Registration is open for the second annual National Boomer Ministry Conference. The Baptist General Convention of Texas-sponsored event will be held Sept. 4-5 at First Baptist Church in Dallas. Amy Hanson is the keynote speaker. The group rate for four or more people from the same church is $119 each through Aug. 1. The early-bird rate for individuals is $139. The cost increases in each category by $20 after Aug. 1.

Bill Ellis, president of Howard Payne University, has been named president of the American Southwest Conference executive committee. His term begins July 1.

Anniversaries

Hope McNeil, fifth, as minister to children at Westbury Baptist Church in Houston, April 20.

Kyle Damron, 10th, as minister of worship at Westbury Baptist Church in Houston, June 1.

Stephen Ray, fifth, as minister to youth at Westbury Baptist Church in Houston, June 8.

Ron Klingsick, 10th, as pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Arp, July 4.

Information meetings concerning the Dallas Harvest crusade scheduled for Oct. 5 at the American Airlines Center have been set. The information meeting venues include Arapaho Road Baptist Church in Garland, 2 p.m., June 24; First Baptist Church in Euless, 7 p.m., June 24; Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, 10 a.m., June 25; First Baptist Church in Dallas, 3 p.m., June 25; Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church in Allen, 3 p.m., June 26; and Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, 10 a.m., June 27. Greg Laurie, senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, Calif., will be the crusade preacher. MercyMe, For King & Country and Phil Wickham will provide the music. The crusade is a nondenominational evangelistic event.

Dallas Baptist University will hold its fourth annual Servant U event July 20-25. High school students will spend a week on the DBU campus and attend workshops, hear guest speakers and complete community service projects. Participants will choose from five tracks.   Life Influencers will focus on Christian ministry, Artists of Impact will focus on the creative arts, Peacemakers will focus on the medical profession, City Builders will focus on business and civic leadership, and Equippers will focus on education and kinesiology. The cost for the event is $200, but returning Servant U students pay $175. For more information on the Servant U program or to submit an application online, click here

The Buckner Wynnewood Family Hope Center in Dallas will hold its inaugural “Summer Fam Fest” June 27 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Activities include water games, interactive crafts, face painting, a dunking booth and DJ entertainment. A free lunch will be provided for all participants. The center is located at 2006 Didsbury Circle.

Texas Baptist Children’s Home in Round Rock will hold an alumni reunion July 26. Festivities begin at 8:30 a.m. with coffee, juice and donuts. Cottage tours start at 9 a.m., and a group photo will be taken in front of the chapel at 11 a.m. A luau-themed lunch is slated for 11:30 a.m. There will be bounce houses and other children’s activities. Scholarship awards to graduating seniors will be announced. The reunion is free, but reservations are required for the lunch. Call (512) 246-4203 for reservations.

Kelsan Wolverton of Lampasas received the Yellow Rose Scholarship, presented annually by the Howard Payne University Woman’s Club. Wolverton is a cross-cultural studies and Bible major.

Anniversary

Tom Tillman, 20th, as minister of music and worship at First Baptist Church in Conroe, April 15.

Texas Super Summer, a Leadership Training experience for Christian young people with leadership qualities, kicked off June 9. The Baptist General Convention of Texas-sponsored camps help youth grow in their faith through Bible study, worship and recreation. East Texas Baptist University is one of several Super Summer sites across the state. (Photo: ETBU/Mike Midkiff)The first sessions took place June 9-13 at Dallas Baptist University and East Texas Baptist University. Others are scheduled for University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and Hardin-Simmons University, June 16-20; Howard Payne University, June 23-27; Houston Baptist University, June 30-July 4; and Hardin-Simmons University, July 14-18.

Buckner Children and Family Services will present a free foster care and adoption information meeting June 19 at 7 p.m. at 5200 Buckner Boulevard in Dallas. Participants will receive an overview of foster care and adoption options in Texas, including foster-to-adopt, Waiting Texas Children and domestic infant adoption programs. For information or a reservation to attend, click here. 

Wayland Baptist University has opened the Spark Business Accelerator. Designed by the Wayland School of Business, it will help entrepreneurs develop a business model to facilitate success. A nominal fee will be charged to cover costs for the use of the facility. For more information, call (806) 213-7776.

Eddie Walker has joined Dallas Baptist University as director of camp and sport ministry.

Don SchmeltekopfDon Schmeltekopf, Baylor University provost emeritus, professor and former director of the Center for Ministry Effectiveness and Educational Leadership, received the Charles D. Johnson Outstanding Educator Award from the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities. The award honors a person who has made significant contribution to Baptist-related higher education.

Hardin-Simmons University honored several graduates during spring commencement ceremonies. Devon Howard received the Julius Olsen Medal, awarded annually to the graduate with the highest grade-point average. Lauren Maurer received the Minnie L. Anderson Award, presented to a senior female student who has spent at least three years in residence at HSU and excelled in character, personal development and service. Raymond Cadjew received the George Skiles Anderson Award, presented to a senior male student who has spent at least three years in residence at HSU and excelled in character, personal development and service. Sherry Dou earned the Hemphill Graduate Honor Award, which recognizes the graduate who has excelled in academic studies, possesses character and behavior consistent with the university’s purpose and exhibits potential for significant contribution to their chosen field.

Howard Payne University honored six students for their acts of servant leadership. Seniors Jeremy Bartley and Rebekah Steadman received the Nat Tracy Servant Leader Award. Juniors Marlie Austin, Lacy Culpepper, Dillon McDugle and Kaitlin Vernon received the HPU Servant Leadership Awards. A $1,000 scholarship goes to each recipient, and each student designates $250 of the scholarship to benefit a charity they choose.

Anniversary

Jordan Mims, fifth, as minister of youth at First Baptist Church in Rockport, June 15.

Ordained

Joe Castro as a deacon at Primera Iglesia Bautista in Plainview. 

Thirty volunteers with the Texas Baptist Men Military Fellowship provided assistance at the DFW National Cemetery on Memorial Day. Amy Thibodeaux (TBM Photo)TBM provided four pallets of bottled water, and volunteers helped direct traffic, shuttled guests to services and offered support throughout the day. Amy Thibodeaux (pictured at right), a volunteer from Lake Pointe Church in Rockwall, visited the grave of her father, who served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam.

Buckner International will host its 14th annual “Mosaic of Culture” event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 14, in the Calabria Community Center on the Buckner campus, located at 5200 S. Buckner Blvd. in Dallas. Since 2000, the event has given adopted children and their families the opportunity to celebrate their native culture as well as the cultures of adoptees from other countries. Families can mingle with other adoptive families who understand their experiences, while older adopted children often develop mentoring relationships with younger adoptees. The free event will feature an array of native crafts, food and musical entertainment from countries across the world representing the Buckner global adoption community. In a carnival-like atmosphere, families can travel their way through cultural staples from Eastern Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa. Participants are encouraged to bring a school-supply donation for Buckner Kenya programs. For more information, click here. 

Wayland Baptist University honored Kyler Templeton from Stamford and Aubrey Pedigo of Canyon as Male and Female Citizen of the Year. The award is the highest honor given to students by the university. Honorees are listed on a plaque in Gates Hall.

Hardin-Simmons University marked the retirement of four faculty and staff members who combined for more than a century of service to the school. Larry Brunner, professor of English, retired after working at HSU 39 years, including 18 years as head of the English department and 10 years as director of graduate studies in English. Omer Hancock, director of in-service training and professor of church ministry, retired after 33 years at HSU. Prior to coming to Hardin-Simmons in 1981, he was pastor of numerous Texas and Oklahoma churches. Harold Preston, senior vice president of finance and management, retired after 20 years. Leta Tillman, professor and librarian, retired after 13 years of service.

East Texas Baptist University honored three retiring professors at the close of the spring semester—Tom Haygood, associate professor of psychology; Jane Ogden, professor of psychology; and Sarah Watson, professor of English.

Howard Payne University’s cheer team placed second in the college division of the American Cheer Power Competition in San Antonio. HPU also received the new school award.

Anniversaries

Jack Graham, 25th, as pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, June 1.

Kevin Cornelius, fifth, as pastor of First Baptist Church in Karnes City.

Ordained

Josh Rose to the ministry at First Baptist Church in Burleson, May 4. He is the connections/life groups pastor at the Church on Rush Creek in Mansfield. 

Hardin-Simmons University awarded 217 bachelor’s degrees, 48 master’s degrees and three doctorates during spring commencement ceremonies.

The Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing achieved its fundraising goal of $750,000 to support endowed scholarships for nursing students during the third annual Going for the Gold Gala. Olympic gold medalist Mary Lou Retton was the keynote speaker.

Six hundred twenty Dallas Baptist University students received degrees during spring commencement ceremonies. Three hundred sixty-nine received bachelor degrees, 241 earned master’s degrees, seven earned doctoral degrees and three received associate degrees. Commencement speakers were Matt Murrah, vice president for technology; Steve Mullen, dean of the Mary C. Crowley College of Christian Faith; and Shauna Chaffin, DBU graduate. Michael Arnold received an honorary doctor of humanities degree.

The Sabine Neches Baptist Area Seminary Extension Women’s Division presented certificates in women’s ministry to Carolyn Douglas, Dolores Wentworth and Susan Woodall. In the fall, “The Educational Ministry of a Church” will be offered. For more information, call (409) 423-2224.

Wayland Baptist University granted emeritus status to Kent Brooks who retired last month after 27 years of service. For 19 years, he served as dean and executive director of Wayland’s Lubbock campus. In 2006, he became the campus’ director of development.

Council for Life and Young Leaders for Life awarded Buckner Children and Family Services $40,000 raised from the fifth annual Run for Life 5K held at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. This is the second year Buckner has been a beneficiary of the run.

Howard Payne University honored Marcie Drew, university controller, as its outstanding staff member, and Mark Patton, professor of business administration, posthumously received the outstanding faculty member award. Certificates for excellence in teaching were presented to Wendy McNeely and Lester Towell. Awards for length of service also were presented: 10 years—Deborah Childs, Celeste Church, Gregory Church, Russell Ezzell, Katrina Lynn, Stephen Lynn, Brent Marsh and Rodney Stephens; 15 years—Teresa Cavitt, Abram Choate, Trissa Cox, Jerry Don Gleaton, Stephen Goacher and Marilyn Mathis; 20 years—Lynn Humeniuk, Wendy McNeely, Diane Owens and Juanita Sypert; 25 years—Bob Bicknell, Mike Daub and Don Gunter; and 40 years—Lana Wagner.

East Texas Baptist University honored several staff and faculty for their years of service. Those honored included: 10 years—David Collins, Butch Graves, Shelly Lewis, Kim Mullikin and Don Spencer; 15 years—Thomas Webster; 20 years—Jose Alonzo and Bert West; 25 years—Eric Wilburn; 30 years—Bill Mills; and 35 years—Kathy Bland and Cassandra King.

San Marcos Baptist Academy honored three individuals and one family by naming campus streets for them. Members of the board of trustees, academy staff and families of the honorees were on hand to celebrate the dedication of four streets— Jack Byrom Trail, Bobby Dupree Drive, Jimmie Scott Circle and Mafrige Drive. The newly constructed gated entry to the school also was dedicated as the Bobbie and Jack Byrom Entryway.

Anniversaries

Anthony Sisemore, fifth, as pastor of The Woods Baptist Church in Tyler.

Carl Whitworth, fifth, as pastor of Reagan Baptist Church in Reagan.

Meadowbrook Baptist Church in Rockdale, 60th, June 18. The church will celebrate with an ice cream social at 6 p.m. June 18, a dinner and concert June 21 at 5 p.m., and a brunch/fellowship and service June 22. Russ Willis is pastor.

Events

Providence Baptist Church in Caldwell held a homecoming service followed by a meal. Malcom Bane is interim pastor.

Mount Zion Baptist Church in Rockdale will hold its annual homecoming service June 8. Darren Donaldson will be the guest speaker. A meal will follow the service. Luther Shelander is pastor.

Ordained

Kevin Burnett, Don Walker and Bob Treadaway as deacons at Southmont Church in Denton.

Revival

Kokomo Baptist Church, Gorman; June 22-25; evangelist, Bubba Fleming; pastor, James Hunter.

San Marcos Baptist Academy presented diplomas to 62 high school graduates during its 106th annual commencement. David Hardage, executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas, delivered the commencement address (see photo above). The class of 2014 included students from 10 foreign countries, three states other than Texas and 11 Texas cities.

East Texas Baptist University conferred degrees on 145 graduates during its spring commencement ceremony. Evangelist James Robison delivered the charge to the 145 students who received degrees during East Texas Baptist University’s spring commencement ceremony. (Photo: ETBU/Ryan C. Perry)One hundred twenty-seven received bachelor’s degrees, and 18 earned master’s degrees. Evangelist James Robison delivered the charge to the graduates and also received an honorary doctor of divinity degree. Robison entered East Texas Baptist College in 1962 as a freshman but left school to pursue his evangelism ministry. He is the founder of LIFE Outreach International, which helps feed more than 400,000 children throughout Africa each day and has provided more than 4,000 water wells in 40 countries.

Buckner Children and Family Services will host a prayer vigil for the 2,500 children in foster care in Dallas County May 27 from 7:15 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Buckner office, 5200 South Buckner in Dallas. People of all ages are invited to participate. For additional information, click here. (aharrison@buckner.org)

The eight choirs of the Singing Women of Texas will combine to present their 20th anniversary concert at Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas at 7 p.m. June 28. Concert admission is free, but an offering will be taken to benefit Texas Baptist Disaster Recovery.

Hardin-Simmons University presented 217 bachelor’s degrees, 48 master’s degrees and four doctorates to students during spring commencement ceremonies. John Neese, HSU director of athletics, gave the charge during the morning ceremony, while Leta Tillman, professor and interlibrary loan librarian, held that honor in the afternoon.

One hundred fifty-five Howard Payne University students graduated during its spring commencement ceremony. An honorary doctor of letters degree also was presented to Carol McDonald. HPU President Bill Ellis delivered the charge to students.

Wayland Baptist University celebrated spring commencement with 105 students participating in graduation exercises. Wayland President Paul Armes delivered the address to graduates.

The Snider Scholarship for Women in Ministry has been established at the B.H. Carroll Theological Institute. The scholarship will provide financial support to female students training for a master’s degree in counseling.

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary awarded degrees to 200 students during spring commencement, including 27 undergraduate degrees, 153 master’s degrees and 26 doctoral degrees. Twenty-six of the graduates claimed Texas as their home state. President Paige Patterson gave the commencement address.

Anniversary

Weidner Road Baptist Church in San Antonio, 60th, June 22. Ray McLeaird is pastor.

Fifth-grade students from Bonham Elementary School in Abilene spent a day at Hardin-Simmons University. School officials hoped to instill in them a dream for a college education. The elementary students toured the HSU library, experienced classroom technology and participated in a lunchtime performance with the HSU Spurs Dance Team. Students led groups of elementary students as they ate in university student center, toured the various academic colleges and visited residence halls. They also spent time with members of the Hardin-Simmons Six White Horses equestrian team, and they visited the football stadium, band hall and president’s home.

Dallas Baptist University presented the Jacob Rohrer and Nicole Faulkenberry received Dallas Baptist University’s Frank and Martin Moore Servant Leadership Award.Frank and Martin Moore Servant Leadership Award to Nicole Faulkenberry and Jacob Rohrer. The award is presented to students who demonstrate leadership in the areas of community and ministry service from within DBU. Each received $750 to use toward their education and $250 to donate to a charity of their choosing.

Guidestone Financial Resources is asking churches to participate in Mission: Dignity by receiving an offering to help retired ministers in need of financial assistance June 22. The Mission: Dignity program helps about 2,000 retired Southern Baptist ministers, workers or their widows by providing monthly income to qualified recipients and pays out more than $6.5 million in assistance. To order promotional materials, click here. 

B.H. Carroll Theological Institute will add a doctor of ministry degree program concentration in leadership in August. An open enrollment period for the leadership and all other D.Min. majors ends June 30. To apply, click here. 

Barry Evans will become dean of the Wayland Baptist University’s School of Business July 1. Evans joined the Wayland faculty in 2011. Otto Schacht, who has been dean of the school since 2002, will return to the classroom. He is planning retirement in 2016. Kelly Warren also was named associate dean of doctoral programs in the business school. Wayland intends to begin offering doctoral degrees in business administration and management in 2015, pending approval from sanctioning bodies.

Mamie McCullough received Mamie McCullough, right, received the Howard Payne University Woman’s Club Yellow Rose Award. She is joined by Diana Ellis, HPU first lady and Woman’s Club president.the Howard Payne University Woman’s Club Yellow Rose Award. Although she was the guest speaker for the scholarship luncheon, she was unaware she would receive the award. She had a career in education, was a director for Mary Kay Cosmetics, and was president of the education division of the Zig Ziglar Corporation 10 years. She also is the author of several books, including I’m Not Waving … I’m Drowning. She has served on HPU’s President’s Development Council and board of trustees. In 1997, the university presented her with an honorary doctor of letters.

Rebekah Grigsby has been named dean of the East Texas Baptist University department of nursing.

Anniversaries

Toby Irwin, 45th, in ministry, May 26. He is pastor of Belmore Baptist Church in San Angelo.

Robert Lynch, fifth, as pastor of First Baptist Church in Gregory, May 31.

Members of Wayland Baptist University’s board of trustees recognized the family of Don and Lannie Cook, dedicating an endowed scholarship in their name during a luncheon at the trustees meeting. Family members Bridget Pierce and Sallie and Kevin Cook were on hand (see photo above).

Buckner Children and Family Services will present a free foster care and adoption information meeting May 15 at 7 p.m. at 5200 Buckner Boulevard in Dallas. Participants will receive an overview of foster care and adoption options in Texas, including foster-to-adopt, Waiting Texas Children and domestic infant adoption programs. For information or a reservation to attend, click here. 

A prayer gathering for Greater Dallas will be held May 18 at 6 p.m. at Concord Church in Dallas. The previous prayer emphasis drew 600 Christians to intercede for the city. The church is located at 6808 Pastor Bailey Drive.

Robert Rapp has been named executive vice president for labor and employment law for Baptist Child & Family Services.

East Texas Baptist University conferred degrees upon 145 students during spring commencement ceremonies—127 bachelor’s degrees and 18 master’s degrees. Evangelist James Robison was the commencement speaker.

Kyle WalkerSouthwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has selected Kyle Walker to fill the newly created position of dean of students. He has served as director of the school’s admissions office since 2010, and he will continue in that role as well.

Harold Preston, senior vice president of finance at Hardin-Simmons University, has retired after more than 20 years at the school.

Wayland Baptist University trustees approved several faculty promotions. Robert Carpenter, Ben Craver, Debra Flournoy-Buford, Andrew Kasner, Brent Schlitternhart and Kelly Warren were promoted to the rank of professor, while Michael Dain, Karen Dempster, Steve Long, Clinton Lowin, Brent Lynn, Emilia Moore, Joe Vandiver and Gene Whitfill were named associate professors.

The Howard Payne University jazz ensemble received a superior rating at the 24th annual Temple Jazz Festival. Students named as outstanding soloists were Ryan Contreras, tenor saxophone; Joseph Dunlap, piano; Angel Hernandez, drums; Juan Hernandez, tenor saxophone; Bobby Martinez, bass; and Ethan Yeats, trumpet.

Dallas Baptist University honored state representative Phil King as its honorary alumnus and educator Janice Miller as distinguished alumnus at the 26th annual Decatur Baptist College spring reunion. DBU had its beginnings in Decatur before its move to Dallas.

Event

Bob Campbell was named pastor emeritus of Westbury Baptist Church in Houston, May 4. He was pastor of the church from 1991 until his retirement in 2005. He remains a member of the church and teaches a Sunday school class.

Ordained

Shannon Bond to the ministry at First Baptist Church in Bangs, where he was associate pastor, April 27. He now is pastor of First Baptist Church in Cherokee.

The Texas Baptist Men Dixon Missions Equipping Center in Dallas served as distribution center for the Gideons’ Bible Blitz (see photo above). Gideons distributed more than 237,000 Bibles in the Dallas-Forth Worth area.

The Texas Intercollegiate Press Association honored East Texas Baptist University’s student-produced newspaper, The TigerCompass, for the best news story in its division. Angelina VannicolaFormer ETBU student Angelina Vannicola received the award for her story on the Boston Marathon bombing and the impact it had on ETBU coaches Natalie and Michael Prather, who attended the event. She was a contestant in the marathon but crossed the finish line before the bombs exploded. Read the winning article here.

Johnnie Lou Avery Boyd, John and Mary Hardin, George Newman and Phil Wilson have been inducted into Hardin-Simmons University’s Hall of Leaders. The designation provides permanent recognition of graduates, former students, former employees and other university leaders who not only have distinguished records of achievement but also good character.

Wayland Baptist University Executive Vice President and Provost Bobby Hall has been selected by the Council of Independent Colleges to participate in a year-long executive leadership academy. He will attend two seminars in Washington, D.C., as well as participate in readings, webinars and a mentoring program. He also will develop an experiential learning plan focused on presidential responsibility.

The Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Dallas Baptist University as a Tree Campus USA university. The school has received the designation each year since 2010.

Anniversaries

Jorge Zayasbazan, fifth, as pastor of Baptist Temple Church in San Antonio, March 1.

Mickey Ewing, 40th, as assistant pastor of Northside Baptist Church in Victoria, May 1.

Morgan Woodard, fifth, as pastor of Golinda Baptist Church in Lorena.

Retiring

Michael T. Smith, as worship pastor at First Baptist Church in Wichita Falls, May 18. He served the congregation 21 years. He served churches in Texas, Mississippi and Maryland. He and his wife, Sharon, will live in Prosper.

Ordained

Jaime McGlothlin, to the ministry at Lake Shore Baptist Church in Waco, April 27. She serves the congregation as minister to children.

Twelve Hardin-Simmons University students traveled to Greece to work with Cooperative Baptist Fellowship missionaries Bob and Janice Newell (see photo above). The Newells minister to the more than 500,000 Albanian immigrants displaced by the collapse of Communism and the war in Kosovo. The HSU students helped with adult English classes. They also worked with refugee children in a variety of activities, including learning American songs. The students also visited biblical and historical sites such as the acropolis of Athens, Mars Hill, Corinth, Akrokorinth and Sounion.

The Texas Baptist 2014 Go Now Missions commissioning service will be held May 18 at 2 p.m. in the Patty and Bo Pilgrim Chapel on the Dallas Baptist University campus. A reception will follow.

Karson Kent of Mount Pleasant was named East Texas Baptist University’s 2013-14 Senior Girl Call-Out. Karson Kent of Mount Pleasant was named East Texas Baptist University’s 2013-14 Senior Girl Call-Out.The event has been held 67 years and is the university’s oldest tradition. The script for the ceremony has remained the same since its beginning.

Gary Huckabay is resigning as executive director of Children’s Emergency Relief International after a year in that position. Dearing Garner, who served as executive director of CERI from its founding in 1999 until Huckabay was promoted to the position, has been named interim executive director. Garner has been serving the organization part-time the past year. CERI is the overseas arm of Baptist Child & Family Services.

Karla Leeper, vice president of board and executive affairs and chief compliance officer at Baylor University, has been named chief of staff to the president at Georgia Regents University in Augusta, Ga. She came to Baylor in 1992 as an assistant professor of communication studies and director of the Glenn R. Capp Debate Forum. She joined the central administration in 2007.

Wayland Baptist University’s Lubbock campus raised about $60,000 in scholarship funds during its annual Lubbock Lights Gala. Nearly 300 guests honored John Ballard, former associate pastor at First Baptist Church in Lubbock, who retired in 1996. He still serves as teacher of the Downtown Bible Class in Lubbock, a position he has held 33 years.

Dallas Baptist University named Julie Carlisle, director of payroll, staff member of the year. She has served in that position since 1991, and also is an adjunct instructor and staff sponsor of the Japanese Student Society. She and her husband, Marvin, are members of The Oaks Baptist Church in Grand Prairie, where she teaches Sunday school.

Six Howard Payne University students participated in Social Work Student Day at the Legislature at the state capitol. Students attending were Carolyn Barnes, Brooke Goad, Jennifer Goff, Angelica Gray, Paula Johnson and Vanessa Marquez.

Anniversaries

Bobby Fletcher, fifth, as director of missions for Grayson Baptist Association, May 18.

Chris Lovejoy, fifth, as minister of music at Georgetown Baptist Church in Pottsboro, May 31.

Ordained

Deirdre LaNoue, to the ministry at Valley Ranch Baptist Church in Coppell, April 13.

Revival

Harmony Baptist Church, Eastland; May 2-4; evangelist, Bob Farrell; pastor, Ray Rodgers.

The Howard Payne University model United Nations students won five delegate awards in Rome, Italy, more than any other university participating. Caleb McConnell, Kerrie Ford, Cody Perrin and Elizabeth Rogers won best delegate awards, and Erik Swenson was named champion debater on the security council. The 12 students also visited the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Forum, the Catacombs and other locations in the city.

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, Houston Baptist University President Robert Sloan and journalist Marvin Olasky will discuss “Faith and Freedom in the Public Square” May 2 at 7:30 p.m. in the Morris Cultural Arts Center at HBU. Panelists will share thoughts about the role faith has played in their careers and discuss the state of religious freedom in America and abroad. Tickets are $20 for general admission seating and $100 for reserved seats that include a pre-event reception at 6:45 p.m. For tickets, click here. 

Buckner Children and Family Services will present a free foster care and adoption information expo April 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 5200 Buckner Boulevard in Dallas. Participants will receive an overview of foster care and adoption options in Texas, including foster-to-adopt, Waiting Texas Children, domestic infant adoption and international adoption programs. A guest panel of current and former foster families will present perspectives on their experiences. Other participating organizations are Hope CottageCovenant Kids, Circles of Care, Jonathan’s Place, Bair Foundation, Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services, Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth, A World for Children, Pathways and Foster in Texas. For more information, click here. 

Ernie Haase and Signature Sound—a Southern Gospel quartet—will perform at 7 p.m. May 9 in Wayland Baptist University’s Harral Auditorium. Wayland graduate Paul Harkey sings bass with the group. Doors open at 5:45 p.m., and the singers will meet the public at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students 17 and younger. All seats are general admission, and proceeds benefit Wayland scholarships. Tickets can be purchased here. Wayland’s Association of Former Students sponsors the event.

Sarah Alvis of Fort Worth was crowned Miss ETBU at Sarah Alvis of Fort Worth was crowned Miss ETBU.the East Texas Baptist University’s 58th annual pageant. Alvis is a sophomore nursing major. Jermaca Brown, a junior kinesiology major from Fairfield, was first runner up. Natalie Pippin of Marshall received the Miss Congeniality Award.

A Baptist General Convention of Texas team led by Phil Miller, director of Bible study/discipleship, and David Rangel, director of River Ministry and Mexico missions, traveled to Juarez, Mexico, to train 64 church leaders.

The South Texas School of Christian Studies held an open house at its McAllen campus to spotlight renovated facilities. With the aid of Texas Baptist Men Retiree Builders, the school made about $500,000 in improvements.

About 175 Hardin-Simmons University student athletes helped Hardin-Simmons University athletes helped local Special Olympians train for their district meet.93 Special Olympics participants prepare for their district track and field meet. Students from all the university’s teams ran the events, which included running, javelin, shot put, tennis ball and softball throws, standing long jump and running long jump.

Students in the Dallas Baptist University Graduate School of Ministry and the master of arts in communication program ministered to residents of the Dallas Life Foundation. The DBU team joined the residents for their evening meal, and they also led a worship service. Dallas Life Foundation is an outreach and advocacy ministry for the homeless of Dallas.

Event

Volunteers from First Baptist Church in Longview helped build a home for a Beckville family whose house burned last year. Initially, the family started the rebuilding project themselves but had to stop due to health issues. Volunteers from First Baptist Church in Longview helped build a home for a Beckville family whose house burned last year. Volunteers from other churches who served with First Baptist on mission trips to Mexico joined in the effort, along with residents of an East Texas rehab facility. The family moved into their home before Easter.They sought help from Habitat for Humanity in Longview, but they lived outside the organization’s service area. So, a deacon at First Baptist Church coordinated the project, working in cooperation with Executive Pastor David English. Volunteers from other churches who had served with First Baptist on mission trips to Mexico joined in the effort, along with residents in an East Texas rehab facility. Students also participated during a DiscipleNow weekend. The family moved into their home before Easter. Cary Hilliard is pastor at First Baptist Church in Longview.

Seventeen students from Baptist General Convention of Texas-affiliated universities have been named Young Maston Scholars by the T. B. Maston Foundation. Students are nominated based on their faithfulness to the ethical example of Jesus; a commitment to Christian ethics lived out in theological inquiry and academic excellence; an established reputation among peers for ethical Christian T.B. Maston was a longtime of professor of Christian ethics.leadership; and a vocational calling to ministry. The award is named for T.B. Maston, longtime of professor of Christian ethics and author, known for his writing and teaching in the area of biblical ethics, race relations, family life, Christian life and vocation, church and state, and character formation. The scholars (pictured above) are Top Row: Jose Jimenez-Abrams (Mary Hardin-Baylor), Zachary Tharp (Howard Payne), Adam Chaney (Houston Baptist), Cullen Ware (Houston Baptist) Middle Top: John Bocko (Wayland), Bradley Varnell (Baylor) Middle Bottom: Don Williford (Dean, Logsdon Seminary and School of Theology), Jacob Winslager (Dallas Baptist), Michael Barnard (Baylor), Drew Doss (Hardin-Simmons), Sergio Buezo (Baptist University of the Americas), Phanuel Estinvil (Baptist University of the Americas) Bottom Row: Mary Vasquez (Howard-Payne), Will Raies (Dallas Baptist), Melinda Herning (Mary Hardin-Baylor), Rebekah Davidson (Hardin-Simmons), Kristian Barnaby (East Texas Baptist), Krystin Jurries (East Texas Baptist), Hulitt Gloer (2014 Maston Lecturer).

First Baptist Church in West will meet for worship at 10:15 a.m. on Easter Sunday, April 20, on the field across from Aderhold Funeral Home on S. Reagan St.—the same location where the church gathered the Sunday after a fertilizer plant exploded on April 17, 2013. Pastor John Crowder noted the church decided to establish as a tradition worshipping on that site each year on the Sunday following April 17.  “This outdoor service will not only establish a lasting tradition for us, but it will also be a loud and clear testimony that God is good and West blessed,” Crowder said. “We are especially excited about the fact that our first anniversary of the outdoor worship service will fall on Easter. We are going to celebrate life and renewal like never before.”

Howard Payne University will hold its annual Resurrection Week spring revival April 14-16. Dave Edwards is the featured speaker, and recording artist Jami Smith will lead worship. Services will be held at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tom Copeland, Hardin-Simmons University associate professor of psychology, will present a free community seminar on communication in marriage April 24 in Room 213 of the Johnson Building at 7 p.m. The seminar is part of the university’s recognition of national counseling month.

Dallas Baptist University will hold the 26th annual DBU-Oak Cliff Partnership Dinner May 6 at 7 p.m. in the Hillcrest Great Hall of the John G. Mahler Student Center on the DBU campus. The 2014 Good Samaritan Award recipients are Nancy Counts and Jim Gettman. For more information, call (214) 333-5811.

Buckner International will hold its first “Hope for Children” benefit featuring country music performer Jimmy Wayne with emcee Paige McCoy Smith of WFAA-TV’s Good Morning Texas at Dallas’ Omni Hotel May 8 at 7 p.m. Guests will share a meal, participate in a silent auction and enjoy music, as well as learn about the global ministry. For more information, call (800) 442-4800, ext. 8017.

Craig Keener, professor of New Testament at Asbury Theological Seminary, will be the featured speaker for B.H. Carroll Theological Institute’s spring colloquy May 19-20. The theme of the colloquy is “Jesus and Mighty Works.” It will consist of three plenary sessions on Jesus and his miracles. Monday’s sessions will begin at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., and Tuesday’s session will begin at 2 p.m. All will be held at the Wade Building, 300 S. Center, Suite 100, Arlington 76010.

The Texas Baptist Historical Museum will hold a rededication ceremony May 31 at 1 p.m. The museum is located at 10505 FM 50, Brenham 77833. A barbecue is a part of the event. Make reservations at (972) 331-2235.

Wayland Baptist University honored significant financial supporters of the university with a dinner hosted by President Paul Armes and his wife, Duanea. Receiving the first-ever President’s Awards were Harley and Wilda Redin and Sally Shaw. The Redins first made their impact on the university separately—he as the longtime coach of the Flying Queens basketball team and she was one-half of the Hutchersons, who flew the players to many games. After both their spouses died, they married, creating a joint legacy. The gymanasium at Wayland bears the Hutcherson name, and the court is named for the Redins, and the Athletic Hall of Honor also is named for the former coach. The two have supported scholarships, building projects and many other campaigns. Shaw has supported every initiative of the school for several decades and served on the board of trustees. Donors whose contributions to the university have reached $100,000 also were honored with Keeper of the Flame Awards. They are L.S. Foreman, Max and Marcheta Gabriel, Bruce and Jolene Julian, Ben and Bertha Mieth, Mark and Linda Murdock, and Robert and Sally Walker.

Israel Nandamudi, East Texas Baptist University professor of political science, delivered the keynote address at the International Conference on Gender Mainstreaming: Issues and Strategies for Empowerment. The two-day conference was held in Andhra Pradesh, India.

Anniversaries

Iglesia Vaquera Cowboy Church in Waxahachie, 10th, March 30. Ty Howard is pastor.

Carl Douglas, 10th, as pastor of Dixie Frontier Baptist Church in Whitesboro, April 4.

Event

Fielder Road Baptist Church in Arlington will not hold services April 27. Instead, an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 members will spread throughout the city to serve the community. Serve Arlington will meet needs by partnering with the city, school district, homeless shelter and crisis pregnancy center, as well as many individuals. Projects will include clean-ups, painting, school carnivals and more. Gary Smith is pastor.