Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BWA?
The Baptist World Alliance is a fellowship of Baptist conventions and unions around the world

When was the BWA formed?
The BWA was formed in 1905 during the first Baptist World Congress in London, England

Who are the senior officers of the BWA?
The two senior officers are the President and General Secretary assisted by vice presidents from the different regions. The General Secretary serves as the CEO.

Where are the BWA offices?
Offices are located in Falls Church in Northern Virginia, close to Washington, DC, in the United States

What are the main focus areas of the BWA
Nurturing the passion for mission and evangelism,  promoting worship, fellowship and unity, responding to people in need,  defending human rights and justice and advancing relevant theological reflection

What is the organizational structure of the BWA?
The decision making bodies of the BWA are the General Council and the Executive Committee.

The BWA's divisions are Mission, Evangelism & Justice; Baptist World Aid; Finance & Administration; Communications; and Promotion & Development. There are three departments for Men, Women and Youth.

There are six geographical or regional expressions of the BWA: the All Africa Baptist Fellowship, the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, the Caribbean Baptist Fellowship, the European Baptist Federation, the North American Baptist Fellowship, and the Union of Baptists in Latin America.

How often does the BWA meet?
There is an Annual Gathering, usually held in July. Executive Committee meetings are usually held in March and July. The Baptist World Congress, the Baptist Youth World Conference and the Baptist International Conference on Theological Education, are normally held every five years.