San Antonio will once again become a center of faith, worship, and fellowship as the Church of God in Christ hosts its 76th Annual Women’s International Convention at the Henry B. González Convention Center beginning May 25, 2026. The week long gathering is expected to bring thousands of women, church leaders, missionaries, pastors, and worshippers from across the United States and around the world to downtown San Antonio for one of the largest Pentecostal women’s conventions in America.The convention is led by General Supervisor and Convention President Mother Dr. Barbara McCoo Lewis, one of the most respected women leaders in the Church of God in Christ denomination. Mother Lewis has served as General Supervisor of the International Women’s Department since 2017 and continues to carry the historic mantle of leadership established by generations of powerful women in COGIC history. Her leadership has focused on strengthening missions, mentoring women in ministry, promoting education, and preserving the holiness traditions that have defined the denomination for decades.
Mother Lewis is widely recognized for her calm but authoritative leadership style and her dedication to uplifting women across all generations. Under her direction, the Women’s Department has expanded outreach efforts while embracing modern ministry tools and communication platforms. Her influence has helped the Women’s International Convention remain one of the most anticipated gatherings within the denomination.
The convention also highlights the leadership of Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard, who serves as the Chief Apostle and spiritual leader of the Church of God in Christ worldwide. Bishop Sheard was elected Presiding Bishop in 2021 and has become a major voice in Pentecostal Christianity. Known for his passionate preaching and visionary leadership, Bishop Sheard has emphasized church growth, community engagement, youth development, and economic empowerment during his administration.
Bishop Sheard is also recognized by many outside the church world because of his connection to gospel music royalty. He is married to renowned gospel singer Karen Clark Sheard of the legendary Clark Sisters family. Together they represent one of the most influential families in modern gospel music and Pentecostal ministry.Founded in 1951, the Women’s International Convention has evolved into a global gathering that attracts attendees from Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and across North America. The event serves as both a spiritual revival and leadership summit where women can worship, learn, network, and strengthen their faith. For many attendees, the annual convention is also a family reunion and a cultural tradition passed down through generations.
Activities officially begin Monday, May 25, with registration, orientation events, fellowship opportunities, and opening worship experiences at the Henry B. González Convention Center. One of the first major events of the week will be the “Gospel Explosion and Pre Musical,” expected to feature choirs, praise teams, musicians, and gospel artists from around the country. The musical celebration is designed to set the spiritual tone for the week and often draws large crowds filled with energetic worship and praise.
Throughout the week, attendees will participate in morning prayer sessions, Bible studies, educational workshops, leadership development seminars, and worship services. Topics often include women’s leadership, family wellness, evangelism, youth mentorship, financial literacy, health awareness, and missions outreach. These sessions are designed to equip women both spiritually and professionally while encouraging personal growth and community involvement.Another popular feature of the convention is the President’s Luncheon, featuring San Antonio ‘s own Rev. Dr. Claudetta A. Copeland where women leaders are honored for their service and dedication to ministry. The event often includes inspirational speakers, recognition ceremonies, and opportunities for networking among church leaders from across the nation.
Young women and girls also play an important role during the convention. Youth and young adult activities are expected to include mentoring sessions, worship experiences, and workshops focused on navigating modern challenges while maintaining faith and purpose. Organizers continue to emphasize the importance of preparing younger generations for leadership within the church and community.
The convention is not only important spiritually but also economically for San Antonio. Hotels, restaurants, transportation companies, and local businesses are expected to benefit from the thousands of visitors attending the event. Large religious conventions like COGIC bring millions of dollars into local economies while showcasing San Antonio as a major destination for national events.
For the Black church community, the Women’s International Convention remains deeply significant. The Church of God in Christ has long been one of the largest African American Pentecostal denominations in the world, and women have historically played a critical role in sustaining churches, missions, education, music, and community outreach efforts. The convention celebrates that legacy while continuing to inspire future generations of women leaders.As worshippers gather once again inside the Henry B. González Convention Center, the atmosphere is expected to be filled with praise, prayer, fellowship, and inspiration. From powerful sermons to gospel music and leadership training, the 76th Annual Women’s International Convention promises to be a spiritually uplifting experience that reflects the enduring strength and influence of the Church of God in Christ.
