an elder, deacon, licensed local pastor or lay leader; missionary service; starting new faith communities; seminary education; spiritual practices and self-care; church structure; and the ordination process. 

The retreat also emphasizes connection and clarity in discernment. "EXPLORATION is about meeting others who have similar dreams and aspirations, experiencing radical encouragement and a 'sure, why not' attitude, and heading back home with more of a plan," said Greta Long, another design team member. 

With a blend of theological reflection, practical workshops, and networking opportunities, EXPLORATION offers participants the tools and relationships needed to take next steps. Attendees connect with denominational leaders and resources while joining peers who are asking similar questions about their future. 

"If you have even the smallest interest or curiosity about ministry, EXPLORATION is a way to help you figure out if it's something you actually want to pursue," said Whitney Wheeler, a design team member, "You'll get a clearer picture of what it can look like, what the process is and what your next step could be. You also get to meet people from across the U.S. and beyond who are asking the same questions, which makes the whole process feel a lot less isolating." 

Learn more about EXPLORATION 2026 and the student design team. Additional updates will be shared as they become available.