In Touch: From Rosebud to the annual meeting

Hello, Texas Baptists! I was at First Baptist Church of Rosebud a few Sundays ago. Thanks to Pastor Jody Hickman for allowing me to be there and worship with his church.

David HardageThe next weekend, Kathleen and I spent time in El Paso. On Saturday, we had the opportunity to attend the El Paso Baptist Association  annual meeting, and on Sunday, we were blessed to worship at First Baptist Church of El Paso. It was a great weekend, and we were encouraged to see how the Lord is working in that area of the state. Thanks to Joseph Christopherson, executive director of the association, and David Lowrie, pastor of the church, for allowing us to be there.

 Dr. Christopherson has a great book out called Wild Oats: An Honest Look at God’s Redemptive Character. I hope you will buy yourself a copy.

 The School of Christian Thought at Houston Baptist University is pleased to announce Mark Lanier will deliver the A.O. Collins lectures Thursday, Nov. 6, in Belin Chapel. Mr. Lanier’s topic for the lectures will be from his new book, Christianity on Trial: A Lawyer Examines the Christian Faith. I hope you can find time to attend.

The Baptist General Convention of Texas annual meeting is quickly approaching! I hope you are planning to join us in Waco Nov. 16-18. As you may know, this year’s convention is called “Live the Difference.” Texas is growing more diverse every day.

As our state changes and shifts, so is the landscape of Texas Baptists. So, in unity and with excitement for the future, join with me and our brothers and sisters across Texas in celebrating the abundant life we have in Christ. Let’s rejoice in our heritage as Baptists, and let’s worship the One in whom we abide.

There will be a number of speakers, leaders and experts participating. There will be times of worship as well as exhibits, workshops and plenty of time for networking and visiting. Mark your calendars, and please join us.

This is an exciting time for Texas Baptists. I am humbled to be in the role I am during this time of change and preparation for the future. Thank you for your support and encouragement.

David Hardage is executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas Executive Board.