• Howard Payne University will host young and summer scholars programs July 18-22 from 9 a.m. to noon on the HPU Academy of Freedom campus. Summer scholars is a program for children entering grades 4-6, with instruction in computer graphics, reading, science and physical education. Young scholars is for children entering grades 1-3 and features instruction in reading, music, science and physical education. Registra-tion is $100 and includes a book bag, snacks and supplies. Dead-line for registration is July 13. For more information, call (325) 649-8508.
• Dallas Baptist University has launched a master of arts in communications degree plan. The 36-credit hour program will feature a curriculum of advanced studies in communication theory, social media, organizational communication management, media presentation and production.
• Scott Bryant has been named university chaplain and vice president for spiritual development at East Texas Baptist University. He had been a faculty member in Baylor University’s religion department and an adjunct professor at Truett Theological Seminary.
• Lawson Hager has retired as dean of the School of Music at Hardin-Simmons University after 38 years on the faculty and director of bands. He became dean in 2002.
Anniversaries
• Jimmy Smith, 10th, as director of missions of Frio River Association, Aug. 4.
• Elm Grove Church in Belton, 100th, Aug. 7. Guest musicians, recounts of historical events in the church and re-enactments of those events throughout July will lead up to the centennial celebration. A marker from the Texas Historical Commission will be dedicated in the August service. Tom Henderson, director of missions for Bell Association, will preach, and several former pastors and staff members will recall memories of their service at the church. A meal will follow the morning service. Memorabilia, photographs and new items are being collected in preparation for the day. For more information, call (254) 947-0710. Dale Gore is pastor.
Deaths
• Gerald Hendon, 70, May 19 in Houston. A Howard Payne University graduate, he was licensed to preach in 1959. He was pastor of Southern Baptist churches 46 years. A bivocational pastor, he was a financial planner and insurance consultant 39 years. He is survived by his wife, Sandra; son, Austin; daughter, Autumn Hendon; brother, Steve; and sister, Deana Fink.
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• James Densman, 62, June 18 in Houston. He was pastor of First Church in Davis, Okla. A graduate of Baylor University and Southwestern Seminary, he began his ministry at McClana-han Church in Marlin. He served as pastor of churches in Purdon, Gatesville, Smithville, Groesbeck, Haskell and Navasota. He also served First Church in Hollis, Okla. He is survived by his wife, Elaine; daughters, Sarah Beth and Mary; son, Joshua; brother, Danny; and one granddaughter.
• Tommy Teague, 58, June 23 in Israel. Teague, pastor of North Richland Hills Church in North Richland Hills, died while leading a group of 30 church members on a tour. He had served the church since 1998. He is survived by his wife, Rita; son, Jonathan; daughters, Julie and Joy Teague; sister, Dot; and three granddaughters.
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