The Kentucky Baptist Convention is a cooperative missions and ministry organization made up of nearly 2,400 autonomous Baptist churches in Kentucky. Working through 71 local associations and in cooperation with the Southern Baptist Convention, Kentucky Baptists share a common bond of basic Biblical beliefs and a commitment to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the entire world. Each church is self-governing under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Churches elect messengers (not delegates) to various denominational meetings, including the annual convention. The messengers determine the course of many programs, ministries and institutions of the convention and its staff as guided by the KBC Constitution and Bylaws. When the annual convention is not in session, the convention's Mission Board provides leadership for the convention and its staff.