The video below is the reason for the 2021 name change of the association.
In his message at the 2021 annual meeting, Jeff Thompson explained that the transition from Concord Baptist Association to the Great Commission Baptist Association of the River Valley reflects a renewed commitment to mission, clarity, and unity among local churches.
The new name emphasizes the association’s primary purpose — fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission by making disciples, strengthening churches, and expanding Gospel outreach throughout the River Valley. It also helps communicate more clearly who the association serves geographically while focusing on the shared calling that brings member churches together.
The change was presented not as a departure from the association’s history, but as a step forward — honoring the past while embracing a vision centered on cooperation, evangelism, church health, and future growth in ministry impact.
