Texas Baptists explore their roots at BGCT annual meeting

FRISCO—Texas Baptists will examine their roots at the Nov. 8-10 Baptist General Convention of Texas annual meeting, focused on the theme, “Deep Roots: Living Legacy.”

The meeting at Dr Pepper Arena in Frisco will center on Colossians 2:6-7, with a special emphasis placed on distinctive Baptist beliefs and characteristics.  

“This year, we’ll examine Baptist distinctives and share the reasons we choose to be Baptist,” BGCT President Kathy Hillman said. “Together, we’ll explore our deep roots and celebrate our living legacy through inspiring worship, enlightening workshops and educational exhibits.”

Registration begins at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, followed by rallies hosted by affinity groups. Monday’s registration begins at 8 a.m. with the first round of workshops beginning at 8:30 a.m.

“It is our hope and prayer that this year’s gathering is both informational and inspirational,” BGCT Executive Director David Hardage said. “The challenges in front of us as a convention are significant. Texas continues to grow and change. As a family of churches we, too, are working to adjust properly and effectively in order to touch the people of this state with the Great Commandment and to impact Texas, and beyond, with the Great Commission.”

Workshops Nov. 9 and 10 cover topics related to Baptist legacy. In one workshop, former BGCT executive directors Bill Pinson, Charles Wade and Randel Everett will join Hardage in a panel discussion on Baptist distinctives.

Other workshops include “How Great a Salvation!” led by Todd Still, dean of Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary in Waco; “Minister Spouses: The Real Two-for-One Deal” led by Hillman and ministers’ wives Kathleen Hardage and Donna Vernon; and “Advocacy as Evangelism” led by Kathryn Freeman, director of public policy for the Christian Life Commission.

Each day will include business sessions and worship sessions. Resolutions and nominations will be posted here after Oct. 12. Childcare will be provided on request for infants to children age 5.

Featured speakers in worship include Joel Gregory, professor of preaching at Truett Theological Seminary, and Ralph West, pastor of The Church Without Walls in Houston.

Concluding the gathering on Tuesday evening, The Singing Men of Texas will present a concert at Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church in Allen in commemoration of the group’s 40th anniversary.