July 15, 2002
TOGETHER:
Theological education goes deep & wide
___Having ministers who are thoroughly trained and capable of equipping the people of God for service is absolutely necessary if our churches are to have an effective future. If Texas Baptists did not have thriving educational institutions, we would have to begin them.
___More than 10 years ago, Logsdon School of Theology and George W. Truett Seminary opened their doors with a commitment to biblical truth, Baptist principles, personal attention to the spiritual development of those who would lead churches and mentoring requirements that would lead better-prepared students for actual ministry in churches.
___These schools have received warm and enthusiastic support from our Texas Baptist ministerial students and churches. Already their graduates are filling significant places of pastoral leadership in Texas churches. Vernon Davis at Logsdon--(915) 670-1287--and Paul Powell at Truett--(254) 710-1755--are providing excellent leadership to prepare quality ministers for mission and ministry in Texas and around the world.
___These schools did not simply appear full bloom out of nothing. Both grew out of two of our finest institutions--Truett at Baylor and Logsdon at Hardin-Simmons. Faithful, visionary leadership in both these universities turned a need into ministry.
CHARLES WADE
Executive Director
BGCT Executive Board
___During this same time, Royce Rose has been working with our Theological Education Committee to provide a network of affordable, accessible, effective theological education programs so that men and women called to ministry can begin biblical and theological training at whatever level they are prepared to study. We can help God-called people, even those who have not finished high school, start where they are and go as far as their ability and sense of obedience to God's direction can take them.
___Our Baptist universities--especially Howard Payne, East Texas Baptist and Mary Hardin-Baylor--have worked hard with this effort to make theological education available across Texas. For more information, contact Royce Rose at rose@bgct.org or (214) 828-5245.
___Another part of our theological network is the Hispanic Baptist Theological School in San Antonio, which is approaching record enrollments and growing closer to its goal to be accredited. This is the only Hispanic Baptist institution for training ministers in America, and its influence touches states across the United States and countries throughout Central and South America. The school may be contacted by e-mail at alreyes@hbts.edu.
___We even have a theological education program for our Baptist laity. Texas Baptist Laity Institute, led by Dan Williams, is helping churches provide quality, college-level theological studies for our Baptist people. A summer retreat is planned next month at Laity Lodge in the Texas Hill Country. You can get information about all the services available by calling (214) 820-3935 or by writing the institute at 3600 Gaston LB-80, Dallas 75246 or e-mail tblaity@flash.net.
___Education ministries are but one key aspect of the Baptist General Convention of Texas, as we seek to be the presence of Christ throughout this state and the world. Next week, I will talk more about our institutions that are making a difference for Christ.
___I am grateful to be a part of such effective and respected ministries and to see how my offerings make a difference every week in the lives of children, students, families and for those who are hurting and alone. We have done well. We can do better. And we must!
___We are loved.
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