Baptist University of Americas named_111703

Posted: 11/14/03

Baptist University of Americas named

By Russ Dilday

Buckner News Service

LUBBOCK–A new name for Hispanic Baptist Theological School was approved by messengers to the Baptist General Convention of Texas annual session Nov. 10.

After approving the new name, Baptist University of the Americas, messengers gave a standing ovation to the school and its president, Albert Reyes.

The action came during the BGCT Executive Board report given by Executive Board Chairman Brian Harbour, pastor of First Baptist Church of Richardson.

The restated articles of incorporation reflect the name change as well as the school's relation to the BGCT through the Christian Education Coordinating Board rather than the State Missions Commission.

“We have a responsibility for the Americas and beyond,” Reyes said. “And we pray that through the work of the Baptist University of the Americas and your continued support, that we have not seen the best days of what we call Texas Baptists.”

In other business, messengers approved by acclamation motions brought by Harbour from the Executive Board to:

Request that the BGCT president appoint a committee to work with the Executive Board staff in reviewing all BGCT documents and bring a report to the 2004 convention concerning recommended changes.

Approve a second reading of constitutional amendments regarding trustee selection and charter changes. The amendments call for changes in the trustee selection process, namely for the self-nomination of 25 percent of trustees for affiliated institutions that desire to do so.

Messengers also heard a report from BGCT Chief Financial Officer David Nabors, who noted that although Cooperative Program giving has declined over the past few years, current receipts are up about 1 percent over the same period last year.

“As we approach the end of 2003, we expect to be at about 88 percent of our (2003) goal,” he said, adding that BGCT ministries had been operating “at about 90 percent of budget.”