2024 Texas Baptists Annual Meeting Program

2024 TEXAS BAPTISTS

Program

LUKE 4:18-19

Dear Texas Baptists Family,

Welcome to our 139th annual meeting of the Baptist General Convention of Texas meeting in Waco! Last time we met was in the summer of 2023 in McAllen and so much has happened since then!

Whether this is your first time attending the annual meeting or whether you have been coming for as long as you can remember, I pray your experience this year will be meaningful. I hope that when you leave on Tuesday, you will know you have been in God’s presence, that you have heard the Holy Spirit’s voice, and that you return to your church and ministry encouraged.

This year’s theme is “His Kingdom Agenda,” (Luke 4:18-19). Jesus announced at the onset of his ministry that he came to proclaim good news to the poor, freedom for prisoners and the oppressed, sight for the blind and the year of the Lord’s favor.

In times of competing agendas, there is no better agenda than that of Jesus. We are his people, his body, and until He returns, His agenda should be our agenda. It is our desire that as we gather this year, His agenda would unite us as a convention.

We are very grateful for our Convention officers, Dr. Ronny Marriott, president; and Dr. Debbie Potter, first vice president; the committee on annual meeting, and our stellar staff who have prepared this year’s annual meeting.

Welcome

This year’s keynote speakers include Albert Reyes, president and CEO of Buckner International; Al Curley III, associate pastor at Cornerstone Church in Arlington; Meghan Hendrickson, director of Dallas Baptist University Baptist Student Ministry; Joel Gregory, professor of preaching at George W. Truett Theological Seminary; and Ronny Marriott, pastor at First Baptist Church in Richardson and president of Texas Baptists.

Worship will be led by Art Wellborn, worship pastor at First Woodway Baptist Church; Lampsato Worship Band, East Texas Baptist University; DBU Chapel Worship; and Michael Glenn, 317 Collective.

Workshops will include topics on church health, vision and strategy, identity, discipleship, kingdom giving and more. Tuesday we will have a box-lunch panel discussion about various biblical perspectives on women in ministry.

I will deliver my first report as executive director on Monday night and we will conduct the business of the convention. So dive in and enjoy the immersion! (We are Baptists!)

For the sake of King Jesus,

Julio S. Guarneri, Executive Director

Welcome Texas Baptists!

As president, I want to welcome you to Waco and our 139th Annual Meeting of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. This meeting is designed to be fun, informative and inspirational. One reason our convention exists is to support and resource churches to carry out the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. Thanks to so many incredible ministries and ministry partners, we can advance the Kingdom of God not only in Texas but in our nation and the world. I hope you will take time to learn about the ministries and ministry partners and how they can help meet the needs of your church.

Under the leadership of our newly elected Executive Director, Dr. Julio Guarneri, the footprint of Texas Baptists continues to extend across our state and beyond our state through missions, church planting, church revitalization and so much more. We really can do more together. Over the next few days, you will hear more of how you and your church can be a part of a worldwide vision.

His Kingdom Agenda is the theme for this year’s meeting. It is a great reminder that we are created to glorify the Father and advance His Kingdom. Scripture makes it clear; God’s Kingdom is the only kingdom that will stand forever.

The power of His Kingdom is found in the truth that God is love and therefore, His Kingdom is founded in love. This is reflected in the Great Commandment found in Matthew 22:37-39 ESV, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself." It is also the foundation of the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19-20, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

My hope is that you leave this year’s meeting with more ideas, excitement, friends and involvement than when you arrived. May the Lord bless you and your church and may the Lord increase His Kingdom through the efforts of Texas Baptists.

Your friend,

Dr. Ronny Marriott President of the

BGCT

September 13, 2024

Greetings,

Jim Holmes Mayor PO Box 2570

Waco, Texas 76702-2570

T: (254) 750 5750 waco-texas.com

On behalf of the City of Waco, I am pleased to welcome you to our continuously growing city We are glad that you traveled to Waco for the Texas Baptists Annual Meeting, taking place November 10-12, 2024.

It is my hope that you will have a memorable time and visit some of the various attractions, restaurants and shopping that Waco has to offer. The area around downtown and the Silo District continues to grow and thrive, with new shops and restaurants opening each week.

Waco offers many options for entertainment and fun. While you’re here, be sure to check out some of Waco’s most interesting attractions: Waco Mammoth National Monument, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum, Dr Pepper Museum, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Cameron Park and Cameron Park Zoo, where you can visit our newly opened Penguin Shores exhibit, as well as all the other great attractions Waco has to offer. Our downtown is one of the most walkable in the state, with shopping, restaurants and entertainment just steps away from the Waco Convention Center.

Again, we are pleased to have you as our guests and wish you and your group a wonderful time in Waco!

Sincerely,

Jim Holmes Mayor City of Waco

UPPER LEVEL

WACO CONVENTION CENTER

WASHINGTON AVENUE

REGISTRATION

GENERAL SESSION

WELCOME CENTER

EXHIBITS

EXHIBITS INFORMATION/ FIRST AID

WORKSHOPS

LOWER LEVEL

RESOLUTIONS

WORKSHOPS AT HILTON HOTEL

RALLIES/ MEALS

RALLIES/ MEALS

2025

2024 TEXAS BAPTISTS

We are grateful for the partnership of these 2024 sponsors

BASIC SCHEDULE

SUNDAY – NOVEMBER 10

4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ......Registration Open

4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ......Exhibits Open

5:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. ...... Dinners

5:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. . ..... Rallies

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Worship Session 1

MONDAY – NOVEMBER 11

7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. ....... Breakfast served by Texans on Mission

7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ..... Registration Open

8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Exhibits Open

8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Workshops – Session 1 (See Workshops, pg. 22)

9:45 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. ....... Business and Worship Session 2

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. ...... Lunches (See Special Meals/Receptions, pg. 13)

1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Registration Open

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Workshops – Session 2 (See Workshops, pg. 23)

2:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. ....... Workshops – Session 3 (See Workshops, pg. 24)

4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ..... Workshops – Session 4 (See Workshops, pg. 25)

5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Dinners (See Special Meals/Receptions, pgs. 13-14)

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Worship Session 3

9:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Receptions (See Special Meals/Receptions, pg. 14)

TUESDAY – NOVEMBER 12

7:00 a.m. – 8:15 a.m. ........ Breakfast (See Special Meals/Receptions, pg. 14)

7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m Breakfast served by Texans on Mission

8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Registration Open

8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. .... Exhibits Open

8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. ....... Workshops – Session 5 (See Workshops, pg. 26)

9:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Business and Worship Session 4

12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Biblical Perspective on Women in Ministry: A Panel Discussion with free boxed lunch

SCHEDULE

SUNDAY – NOVEMBER 10

4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Registration Open

4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Exhibits Open

5:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. Dinners (See Special Meals/Receptions, pg. 13)

5:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. Rallies

African American Fellowship Worship Rally

Carver Park Baptist Church

1020 E. Herring Ave. • Waco, TX 76704

TXB en Español Rally

Texas Rooms South, Waco Convention Center

Millennial/GenZ Ministers Network

Terry Black's BBQ

228 8th Street • Waco, TX 76701

6:45 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Pre-Session Music

Waco Area Combined Choirs Directed by Art Wellborn

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Worship Session 1

Call To Worship

Julio Guarneri

Scripture and Prayer Jeff Smith

Congregational Worship

Choral Anthem Special

Waco Area Combined Choirs

Waco Area Combined Choirs

Message Albert Reyes

Texas Worldwide Missions Offering/Prayer

Julio Guarneri

Message Al Curley, III

Special Invitation

Julio Guarneri

Benediction René Maciel

MONDAY – NOVEMBER 11

7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. .................. Breakfast - Texans on Missions (In front of WCC fountain)

7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. .................. Registration Open

8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. .................. Exhibits Open

8:30 a.m.– 9:30 a.m. Workshops - Session 1 (See Workshops, pg. 22)

•All Hands on Deck

•40 Días de Pasión "Que Venga Tu Reino"

•Principles for Growing Your Healthy Church to the Next Level

•Kingdom Giving

•What Does the Bible Say About Our Identity?

•What is Real? Ethical AI Practices for Ministry Leaders

•Engaging Gen Z with the Gospel

9:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Pre-Session Music Lampsato Worship Band East Texas Baptist University Directed by Chris Smith

10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Business and Worship Session 2

Call to Order Ronny Marriott

Scripture and Prayer Keely Rule

Organization and Seating of Messengers David Cozart

Adoption of Standing Rules David Lorenz

Adoption of Order of Business David Lorenz

Election of Officers Debbie Potter & Ronny Marriott

Executive Board Report

Bobby Contreras

Financial Report and Budget Presentation Ward Hayes

Executive Board Recommendations

Worship

Bobby Contreras

Lampsato Worship Band

Message Meghan Hendrickson

Your Kingdom Come - College Campuses Julio Guarneri

Introduction of Miscellaneous Business Ronny Marriott

Committee on Committees Report Stacy Conner

Committee to Nominate Executive Board Director’s Report Jase Waller Committee on Nominations for Boards of Affiliated Ministries Report Ryan Chandler Election of Officers Ronny Marriott

Benediction Jeff Warren

Adjourn Ronny Marriott

12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lunches (See Special Meals/Receptions, pg. 13)

1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Registration Open

1:30 p.m.– 2:30 p.m. Workshops - Session 2

•Boots on the Ground

(See Workshops, pg. 23)

•40 Days of Passion “Your Kingdom Come” (Bilingual)

•Circle the Wagons

•Funding Ministry through Vision

•Housing Allowance, Social Security, Income and Retirement Planning

•A Kingdom Approach To Social Outreach

•Striving for Sexual Purity in a Digital Age

2:45 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. ................. Workshops - Session 3

•Confident Evangelism

•Cinco Claves Para el Crecimiento del Reino

•Pave Preview and Panel

•Funding Ministry through Vision

(See Workshops, pg. 24)

•Finding your Lens for Kingdom Crossing Cultures Relationships

•Building a Church Strategy for 2033

•Ministering to Those Who Struggle with LGBTQ+ Related Issues

4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ................. Workshops - Session 4 (See Workshops, pg. 25)

• Why Pastors are Terminated and What You Can Do About It

• Cinco Claves Para el Crecimiento del Reino

• Pave Preview and Panel

• Giving Strategies for Kingdom Advancement

• Resilient, Finishing Life and Ministry Well

• What is Real? Ethical AI Practices for Ministry Leaders

• The Future of Disciple-Making

5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. ................... Dinners (See Special Meals/Receptions, pgs. 13-14)

6:45 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. ................... Pre-Session Music DBU Chapel Worship

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ................ Worship Session 3

Call to Worship

Scripture and Prayer

WMU of Texas

Texans on Mission

Congregational Worship

Executive Director's Report

BWA President

Signing of GC2 Partnership Agreement

Your Kingdom Come - Through our Kingdom Partners

Hunger Offering

Message

Benediction

Adjourn

9:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.. ................ Executive Director Reception – Upper Lobby

Julio Guarneri Cal Todd

Tamiko Jones

Mickey Lenamon DBU Chapel Worship

Julio Guarneri

Tomás Mackey

Sergio Ramos

Julio Guarneri

Katie Frugé

Joel Gregory

Kenneth Jackson

Julio Guarneri

Receptions (See Special Meals/Receptions, pg. 14)

TUESDAY - NOVEMBER 12

7:00 a.m – 9:00 a.m .................... Breakfast - Texans on Missions (In front of WCC fountain)

7:00 a.m – 8:15 a.m Breakfast (See Special Meals/Receptions, pg. 14)

8:00 a.m – 10:00 a.m. Registration Open

8:00 a.m – 10:00 a.m. Exhibits Open

8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Workshops - Session 5 (See Workshops pg. 26)

•Missions as Discipleship

•Housing Allowance, Social Security, Income and Retirement Planning

•Breaking News: Baptism is Evangelistic

•Connecting God's Mission and Your Legacy

• Breaking Down Walls and Building Bridges: Crossing the Cultural Chasm

• Tools & Techniques For Kingdom Preaching

• Gen Z & Biblical Sexuality: Eight Tips for Discipleship

9:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Pre-Session Music

10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. ............... Business and Worship Session 4

317 Collective Directed by Michael Glenn

Call to Order Ronny Marriott

Scripture and Prayer Eric Bruntmyer

Congregational Worship

317 Collective Committee on Credentials Report David Cozart Committee on Memorials Report David Butts

Committee on Resolutions Report Wesley Shotwell Committee on Annual Meeting Report David Lorenz

Consideration of Miscellaneous Business Ronny Marriott

Congregational Worship 317 Collective

President's Address Ronny Marriott

Your Kingdom Come - To the nations Julio Guarneri

Recognize Incoming and Outgoing Institutional Leaders Julio Guarneri

Recognition of Outcoming and Ingoing Officers Julio Guarneri

Promote 2025 Annual Meeting in Abilene Eric Bruntmyer/Julio Guarneri

Benediction Lester Leonares

Adjourn Ronny Marriott

12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. ................ Biblical Perspectives on Women in Ministry: A Panel Discussion

Location: Brazos Ballroom, Waco Convention Center

(See Special meals/Receptions, pg. 14)

SPECIAL MEALS & RECEPTIONS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.

Directors of Missions Dinner

Invitation Only, RSVP required, limited seating

WCC – Waco Convention Center

WCC – Ranger Rooms 106/107/108

For questions contact: Jessica Prince at jessica.prince@txb.org 936-662-5227

Friends of Truett Dinner

Cost: $25 per person

Reservations required

Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center/Baylor Campus

For questions contact: Nancy Plotts at 254-709-2811

Wayland Baptist University Alumni

Association Blue & Gold Social ti

Invitation Only, RSVP and ticket required

For questions contact: Jeffery Vera at veraj@wbu.edu Off-site

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11

Lunch: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Ninfa’s Mexican Restaurant

Ambassador Luncheon WCC – Lone Star 104 By invitation only

CLC Hunger Offering Luncheon

Cost: $20 Open to the Public, ticket required

For questions contact: Irene Gallegos at Irene.Gallegos@txb.org

WCC – Texas Rooms North

Institutional Presidents Luncheon WCC – Lone Star 103 By invitation only

Southwestern Seminary Alumni & Friends Luncheon WCC – Ranger Rooms 106/107

Cost: $10 per person

Check for availability at SWBTS exhibit booth

Texas Baptists Mission Foundation

By invitation only Off-site

Paul and Katy Piper Great Hall/Truett Seminary

For questions contact: Barbara Forbis at Barbara.forbis@txb.org

Western Heritage Luncheon WCC – Ranger Room 108

Invitation Only, Limited seating

Reception: 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Minister Spouse Fellowship Mayborn Museum/Baylor Campus

Featuring Robin Marriott & Brad Livingstone

1300 S. University Parks Dr. Waco, TX

Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

East Texas Baptist University/BH Carroll Alumni

Reservations required

HPU Alumni & Friends Dinner WCC – Lone Star 104 Invitation Only, RSVP required

For questions contact: Kalie Lowrie at klowrie@hputx.edu or 806-681-7257

Intercultural Ministries Dinner Banquet

WCC – Texas Rooms North Invitation Only

For questions contact: Linda Howell at linda.howell@txb.org

Logsdon School of Theology Dinner

Reservations and Tickets required

For questions contact: Jacob West at jacobwest@hsutx.edu

Missions Dinner – Center for Missional Engagement

Cost: Free Open to Public, Ticket required, first come, first serve basis

Pick up tickets at Center for Missional Engagement Exhibit Booth

For questions contact: Leah McMullen at 214-828-5294

Receptions: 9:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

WCC – Texas Rooms South

Executive Director's Reception WCC – Upper Lobby Open to the Public

Leadership Texas Baptists Alumni Reunion

Invitation Only

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

Breakfast: 7:00a.m. – 8:15 a.m.

Trustee Breakfast WCC – Texas Room North Invitation Only, RSVP required

Lunch: 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Biblical Perspectives on Women in Ministry: A Panel Discussion WCC – Brazos Ballroom

MEETING PRESENTERS

Bruntmyer, Eric - President, Hardin Simmons University

Butts, David - Children's Minister, First Baptist Church, Arlington

Chandler, Ryan - Young Adult Minister, First Baptist Church, Arlington

Conner, Stacy - Pastor, First Baptist Church, Muleshoe

Contreras, Bobby - Pastor, Alamo Heights Baptist Church, San Antonio

Cozart, David - Executive Pastor, Meadowbrook Baptist Church, Waco

Curley, III, Al - Associate Pastor, Cornerstone Church, Arlington

Glenn, Michael - 317 Collective, First Baptist Church, Burleson

Gregory, Joel - Professor of Preaching, George W. Truett Theological Seminary

Guarneri, Julio - Executive Director, Texas Baptists

Hayes, Ward - Treasurer/CFO, Texas Baptists

Hendrickson, Meghan - Baptist Student Ministry Director, Dallas Baptist University

Jackson, Kenneth - Pastor, New Light Baptist Church, Lubbock

Jones, Tamiko - Executive Director/Treasurer, WMU of Texas

Lenamon, Mickey - CEO, Texans on Mission

Leonares, Lester - Teaching Elder, First Philippine Baptist Church, Missouri City

Lorenz, David - Pastor, First Baptist Church, Friendswood

Mackey, Tomás - President, Baptist World Alliance

Maciel, Rene - Missions Pastor, First Woodway Baptist Church, Woodway

Marriott, Ronny - President, Texas Baptists; Pastor, First Baptist Church, Richardson

Potter, Debbie - Vice President, Texas Baptists; Trinity Baptist Church, San Antonio

Ramos, Sergio - Director, GC2 Network

Reyes, Albert - President and CEO, Buckner International

Rule, Keely - Principal Partner, Guardian Financial

Shotwell, Wesley - Pastor, First Baptist Church, Azle

Smith, Jeff - President and CEO, HighGround Advisors

Smith, Chris - Director of Lampasato Worship Band, East Texas Baptist University

Todd, Cal - Consulting Director, VisionBridge Consulting, LLC

Waller, Jase - Pastor, Telephone Baptist Church, Telephone

Warren, Jeff - Pastor, Park Cities Baptist Church, Dallas

Wellborn, Art - Worship Pastor, First Woodway Baptist Church

SPEAKERS

ALBERT REYES

Albert L. Reyes is the sixth president and CEO of Buckner International and has worked for Buckner since 2007. He previously served as president of Buckner Children and Family Services.

Prior to joining Buckner, Reyes was president of Baptist University of the Américas in San Antonio, where he led the school through dramatic changes in its name, accreditation and structure.

He has been involved in numerous roles with the 2.5 million-member Baptist General Convention of Texas, serving as its president in 2005. He currently serves as vice president of the Baptist World Alliance, USA Region.

He is a member of the board of trustees of the Christian Alliance for Orphans, Angelo State University Foundation and Stark College and Seminary.

Reyes and his wife, Belinda, have three adult sons. He enjoys reading, writing, hiking, movies and travel. The Reyes family are active members of Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas.

AL CURLEY, III

Rev. Al Curley, III, or “Pastor Al,” is a native of Long Island, New York. He currently oversees various ministries as he develops as executive pastor at Cornerstone Church of Arlington, TX. Al is married to the beautiful Mrs. Brianna Cheyenne and is the father of Albert IV “Quad” and Bryce. He received his Bachelor of Science in History from the State University of New York at Old Westbury and his Master of Divinity with a certificate in preaching from Princeton Theological Seminary. Currently, he is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry with a concentration in homiletics and intergenerational church health at Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary. During his free time, you can find him cheering on the Baltimore Ravens, watching home renovation shows or being a butler to his wife and sons. He strives to promote the good news of Christ to all generations in a way that impedes not only the soul but the very course of one’s life. He also seeks to impact communities needing love and support so that they may thrive and create infrastructure for the success of future generations. It is his prayer that God is pleased with his service and people can see that he loves God and loves them as well.

MEGHAN HENDRICKSON

Meghan Hendrickson serves as the director of the Baptist Student Ministry at Dallas Baptist University. Most recently, she was the minister to women and discipleship resource director at Park Cities Baptist Church, where she enjoyed being a member of the church’s teaching team. Meghan holds a Master of Divinity from George W. Truett Theological Seminary and a BBA in Business Journalism from Baylor University. She has served on three different church student ministry teams, helped pioneer campus ministries at Texas A&M University and the University of Amsterdam, and has written for the International Mission Board in South Africa. Meghan’s passion is to use writing and teaching to inspire the church to love God with everything she’s got and shine bright his light in the darkness.

JOEL GREGORY

Dr. Joel C. Gregory holds the George W. Truett Endowed Chair of Preaching and Evangelism at Baylor University’s George W. Truett Theological Seminary and is director of Truett Seminary’s Kyle Lake Center for Effective Preaching. In 2023, the Baylor Line Foundation, founded in 1859, inducted Gregory into the Alumni Hall of Fame. He was named one of the “Twelve Most Effective Preachers in the English Language” by a poll of more than 500 professors of preaching in American seminaries and universities. He was also recognized by the E.K. Bailey International Conference as a “Living Legend.”

He served four student pastorates and three pastorates after his student days, including Travis Avenue Baptist Church, the largest Baptist church in Fort Worth, and First Baptist Dallas. In addition to being a professor at Baylor’s Truett Seminary, he is also the president of Joel Gregory Ministries. He served two terms unanimously as president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas.

Among other investments, Gregory actively works with Compassion International in an advisory role and has traveled with them recently, introducing pastors to their work in Ecuador, Honduras, Guatemala, Haiti and the Dominican Republic, as well as helping forge a relationship between Baylor and Compassion.

JULIO GUARNERI

Dr. Julio Guarneri has a long history of service within the Convention. Prior to being elected executive director, Guarneri served two terms as BGCT president and two terms as first vice president. He has served as the chair of Buckner International, vice-chair at Buckner, chair of Stark College and Seminary and on the BGCT Executive Board.

Guarneri has also served as a faithful Baptist pastor for about three decades. He has led Calvary Baptist Church since 2010, and before that, he served as senior pastor of Iglesia Bautista Getsemaní for 17 years. Additionally, he has served as the minister of education and youth at Segunda Iglesia Bautista in Corpus Christi, founding pastor of Shalom Baptist Mission in Corpus Christi and pastor of Primera Iglesia Bautista in Taft.

Guarneri completed his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University in Kingsville. He also earned a Master of Arts in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in leadership studies from Dallas Baptist University.

He and his wife, Monica, have four children and two grandchildren.

RONNY MARRIOTT

Ronny Marriott is the pastor of First Baptist Richardson. He served at First Burleson from 2016 – 2024. Marriott served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Temple, First Baptist Church Corpus Christi and Sunset Baptist Church in Dripping Springs. He also served at Shady Oaks Baptist Church in Hurst— initially as youth minister and later as senior pastor. He also served on staff at Northlake Baptist Church in Dallas as their youth pastor.

He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University. He holds a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He has served on the Texas Baptists’ Theological Education Council, the BGCT Executive Board and the Christian Life Commission.

He and his wife, Robin, have three children—Molly, Morgan and Ryan.

WORSHIP

ART WELLBORN

First Woodway Baptist Church

Art Wellborn has served as worship pastor since May of 2023, but he has served in various worship ministry roles at First Woodway since he was a high schooler in the student ministry. He graduated from Baylor University in 2015 with a degree in Church Music. Art and his wife, Maddie, are both from Waco and have two children, Wesley and Ruby.

DBU CHAPEL WORSHIP

Dallas Baptist University

A vibrant and diverse community of students from Dallas Baptist University that exists to glorify God through authentic worship, songwriting, musical training and developing disciples for Jesus.

LAMPSATO WORSHIP BAND

East Texas Baptist University

Lampsato is an auditioned worship band utilizing an instrumentation consistent with modern worship music ensembles. The band represents the East Texas Baptist University in chapel performances and in a variety of events both on and off campus. The ensemble composes and records original worship music, recruits for the Department of Music and Theatre Arts and the University at large and serves as a public relations arm for the music program.

MICHAEL GLENN

317 Collective

317 Collective was formed out of a small group of worship leaders and musicians from the Residency program at First Baptist Burleson and has grown to include many others from local churches in the DFW area. We have one goal in mind - To worship and glorify Jesus through song. We believe that one moment in the presence of Jesus can change someone forever. You can learn more about the heart and vision of 317 Collective by going to 317collective.co.

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“Changing the lives of those changing the world”

SPECIAL INTERESTS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11

1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Minister Spouse Fellowship

Mayborn Museum (Baylor Campus) 1300 S. University Parks Dr. Waco, TX

Featured speaker Robin Marriott and Brad Livingstone. Join us for light refreshments with a time of fellowship for minister spouses.

1:30 p.m.

Author Book Signing

Come by the Center for Church Health exhibit booth located in the Brazos Ballroom and meet author, Steve Bezner, pastor at Houston Northwest Church and get an autographed copy of his new book, Your Jesus is Too American.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

8:00 a.m. ......................................... Women In Ministry Meet & Greet

Grab a cup of coffee and a pastry from the exhibit hall and come to the welcome area in the upper lobby of the Waco Convention Center for an informal meet and greet with the new Women in Ministry Network Director for Texas Baptists, Bennye Bryant.

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. ................. Chinese Baptist Fellowship Meeting, Lone Star 103

Contact Pastor Jason Lee at 832-361-6498 or jc1011550@gmail.com for more information.

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Korean Baptist Fellowship Meeting, 500 Webster Ave. Waco, TX 76706

Contact Pastor Jongsu Heo at 682-365-4654 or jongsu.heo@texasbaptists.org for more information.

12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Biblical Perspectives on Women in Ministry: A Panel Discussion

Location: Brazos Ballroom, Waco Convention Center

Panelists including Todd Still, Malcolm Yarnell, III, Dwight McKissic, Maddie Rarick, Miguel Lopez, and Steve Bezner will engage in a respectful conversation about the role of women in ministry from various perspectives. Julio Guarneri, Texas Baptists executive director, will moderate the discussion.

The panel discussion will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12, or immediately following the morning business session, in the Brazos Ballroom of the Waco Convention Center.

Registered messengers and guests at the 2024 Texas Baptists Annual Meeting are welcome to attend. Seating is limited, and the first 500 attendees will receive a free boxed lunch.

WORKSHOPS

Session 1 - Monday, November 11 - 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

PRESENTER WORKSHOP TITLE

Tom Howe, Director, Church Starting, Center for Missional Engagement, Texas Baptists All Hands on Deck

Toby Snowden, Senior Pastor, High Pointe, Cedar Hill / Rolando Rodriguez, Director, Texas Baptists en Español, Texas Baptists

Jonathan L. Smith, Director, Church Health and Growth, Texas Baptists

Jerry Carlisle, President, Texas Baptist Missions Foundation/ Ward Hayes, CFO/ Treasurer; Texas Baptists

Mark Turman, Vice President, Denison Ministries

Katie Fruge, Director, Center for Cultural Engagement, Texas Baptists

Manny Silva, College Pastor at Renew Church, Waco; Megan Trotter, BSM Director, Tarleton State University, Stephenville

40 Días de Pasión "Que Venga Tu Reino"

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

Your church can play a vital role in advancing the Kingdom. It takes all of us. Discover practical ways to be a part of Church Starting. Guadalupe

Venga tu reino está diseñado para promover la preparación y renovación espiritual. Dios no cambia. Toda nuestra adoración es una respuesta a Dios y a lo que Dios ha hecho. Descubre Cuarenta Días de Pasión: Venga Tu Reino como una manera de adorar a Dios diariamente.

Principles for Growing Your Healthy Church to the Next Level

Discover six strategies necessary for every growing church.

Brazos A

Kingdom Giving

What Does the Bible Say About Our Identity?

What is Real? Ethical AI Practices for Ministry Leaders

A Biblical perspective on God's provision for His Kingdom purposes and practical methods for connecting God's mission and your legacy.

Lavaca

Engaging Gen Z with the Gospel

Brazos B

Learn how to respond to cultural questions about identity with biblical responses. Sabine

A consideration of both the ethical challenges and opportunities of artificial and principles for ministry leaders to consider when using AI.

Understand the cultural and social landscape of Gen Z. Identify key values and concerns of Gen Z. Learn effective communication strategies tailored to Gen Z. Explore practical approaches to discipleship and spiritual mentoring. Develop actionable plans for engaging Gen Z in your ministry context.

Brazos C

Bosque Theater/ WCC

Session 2 - Monday, November 11 - 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

PRESENTERWORKSHOP TITLE

Noe Trevino, Director, Missional Engagement; Texas Baptist Missionaries; Tom Howe, Associate Director; Mario Alberto Gonzalez, Director, River Ministry/ Mexico Missions; Center for Missional Engagement, Texas Baptists Boots on the Ground

Toby Snowden, Senior Pastor, High Pointe, Cedar Hill / Rolando Rodriguez, Director, Texas Baptists en Español, Texas Baptists

James “Mac” McLeod, Western Heritage Consultant, Texas Baptists

Cal Todd, VisionBridge Consulting/ Jeremy Malick, Vision Funding Lead Consultant; Texas Baptists Architecture Consultants

40 Days of Passion “Your Kingdom Come” (Bilingual)

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

Circle the Wagons

Funding Ministry through Vision

Discover how to practically connect TXB churches directly to missional partners in Texas, North America and the world.

Keely Rule, Vice President of Sales; Guardian Financial Housing Allowance, Social Security, Income and Retirement Planning

Your Kingdom Come is designed to promote spiritual preparation and renewal. God does not change. All of our worship is a response to God and what God has done. Discover Forty Days of Passion: Your Kingdom Come as a way to worship God daily.

“Circle the Wagons” introduces church leaders and volunteers to a journey in excellence with almighty God, while navigating and overcoming plateaued & declining situations! Lavaca

Funding ministry is extremely challenging, whether an existing church or a church plant, each campaign must align with your specific church’s needs in mind. Successful campaigns target discipleship, heart transformation and are saturated in prayer, that allows opportunity for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts and lives of people of His choosing.

We are going old school whiteboard style to breakdown a minister's income that includes housing allowance: how it works while they are employed, what happens when they retire and how housing allowance is treated if they predecease their spouse. We will discuss maximizing housing allowance, opting out of social security and the value of using a 403(b)(9) retirement plan.

A

Charles Wolford, CEO, Union Gospel Mission, Fort Worth/ Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, Urban Alternative Trainer

David Earl Sanchez, Director of Ethics & Justice, Christian Life Commission, Texas Baptists

A Kingdom Approach To Social Outreach

Striving for Sexual Purity in a Digital Age

A Kingdom Approach to social outreach is designed to equip churches to implement quality social services, grounded in Biblical principles for public school youth and families along with vital components that make up a strong, viable organization such as board and staff structure, administrative and fiscal management, program implementation and evaluation, as well as fund development and marketing.

How has the battle against pornography has changed? Are we keeping up well? What tools and resources can help equip our churches?

C

Bosque Theater/ WCC

Guadalupe

Brazos

Brazos B

Sabine

Brazos

Session 3 - Monday, November 11 - 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

PRESENTERWORKSHOP TITLE

Gary Stidham, Director of Training, Collegiate Ministry; Eric Hernandez, Apologetics Lead and Millennial Specialist, Center for Church Health; Texas Baptists

Toby Snowden, Senior Pastor, High Pointe, Cedar Hill / Rolando Rodriguez, Director, Texas Baptists en Español, Texas Baptists

Jonathan L. Smith, Director, Church Health and Growth, Texas Baptists

Cal Todd, VisionBridge Consulting/ Jeremy Malick, Vision Funding Lead Consultant; Texas Baptists Architecture Consultants

Mark Heavener, Director, Intercultural Ministries, Texas Baptists

Kyle Henderson, Director, Strategic Planning, Baptist World Alliance

Confident Evangelism

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

Whether you’re talking to a skeptical nonbeliever or an open heart ready to accept the gospel, anyone can learn to be an effective witness for Christ.

Cinco Claves Para el Crecimiento del Reino

Pave Preview and Panel

Funding Ministry through Vision

De la misma manera Jesus en la Gran Comisión nos dio la llave para el crecimiento del reino. El énfasis no es el crecimiento de la Iglesia local sino el crecimiento del Reino de Dios por medio de Ganar Almas, Hacer Discípulos, Desarrollar Líderes, Enviar Misioneros, y Plantar Iglesias.

85% of Pave churches are experiencing revitalization progress in only one year. Learn the principles and processes of Pave that have led Texas Baptists churches to be revitalized and hear from pastors who are seeing growth occur in their churches through Pave.

Funding ministry is extremely challenging, whether an existing church or a church plant, each campaign must align with your specific church’s needs in mind. Successful campaigns target discipleship, heart transformation and are saturated in prayer, that allows opportunity for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts and lives of people of His choosing.

A

David Earl Sanchez, Director of Ethics & Justice, Christian Life Commission, Texas Baptists

Finding your Lens for Kingdom Crossing Cultures Relationships

Building a Church Strategy for 2033

Ministering to Those Who Struggle with LGBTQ+ Related Issues

Having the heart to do no harm, lens to see God’s Kingdom through other cultures eyes. Leads us to celebrate God’s kingdom right now.

Presentation of the Baptist World Alliance's global strategic plan. Examples of churches that have adopted these plans and are seeing growth.

Brazos B

Sabine

Brazos C

To provide ministers and lay people with biblically-based principles, tools and resources to help those who struggle with same-sex attraction / gender identity issues.

Bosque Theater/ WCC

Guadalupe

Brazos

Lavaca

Session 4 - Monday, November 11 - 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

PRESENTER WORKSHOP TITLE

Deanna Harrison, Executive Director, Pastors' Hope Network Why Pastors are Terminated and What You Can Do About It

Toby Snowden, Senior Pastor, High Pointe, Cedar Hill / Rolando Rodriguez, Director, Texas Baptists en Español, Texas Baptists

Jonathan L. Smith, Director, Church Health and Growth, Texas Baptists

Joe Hancock, Vice President and General Counsel / Katie Warren, Director, Philanthropic Engagement & Strategy HighGround Advisors

Kevin Abbott, Director, Pastoral Health Networks/ Area 5 Representative, Texas Baptists

Katie Fruge, Director, Center for Cultural Engagement, Texas Baptists

Cinco Claves Para el Crecimiento del Reino

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION ROOM #

We will empower participants to identify the secret process church leadership uses to force a minister out and provide practical steps to counteract the process. Guadalupe

De la misma manera Jesus en la Gran Comisión nos dio la llave para el crecimiento del reino. El énfasis no es el crecimiento de la Iglesia local sino el crecimiento del Reino de Dios por medio de Ganar Almas, Hacer Discípulos, Desarrollar Líderes, Enviar Misioneros, y Plantar Iglesias.

Pave Preview and Panel

Giving Strategies for Kingdom Advancement

85% of Pave churches are experiencing revitalization progress in only one year. Learn the principles and processes of Pave that have led Texas Baptists churches to be revitalized and hear from pastors who are seeing growth occur in their churches through Pave.

A

Resilient, Finishing Life and Ministry Well

An in-depth look at donor-advised funds and other charitable giving strategies, within the context of Biblical stewardship and generosity.

Brazos B

What is Real? Ethical AI Practices for Ministry Leaders

Tamiko Jones, Executive DirectorTreasurer, WMU of Texas The Future of Disciple-Making

We'll introduce the “Five Most Important Habits of Leaders Who Finish Well" as well as share exciting future opportunities beginning in 2025 to learn and experience these essential leadership habits in cohorts throughout Texas.

A consideration of both the ethical challenges and opportunities of artificial and principles for ministry leaders to consider when using AI.

Have you ever wondered how to engage your family, friends or church in disciple-making? Look to the future with WMU of Texas as we share new and creative ideas for impacting future generations with the gospel.

Sabine

Brazos C

Bosque Theater/ WCC

Brazos

Lavaca

Session 5 - Tuesday, November 12 - 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

PRESENTERWORKSHOP TITLE

Mickey Osborne, Discipleship & Outreach Coordinator, Texans on Missions (TBM)

Keely Rule, Vice President of Sales; Guardian Financial

Missions as Discipleship

Housing Allowance, Social Security, Income and Retirement Planning

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

What is the best way to encourage growing disciples of Christ? Put their faith into action through missions. Missions and discipleship grow together.

We are going old school whiteboard style to breakdown a minister's income that includes housing allowance: how it works while they are employed, what happens when they retire and how housing allowance is treated if they predecease their spouse. We will discuss maximizing housing allowance, opting out of social security and the value of using a 403(b) (9) retirement plan.

Guadalupe

Jonathan L. Smith, Director, Church Health and Growth, Texas Baptists

Jerry Carlisle, President, Texas Baptist Missions Foundation

Carlos Francis, Director, African American Ministries/ Victor Rodriguez, Evangelism Associate/ Discipleship Specialist, Hispanic Evangelism; Center for Church Health, Texas Baptists

Delvin Atchison, Senior Pastor, Westside Baptist Church, Lewisville

Gary Stidham, Director of Training, Collegiate Ministry, Texas Baptists

Breaking News: Baptism is Evangelistic

Connecting God's Mission and Your Legacy

Breaking Down Walls and Building Bridges: Crossing the Cultural Chasm

Brazos A

Baptism is one of the best evangelistic tools for your church. Nothing increases the psychology of your congregation like celebrating baptism. Lavaca

Discover opportunities to grow the generosity of your congregation, both now and for the future

Brazos B

The Great Commission by implication forces us to engage people of different cultures. What are some tools and techniques that can help break down cultural barriers and help bridge the culture gap? Sabine

Tools & Techniques For Kingdom Preaching

Gen Z & Biblical Sexuality: Eight Tips for Discipleship

Pastors and teachers will develop sermons and lessons through a Kingdom lens using Kingdom parables and scriptures.

Powerful forces work to indoctrinate students with dangerous ideologies about marriage, sexuality & gender. Young Christians want and need holistic, Biblical truth on these topics. We'll share insights from 25 years of collegiate ministry that will help you make disciples and address these issues with clarity.

Brazos C

Bosque Theater/ WCC

2024 EXHIBITORS FOR ANNUAL MEETING

Table Top/Hallway

Circle 6 Youth Camp

Editorial Mundo Hispano

Hawaii Baptist Academy

Literacy Connexus

Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist Convention

Texas Online Christian Counseling

Brazos Exhibit Hall

401 Baptist Credit Union

700 Baylor Health Care System

407 Buckner International

900 Center for Church Health

909 Center for Ministerial Health

902 Chemistry Staffing

706 Church Teams

710 Circle 6 Youth Camp

802 Core Displays

411 Creation Ministries International

813 Crestview Baptist Church

800 Denison Forum / Denison Ministries

815 GuideStone

708 Hendrick Health Systems

801 Highland Lakes Camp

702 Horizons Stewardship

403 Hospitality House

809 HR Ministry Solutions

413 Insurance for Texans

812 JHS Community

804 Joint Ethic African Baptist Churches of Texas

814 Kids Outdoor Zone

415 Life Ambassadors of Texas

912 Lifetime Commercial Roofing

704 North American Mission Board

807 One by One Ministries

805 Restore Hope

405 Send Relief

716 Sight & Sound Theatres

906 Texas Baptist Missions Foundation

714 Texas Baptist Women in Ministry

806 Texas Baptists Prisoner Family Ministry

810 Texas Online Christian Counseling

808 The Bucket Ministry

803 The Hiding Place Ministries

811 Travel with Friends

417 United States Air Force Chaplain Recruiting Service

904 Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

McLennan Exhibit Hall

1124 Abilene CVB/Convention Center

1225 Baptist Church Loan Corporation

1227 Baptist Standard

1302 Baptist University of the Americas

1327 Baptist World Alliance

1304 Canadian Baptist Theological Seminary & College

1101 Center for Collegiate Ministry

1123 Center for Cultural Engagement

1111 Center for Missional Engagement

1001 Children at Heart Ministries

1321 Church Architecture

1307 Criswell College

1201 Dallas Baptist University

1209 East Texas Baptist University

1306 Faith Bible Institute

1329 GC2 Press

1219 Guardian Financial Group / Retirement Solutions & Benefits

1217 Hardin-Simmons University

1203 HighGround Advisors

1008 Howard Payne University

1320 International Commission

1318 International Mission Board

1322 Northwest Baptist Convention (NW Church Planting)

1324 Pastor’s Hope Network

1100 San Marcos Baptist Academy

1009 South Texas Children’s Home Ministries

1012 SWBTS

1315 Texans on Missions (TBM)

1005 Texas Baptist Historical Collection

1007 Texas Baptist Historical Museum

1104 Texas Baptists Cooperative Program

1301 Truett Seminary/Baylor University

1002 University Mary Hardin-Baylor

1311 Valley Baptist Mission & Education Center

1211 Wayland Baptist University

1110 WMU

Brazos Exhibit Hall

McLennan Exhibit Hall

BULLETIN TEXAS

KINGDOM-FOCUS, TIME OF CELEBRATION EXPECTED AT UPCOMING ANNUAL MEETING

By: Jessica King

On Nov. 10-12, messengers and guests from across the Texas Baptists family will gather at the Waco Convention Center for the 139th Texas Baptists Annual Meeting. Under the theme “His Kingdom Agenda,” attendees will join together in worship and business sessions, hear from six keynote speakers, choose from among 35 unique ministry workshops and experience numerous times of fellowship throughout exhibit halls, meals and receptions, rallies and more.

Julio Guarneri, executive director of Texas Baptists, said he looks forward to connecting with church leaders across the Convention and celebrating together all that God has done.

“I'm looking forward to being in the sessions and worship and hearing some of the great speakers that we have invited and then connecting [with] pastors from across the state and from outside of Texas,” said Guarneri. “Celebrating the things that we have accomplished…just a big time of celebration [and] enjoying being together as a family.”

Kingdom-focused speakers, worship leaders and workshops

The Annual Meeting’s keynote speakers will include Guarneri; Albert Reyes, president and CEO of Buckner International; Al Curley III, associate pastor at Cornerstone Church in Arlington; Meghan Hendrickson, director of Dallas Baptist University Baptist Student Ministry; Joel Gregory, professor of preaching at George W. Truett Theological Seminary; and Ronny Marriott, pastor at First Baptist Church in Richardson and president of Texas Baptists.

Reyes will speak on “A Kingdom of Wholeness,” Curley III on “The Gospel of the Kingdom,” Hendrickson on “Kingdom Advance,” and Gregory on “The Kingdom Has Come Near.” Guarneri and Marriott will deliver the executive director’s report and the president’s address, respectively.

Worship will be led by Art Wellborn, worship pastor at First Woodway Baptist Church; Lampsato, East Texas Baptist University worship band; DBU Chapel Worship; and Michael Glenn, 317 Collective.

Workshops will include topics on church health, vision and strategy, identity, discipleship, kingdom giving and more. Attendees are encouraged to stop by exhibit halls throughout the three-day gathering to learn more about ministry resources from Texas Baptists staff, ministry partners and other vendors and for networking and fellowship.

Several meals and receptions will also be hosted by Texas Baptists ministries and partners, and a new “Welcome Center” will be available near the registration area to help first-time attendees to the gathering.

Rallies a tone-setting ‘celebration of diversity’

Rallies scheduled for Sunday evening include the African American Fellowship Worship Rally, held at Carver Park Baptist Church; TXB en Español Rally, held in Texas Rooms South at the Waco Convention Center; and the Millennial/GenZ Rally, held at Terry Black's BBQ in Waco. Sunday rallies will begin at 5 p.m. and end at 6:45 p.m. to allow attendees to join the 7 p.m. Evening Worship Session at the Waco Convention Center.

Guarneri said he encourages attendees not to miss out on these opportunities to celebrate diversity within the Convention.

“It's meant to be a celebration of our diversity with the people, the local people in Waco, and then with our different fellowships and affinity groups,” said Guarneri. “It hopefully sets the tone for the rest of the Annual Meeting.”

Church insurance relief among business considered by messengers

During business sessions, messengers will elect officers and vote on recommendations, including a 2025 proposed missions and ministries budget of $36,716,950, worldwide missions initiatives and partnership allocations of $1.1 million, and nominations for Executive Board directors and boards of affiliated ministries.

Messengers will also hear and vote upon a recommendation for a Texas Baptists Insurance Program to assist affiliated churches amidst a challenging property insurance environment through collaboration in a captive insurance pool. Passage of that recommendation would grant Convention leaders authorization to “take all necessary steps” to successfully implement the program subject to the Executive Committee’s approval pending the results of a feasibility study already in process.

This and other recommendations are available online via the “Business” page of the Annual Meeting website.

Clarifying the call and prayers for unity

Guarneri said he is praying for a spirit of unity among messengers and guests and that attendees to the Annual Meeting will come away with a renewed clarity for the coming years of collaborative missions and ministries through Texas Baptists.

“We want to communicate what we can be doing together for the next couple of years with a sense of clarity. We have a sense of clarity about what we're going to join together for in the next couple of years, and so, we hope that happens through the preaching, and that happens through some of my reports and other things that [attendees] experience there,” said Guarneri.

“I'm praying, first of all, that God's presence would be felt when we're together. Second, that there would be a spirit of unity, that we would be listening to others [and] listening to God's voice,” he said.

Attendees are encouraged to access all of the information above, including the schedule, worship and business sessions, workshop titles and descriptions, rallies, meals and receptions and more, in the Texas Baptists app, which is free to download online at txb.org/app.

Financing Faith since 1952

At the Baptist Church Loan Corporation, we believe no project’s too small to glorify His name. As a nonprofit ministry, we use 100 percent of our net earnings to fi nance churches across the country. Whatever plan God has in store for your congregation, let us be a part of it.

Visit bclcchurchlending.org to learn more.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Registration for this annual meeting is being held in the Upper Lobby of the Waco Convention Center beginning Sunday, November 10 at 4:00 p.m. Visitors are required to register at the registration desk.

Online Registration: Pre-registered messengers who have the QR code and ID, proceed to the “fast” Pre-Registration line.

Standard Registration: Bring your Messenger Card (required) and ID to register, proceed to the Registration line.

Guest/Visitors are required to register. Proceed to the Guest Registration line to self-register and receive your name badge. Attendants will be there to assist.

CONSTITUTION OF THE BAPTIST GENERAL CONVENTION OF TEXAS (excerpt)

Article III – Membership

Section 1. This Convention in session in all its meetings shall be composed of messengers elected by Baptist churches that shall voluntarily cooperate with the Convention. All messengers must be members of the church by which they are elected. A messenger must be enrolled at the Convention in session to be qualified to vote. The messengers have no right to act except for annual or special meetings constituting the Convention in session for which they have been elected by their cooperating churches.

Section 2. Each church cooperating with this Convention shall be entitled to:

A. Two messengers for the first one hundred (100) members or fractional part thereof. Two additional messengers for the first two hundred fifty dollars ($250) given during the previous fiscal year to the Texas budget as adopted by The Baptist General Convention of Texas in annual session, and

B. One additional messenger for each additional hundred members and each additional one thousand dollars ($1,000) given during the previous fiscal year to the Texas budget as adopted by The Baptist General Convention of Texas in annual session, and

C. If, as calculated under B above, a church’s giving surpasses its membership, then one additional messenger for each two thousand dollars ($2,000) given during the previous fiscal year to the Texas budget as adopted by The Baptist General Convention of Texas in annual session, not to exceed six additional messengers, provided, however, that

D. No church shall be entitled to more than twenty-five messengers.

E. A mission church shall be considered a church under the Constitution solely for the limited purpose of electing messengers to the Annual Meeting if it is identified as a body of believers separate from its sponsoring church; it contributes to the BGCT in an identifiable way either directly or through the sponsoring church from its own resources; it exists to address some specific mission need, such as language, culture or location, it regularly practices baptism and the Lord’s Supper separate from its sponsoring church; and it identifies itself with, aligns itself with, and endorses, generally, the purposes and work of the Convention. The total number of messengers a mission may qualify for is four (4).

STANDING RULES

The Convention will be asked to act on the following recommended “Standing Rules” for this annual meeting:

1. All reports, motions or amendments to the constitution, bylaws or articles of incorporation shall be submitted by a registered messenger to the body, then sent to the recording secretary in writing, legibly signed by the maker and shall include their name, address, church membership and phone number where they can be reached during the convention.

2. All motions requiring a vote not scheduled on the agenda must be introduced by the close of the Monday business meeting. Amendments to the Constitution and/or Bylaws must also be introduced by the close of the Monday business meeting.

3. All resolutions must be submitted by Monday, November 11 by 11:45 a.m.

4. To obtain the floor, a messenger shall approach the microphone, address the chair, give his or her name and church and wait to be recognized.

5. Discussion or debate and nomination speeches shall be limited to two minutes for each speaker. There may be no more than one nomination speech per candidate.

6. No messenger shall speak more than once on the same question or topic until all have spoken who wish to do so.

7. The chair shall recognize messengers wishing to speak to each side of the question alternately.

8. All messengers who attend and participate in the business meetings of the convention shall conduct themselves in keeping with the stated objectives of the Constitution of Texas Baptists.

9. Voting shall be conducted by voice or by the raising of ballots by messengers. Division of the assembly shall be conducted by messengers standing and raising ballots. The president, by his/ her own decision, may order a vote by ballot.

10. In the election of officers, if no nominee receives a majority vote of the messengers, there shall be a runoff election between the two nominees who received the greatest number of votes on the first ballot.

TO MAKE A MOTION

A motion calls for specific action by Texas Baptists or some entity of Texas Baptists. Only registered messengers may make a motion. A motion normally begins with “I move to ...” or “I move that …”

1. Write the motion legibly. (If the motion is spontaneous and you don’t have time to write it before presenting it to the convention, write the motion before leaving the microphone area.)

2. Go to a microphone at a time when business is being considered.

3. When recognized by the presiding officer, state your name, that you are a messenger, the name of your church and read your motion, which must be presented to the convention during a business meeting to become an official motion.

4. Before leaving the microphone, give the written copy of your motion to the page at the microphone. A page will take the copy of your motion to the platform so the motion can be entered into the record by the recording secretary.

5. The Committee on Annual Meeting will announce a time for the convention to consider the motion or recommend its referral to some convention entity.

The Texas Baptists Bulletin is published daily during the Annual Meeting by the Baptist General Convention of Texas.

The Bulletin includes announcements, committee reports and proceedings.

Julio Guarneri Executive Director

Craig Christina Associate Executive Director

Ward Hayes Treasurer/CFO/Recording Secretary

Joshua Minatrea Director of Communications

Coleen Wall Director of Conferences & Event Planning

Caleb Arndt Design Manager

NOTICE

Texas Baptists’ Bylaws call for the meeting of the convention to be conducted according to the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised. The officers abide by the manual on parliamentary procedure. In the past, a messenger’s motion has been ruled out of order because it did not comply with Robert’s Rules of Order when a change in wording was all that was necessary for the motion to have been appropriate and in order

Every effort is being made for the business of our convention to be conducted in the smoothest and best way possible for the advancement of our Lord’s Kingdom. If a messenger has a motion to make, the parliamentarian will be available to assist with the wording so that the motion will be in proper format.

Note: A motion will not be considered by the convention until a messenger has personally made it at the appropriate time and place while the convention is in session. A motion cannot be submitted to the messengers except during the Annual Meeting.

COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS

The Committee on Credentials has been assigned an area near Registration, located on the Upper Lobby of the Waco Convention Center. Pre-registered messengers will present the QR code they received via email for Registration. Duly elected Messengers who are not pre-registered must have a messenger card properly endorsed by the church clerk or church moderator. Messengers who do not have such a card or did not pre-register will need to be approved by the Credentials Committee. Guests may register at the Guest Registration Kiosk.

TO PROPOSE A RESOLUTION

A resolution has been defined as an expression of opinion from a messenger, as opposed to a motion, which calls for action. The following guidelines are offered for persons desiring to submit a resolution.

•Only registered messengers may submit a resolution.

•Resolutions must be submitted in print directly to any member of the Resolutions Committee on Monday, November 11 by 11:45 a.m. The committee members are identified on page 41 of the Bulletin. The committee members will be available to receive resolutions and answer questions. The Resolutions Committee will be available in the Waco Room, on the Lower Level of the Waco Convention Center. All resolutions must be submitted to the committee by 11:45 a.m. on Monday.

•The resolution should be typed and state the name of the messenger submitting the resolution, the name of the BGCT church from which the messenger was elected and a contact phone number in case the Resolutions Committee has questions or concerns.

•Anyone needing help submitting a resolution may contact any of the members of the Resolutions Committee or the BGCT staff liaison Dr. Katie Frugé at (817) 475-4173 or katie.fruge@texasbaptists.org.

The Resolutions Committee will consider every resolution properly submitted. However, the Resolutions Committee is responsible for deciding which resolutions will be presented to the messengers for their consideration (see Article IV, Section 5 of the Bylaws of the BGCT).

HELP FOR MESSENGERS

Materials are prepared each year to help messengers during business sessions of the Texas Baptists Annual Meeting. Among those materials is the Book of Reports, which contains the annual reports of Texas Baptists Institutions and Agencies, the Texas Baptists Executive Board and a copy of the Texas Baptists Constitution and Bylaws. Additionally, the Texas Baptists Bulletin contains information about business matters to be voted on and proceedings.

SECURITY PRECAUTIONS

In cooperation with the Waco Convention Center and Waco Police department, please always wear your Texas Baptists Annual Meeting name badge. Texas Baptists has taken every precaution to ensure the safety and security of all messengers and visitors.

FIRST AID

First Aid room is next to the Information Desk in the Upper Lobby of the Waco Convention Center. First Aid will be available Sunday, November 10 from 3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and Monday, November 11 from 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. and Tuesday, November 12 from 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

A special thank you and note of appreciation to the volunteer Staff of Baylor, Scott & White – Waco, coordinated by Dusti Everett and Michael Sims, who has graciously donated their time to assist us in the First Aid Area.

LOCAL INFORMATION

Maps, restaurant guides and other local information can be found at the digital kiosk’s information board located by the Texas Baptists Information Desk located in the Upper Lobby of the Waco Convention Center.

LOST AND FOUND

To find a “lost” item or to turn in a “found” item, please go to the Texas Baptists Information Desk located in the Upper Lobby of the Waco Convention Center across from the escalators.

PHONE CHARGING STATIONS

As an added convenience for Annual Meeting attendees, phone charging stations (that accommodates most phone and tablet connections) are provided in McLennan Hall exhibit hall (Upper Level).

FOOD SERVICE OFFERED

Coffee and limited refreshments will be provided during exhibit hall hours on Sunday from 4:00 p.m.6:30 p.m., Monday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., and Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Vending machines are available in the lower level by the Washington Street entry doors for snacks, water and soda options.

Local restaurant information is available at the digital kiosk’s information board located at the Texas Baptist Information Desk

TRADUCCIÓN ESPAÑOL/SPANISH TRANSLATION

Todas las Sesiones Generales y Sesiones de Negocios de la Reunión Anual 2024 serán traducidas al español. Los audífonos están disponibles para su préstamo en el puesto de información ubicado en la planta alta del Centro de Convenciones de Waco.

All General Sessions and Business Meeting Sessions of the 2024 Annual Meeting will be translated into Spanish. Headsets are available for check out at the Information Booth located on the Upper Level of the Waco Convention Center.

WELCOME CENTER

Are you a "First Time Attendee"? Come to the Welcome Center area adjacent to the Registration area on the Upper Level of the Waco Convention Center. Representatives will be there to answer any questions, point you in the right direction and give you the inside scoop of what to expect during the Convention. Welcome to Waco!

HEAL

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

– Psalm 147:3

RESTORE

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore , confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

– 1 Peter 5:10

TRANSFORM

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

– Romans 12:2

OFFICERS OF THE CONVENTION

Ronny Marriott, President FBC, Richardson

Debbie Potter, First Vice President Trinity Baptist Church, San Antonio

VACANT, Second Vice President

Ward Hayes, Recording Secretary FBC, Plano

David Cozart, Registration Secretary Meadowbrook BC, Waco

VACANT, Secretary of the Corporation

Isaac Thompson, Parliamentarian Hillcrest BC, Cedar Hill

2023–2024 EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS

Bobby Contreras, Chair, Alamo Heights BC, Alamo Heights BC, San Antonio

Janice Bloom, Vice Chair, FBC, Garland

2024 COMMITTEES

Committee on Annual Meeting

David Lorenz, Chair, FBC, Friendswood

Marty Akins, FBC, Ballinger

Bobbette Bell, FBC, Salado

Deanne Celelli, Crestview BC, Georgetown

Sammy Elliot, Bacon Heights BC, Lubbock

Nikki Fannin, Shady Oaks BC, Hurst

Janet Galarza, Second BC, Corpus Christi

David Goddard, FBC, Temple

Jewel London, Church Without Walls, Houston

Darrin Moore, TrueVine Missionary BC, Spring

Diego Mota, Duncanville FBC, Duncanville

Josue Rodriguez, Life Church of San Antonio, San Antonio

Joshua Sharp, Trinity BC, Orange

Laura Tosto, FBC, Corpus Christi

Jacob West, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

John Whitten, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Committee on Committees

Stacy Conner, Chair, FBC, Muleshoe

Melonye Batson, Faith Fellowship, Red Oak

Chad Bertrand, South Park BC, Alvin

Craig Curry, FBC, Plano

Rhoda Gonzalez, North Dallas Family Church, Dallas

Katie Gravens, FBC, Sulphur Springs

Brian Hill, FBC, Corpus Christi

Chris Johnson, FBC, San Antonio

Cheryl Jones, FBC, Temple

Peter McCann, Orchard Hills BC, Garland

Danny Reeves, FBC, Corsicana

Grace Rodriguez, Primera Iglesia Bautista

Mexicana, San Antonio

Taylor Sandlin, Sugar Land BC, Sugar Land

Committee on Credentials

Ariel Martinez, Chair, Del Sol Church, El Paso

Marco Barron, New Life at the Cross, Robstown

Nathan Escamilla, El Buen Pastor, Fort Worth

Chris Hughes, Influence International, Garland

Denisse Ibarra, Calvary BC, McAllen

Robert Morrison, West Conroe BC, Conroe

Daniel Perez, FBC, Los Fresnos

Lydia Santibanez, FBC, Temple

Autumn SeaCat, Vista Community Church of Bell Co., Temple

Committee on Memorials

David Butts, Chair, FBC, Arlington

Julia Butler, FBC, Waco

Sharon Guthrie, FBC, Stephenville

Becky Rodriguez, FBC, Mission

Chris Wright, Redemption City, Fort Worth

Committee on Resolutions

Wesley Shotwell, Chair, Ash Creek BC, Azle

Becky Biser, University BC, Fort Worth

David Chan, Calvary BC, McAllen

Stephen Dollar, Pine Forest BC, Vidor

Jack Newton, Calvary BC, Nederland

Danny Quintanilla, Bear Creek BC, Katy

Marlon Rios, Cliff Temple, Dallas

Emmanuel Roldan, Primera Iglesia Bautista, Waco

Chris Stapper, Third Coast Church, Corpus Christi

Jordan Villanueva, FBC, Blanket

Committee on Nominations for Boards of Affiliated Ministries

Ryan Chandler, Chair, FBC, Arlington

Henry Batson, III, Faith Fellowship, Red Oak

Ryan Buck, Immanuel BC, San Angelo

Kevin Burrow, FBC, Eastland

Kimberly Cook, FBC, El Paso

Scott Curry, FBC, Gruver

Steve Faulkner, Shiner BC, Shiner

Pamla Joseph, Marvelous Light Church, Houston

Steven Parker, FBC, Weslaco

Shawn Shannon, Tallowood BC, Houston

Jean Ann Underwood, FBC, Waxahachie

Jorge Vazquez, Alliance Church, Lubbock

Committee to Nominate Executive Board Directors

Jase Waller, Chair, Telephone BC, Telephone

Heather Bell, Tallowood BC, Houston

Clay Bowers, Arcadia FBC, Santa Fe

Jane Crain, FBC, Nederland

Larry Dooley, FBC, Bryan

Teresa Herrera, FBC, Athens

Edgar Leon, FBC, San Antonio

Robyn Lowrie, FBC, Decatur

Brad Miles, FBC, Shallowater

Walid Saade, Arabic Christian Fellowship, Fort Worth

Jeff Scott, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Gary Walton, FBC, Silverton

Darin Wood, FBC, Midland

Dan Young, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Tellers Committee

Robby Hargrave, Holly Brook BC, Hawkins

David LeFlore, FBC, Hawkins

Randy Miller, FBC, Garland

Larry Post, Sugar Land BC, Sugar Land

John Spencer, FBC, Garland

PRESIDENTS OF THE AUXILIARY GROUPS

Jackie Faughn, Woman’s Missionary Union of Texas; First McKinney BC, McKinney

Edward L. Wagner, African American Fellowship; Cornerstone Baptist Church, Harker Heights

Joseph Huang, Chinese Fellowship; Chinese Baptist Fellowship, Belton

Edson Lara, Hispanic Baptist Convention; Emmanuel Baptist Church, McAllen

John Nguyen, Vietnamese Fellowship of Texas; Vietnamese Redeemer BC, Plano

Dillard Fisher, Bivocational Small Church

Membership; Cross Beavers Church, Copperas Cove

Dylan Dick, BSM Co-President, Cottonwood Baptist Church, Dublin

Samantha Roberts, BSM Co-President, FBC, Commerce

Lee Bevly, Texas Baptist Men; Samnorwood BC, Samnorwood

NOMINATIONS FROM COMMITTEE ON COMMITTEES

Nominations to Committee on Nominations for Boards of Affiliated Ministries

2027 Term

Antonio Canady, Triumphal Christian Fellowship, Waxahachie

Daniel Crowther, South Main BC, Pasadena

Christopher Curran, Southland BC, San Angelo

Nick Ferguson, FBC, Hallettsville

Isabel Sanchez, South Park BC, Alvin

2026 Term

Virginia Bowers, FBC, Muleshoe

Carl Brown, FBC, Clyde

Nathan Adams, FBC, Hereford

Nominations to Committee to Nominate Executive Board Directors

2027 Term

Daniel Cancino, Jr., FBC, San Antonio

Betty Elaine Mason, FBC, Texas City

Demetrius McClendon, One Church, Midlothian

David Paul, Sugar Land BC, Sugarland

Gary Walton, FBC, Silverton

NOMINATIONS FROM COMMITTEE TO NOMINATE EXECUTIVE BOARD DIRECTORS

Nominations for New Executive Board Directors

2027 Term

John Gillespie, FBC, Tulia

Rami Ibrahim, Arabic Christian Fellowship, Fort Worth

Kyle Jackson, 3rd Coast Church, Texas City

Luis Juarez, FBC, Kaufman

Chris McLain, FBC, Bandera

Sam Medina, One Accord Fellowship, Lubbock

Daniel Tanguma, FBC, Hillsboro

Jeff Warren, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Lori Wood, Coulter Road BC, Amarillo

Norma Ybarra, Northside BC, Texas City

Nominations for Second Term Executive Board Directors

2027 Term

Quincy Barnes, Trinity BC, San Antonio

Alyce Bell, Travis Ave. BC, Fort Worth

Jim Burgin, Grace Street Fellowship, Arlington

Goldenstene Davis, Singing Hills BC, Dallas

Lazaro Diaz, FBC, Midland

Chris Donaho, Heaven Bound Cowboy Church, Snyder

Chad Edgington, FBC, Olney

Don Graham, FBC, Llano

Josh Guajardo, Trinity BC, Katy

Glenn Hambrick, Central BC, Carthage

Martha Haydon, FBC, Brenham

Karyl Horn, Dorcas Wills Memorial BC, Trinity

Eric House, North End BC, Beaumont

Alison Howell, FBC, Nederland

Suzie Liner, FBC, Lubbock

Miguel Lopez, FBC, Duncanville

Gene Pittman, FBC at the Fields, Carrollton

Jaime Silguero, Crestview Baptist Church, Georgetown

Dustin Slaton, FBC, Round Rock

J.T. Thornton, Trinity BC, Sweetwater

Fanny Young, Missouri City BC, Missouri City

Nominations to Fill Executive Board Director Vacancies

2026 Term

Lanette Jones, Schwab City BC, Livingston

2025 Term

Jose Carreno, Northside BC, Baytown

Josh Fults, FBC, Orange

Raymond Sanchez, FBC, Weslaco

Flor Soto, Iglesia Bautista Victoria En Cristo, Fort Worth

NOMINATIONS FROM COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS FOR BOARDS OF AFFILIATED MINISTRIES

Nominations to Board of Baptist University of the Américas

2027 Term

Rolando Aguirre, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Luis Campos, South Main BC, Houston

Fernando Rojas, Azle Avenue BC, Fort Worth

Nominations to Board of Baylor University

2028 Term

Joseph Parker, David Chapel Missionary Baptist, Austin

Gail Stewart, River Oaks BC, Houston

Nominations to Board of Dallas Baptist University

2027 Term

Ryan Jespersen, Hillcrest BC, Cedar Hill

Charles Ku, FBC, Lewisville

Ryan Lee, Semihan Korean BC, Carrollton

James Nation, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Nominations to Board of East Texas Baptist University

2027 Term

Katie Balfe, The Woodlands FBC, The Woodlands

Susan Henry, FBC, Longview

Keith Hill, Mobberly BC, Marshall

Leonard Hornsby, Bethlehem BC, Mansfield

Diane Lane, FBC, Arlington

Suzanne McWhorter, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Chris Paddie, Immanuel BC, Marshall

David Ritsema, FBC, Waxahachie

Linda Ringler, FBC, Temple

Shannen Smith, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Nominations to Board of Hardin-Simmons University

2027 Term

Sheri Adams, FBC, Dallas

Zelda Ellison, FBC, Lockney

Mark Fowler, The Heights BC, Richardson

Mark Ganaway, 121 Community Church, Grapevine

Julie Gentzel, FBC, Kaufman

Shanna Smith, Trinity BC, San Antonio

2025 Term

Ben Lovvorn, FBC, Dallas

Nominations to Board of Houston Christian University

2027 Term

Duane Brooks, Tallowood BC, Houston

David Mobley, University BC, Houston

Clois Smith, Tallowood BC, Houston

Bruce Williams, Tallowood BC, Houston

Nominations to Board of Howard Payne University

2027 Term

Bobette Bell, FBC, Salado

John Cole, FBC, Abilene

Ronny Marriott, FBC, Burleson

James Schmeltekopf, Oakwood BC, New Braunfels

Kenneth Stimson, Northside BC, Victoria

2026 Term

Moises Rodriguez, FBC, Cotulla

2025 Term

Robert Knoll, Oakwood BC, New Braunfels

Nominations to Board of San Marcos Baptist Academy

2027 Term

Billy Belcher, FBC, San Marcos

John Harrell, FBC, Boerne

Randal Jacks, Oakwood BC, New Braunfels

Melanie McCarthy, FBC, Belton

Darrell Tomasek, Northside BC, Victoria

Nomination to Board of Stark College and Seminary

2027 Term

Velma Kemp, Antioch Missionary BC, San Antonio

Nominations to Board of University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

2027 Term

Betty Burns, FBC, Plano

Glenn Hodge, FBC, Salado

Joe Loughlin, FBC, Temple

Jennifer Manning, First Woodway BC, Woodway

Dean Winkler, FBC, Temple

Nominations to Board of Wayland Baptist University

2027 Term

Brenda Anderson, Cowboy Church of Young County, Graham

David Foote, Southcrest BC, Lubbock

Lester Griffin, FBC, Plainview

Beth Lawson, Southcrest BC, Lubbock

Kyle Streun, FBC, Denver City

David Wood, Coulter Rd. BC, Amarillo

Lance Wood, FBC, Clarendon

Sharon Wright, FBC, Plainview

Nominations to Board of Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio

2027 Term

Marilyn Elliott, FBC, San Antonio

Mark Schmeltekopf, FBC, San Antonio

D’Anna Wallace, FBC, San Antonio

Nominations to Board of Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas

2027 Term

Gary Coker, Beaumont’s FBC, Beaumont

Christopher Leavins, Calvary BC, Beaumont

Ann Scoggin, Calvary BC, Beaumont

Terry Whiddon, North End BC, Beaumont

Nomination to Board of Baylor Health Care System

2028 Term

Lisa Hultz, FBC, Dallas

Nominations to Board of Children at Heart Ministries

2027 Term

Lloyd Ferguson, Calvary BC, Waco

Ruthie Herber, Central BC, Round Rock

James Meyerhoff, Tallowood BC, Houston

Jerry Mullins, FBC, Georgetown

Cindy Robinson, Green Acres BC, Tyler

Nominations to Board of Hendrick Health System

2027 Term

Matt Higgins, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Nominations to Board of South Texas Children’s Home Ministries

2027 Term

Raul Elizondo, New Life at the Cross, Robstown

James Furgerson, Trinity BC, San Antonio

Brian Hill, FBC, Corpus Christi

Matt Homeyer, Trinity BC, San Antonio

Karol Peters, University BC, Houston

Sherry Sigmon, Shearer Hills BC, San Antonio

Nominations to Board of Valley Baptist Missions-Education Center

2027 Term

William Arnold, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Othal Brand, Jr., Calvary BC, McAllen

Mark Fricke, FBC, Ozona

Scott Williamson, FBC, Grapevine

Nomination to Board of Baptist Church Loan Corporation

2027 Term

Matt Sibley, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Nominations to Board of HighGround Advisors

2027 Term

Blake Lawrence, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Joey Seeber, FBC, Tyler

Nominations to Board of The Baptist Standard

2027 Term

Yamileth Guzman, Shearer Hills BC, San Antonio

Scott Jones, FBC, Rockport

Ellis Orozco, FBC, Richardson

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2025 BUDGET PROCESS

The Business and Financial Plan calls for each administrative office, ministry and program area of the convention to submit an itemized budget of its expected expenditures for the next fiscal year to the Executive Director. The executive director works with staff to make necessary changes and presents the proposed budget to the Finance Committee of the Executive Board which, in turn, presents it to the Executive Board for its approval. The Executive Board submits the Cooperative Program budget, consisting of all the anticipated income and expenditures which have been submitted and approved, to the Convention in session.

Preparation of the proposed budget includes months of projections, research, planning, committee reviews and prayer to arrive at the proposed resource plan for the coming year. Such is the case for the proposed 2025 calendar year budget.

For ordained staff members, the Executive Board allows advance designation of a portion of the salary as housing allowance as permissible by IRS regulations. Ordained staff members pay their own selfemployment taxes, which are 15.3 percent of taxable compensation.

The detailed budget is published annually and provided to the Executive Board and committees involved in the budget preparation process. A budget summary is mailed to each church annually. The budget summary and the detailed report can be found at texasbaptists.org. For a hard copy, please call 888.244.9400.

The Finance Committee is authorized, on a contingency basis, to adjust spending based on actual receipts.

2025 BUDGET SUMMARY

General Convention of Texas 2025Budget Summary

Ministry Centers

Baptist General Convention of Texas 2025Budget Summary

Baptist General Convention of Texas

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Special thanks are extended to numerous persons, institutions and organizations that have helped to make this Annual Meeting possible:

• Churches and members of Waco Regional Baptist Association, for providing leadership and volunteers for various opportunities of service at annual meeting

• The City of Waco and the Waco Chamber of Commerce for their hospitality and friendly welcome. Heart of Texas – Waco Convention & Visitor’s Bureau for their assistance in planning and providing the convention center facilities, maps and local restaurant guides

• The Heart of Texas - Waco Convention Center staff for their kind direction and assistance with the planning details over this past year

• Scott Smith of B & L Sound Services for their technical planning and coordination of lighting, sound and image projection support and providing streaming services of main sessions

• Joe & Debby Luscombe of NewDay Productions for video and audio support throughout the workshop and varied meal and receptions

• Vanessa Thornton of Superior Expo Services for event decorations, staging and exhibit support

• David Cozart, Texas Baptists registration secretary, for coordinating volunteers to assist in the registration process. Distributing materials, bags and name tags for messengers and visitors

• Fernando Rojas and Vidal Muniz for providing Spanish translation for General and Business Sessions

• Volunteer staff of Baylor, Scott & White, coordinated by Dusti Everett and Michael Sims, who has graciously donated their time to assist us in the first aid area

• San Marcos Baptist Academy, under the direction of Michelle Harper for providing select senior students to serve as pages to assist the officers and messengers in the business sessions

• Local Arrangements Team led by René Maciel, who have assisted and given direction with the countless number of local volunteers that have served as ushers, greeters and registration workers

• Baptist institutions and churches who provide technical and news staff support

• A host of others who helped in countless ways

• Thousands of Texas Baptists who have prayed for this 139th Annual Meeting and worked diligently to make a huge success for the Kingdom of our Lord.

Annual Meeting

11/11/24

Executive Board

09/24/24 Finance Committee

09/23/24

Item of Consideration:

Highest Authority For this item:

Originating Source:

Background:

Recommendation for 2025 Proposed Budget

Annual Meeting

Executive Director and Treasurer/CFO

The proposed 2025 budget is based on expected Cooperative Program and other income receipts. This percentage distribution is necessary to provide adequate funding for the Texas mission field.

Background Attachments: None

Recommendation:

1.We recommend a budget for 2025 of $36,716,950 from the following sources of revenue:

2.We recommend that the percentage allotment of the adopted budget continue at 79% BGCT – 21% Worldwide, with each church selecting the recipient(s) of the Worldwide portion.

Annual Meeting

11/11/24

Executive Board

09/24/24

Finance Committee

09/23/24

Item of Recommendation for 2025 Texas World Missions Initiatives and Consideration: Partnerships Allocation

Highest Authority For this item: Annual Meeting

Originating Source: Treasurer/CFO

Background: Continue funding of strategic international missions/partnerships and Texas initiatives.

Background Attachments: None

Recommendation:

We recommend a 2025 proposed allocation of $1,100,000 of Cooperative Program Texas Worldwide Missions Initiatives and Partnerships as follows:

and Partnerships

Annual Meeting

11/11/24

Executive Board

09/24/24

Finance Committee and Administrative Support Committee

09/23/24

Item of Recommendation for Texas Baptist Insurance Program Consideration:

Highest Authority

For this item: Annual Meeting

Originating Source: Executive Leadership

Background: To assist Texas Baptist churches through collaboration in a captive insurance pool

The current property insurance environment for Texas Baptists churches is difficult at best, and dire for many. These circumstances have prompted Executive Leadership to explore potential solutions, including forming a captive insurance pool. Administered through a new corporation (yet to be formed) which will be under the control of the BGCT, the insurance pool would function much like a coop. We believe the benefits of this pool will include stable coverage, competitive rates and deductibles, stronger incentives and more ministry investment.

In addition to a separate corporation, legal requirements will include the initial capitalization of an insurance reserve of at least 25% of the first year’s premiums. Because this amount will not be fully known until policies are issued, an estimated range must be utilized. With anticipated initial participation of 300-700 churches, Executive Leadership is prepared to have the required funds available for the initial capitalization. (Current estimates for this capitalization range from $1.5 to 5 M.) These funds are currently available and will not hinder current ministries nor plans in our immediate future. The strengthening of the required reserve and the return of the initial investment to the Convention is anticipated through future earnings of the insurance pool.

A feasibility study specifically for the Texas Baptists Insurance Program is currently underway and will be critical in determining our next steps. Approval for this recommendation must ultimately come from the messengers of the Annual Meeting in accordance with EB Policy 401.

Recommendation:

We recommend forming a new corporation, funding the required capitalization, and the authorization of Executive Leadership to take all necessary steps to successfully implement a Texas Baptists Insurance Program for property & casualty, liability, and similar insurance coverages, subject to the Executive Committee’s approval of the feasibility study recommendations.

Page 1 of 1

Annual Meeting

11/21/24

Executive Board

09/24/24

Institutional Relations Committee

09/23/24

Item of Recommendation to adopting the Restated Articles of Incorporation

Consideration: of Valley Baptist Missions and Education Center (VBMEC)

Highest Authority Messengers at the 2024 Annual Meeting

For this item:

Originating Source: The board of VBMEC

Background: Valley Baptist Missions and Education Center (VBMEC) is an affiliated ministry of Texas Baptists. VBMEC seeks to “prepare leadership for congregations in Texas and to provide a quality education and missions experience to students and participants within a disciplined Christian atmosphere to maximize opportunities to enjoy the fruit of successful Christian lives.” The reason the board of VBMEC requests these amendments to their Certificate of Formation is to align with the requirements of the BGCT Constitution and Bylaws concerning affiliated institutions, clarify the existence of VBMEC as a separate 501(c)(3) from the BGCT, and to minimize the potential legal liability possibly incurred by the BGCT on behalf of VBMEC.

According to Article VIII, Section 2, Paragraph B of the BGCT Constitution:

“The board of each institution affiliated with this Convention shall submit any and all changes or amendments to the institution’s charter to the Executive Board for approval. Any changes that significantly alter the mission of the institution or the institution’s relationship to The Baptist General Convention of Texas shall be referred to the Convention for approval.”

When an affiliated institution wants to amend its articles of incorporation (certificate of formation), the proper procedure is to present proposed amendments to the BGCT Executive Board’s Institutional Relations Committee (IRC). Once amendments are approved by the IRC, the IRC will recommend the amended articles to the Executive Board for approval. If the amended articles do not change the relationship with the institution and the BGCT, the articles are considered amended once approved by the Executive Board. However, if the amended articles significantly alter the relationship between the institution and the BGCT, the Executive Board must recommend the adoption of the amended articles at the next annual meeting of BGCT messengers. It is the opinion of BGCT legal counsel that VBMEC’s amended articles do change the relationship between VBMEC and the BGCT and will, therefore, need to be approved by both the Executive Board and messengers at the 2024 Annual Meeting

Background Attachments:

1) Redline version and explanation of changes

2) Clean version of proposed, Restated Certificate of Formation

Recommendation: We recommend adopting the Restated Certificate of Formation of the Valley Baptist Missions and Education Center.

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We are thankful for Texas Baptists as together we strive to further Jesus’s kingdom agenda by serving those who are most vulnerable with the support and structure they need to find hope, heal, and put their lives back on track.