International Congress Returns to Baltimore with Community Outreach

Annual Christian leadership conference to feature acclaimed artists and service initiatives.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:30pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph in warm tones depicting a blurred scene of a diverse group of people gathered together, conveying a sense of spiritual connection and community empowerment.The International Congress conference in Baltimore aims to deepen faith, expand leadership, and engage in meaningful community service.Baltimore Today

The International Congress (iCongress) of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith (COOLJC) is set to return to Baltimore, Maryland for its 86th annual conference from April 8-11, 2026. The four-day event will bring together leaders, youth, and communities for dynamic speakers, transformative workshops, and community-centered initiatives focused on equipping and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Why it matters

The International Congress has grown into a global platform that fosters collaboration, discipleship, and holistic growth, with hundreds of churches worldwide dedicated to strengthening communities through faith-based initiatives and outreach. This year's conference aims to deepen faith, expand leadership capacity, and engage in meaningful service.

The details

Building on the success of previous years, the 2026 conference will feature an extraordinary lineup of acclaimed gospel artists and influential voices, including three-time Grammy Award winner Dorinda Clark-Cole, Grammy Award-winning Kierra Sheard-Kelly, and Canaan James Hill. The conference will also showcase community-centered initiatives, including a partnership with Project Evolution Inc. and the International Women's Council Social Justice and Evangelism teams to provide backpacks filled with essential toiletries and undergarments to students in underserved communities.

  • The International Congress is set to return to Baltimore from April 8-11, 2026.
  • The community outreach initiative will take place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Harlem Park Middle School.

The players

International Congress (iCongress)

The annual Christian leadership, training, and development conference organized by the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith (COOLJC).

Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith (COOLJC)

A global church organization with hundreds of churches worldwide, dedicated to strengthening communities through faith-based initiatives and outreach.

Deacon Marquise Rose

The President of the International Congress.

Project Evolution Inc.

A strategic partner of the International Congress for the community outreach initiative.

International Women's Council Social Justice and Evangelism teams

Partners of the International Congress for the community outreach initiative.

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What they’re saying

“As we return to Baltimore, we are excited to elevate both our impact and our message.”

— Deacon Marquise Rose, President, International Congress

What’s next

The community outreach initiative to provide backpacks to students in underserved communities will take place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Harlem Park Middle School.

The takeaway

The International Congress continues to expand its global reach and commitment to community service, using its annual conference as a platform to inspire, empower, and uplift leaders, youth, and communities through faith-based initiatives and outreach.