Family Gathering 2023 Program

texas baptists

July 16-18, 2023 McA

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Dear Texas Baptists family,

How exciting to be together as the household of God! We are blessed to be the most diverse convention among Baptists in North America. When we come together for worship, celebration, inspiration and preparation for building the Lord’s Kingdom, God is honored and heaven rejoices. Thank you for investing this time in His Family Gathering.

You will see the diversity of GC2/Texas Baptists on full display as each ethnic ministry in our office has representation on the platform. Each fellowship president has worked with our BGCT President, Julio Guarneri, to plan the worship sessions: Hispanic Baptist Convention on Sunday night; Intercultural Fellowships on Monday morning; and the African American Fellowship on Monday night. We also planned workshops that are representative of our diverse Texas Baptists family.

Finally, our schedule is focused more on worship than business at Family Gathering, which occurs every five years in the summer. While the BGCT Constitution does require two business sessions, the Committee on Annual Meeting removes the

consideration of resolutions at Family Gathering so we may emphasize our unity in Christ.

Celebrating ethnic diversity at our annual meetings is nothing new for Texas Baptists. We strive for this goal every year. Because “in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ

Jesus” (Galatians 3:26-28). We are the household of God. You have a seat at the table. Together, we will share Christ and show love until Texas and the world has the opportunity to know Him.

Your servant in Christ,

Craig Christina, Ph.D. Associate Executive Director, Texas Baptists

Dear Texas Baptists,

What a privilege it is for me to welcome you to McAllen. This is my first year serving as BGCT president, and it is an exceptional honor to welcome you to our annual meeting, which happens to be the Family Gathering this year and takes place in the city where I have the privilege of serving as pastor. That is a triple blessing!

Our theme this year highlights the beauty of God’s design for us. The household of God reminds us what God has done for us in Christ. He has taken us from different tribes, ethnicities and language groups and has made us one family. “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of His household” (Ephesians 2:19).

Every five years our annual meeting moves from November to the summer and gathers our various fellowships and Hispanic Convention. As we celebrate

the diversity of Texas Baptists, we remember we are God’s household – one family. As we bring our spouses and children, we enjoy a special time of worship, teaching and fellowship. We are a large family made up of many families.

May our Family Gathering remind us of Pentecost and may it inspire us to go back to our homes and be on mission with God. Meanwhile, enjoy the worship, the fellowship, the workshops, the excellent Rio Grande Valley food and God’s presence in our midst.

Julio S. Guarneri, Ph. D. President of the BGCT

¡Bienvenidos hermanos!

City of McAllen Office of

the Mayor

JAVIER VILLALOBOS MAYOR

April 14, 2023

On behalf of the City of McAllen, I am delighted to welcome you to our beautiful and sunny city. We are so excited you traveled to McAllen for the Texas Baptists Annual Meeting, taking place July 16-18, 2023.

It is my hope that each of you will be inspired and encouraged by the information you will receive at the conference. As you interact with one another, may you be energized and lifted by each other's creativity and ideas.

While in McAllen, I hope you have some time to enjoy our amenities. McAllen offers many options for entertainment and fun. While you're here, be sure to check out some of McAllen's most interesting attractions: Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center, International Museum of Arts & Science, as well as all our other great attractions. Our Performing Arts Center is one of the most beautiful venues, with shopping, restaurants and entertainment all within walking distance of our Convention Center.

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

McALLEN CONVENTION CENTER

We are grateful for the partnership of these 2023 Family Gathering sponsors

BASIC SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE

SUNDAY, JULY 16

3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Registration Open

4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Exhibits Open

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Dinners

6:15 p.m. Pre-Service Music El Trio de Hoy

6:30 p.m. Worship Celebration 1

Call to Worship Craig Christina

Scripture and Prayer Scott Collins

Greetings Elijah Brown and Javier Villalobos

Congregational Worship El Trio de Hoy

Sermon Ellis Orozco

Texas Baptists Español Promotion Rolando Rodriguez Benedication Jesse Rincones

MONDAY, JULY 17

8:00 a.m. Exhibits Open

8:30 a.m. Registration Open

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

• Missions and Ministry Opportunities (Panel Discussion)

• Ministering to Those in Our Pews who Struggle with LGBTQ+ Issues

• Becoming a Trauma Informed Ministry

• Fight the Fear: Learning to Love Our Muslim Neighbors

• Celebrating Oneness

• Celebrando La Unidad

9:45 a.m. ......................................... BGCT Business Session 1

Call to Order Julio Guarneri

Scripture and Prayer Olber Roblero

Organization and Seating of Messengers Frank San Martin

Adoption of Standing Rules

Matthew Richard

Adoption of Order of Business Matthew Richard

Election of Officers Nebiye Kelile

Executive Board Report Bobby Contreras

Financial Report Ward Hayes

Introduction of Miscellaneous Business Julio Guarneri

Committee on Committees Report Jason Atchley

Committee to Nominate Executive Board Directors Report Ernie Boyd

Committee on Nominations for Boards of Affiliated Ministries Report David Russell

Election of Officers Julio Guarneri

Benediction Brian Hill

Adjourn Julio Guarneri

10:45 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

Pre-Service Music Singing Men of South Texas

Worship Celebration 2

Call to Worship Craig Christina

Scripture and Prayer David Slover

Cooperative Program Promotion Bruce McCoy

Congregational Worship Ray Sanchez, FBC Weslaco and Singing Men of South Texas

Sermon Thong Lun

Benedication Nora Kwok

1:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

Business/Worship Session for Convención

Workshops - Session 2

(See Workshops, pg. 23)

• Genuine Cross-Cultural Conversations (Panel Discussion)

• Apologetics in Evangelism: Reaching the Millennial Skeptic

• Texas 2030

• Teaching Biblical Sexuality in the Local Church

• Let’s Be the Church at Pentecost

• Seamos la iglesia del Pentecostés

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

• PAVE Preview

(See Workshops, pg. 24)

• The Church at Antioch: A Model for the 21st Century Church

• Partnering with Valley Baptist Mission Education Center

• Welcoming the Stranger

• Texas Baptists Church Planting

• Community Outreach

Free Time for Families

3:30 p m

Registration (only if needed)

4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. .............. Convención Workshops

(See Workshops, pg. 25)

• Alcanzando a las familias afectadas por el encarcelamiento en su comunidad

• Building Cross-Cultural Relationships Without Losing Your Own

• Guiando a mi familia con los Ojos puestos en Cristo

• Herramientas Para Revitalizar la Iglesia

• Creando sistemas de equipos para una Iglesia Saludable

• Ser parte de una familia solidaria

Call to Worship Craig Christina

Scripture and Prayer Robert Rodriguez

Introduction of Fellowship Presidents Craig Christina

Sergio Ramos – Hispanic Baptist Convention

Henry Batson – African American Fellowship

Joseph Huang – Chinese Fellowship

John Nguyen – Vietnamese Fellowship of Texas

Congregational Worship Niya & Roy Cotton

Hunger Offering Video and Prayer Katie Frugé

Worship Music Niya & Roy Cotton

Sermon Wm. Dwight McKissic, Sr.

Lord’s Supper

Associate Executive Director’s Report Craig Christina

Update from Executive Director Search Committee Committee Members

Texas Baptist Missions Foundation Jerry Carlisle

Benediction Henry Batson III

• We Owe You an Apology

• The Opening Steps of Church Revitalization

• Household Tools: Discovering Resources for Evangelism and Discipleship in Your Church

• Building Missional Leaders Through Mission Trips

• Maximizing Compensation Dollars (Panel Discussion)

• Misiones, Hacen Crecer tu Iglesia

Recognition

SPECIAL MEALS & RECEPTIONS

SUNDAY, JULY 16

Dinner: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Bivocational Ministries Dinner

By invitation only

Directors of Missions Dinner

By invitation only, RSVP required, limited seating

MCC – Ballroom CD

MCC – 103 C

Contact: Anna Crittendon at anna.crittendon@txb.org or 214-828-5254

MONDAY, JULY 17

Lunch: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Ambassador Luncheon MCC – Ballroom CD

By invitation only

Convencion Pastor/Pastor Wives Banquet

Cost: Free

Ticket: RSVP, ticket required

MCC – Ballroom B

Contact: Jesse Rincones at jesse@convencionbautista.org or 214-799-1638

Institutional Presidents Luncheon

By invitation only

Southwestern Seminary Alumni & Friends Luncheon

Cost: $10 per person

Check for availability at SWBTS exhibit booth

Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Center for Cultural Engagement Ministries Banquet

Cost: $20 per person

Pre-reserved only; tickets required

MCC – 103 C

MCC – 103 D

MCC – Ballroom BCD

Contact: Rebecca Trevino at rebecca.trevino@txb.org or 214-828-5292

Discipleship Leaders Fellowship Dinner

Check at Center for Church Heath booth for location

Cost: Self pay

Contact: David Adams at david.adams@txb.org or 214-828-5253

Missions Banquet

Cost: Free

Open to public, ticket required, first come, first serve basis

Pick up tickets at Center for Missional Engagement Booth

Contact: Stacey Rice at stacey.rice@txb.org or 972-835-3375

Off-site

MCC- 103 ABCD

MCC – McAllen Convention Center

WMU of Texas Missions Celebration

Cost: Free

Ticket: RSVP; ticket required

MCC – Ballroom A

Contact: Beth Campbell at beth.WMUTX@texasbaptists.org or 214-828-2648

Reception: 9:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Family Gathering Reception Palm Lobby

Open to the public

Friends of Truett

Pre-reserved only

Howard Payne University Alumni & Friends Gathering

Open to the public

Leadership Texas Baptists Reunion Fellowship

By invitation only

MCC -103 C

MCC – Ballroom CD

MCC – 103 D

MEETING PRESENTERS

Ammons, Greg - Senior Pastor; FBC, Garland

Atchley, Jason - Chair, Committee on Committees; Pastor, Hunter’s Glen BC, Plano

Batson, Henry III - President, African American Fellowship; Pastor, Red Oak Faith Fellowship, Red Oak

Boyd, Ernie - Member, Committee to Nominate Executive Board Directors; FBC, Amarillo

Brown, Elijah - General Secretary/CEO, Baptist World Alliance

Carlisle, Jerry - President, Texas Baptist Missions Foundation

Cherry, Martin - Director, Singing Men of South Texas

Collins, Scott - Senior Vice President of Communications, Buckner International

Contreras, Bobby - Chair, Executive Board; Pastor, Alamo Heights BC, San Antonio

Cotton, Niya - Worship Leader, Creative Director, Trinity Church, Cedar Hill

Cotton, Roy - Consultant, Record Producer and Orchestral Arranger, Dallas

Christina, Craig - Associate Executive Director, Texas Baptists

El Trio De Hoy - Latin Gospel Band

Frugé, Katie - Director, Center for Cultural Engagement, Texas Baptists

Glenn, Jason - Director of Member Development, Samaritan Ministries International

Guarneri, Julio - President, Texas Baptists; Pastor of Calvary BC, McAllen

Hayes, Ward - Treasurer/CFO, Texas Baptists

Hill, Brian - Senior Pastor, FBC, Corpus Christi

Hood, Wade - Pastor, FBC, Harlingen

Jenkins, Rand - Director of Ministry Advancement, Texas Baptist Men

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

Kelile, Nebiye - First Vice President, Texas Baptists; Pastor, Pathway Church, Garland

Kwok, Nora - Pastor, Grace Chinese Baptist Church, Houston

Lancaster, Tim - Chair, Memorials Committee; Member, FBC, Lubbock

Lun, Thong - Senior Pastor, Greater Houston Burmese Christian Fellowship

McKissic, Wm. Dwight, Sr. - Senior Pastor, Cornerstone BC, Arlington

McCoy, Bruce - Director, Cooperative Program, Texas Baptists

Orozco, Ellis - Teacher, Coach and Writer, Retired Pastor; FBC, Richardson

Richard, Matthew - Chair, Committee on Annual Meeting; Pastor, FBC, Llano

Rincones, Jesse - Executive Director, Convención Bautista Hispana De Texas

Roblero, Olber - Pastor, Iglesia Bautista Horeb, Brownsville

Rodriguez, Robert - Director of Education, Valley Baptist Mission Education Center

Rodriguez, Rolando - Director, Texas Baptist Español

Russell, David - Chair, Committee on Nominations for Boards of Affiliated Ministries; FBC, Amarillo

Sanchez, Ray- Pastor of Worship and Administration; FBC, Weslaco

San Martin, Frank - Chair, Committee on Credentials; Wellness Center Pastor, Highland BC, Waco

Slover, David - Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, Highground Advisors

Villalobos, Javier - Mayor, City of McAllen

SPEAKERS

Greg Ammons

Greg Ammons is senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Garland, Texas. Previously, he was senior pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Iowa Park, Texas. He received his Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Dallas Baptist University.

Ammons writes articles for a preaching resources blog for Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of the book, Now My Eye Sees You: What a Doctorate in Theology Did Not Teach Me About God, My Son Did. He has taught courses including Early Life and Letters of Paul (undergraduate), New Testament Survey (undergraduate), The Gospel of Mark (undergraduate), Christian Doctrine (undergraduate), Systematic Theology (Masters level), Transformational Worship (Masters level), Proclamation (Masters level), and Servant Leadership (Doctorate level).

He was chair of the Board of Trustees and is currently serving as a trustee and adjunct instructor at Dallas Baptist University.

He is married to Lisa Ammons, and they have one son, Camden. He enjoys running and has completed several half-marathon events.

Wm. Dwight McKissic, Sr.

Rev. William Dwight McKissic, Sr. is founder and senior pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas. McKissic began the church in 1983 in a small garage with 15 in attendance, a vision and God’s divine favor. The church is blessed now with a weekly attendance averaging over 500 each Sunday.

McKissic was recently appointed as a National Baptist Convention, USA, board member. He served as the 11th Moderator of the Galilee Griggs Memorial District Association located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area from 2015-2019.

McKissic was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, in 1956. He is a 1978 graduate of Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He has recently completed a Master of Theological Studies degree at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. In May 2010, he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Arkansas Baptist College in Little Rock, Arkansas.

He is the author of four books: Controversial Conversations: Kingdom Reflections on Biblical & Contemporary Issues; Beyond Roots: In Search of Blacks in the Bible; Beyond Roots II: If Anybody Asks You Who I Am; and Moving From Fear to Faith. He has been cited in numerous publications and articles.

He and his wife, Vera, have four children and 13 grandchildren and reside in Arlington, Texas.

Thong Lun

Dr. Thong Kho Lun was born and raised in Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). He graduated from Serampore College in India with a Bachelor of Theology. He also earned his Master of Divinity and Master of Theology in the Philippines. He later earned his Doctor of Ministry in San Antonio, Texas. He studied Clinical Pastoral Education (C.P.E.) at Baptist Health System in San Antonio, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey and Methodist Health System in Houston, Texas.

Lun is married to Rev. Dr. Mang Tiak, who serves as a senior staff chaplain at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston. He and his wife started a Burmese church called Greater Houston Burmese Christian Fellowship in 2005 with a dozen believers as a mission of the Tallowood Baptist Church. His church is blessed and today has a membership of 400. Currently, six other Burmese ethnic churches are being planted from his church in Houston.

Lun is a bivocational minister. He is currently serving as the senior pastor of Greater Houston Burmese Christian Fellowship and a part-time health care chaplain at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston. He is also a member of the Intercultural Ministries Advisory Council of the BGCT.

Ellis Orozco

Dr. Ellis Orozco was born and raised in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering before going on to earn a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, and a Doctor of Ministry from Truett Seminary of Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

Orozco has served as senior pastor at three Texas Baptists churches over the last 30 years – Corpus Christi Baptist in Corpus Christi, Calvary Baptist in McAllen and First Baptist in Richardson.

He recently retired from his work as a senior pastor and is pursuing a teaching, coaching and writing ministry.

Orozco is married to Priscilla, and they have three children and three grandchildren.

WORSHIP

Calvary, McAllen

Calvary exists to make disciple-makers for the glory of God among the nations. Their worship through music is about connecting with God and people. They have six services weekly in English and Spanish that serve children, students, young adults and adults where everyone is welcome. They love their international students from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Calvary worship services are about celebrating what God has done throughout the week and preparing for what God is going to do the next week. Their purpose is to share the gospel with the people around them. They believe corporate worship through music is a vital part of the Christian walk.

El Trio De Hoy

El Trio De Hoy is a dynamic Latin Gospel band that for more than 25 years has been sharing the gospel through music around the world. The five members of El Trio De Hoy passionately pursue lifting up the name of Jesus wherever they go and bring a message of hope to the world that with Jesus all things are possible! ¡Sí Se Puede!

Singing Men of South Texas

The Singing Men of South Texas was organized in 1975 by the Church Music Department of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. Today, there are six chapters of the Singing Men that serve different regions of the state.

The South Texas chapter is made up of full-time, part-time and retired ministers of music as well as other church staff members and laypeople who are dedicated to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ through music in local churches, in the nation and abroad. They meet once each month to rehearse, have fellowship together and present a worship concert in one of the South Texas churches.

Together, the six chapters of the Singing Men of Texas have been blessed to have a presence around the world, having traveled to Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, Eastern and Western Europe and throughout the United States.

Ray Sanchez

Raymond Sanchez currently serves as the pastor of worship and administration at First Baptist Church, Weslaco. He most enjoys “Doing God’s Story” in worship with the bilingual and multigenerational worship team at FBCW that regularly includes his children playing in the orchestra. Ray is also an adjunct professor at Stark College and Seminary and serves as a clinician for local bands, where he is affectionately called “Pastor Ray” by the students and staff. Ray recently wrote and produced a children’s musical and continues to write worship music for FBCW. Ray and his wife, Ana, have four children: Antonio, Sophia, Anabella and Alaina.

Roy & Niya Cotton

Roy J. Cotton, II is a sought-after consultant, record producer and orchestral arranger with a proven track record for making social impact. He acquired a bachelor’s degree from Hampton University in music engineering, with a focus in piano. As a musician, arranger and orchestrator, Roy has recorded for Usher, John Legend, Mariah Carey and many others.

Niya Cotton has been singing since she was 2 years old in her church youth choir and acquired a bachelor’s degree from Hampton University in vocal performance. She has lent background vocals to Michael Bublé, Kirk Franklin, Chance the Rapper and many others. She led worship at St. John Church in Southlake, Texas, for five years and is currently the worship leader and creative director at Trinity Church in Cedar Hill, Texas.

Niya and Roy married in 2008 and are the proud parents of Roy “Rocco” Cotton, III, Eric Stone Cotton and Nyla Jade Cotton. They reside in Dallas, Texas.

WORKSHOPS

Session 1 - Monday, July 17 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

PRESENTER WORKSHOP TITLE WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

Scott Collins, Senior Vice President of Communications, Buckner International; Kyle Luke, Vice President of Development and Communications, STCH Ministries; Deanna Pratt, Development

David Sanchez, Director, Ethics and Justice, Christian Life Commission, Texas Baptists

Will provide key Scriptures, advice and resources to care for those who experience same-sex attraction and/or gender identity struggles and their families.

B Ernest Izard, Founder, HeartMend; Katie Swafford, Director, Counseling Services, Texas Baptists

Trauma experiences are becoming more common in the human experience (abuse, natural disasters, violence, etc), and there are ways churches/ministries can minister to and become a safe space for those struggling with trauma.

Fight the Fear: Learning to Love Our Muslim Neighbors

Radical Islam dominates our national news. Are we willing to love all Muslims as Jesus does? How do we fight the fear? 102 A

101 C RE, Crosscultural mobilizer, Intercultural Ministries, Texas Baptists

Grace

Session 2 - Monday, July 17 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

WORKSHOP TITLE

You will get hands-on training by experiencing firsthand what it is like to evangelize in a secular culture that rejects the gospel. This will be challenging, convicting and, most importantly, will equip you with the necessary tools for reaching the

Session 3 - Monday, July 17 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Wm. Dwight McKissic, Sr., Senior Pastor, Cornerstone Baptist Church, Arlington

Robert

Convención Workshops - Monday, July 17 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Session 4 - Tuesday, July 18 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

PRESENTER WORKSHOP TITLE

Tim Fuller, Specialist, African American Ministries, Texas Baptists

Jonathan L. Smith, Director, Church Health Strategy, Center for Church Health, Texas Baptists

David Adams, Director, Discipleship; Leighton Flowers, Director, Evangelism; Center for Church Health; Eric Hernandez, Apologetics Lead and Millennial Specialist; Center for Church Health, Texas Baptists

Noe Trevino, Director of MAP, Minister of Missions, Texas Baptist Missionaries; Cesar Zamora, Missional Specialist; Texas Baptists

Jan Cason, Retired, Truett Seminary; Gerald Caldwell, MBA, Banking Regulator; Tammy Tervooren, Grant Administrator, Center for Financial Health, Texas Baptists

Mario Alberto Gonzalez, Director, River Ministry, Texas Baptists

We Owe You an Apology

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION ROOM #

We will address the rise in cults that directly impact people of color. We will offer a defense and give a response to their claims.

101 A

The Opening Steps of Church Revitalization

Learn the basics of new paths for church growth.

101 B

Household Tools: Discovering Resources for Evangelism and Discipleship in Your Church

Effective evangelism and discipleship resources don’t have to bust your budget. Join us to discover a range of resources available to churches.

101 C

Building Missional Leaders Through Mission Trips

Let’s learn how to form/build missional leaders while planning a mission trip.

102 A

Maximizing Compensation Dollars (Panel Discussion)

Leaders will learn how to leverage their compensation dollars to provide adequate and generous compensation for their pastors and ministers.

102 B

Misiones, Hacen Crecer tu Iglesia

Hay una ley espiritual. Cuando invertimos en misiones Dios hace prosperar su iglesia. Descubra que es lo que Dios espera que su iglesia haga.

102 C

2023 EXHIBITORS FOR ANNUAL MEETING

TEXAS BAPTISTS CELEBRATES UNITY AND DIVERSITY AT UPCOMING FAMILY GATHERING

By Texas Baptists Communications

McALLEN – The Baptist General Convention of Texas will gather for the 138th Annual Meeting on July 1618 at the McAllen Convention Center.

Every five years, the Annual Meeting is a Family Gathering, held in conjunction with the Hispanic Baptist Convention, the African American Fellowship and ethnic and cultural partners. The theme, from Ephesians 2:19, is coming together as the “Household of God” (or in español, “La Familia de Dios”) and was chosen to reflect that unity.

“At the Family Gathering, we will join our hearts together to celebrate our unity and diversity by sharing Christ (the good news of salvation available to all people) and showing love (to God and others),” said Craig Christina, associate and acting executive director of Texas Baptists. “Though there are many Christian denominations and nondenominational groups, there is no one exactly like Texas Baptists. Why not come to McAllen and help us celebrate and protect our cherished faith and unity that makes us one in Him? We’re saving you a seat!”

Featured speakers will include Greg Ammons, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Garland; William Dwight McKissic, Sr., senior pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Arlington; Ellis Orozco, coach to pastors for Kārooso Ministries and retired pastor of First Baptist Church of Richardson; and Thong Lun, senior pastor of Greater Houston Burmese Christian Fellowship.

Worship will be led by Ray Sanchez, pastor of worship and administration at First Baptist Church of Weslaco; the worship team from Calvary McAllen; the Singing Men of Texas; Roy and Niya Cotton; and El Trio de Hoy.

During the business sessions, messengers will elect officers and vote on the 2024 proposed budget, nominations for affiliated boards and ministries and more.

The Committee on Annual Meeting has chosen not to include resolutions in the convention’s business at the 2023 Family Gathering. Julio Guarneri, president of Texas Baptists and lead pastor of Calvary McAllen said the decision was made in order to prioritize a focus on unity and worship among Texas Baptists.

“Because of the nature of the Family Gathering, this year our Committee on the Annual Meeting has decided not to include resolutions in our business sessions,” Guarneri said. “Our focus will be on what unifies us both spiritually and missionally.”

Although no rallies will be held this year, several workshops and mission opportunities will be available. Attendees are encouraged to visit exhibit halls throughout the Family Gathering to learn more about Texas Baptists resources and partnering ministries and institutions. Several meals and receptions will be hosted by Texas Baptists ministries and partners.

“The Texas Baptist Family Gathering this July will be an exciting time of celebration,” Guarneri said. “As we rally around the theme ‘Household of God’ based on Ephesians 2:19, we will rejoice in our unity in diversity. As our at-large family joins with the Hispanic Convention, the African American Fellowship, the Chinese Fellowship, the Vietnamese Fellowship and others, we will enjoy a rich time of worship, fellowship, inspiration and necessary business.”

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Registration for this annual meeting is being held in the Palm Lobby of the McAllen Convention Center beginning Sunday, July 16 at 3:00 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 today 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. In celebrating unity at the 2023 Family Gathering, there will be no process for the submission of resolutions.

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.

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 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 delegates except during the Annual Meeting.

COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS

The Committee on Credentials has been assigned an area near Registration, located in the Palm Lobby of the McAllen Convention Center. Messengers must have a messenger card properly endorsed by the church clerk or moderator. Messengers who do not have such a card will need to be approved by the Credentials Committee.

The Bulletin includes announcements, committee reports and proceedings.

Craig Christina Associate Executive Director

Ward Hayes Treasurer/CFO/Recording Secretary

Joshua Minatrea Director of Communications

Aimee Freston Associate Director of Communications

Coleen Wall Director of Conferences & Event Planning

Caleb Arndt Design Manager

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

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 McAllen Convention Center and McAllen Police department, please wear your Texas Baptists Family Gathering Annual Meeting name badge at all times. Texas Baptists has taken every precaution to ensure the safety and security of all messengers and visitors.

FIRST AID

First aid room is located in the Palm Lobby of the McAllen Convention Center. First aid will be available Sunday, July 16 from 3:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. and Monday, July 17 from 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. and Tuesday, July 18 from 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

A special thank you and note of appreciation to the volunteer ENA Chapter 438-Rio Bravo Chachalacas and the Rio Grande Regional Hospital of McAllen coordinated by Chris Chizek, 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 kiosk’s information board located by the Texas Baptists Information Desk located in the Palm Lobby of the McAllen 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 Palm Lobby of the McAllen Convention Center.

PHONE CHARGING STATIONS

As an added convenience for Family Gathering attendees, phone charging stations (that accommodates most phone and tablet connections) are provided in Exhibit Hall A.

FOOD SERVICE OFFERED

Coffee and limited refreshments will be provided during exhibit hall hours on Sunday from 4:00 p.m.6:00 p.m., Monday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., and Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. – Noon. Additional food items can be purchased at the concession stand, located in the exhibit hall during exhibit hall hours.

Local restaurant information is available at the kiosk’s board located at the Texas Baptists Information Desk.

TRADUCCIÓN ESPAÑOL/SPANISH TRANSLATION

Todas las Sesiones Generales y Sesiones de Negocios de la Reunión Anual de 2023 se traducirán al Español. La traducción será proporcionada por subtítulos.

All General Sessions and Business Meeting Sessions of the 2023 Family Gathering will be translated into Spanish. Spanish translation will be provided by closed captioning.

BUCKNER BUILD

Texas Baptists is happy to offer a missions experience opportunity at this year's Family Gathering provided by Buckner International with special assistance from Texas Baptist Men, Woman's Missionary Union and West Oak Woods Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. Visit the east parking lot during Exhibit Hall hours Sunday through Tuesday to pray, write an encouraging note or drive some framing screws into the home.

SPECIAL SEATING

Special seating will be made available in the front far-right section of Exhibit Hall B during the Lord’s Supper (Worship Session 3) for individuals with mobility issues.

CHINESE BAPTIST FELLOWSHIP OF TEXAS MEETING

The Chinese Baptist Fellowship of Texas will be meeting offsite of the McAllen Convention Center on Tuesday, July 18th from 9-noon. Please contact Pastor Joseph Huang at (817) 247-0929 for further information

OFFICERS OF THE CONVENTION

Julio Guarneri, President Calvary BC, McAllen

Nebiye Kelile, First Vice President Pathway Church, Garland

Ronny Marriott, Second Vice President FBC, Burleson

Ward Hayes, Recording Secretary FBC, Plano

David Cozart, Registration Secretary Meadowbrook BC, Waco

Bernie Spooner, Secretary of the Corporation Plymouth Park BC, Irving

Isaac Thompson, Parliamentarian Hillcrest BC, Cedar Hill

2022–2023 EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS

Bobby Contreras, Chair, Alamo Heights BC, San Antonio

Janice Bloom, Vice Chair, FBC, Garland

2023 COMMITTEES

Committee on Annual Meeting

Mathew Richard, Chair, FBC, Llano

Marty Akins, FBC, Ballinger

Danilo Antunes, Truth Community Church Of Kingsville, Kingsville

Deanne Celelli, Second BC, Corpus Christi

Julie Covington, FBC, Waco

Sammy Elliot, Bacon Heights BC, Lubbock

Janet Galarza, Second BC, Corpus Christi

John Gillespie, FBC, Tulia

David Goddard, FBC, Temple

Olga Harris, FBC, Pharr

David Lorenz, FBC, Friendswood

Maurice McMillion, Faith BC, Tyler

Darrin Moore, TrueVine Missionary BC, Spring

Diego Mota, Duncanville FBC, Duncanville

Dale Prudhome, FBC, Nederland

Josue Rodriguez, Life Church of San Antonio, San Antonio

Joshua Sharp, Trinity BC, Orange

Michael Smith, Mount Bethel BC, Big Spring

Committee on Committees

Jason Atchley, Chair, Hunter’s Glen BC, Plano

Rolando Aguirre, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Delvin Atchison, Westside BC, Lewisville

Chad Bertrand, South Park Baptist, Alvin

Stacy Conner, FBC, Muleshoe

Craig Curry, FBC, Plano

Leonardo Diaz, Primera Iglesia Bautista, Hitchcock

Rhoda Gonzalez, North Dallas Family Church, Dallas

Chris Johnson, FBC, San Antonio

Elmo Johnson, Rose of Sharon BC, Houston

Cheryl Jones, FBC, Temple

Chris Liebrum, FBC, Garland

Peter McCann, Orchard Hills BC, Garland

Sergio Ramos, The Promise Church, Dallas

Danny Reeves, FBC, Corsicana

Committee on Credentials

Frank San Martin, Chair, Highland BC, Waco

Blake Alling, Calvary BC, Port Arthur

Marco Barron, New Life at the Cross, Robstown

Nathan Escamilla, El Buen Pastor, Fort Worth

Chris Hughes, City on a Hill Int., Garland

Denisse Ibarra, Calvary BC, McAllen

Andy Muskrat, FBC, Waco

Daniel Perez, FBC, Los Fresnos

Clint Reiff, Rice Temple BC, Houston

Marcus Rodriguez, Houston’s FBC, Houston

Committee on Memorials

Tim Lancaster, Chair, FBC, Lubbock

John Glover, FBC, Burleson

Domingo Quintanilla, Iglesia Bautista Monte Horeb, McAllen

Grace Rodriguez, Primera Iglesia Bautista, San Antonio

Mike Tello, Fielder Church, Arlington

Committee on Resolutions

Becky Biser, University BC, Fort Worth

David Chan, Calvary BC, McAllen

Stephen Dollar, Pine Forest BC, Vidor

Jack Newton, Calvary BC, Nederland

Marion Rios, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Emmanuel Roldan, Primera Iglesia Bautista, Waco

Chris Stapper, Yorktown BC, Corpus Christi

Danny Quintanilla, Bear Creek BC, Katy

Wesley Shotwell, Ash Creek BC, Azle

Jordan Villanueva, FBC, Brownwood

Committee on Nominations for Boards of Affiliated Ministries

David Russell, Chair, FBC, Amarillo

Ryan Buck, Immanuel BC, San Angelo

Kevin Burrow, FBC, Eastland

Ryan Chandler, FBC, Richmond

Kimberly Cook, FBC, El Paso

Steve Faulkner, Shiner BC, Shiner

David Foster, Shiloh Terrace BC, Dallas

Sherry Green, South Main BC, Pasadena

David Harp, FBC, Stanton

Pamla Joseph, Marvelous Light Church, Houston

Kirk Lewis, South Main BC, Pasadena

Steven Parker, FBC, Weslaco

Rony Robison, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Jean Ann Underwood, FBC, Waxahachie

Jorge Vazquez, Alliance Church, Lubbock

Committee to Nominate Executive Board Directors

Joshua Hays, Chair, FBC, Waco

Heather Bell, Tallowood BC, Houston

Clay Bowers, Northside BC, Texas City

Ernie Boyd, FBC, Amarillo

John Carl, Northlake BC, Garland

Jane Crain, FBC, Nederland

Charles Jones, New Hope Missionary BC, Clute

Greg Kitts, Dorcas Wills Memorial BC, Trinity

Edgar Leon, FBC, San Antonio

Robyn Lowrie, FBC, Decatur

Brad Miles, FBC, Shallowater

Seth Pitman, FBC, Seagraves

Karen Roberts, Rose of Sharon BC, Houston

Jase Waller, Telephone BC, Telephone

Dan Young, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Tellers Committee

Ronny Hargrave, Holly Brook BC, Hawkins

Randy Miller, FBC, Garland

Larry Post, FBC, Sugar Land

John Spencer, FBC, Garland

Dan Whitehouse, FBC, Longview

PRESIDENTS OF THE AUXILIARY GROUPS

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

Henry Batson III, African American Fellowship, Faith Fellowship, Red Oak

Joseph Huang, Chinese Fellowship, Chinese Baptist Fellowship, Belton

Sergio Ramos, Hispanic Baptist Convention, The Promise Church, Dallas

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

Chris Ortego, Bivocational Small Church Membership, Fairy BC, Fairy

Grace Kiker, BSM Co-President, Plainview

Anthony Rodriguez, BSM Co-President, The Colony

Lee Bevly, Texas Baptist Men, Samnorwood BC, Samnorwood

NOMINATIONS FROM COMMITTEE ON COMMITTEES

Nominations to Committee on Nominations for Boards of Affiliated Ministries

2026 Term

Henry Batson III, Faith Fellowship, Red Oak

Mike Bryant, FBC, Dalhart

Gina Coulter, FBC, Jayton

Ruth Franco, Primera Iglesia Bautista, Texarkana

Meghan Hendrickson, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Nominations to Committee to Nominate Executive Board Directors

2026 Term

Larry Dooley, FBC, Bryan

Teresa Herrera, FBC, Athens

Walid Saade, Arabic Christian Fellowship, Fort Worth

2024 Term

G.J. Walton, FBC, Silverton

NOMINATIONS FROM COMMITTEE TO NOMINATE EXECUTIVE BOARD DIRECTORS

Nominations for New Executive Board Directors

2026 Term

Cameron Bandy, FBC, Amarillo

Carol Boren, FBC, Brownwood

Craig Carlton, 121 Community Church, Grapevine

Noel Dear, FBC, Nacogdoches

Vickie Dennis, Bethlehem BC, Mansfield

Sylvia Flores, Grace Temple BC, Dallas

David Foster, Shiloh Terrace BC, Dallas

Larry Isham, FBC, College Station

Elmo Johnson, Rose of Sharon BC, Houston

Jo Beth McTavish, Kenefick Southern BC, Dayton

Dodie Morris, FBC, Waco

Maddie Rarick, Meadow Oaks BC, Temple

Amy Sims, Sugar Land BC, Sugar Land

Jean Slaven, Holly Brook BC, Hawkins

Kinley Sorrells, Eastside BC, Comanche

Meredith Summers, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Israel Villalobos, Plymouth Park BC, Irving

Sherry Vinson, FBC, New Boston

Nominations for Second Term Executive Board Directors

2026 Term

Tim Eng, Chinese BC, Houston

Mark Lindsey, FBC, Big Spring

Rick Mackey, Immanuel BC, Paris

Kenneth Martin, FBC, Balmorhea

Kevin Nelson, Calvary BC, San Antonio

Pete Pawelek, Cowboy Fellowship of Atascosa County, Jourdanton

John Roach, Green Acres BC, Tyler

Nominations to Fill Executive Board Director Vacancies

2025 Term

Fred Hobbs, Mt. Nebo Missionary BC, Victoria

Tammy Hutchings, Telephone BC, Telephone

Jassmine Posada, Southwayside BC, Fort Worth

Robert Templeton, Mt. Olive BC, Odessa

2024 Term

Eric House, North End BC, Beaumont

Alison Howell, FBC, Nederland

NOMINATIONS FROM COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS FOR BOARDS OF AFFILIATED MINISTRIES

Nominations to Board of Baptist University of the Américas

2026 Term

James Murray, FBC, San Antonio

Lee Ellen Speckman, FBC, San Antonio

Karen Tinsley, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Nominations to Board of Baylor University

2027 Term

Tyler Cooper, Park Cities BC, Dallas

Diane Dillard, South Main BC, Houston

Rene Maciel, First Woodway BC, Woodway

Nominations to Board of Dallas Baptist University

2026 Term

Joyce Andres, FBC, Dallas

Bob Dean, The Heights BC, Richardson

Pete Delkus, Parkway Hills BC, Plano

John Durham, Highland BC, Waco

Oscar Epps, Community Missionary BC, Desoto

Miguel Lopez, Duncanville FBC, Duncanville

Ronald Skaggs, Prairie Creek BC, Plano

Brent Taylor, FBC at the Fields, Carrollton

Nominations to Board of East Texas Baptist University

2026 Term

Jason Bell, FBC, Mt. Pleasant

Elizabeth Boone, Green Acres BC, Tyler

Roy Cotton, Singing Hills BC, Dallas

Belinda Dennis, Junius Heights BC, Dallas

Leon Leach, FBC, Tyler

Mary Peeler, Mulberry Springs BC, Hallsville

Nominations to Board of Hardin-Simmons University

2026 Term

Craig Curry, FBC, Plano

Mark Graham, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Julie Hammer, FBC, Lewisville

Jerry Phillips, FBC, Lubbock

Drue Pounds, FBC, Grapevine

Jon Wheeler, FBC, Midland

Angie Wiley, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Darin Wood, FBC, Midland

Nominations to Board of Houston Christian University

2026 Term

Garry Blackmon, Crossway Christian Fellowship, Houston

Omar Garcia, Kingsland BC, Katy

Ramiro Pena, Christ the King BC, Waco

Nominations to Board of Howard Payne University

2025 Term

Mickey Eddins, FBC, Sulphur Springs

2026 Term

Jane Collette, Southern Oaks BC, Kerrville

Sharon Guthrie, FBC, Stephenville

Jacob Montoya, FBC, Lubbock

Daniel Sanchez, Travis Avenue BC, Fort Worth

Nominations to Board of San Marcos Baptist Academy

2026 Term

Carol Garrison, FBC, San Marcos

David Vanderhider, Shearer Hills BC, San Antonio

Nomination to Board of Stark College and Seminary

2026 Term

Daniel Zamora, New Life at the Cross, Robstown

Nominations to Board of University of Mary Hardin-Baylor

2026 Term

Ted Bartley, Valley Ranch BC, Coppell

Andy Davis, FBC, Belton

Mike Harkrider, Wylie BC, Abilene

Ryan Lindsey, Highland BC, Waco

Jane Potter, FBC, Belton

Janna Slechta, Highland BC, Waco

Daniel Tostrud, Valley Ranch BC, Coppell

Nominations to Board of Valley Baptist Missions-Education Center

2026 Term

Josue Arrambide, FBC, Midland

Bryan Hall, Woodlawn BC, Austin

Randy Johnson, FBC, Richardson

Truett King, FBC, Lewisville

Scott Lane, FBC, San Antonio

Nominations to Board of Wayland Baptist University

2026 Term

Anthony Ricketts, FBC, Floydada

Keith Skaar, FBC, Midland

Nominations to Board of Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio

2026 Term

Connie Jones, Shearer Hills BC, San Antonio

Bill McCandless, Shearer Hills BC, San Antonio

Dawn Stockton, Crossroads BC, San Antonio

Jorge Zayasbazan, Baptist Temple, San Antonio

Nominations to Board of Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas

2026 Term

Dave Carpenter, Westgate Memorial BC, Beaumont

Winston Coates, FBC of Bevil Oaks, Beaumont

Walter Snider, Calder BC, Beaumont

Nominations to Board of Buckner International

2025 Term

Lisa Eady, Southland BC, San Angelo

Riefford Gail Flood, Southland BC, San Angelo

Nominations to Board of Children at Heart Ministries

2026 Term

Alan Neidig, FBC, Round Rock

Brad Norris, South Crest BC, Lubbock

Ross Pendergast, Second BC, Pearland

Holly Sheppard, FBC, Temple

Kathy Spencer, FBC, Marble Falls

Nominations to Board of Hendrick Health System

2026 Term

Leigh Black, Southwest Park BC, Abilene

Scott Hibbs, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Randy Lloyd, FBC, Abilene

Shannon Nix, Southwest Park BC, Abilene

Lanny Vinson, Pioneer Drive BC, Abilene

Mike Woodard, Southwest Park BC, Abilene

Nominations to Board of Hillcrest Health System

2026 Term

Jacqueline Taylor, Pleasant Hill BC, McGregor

Nominations to Board of South Texas Children’s Home Ministries

2026 Term

Lil Abshier, FBC, Goliad

Jim Candler, FBC, Bryan

Tony Gray, West University BC, Houston

Ronald Ray Hyde, FBC, Kenedy

Sandy Melton, FBC, Rockport

Page Streiff, Northside BC, Victoria

Nominations to Board of Baptist Church Loan Corporation

2026 Term

Barbara Jane Kaplan, FBC, Garland

Nominations to Board of HighGround Advisors

2026 Term

Marianne Piepenburg, Park Cities BC, Dallas

John Thompson, Jr., Park Cities BC, Dallas

Phil David Wedemeyer, South Main BC, Houston

Nominations to Board of The Baptist Standard

2026 Term

Linda Brian, FBC, Amarillo

Tiffany Echols, Cornerstone BC, Killeen

Colin Witt, Highland BC, Waco

HOW TO ORDER

MARY HILL DAVIS OFFERING ® FOR TEXAS MISSIONS MATERIALS

Thank you for promoting the Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions in your church.

PRINTED MATERIALS 1 2 3

Place your order for the Mary Hill Davis Offering Week of Prayer resources (posters, prayer guides, and envelopes) online at iamtexasmissions.org/order. You may also call the office at (214) 828-5150 to request these resources. Please allow 2-3 week for delivery. We are unable to ship overnight orders.

DOWNLOAD MATERIALS

You may also download Mary Hill Davis Offering Week of Prayer resources for the current and previous years at iamtexasmissions.org/order.

MHDO VIDEO STORIES

Share a Mary Hill Davis Offering video during your next WMU meeting or church service. To view or download over 35 Mary Hill Davis Offering video stories, visit iamtexasmissions.org/stories.

Annual Meeting

07/17/2023

Executive Board

05/23/2023

Institutional Relations Committee

05/22/2022

Item of Consideration: Recommendation for Baptist General Convention of Texas to Relate to Hendrick Medical Center by Special Agreement

Highest Authority for this item: The messengers meeting at the 2023 Family Gathering of the Baptist General Convention of Texas

Originating Source: Brad Holland, President and Chief Executive Officer Hendrick Medical Center and Dr. Craig Christina, Acting Executive Director, BGCT

Background:

In September 2022, Hendrick Medical Center contacted the BGCT to “discuss Hendrick Medical Center’s ongoing relationship with the BGCT ” Hendrick has been a BGCT affiliated institution for many years. Currently, the BGCT elects 75% of Hendrick’s board of directors. Hendrick seeks to reduce the number of BGCT-elected members of its board to less than 50%. Hendrick has requested a change in the relationship between itself and the BGCT. Rather than remain an affiliated institution of the BGCT, Hendrick wants to relate to the BGCT by special agreement. After initial discussions between leaders with the two organizations, Hendrick has drafted a proposed 10 year special relationship agreement for this committee’s review and comment.

Recommendation:

The Institutional Relations Committee recommends the proposed Special Relationship Agreement between the Baptist General Convention of Texas and Hendrick Medical Center be approved by the Executive Board and recommended for adoption by the messengers at 2023 Family Gathering.

Annual Meeting

7/17/2023

Executive Board

5/23/2023

Institutional Relations Committee

5/22/2023

Item of Consideration: Recommendation for Baptist General Convention of Texas to relate to Baptist Standard Publishing by Special Agreement

Highest Authority for this item: The messengers meeting at the 2023 Family Gathering of the Baptist General Convention of Texas

Originating Source: The board of trustees of the Baptist Standard Publishing Co.

Background:

On March 5, 2020, Eric Black, Editor of the Baptist Standard, and leaders from their board of trustees met with BGCT executive leadership and informed them that the Baptist Standard Publishing Co. (BSP) board of trustees voted in December 2019 to amend their Articles of Incorporation. The Baptist Standard then refiled their amended articles with the State of Texas on December 23, 2019, without the knowledge or consent of the BGCT leadership or Executive Board.

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 (or certificate of formation), the proper procedure is to present proposed amendments to the 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 BGC T, the Executive Board must recommend the adoption of the amended articles at the next annual meeting of BGCT messengers.

Legal counsel for the BGCT believed the changes to the BSP ’s articles of incorporation to significantly alter the relationship with the BGCT. Therefore, leaders from the BSP and the BGCT (including the IRC) have met for the past three years to discuss the relationship. The IRC voted at the September 2022 Executive Board meeting to pursue a Special Relationship Agreement.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

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

• Churches and members of Rio Grande Valley Baptist Association for providing leadership and volunteers for various opportunities of service at the annual meeting.

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

• The McAllen Convention Center staff for their kind direction and assistance with the planning details over this past year.

• Jason Wilson and 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 and Debby Luscombe of NewDay Productions for video and audio support throughout the workshops and varied meals 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 and distributing materials, bags and name tags for messengers and visitors.

• Volunteer staff of ENA Chapter and the Rio Grande Regional Hospital of McAllen, coordinated by Chris Chizek, who has graciously donated their time to assist us in the first aid area.

• San Marcos Baptist Academy, under the direction of Eric Casillias, for providing select senior students to serve as pages to assist the officers and messengers in the Business Sessions.

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

• Susan Sosebee and Miriam Gamboa who have graciously donated their time by preparing and coordinated numerous volunteers to provide Day Camp for our children and students.

• 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 138th Annual Meeting and worked diligently to make a huge success for the Kingdom of our Lord.

OFICIALES DE CONVENCIÓN

Sergio A. Ramos – Presidente, The Promise Church, Dallas

Silvia Ake – Primer Vicepresidente, Primera Iglesia Bautista, Edinburg

Lydia “Lilli” Ana Martínez – Segundo Vicepresidente, Iglesia Bautista Emanuel, McAllen

Claudia Treviño – Secretaria, Iglesia Bautista El Calvario, San Antonio

CAMARA EJECUTIVA DE CONVENCIÓN

Patty Villarreal – Chairperson, Woodland Baptist Church, San Antonio

Dr. Rolando Aguirre – Vice Chair, Park Cities Español, Dallas

Lidia Salazar – Secretary, Primera Iglesia Bautista Belton

Dr. Gary Cook – Park Cities Baptist Church, Dallas

Nick Holguin – Oak Ridge Baptist Church Español, San Antonio

Eder Ibarra – Calvary Mcallen

Darlene Musquiz – Primera Iglesia Bautista Maranatha, Houston

Bea Mesquias – Agape Baptist Church, San Antonio

Eladio Puente – Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana, Texarkana

Abigail Rojas – Iglesia Bautsita Azle Avenue, Fort Worth

Sylvia Villareal – Cliff Temple Baptist Church, Dallas

IGLESIAS CON CONTRIBUCIONES MAYORES

Cliff Temple Baptist Church, Dallas

Woodland Baptist Church, San Antonio

Calvary Baptist Church, McAllen

Alliance Church, Lubbock

Park Cities Baptist Church en Español, Dallas

Segunda Iglesia Bautista, San Angelo

Iglesia Bautista Genesis, Fort Worth

Iglesia Bautista Redención, Houston

Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana, El Paso

Iglesia Nueva Vida, Brownwood

Primera Sesión Plenaria

Lunes - 17 de julio

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

Dirige: Sergio A. Ramos, Presidente

Preludio

Apertura, Instalación y Oración

Moción de Adopción del Programa Impreso

Sergio A. Ramos, Presidente y Claudia Treviño, Secretaria

Silvia Ake, Primer Vicepresidente

Bienvenida Lydia Ana Martinez, Segundo Vicepresidente

Tiempo de Alabanza Trio de Hoy

Ofrenda y Alabanza Trio de Hoy

Presentación de Lema “Familia de Dios”

“El Pastor y la Familia de Dios”

“La Mujer y la Familia de Dios”

“La Pareja y la Familia de Dios”

“El Joven Adulto y la Familia de Dios”

Becas Universitarias: DBU, Wayland, Criswell

Reconocimiento de Criswell College

Anuncios y Despedida

Segunda Sesión Plenaria

Martes - 18 de Julio

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

Dirige: Sergio A. Ramos, Presidente

Preludio

Bienvenida y Oración

Tiempo de Alabanza y Adoración

Olber Roblero, Iglesia Bautista Horeb, Brownsville

Miryam Chairez, Calvary Baptist Church, Presidenta de UFM de Texas

Eder & Denise Ibarra, Director, Rio Grande Valley Baptist Association

Joel Vargas, Pastor Asociado, Iglesia Cristiana Triunfante, San Antonio

Silvia Villareal, Camara Ejectuvia de Convención

Luis Juarez, Vicepresidente, Criswell College

Nick Holguin, Presidente, Baptist Credit Union

Rolando y Angie Rodriguez, Texas Baptists en Español

Grupo de Alabanza

Presentación de Parlamentario y Comision de Escrutinio Sergio A. Ramos

Elección del Primer Vicepresidente Sergio A. Ramos

Elección del Segundo Vicepresidente Sergio A. Ramos

Elección del Secretario Sergio A. Ramos

Reporte Financiero y Presupuesto Jesse Rincones

Eleccion de Directores Jesse Rincones

Alabanza Grupo de Alabanza

Predicación Dr. Gabriel Cortes, Universidad Bautsita de las Américas

Presidente Honoriifico Dr. Alcides Guajardo

Oración Final y Clausura Rolando y Angie Rodriguez, Texas Baptists en Español

BYLAWS OF THE CONVENCIÓN BAUTISTA HISPANA DE TEXAS

Article I – General Provisions

Section 1. For purposes of usage in the Constitution and these Bylaws, a church is deemed to be affiliated with the Convention if such church (1) identifies itself with, aligns itself with, and endorses, generally, the purposes and work of the Convention, and (2) is otherwise eligible to send messengers to the annual meeting of the Convention. A church is deemed to be cooperating with the Convention (“Cooperating Church”) if such church: (1) participates in the various activities of the Convention and (2) provides regular and systematic financial support to the Convention.

Section 2. All Convention officers, members of Convention committees, all Executive Board directors, and all nondirector members of any special committee, subcommittee, group, team, council or other entity created under or permitted to be created under these Bylaws shall be members of Cooperating Churches.

Section 3. If a person named in Section 2 is no longer a member of a church Cooperating with the Convention, or otherwise vacates the position, the position will be deemed vacant and the vacancy will be filled according to the provisions of these Bylaws. Determination of vacancies and the date of such vacancy will be made by the Executive Board or a committee of the Board so authorized by the Executive Board.

Article II – Messengers

Section 1. Each messenger shall register with the Registration Secretary by presentation of proper credentials prior to being seated as a messenger to the Convention.

Section 2. The credentials of a registered messenger may be reviewed by the Credentials Committee as deemed necessary.

Article III – Meetings

Section 1. The regular meeting of the Convention shall be known as the annual meeting and shall be for the purpose of electing officers; receiving reports of officers, committees, and boards; and for any other business that may arise or be scheduled.

Section 2. The Convention shall determine its order of business at the first session of the annual meeting.

Section 3. Special meetings may be called according to the provisions of the Constitution.

Section 4. In all questions covering the proceedings of the Convention in both annual and special meetings, Robert’s Rules of Order (latest revised edition) shall be the authority used by the presiding officers and by the Convention, unless the Constitution or the Bylaws have special rules of order that apply.

Article IV – Duties of Convention Officers

Section 1. It shall be the duty of the president to preside over the deliberations of the Convention and to discharge such other duties as are usually incumbent on the presiding officer of a deliberative body. If the president is no longer a member of a church affiliated with the Convention, a vice president shall succeed to the office according to provisions of the Constitution, and this fact shall be so recognized by a resolution of the Executive Board.

Section 2. The vice presidents shall discharge such duties as requested by the president. In the absence of the president from a Convention session, a vice president in the order in which he or she was elected shall preside.

Section 3. It shall be the duty of the recording secretary to keep an accurate record of the proceedings of the Convention, and to file and keep all papers in order deemed important to be preserved.

Section 4. The registration secretary shall be responsible for registration of all messengers of the Convention. The registration secretary shall report to the chairperson of the Committee on Credentials the number of messengers

registered as of the hour the Convention convenes and periodically thereafter as prescribed by the chairperson of the Committee on Credentials. Following the Convention, the registration secretary shall provide the recording secretary the number of messengers registered.

Article V – Convention Committees

Section 1. Annual Meeting Planning Committee (“Comite de Orden y Programa”)

An Annual Meeting Planning Committee (“AMP Committee”) shall be appointed for each annual meeting of the Convention. An AMP Committee shall be appointed and active for the next annual meeting (Year 1) and for the two subsequent year’s annual meetings (Years 2 and 3), for a total of three (3) AMP Committees that should be active and filled at all times.

The AMP Committee shall be responsible for:

1. Recommending the time and place of its assigned annual meetings of the Convention,

2. Selecting the speakers, worship leaders and other participants for that year ’s meeting, and

3. Formulating the agenda for the annual meeting and submitting the agenda to the Convention for approval at the opening session.

Each AMP Committee shall have six (6) members appointed for one year terms. The newly elected president and officers acting jointly shall appoint the members of the third year’s AMP Committee. The current president and officers may appoint replacements to fill vacancies.

A. This committee shall provide periods of time during the early sessions of the Convention annual meeting for the introduction of all matters requiring a vote not scheduled on the agenda and when introduced shall fix times for consideration for the same, unless the Convention gives its unanimous consent for its immediate consideration.

B. This committee shall be responsible for formulating and recommending the Standing Rules of the Convention to the Convention for adoption. The Standing Rules of the Convention may be amended without notice by majority vote. It also shall be responsible for recommending the disposition of motions made during consideration of miscellaneous business but not finally disposed.

C. While the AMP Committees will recommend the time and place for the Annual Meeting designated to them, the final decision will be made by jointly by the Office of Hispanic Work and the Executive Board of the Convention based on the cost of the host location, availability and any other relevant factors.

Section 2. Committee on Credentials

The Committee on Credentials shall be responsible for verifying credentials of prospective messengers, enrolling messengers, for investigating any contention arising out of the enrollment of messengers, and for reporting its findings to the Convention. At the time scheduled by the Committee of Orden y Programa, the chairperson of the Committee on Credentials shall report the number of messengers registered as of the opening of the annual meeting or special meeting and periodically thereafter. The committee when established shall have six (6) members appointed for two years with three (3) appointed each year by the president and the vice presidents acting jointly. The president and vice presidents may appoint replacements to fill vacancies.

Article VI – Executive Board

Section 1. Membership

A. Directors

The elected membership of the Executive Board shall be eleven (11) directors. The Executive Board shall have an ex-officio director in addition to the elected directors. The ex-officio director shall be the president of the Convention who shall by virtue of office serve with all rights, privileges, and duties of, and shall in all matters be treated as an elected director

B. Term of Directors

Directors shall serve terms of three (3) years. A Director may succeed himself for only one consecutive term. After serving two consecutive terms, a Director must vacate his position

There shall be staggered terms of office for Directors so that one-third of the directorships shall be up for election each year (or if the number does not evenly divide by thirds, the board shall be divided as close to thirds as possible).

Initial directors serving less than a full three-year term as their initial term, shall be considered to have served a full three-year term for purposes of the limits on more than two successive terms.

C. Resignation

Any Director may resign at any time by delivering written notice to the Secretary or President of the Board of Directors. Such resignation shall take effect upon receipt or, if later, at the time specified in the notice.

D. Vacancies

Vacancies shall be filled by majority vote of the remaining members of the Board of Directors, though less than a quorum, and the Director filling the vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the term of the directorship that was vacated. Vacancies shall be filled as soon as practical. Any Director may make nominations to fill vacant directorships.

Section 2. Elected Officers

The Board shall elect a chairperson and a vice chairperson annually. The treasurer/chief financial officer of the Convention shall serve as recording secretary. The officers shall have the following duties:

A. Chairperson

1. Presides at all meetings of the Board.

2. Chairs the Executive Committee.

3. Assists the executive director as the director provides leadership in the planning and implementation of Convention operations and ministries.

4. Consults with the executive director and secretary prior to each meeting to set the agenda.

5. Appoints special committees as authorized by the Board.

6. Represents the Board in meetings of Convention agencies as invited to do so.

7. Serves the Board by carrying out responsibilities assigned to the chair.

B. Vice Chairperson

1. Assists the chairperson throughout the term as may be requested.

2. Presides at meetings of the Board and Executive Committee in the absence of the chairperson or at the request of the chairperson

C. Recording Secretary

The recording secretary is to keep an accurate record of the proceedings of the Executive Board and to file and keep in order all papers deemed important to be preserved.

Section 3. Election of Officers

A. Nominations

Nominations shall be made from the floor at the last regular meeting of the year. Nominations shall be made in this order: chairperson and vice chairperson.

B. Voting

The election of officers shall be the first order of business on the agenda at the last regular meeting of the year. Election shall be by show of hands unless the chairperson with the appointed parliamentarian shall agree that the vote be by ballot. A majority of votes cast shals determine the person chosen.

C. Terms

Officers of the Board shall serve one-year terms and be eligible for one additional term. Terms begin immediately following the close of the last session of the annual meeting of the Convention. Should for any reason the office of chairperson be vacated prior to completion of the term, the vice chairperson shall become chairperson for the remainder of the term. In such case, the vacancy of the vice chairperson would be filled at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board.

Section 4. Meetings

A.

Authority

The Board shall meet at times and on a schedule that it adopts. The meeting date of the Convention should be a strongly influencing factor in the determination of when the Board meets. The meetings should be calendared so as to supplement and facilitate the total work of the Convention in support of all Conventionadopted programs. The meeting schedule of the Board shall be recommended to the Board by the Executive Director.

B. Meeting Times

The Board shall determine three-to-five years in advance the three times during each calendar year it meets.

C. Annual Meeting

The annual meeting of the Board shall be the one conducted prior to but not necessarily in conjunction with the annual Convention meeting. At this meeting, the Board will elect officers, may appoint committees, and consider other business as may come before the meeting.

D. Place of Meeting

The Board may designate any place within the State of Texas as the place of meeting.

E.

Notice of Meetings

Written notice stating the place, day, and hour of any meeting of directors shall be delivered either personally, by mail, or by electronic means to each director, not less than 10 days or more than 60 days before the date of such meeting by or at the direction of the chairperson.

F.

Special Meetings

Special meetings may be called by the executive director and/or the chairperson with the consent of two of the following: the vice chairperson of the Board and the president and vice presidents of the Convention; or may be called by not less than twenty percent (20%) of the directors. The call for a special meeting shall state the purpose of the meeting, and the time, date, and place for the meeting. The special meeting shall be limited to the purpose stated.

G. There will be no proxy voting.

Section 5. Committees

A. The Executive Committee

1. The Executive Committee is responsible for the administration of the Executive Board. The Executive Committee shall also review the proposed budget; shall evaluate performance and recommend compensation for the executive director; and shall plan, coordinate and monitor the general progress of the work of the Executive Board.

2. After the annual meeting of the Convention, the chairperson and vice chairperson of the Executive Board, with the assistance of the executive director and recording secretary, shall appoint the chairpersons of Board committees. The Executive Committee shall assign other Executive Board directors to serve on various committees of the Executive Board. Except for members of the Executive Committee, no Executive Board director may serve on more than one regular committee. The chairperson and vice chairperson of the Executive Board are non-voting ex-officio members of each committee and subcommittee; however, they shall have the right to vote in the Executive Committee of the Board.

3. The Executive Director of the Convention shall serve as a non-voting ex-officio member of he Executive Committee of the Executive Board.

4. The Executive Committee shall act for the Executive Board ad interim, but may not act contrary to or reverse any action of the Executive Board.

B. Groups, teams, and councils

1. Other groups, teams, or councils, may be established as advisory groups to assist Executive Board committees, Convention ministries, and Convention staff leaders.

2. Such groups may serve as a resource, assist in strategy planning and implementation, provide information, and assist in activities. They may make recommendations through staff leaders to appropriate committees and the Executive Board.

3. Recommendations for such groups may be initiated through a committee of the Board or the Executive Committee and recommended for policy approval to the Executive Board. The recommendation should include the number of group members and terms of service.

4. Persons serving will be nominated by the initiating committee and approved by the Executive Board. Such persons nominated shall be members of churches affiliated with the Convention.

Section 6. Voting by Mail or Electronic Means

Any action required by law to be taken at a meeting of directors or any action which may be taken at a meeting of directors may be taken without a meeting if consented to and signed by a requisite number of directors of the Executive Board who are entitled to vote, either in writing, by mail ballot, by electronic means, or by some combination of both, with respect to the subject matter thereof. The requisite number is the number that would be necessary to take that action at a meeting at which the directors were present and voted. Where a specific business item may need action prior to a regular meeting, the chairperson, or the vice chairperson in his absence, may conduct the voting by mail or by electronic means, or by some combination of both. No vote shall be taken by electronic means or by telephone unless notice of such proposed vote to be taken has been communicated by electronic means, in person, by mail, by telephone, or by any of these means, to all members of the Executive Board or to the committee or subcommittee proposing to take a vote at least three (3) business days prior to the first day on which votes will be accepted. Notice by mail shall be deemed properly given if deposited in the U.S. Mail at least five (5) business days prior to such first day. Voting by fax, email, dedicated website, any similar technology, or any combination of such means shall constitute “electronic means” for purposes of this and the following section. “Signing” of a ballot or other confirmation of a vote by way of electronic means shall be broadly construed to permit effective utilization of such means. In addition, committees and subcommittees of the Executive Board, together with any group authorized under

Section F. of this article, but not the Executive Board as a whole, may take votes telephonically as a part of a committee or subcommittee meeting via conference telephone call or any other electronic conferencing media (and without necessity of a signed ballot). Written memoranda or minutes shall be made of all meetings and votes undertaken by electronic means or telephonically or by mail, and shall be entered into the records of the Executive Board or the appropriate committee or subcommittee as of the next meeting in which the members assemble in person. There will be no proxy voting and therefore voting by mail or by electronic means shall not be considered to be voting by proxy.

Section 7. Quorum

The directors holding one-half (50%) of the total votes which may be cast at any meeting shall constitute a quorum.

Section 8. Compensation

Directors shall not receive any salaries for their services but may receive reimbursement for appropriate travel expenses.

Section 9. Duties

A. The Executive Board shall be the fiduciary, fiscal and executive agency of the Convention.

B. The Executive Board is empowered to act for the Convention in all areas of the Convention’s work between sessions of the Convention, but may not act contrary to or reverse any action of the Convention, except as otherwise provided in these Bylaws.

C. The Executive Board shall make a full report of the work of the Convention at its annual session.

D. The Executive Board shall have the authority to enter into, modify, and terminate affiliation agreements with third parties which advance the purposes of the Convention, not inconsistent with the directions of the messengers.

E. The Executive Board shall recommend the annual budget to the annual session of the Convention. The Executive Board shall have the authority to reduce or eliminate allocations to third parties contained in the annual budget approved by the messengers when, in the Executive Board's judgment, circumstances arising after the messengers have approved the annual budget warrant that action. In such situations, the Executive Board shall have the authority to re-allocate the budgeted funds which were reduced or eliminated. Any exercise by the Executive Board of this authority shall be reported to the next annual session of the Convention.

Article VII – Convention Employees

Section 1. Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer

A. The chief executive officer of the Convention shall be the Executive Director.

B. The Executive Director shall be employed upon the recommendation of the Executive Board and receive remuneration as recommended by the Executive Board.

C. The Executive Director shall supervise and administer all of the affairs of the Convention and all of its activities and shall represent and carry out the policies of the Convention and its Executive Board.

Section 2. Other Employees of the Convention

The Executive Board shall have the authority to elect or employ other personnel as deemed necessary by the body.

Article VIII – Amendments

These Bylaws may be changed or amended at any regular session of the Convention’s annual meeting, except the last session of the meeting, provided said change or amendment is offered at the first session of the annual meeting, and carries over to some subsequent session during the same meeting, and then receives a two-third’s majority of messengers present and voting in the session.

ADOPTED: JUNE 28, 2011

Amended, June 28, 2016 – Rev., Article V, Sec. 1

Amended, June 28, 2017 – Rev., Article I, Sec. 1-3

Cláusula 1 - Nombre

CONVENCIÓN BAUTISTA HISPANA DE TEXAS

Constitución y Reglamento

28 de Junio, 2011

Artículo I - Nombre y Función

El nombre de este organismo será: Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas.

Cláusula 2 – Función

Esta Convención es el medio por el cual las congregaciones bautistas trabajan armoniosamente en mutua cooperación, con el fin de promover el trabajo y objetivos asentados en esta Constitución. La Convención no tendrá autoridad eclesiástica sobre las congregaciones o mensajeros, pues el único Soberano que reconocemos es nuestro Señor Jesucristo.

Cláusula 3 – Relación

Conforme al Acuerdo de Unificación, la Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas es un socio oficial de la Convención General Bautista de Texas (Baptist General Convention of Texas, “BGCT”), tambien conocida como “Texas Baptists.”

Articulo II - Misión

La Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas existe para servir a sus congregaciones y miembros a fin de que cumplan su misión y visión particular inspirada por Dios.

Articulo

III - Visión

La visión de la Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas es llegar a ser una familia de iglesias diversas y espiritualmente saludables, conectando y desarrollando recursos para hacer impacto en Texas y el mundo con la presencia de Cristo en el cumplimiento de la Gran Comisión ordenada por nuestro Salvador y Señor Jesucristo.

Artículo

IV - Membresía

Cláusula

1 – Membresía

Esta Convención en sus sesiones estará formada por los mensajeros debidamente acreditados por las congregaciones Bautistas que cooperan con la Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas dentro de la misión y visión de esta Constitución. Una iglesia se define como “cooperadora” conforme al Artículo 1 de las “Bylaws” de esta Convención.

Cláusula 2 - Mensajeros

Cada congregación que coopera con este organismo tendrá derecho a enviar ocho (8) mensajeros por los primeros cien (100) miembros activos o fracción de ellos, y un mensajero más por cada cincuenta (50) miembros activos adicionales; ninguna congregación tendrá más de veinticinco (25) mensajeros.

Artículo V - Finanzas

Cláusula 1 – Ofrendas

Las congregaciones afiliadas a este organismo deben enviar sus ofrendas misioneras, tanto designadas como las que envíen mediante el Programa Cooperativo, al departamento de finanzas de la BGCT. También deben enviar a dicho departamento las ofrendas o donativos especiales, los cuales serán usados de acuerdo el deseo de la congregación o de la persona que los envió.

Cláusula 2 – Gastos

Todo gasto necesario para el desarrollo de la obra descrita en esta Constitución será provisto dentro del presupuesto de esta Convención.

Cláusula 3

Las congregaciones afiliadas pueden enviar ofrendas directamente a la Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas para las iniciativas de tal Convención.

Artículo VI - Oficiales

Cláusula 1 - Oficiales

Los siguientes oficiales serán elegidos por la asamblea: el Presidente de la Convención, el Primer Vicepresidente de la Convención, el Segundo Vicepresidente de la Convención, y el Secretario de Actas. Estos oficiales serán elegidos anualmente durante cualquiera de las sesiones plenarias. El término de servicio del presidente electo será de dos años consecutivos, con la opción de ser elegido para un tercer año. Ninguno de estos oficiales podrá ser elegido por más de dos años consecutivos con excepción del Presidente que podrá servir por tres años consecutivos.

Cláusula 2 - Otros Oficiales

Los otros oficiales elegidos por sus respectivas conferencias y organizaciones serán: la Presidenta de la Unión Femenil Misionera, el Presidente de los Varones Bautistas, el Presidente de la Conferencia de Ministros, la Presidenta de la Conferencia de Esposas de Ministros, y el (la) Presidente (a) de la Juventud..

Cláusula 3 - Residencia y Membresía de Oficiales y Miembros de Comisiones

Para fungir como oficial de la Convención, o como miembro de una Comisión, se requiere que la persona sea residente de Texas. También debe ser miembro activo y elegido como mensajero por una congregación cooperadora. El cambio de residencia fuera del estado de Texas, resultará en la renuncia automática a los nombramientos como oficial o como miembro de una Comisión o de ambos según el caso.

Cláusula 4 - Informes de la Mesa Directiva y Comisiones

Todos los oficiales y los presidentes de Comisiones rendirán un informe anual a la Convención en el Libro de Programa e Informes de esta Convención o durante las sesiones plenarias de la misma. Además, se sugiere que el Presidente de la Convención escriba un artículo o informe en la publicación editada por el Director de la Obra Hispana. Los demás oficiales podrán publicar artículos o informes periódicamente en coordinación con el editor de dicha publicación.

Articulo VII - Elección de Oficiales

Cláusula 1 – Nombramientos

Las elecciones de los oficiales de la Mesa Directiva se llevarán a cabo anualmente durante cualquiera de las sesiones plenarias de la Convención. La asamblea nombrará los candidatos para cada puesto. Estos deben ser miembros activos de distintas congregaciones en el momento de su nombramiento. No habrá límite al número de candidatos para cada puesto. Sin embargo, se podrán cerrar los nombramientos con la proposición “que cesen los nombramientos.” Se concederá un máximo de dos minutos para cada nombramiento. Los candidatos deberán estar presentes en el momento de la nominación y elección.

Cláusula 2 – Orden de Elección

El orden de la elección será: Presidente, Primer Vicepresidente, Segundo Vicepresidente y Secretario de Actas. La votación para la elección de cada oficial se llevará a cabo mediante papeletas secretas, sistema computarizado, o muestra de papeletas como votación. Dichas papeletas serán distribuidas solamente a los mensajeros debidamente identificados como tales. El Parlamentario y la Comisión de Escrutinio contarán los votos. El Parlamentario anunciará el resultado oportunamente. Si no hay mayoría de votos para algún candidato, los dos candidatos con mayor número de votos serán presentados para una segunda votación.

Cláusula 3 – Mayoría

Se considerará mayoría de votos el cincuenta (50%) por ciento más uno de los mensajeros votantes.

Cláusula 4 – Reemplazo de Oficiales

Reemplazo de oficiales en caso de muerte, renuncia, deshabilitación o cambio de residencia fuera del estado del Presidente de la Convención, los Vicepresidentes asumirán el puesto en el orden en que fueron elegidos. En caso de que alguno de los otros oficiales no pueda cumplir con sus responsabilidades, por los motivos citados o por ascender a la presidencia, en su reemplazo servirá el candidato que obtuvo segundo lugar en la votación para el

puesto respectivo. Si no hubiera otro candidato la Mesa Directiva nombrará a la persona que llenará el puesto que quedo vacante. Cuando un oficial, elegido o nombrado, haya servido seis (6) meses o más en el puesto, tal término de servicio contará igual a un año.

Cláusula

5 – Conflicto de Interés

En el caso de que cualquier oficial de la Convención sea empleado por la Junta Ejecutiva de la Baptist General Convention of Texas, su renuncia a la Mesa Directiva de la Convención será automática e inmediata.

Articulo VIII - Comisiones

Sección A - Comisiones Transitorias

Las siguientes comisiones transitorias nombradas anualmente serán formadas por nueve (9) personas nombradas por el Presidente de la Convención, en consulta con la opinión de la Mesa Directiva. Su trabajo terminará al concluir la reunión anual correspondiente.

Cláusula

1 - Comisión de Arreglos Locales

Esta Comisión trabajará con las congregaciones o asociación local donde se celebrarán las reuniones de la Convención correspondiente, con el fin de hacer los preparativos relacionados con dichas reuniones. Estará compuesta por las siguientes subcomisiones: Arreglos de las Sesiones Plenarias, Arreglos de las Conferencias, Inscripción y Credenciales, Hospitalidad, Ujieres y Relaciones Públicas. Dichas subcomisiones se guiarán por un reglamento interno conocido como “Deberes y Responsabilidades de la Comisión de Arreglos Locales.’ Esta Comisión será presidida por un coordinador de Arreglos Locales, quien periódicamente informará a la Mesa Directiva. El Director de la Obra Hispana se encargará de entrenar a esta Comisión.

Sección B - Comisiones Permanentes

Las siguientes comisiones serán de tipo permanente y compuestas por nueve (9) miembros, los cuales servirán por el plazo de tres (3) años en forma rotativa (3, 2 y 1 años). De los nueve miembros un mínimo de dos (2) serán damas o varones laicos. Cada Comisión será integrada por miembros activos de distintas congregaciones, quienes podrán servir no más de seis (6) años consecutivos.

Cláusula 1 - Comisión de Constitución y

Reglamento

Esta Comisión revisará anualmente la Constitución y Reglamento para mantenerlo al día. Presentará por escrito cualquier cambio o enmienda para ser considerada por la Asamblea de la Convención. Se reunirá antes o durante las reuniones anuales para efectuar su tarea. Además, tendrá la función de dar la interpretación oficial de dicha Constitución y Reglamento.

Cláusula 2 - Comisión de Bienestar Pastoral

Esta Comisión promoverá todo lo relacionado a los beneficios pastorales, tales como suplementos, seguros y otros beneficios. También procurarán el bienestar de los obreros jubilados y viudas de los pastores de las iglesias hispanas.

Cláusula 3 - Comisión de Educación Cristiana

Esta Comisión trabajará para promover la educación, becas, fondos y otros recursos entre hispanos bautistas. La Comisión colaborara con BGCT y otras instituciones educativas para ese fin.

Sección C - Procedimiento de Comisiones

Cláusula 1 - Reuniones

Las comisiones tendrán su reunión por diferentes medios de comunicación electrónica antes del fin del mes de septiembre.

Cláusula 3 - Término

Después de un servicio de seis años consecutivos en comisiones, el miembro no podrá ser reelegido sino después de un año.

Cláusula 4 - Asistencia

Se mantendrá un archivo permanente de la lista de asistencia. Si un miembro no asiste a las reuniones sin dar causa

justificada durante un año se le enviará una carta notificándole que ha cesado en su puesto. En tal caso, la Comisión de Nombramiento de Comisiones procederá a elegir su reemplazo.

Cláusula 5 - Informes

Todas las comisiones rendirán un informe escrito a la Convención incluido en el libro de Programa e Informes de la Convención, o durante las sesiones plenarias de la reunión anual.

Cláusula 6 - Recomendaciones

Se presentarán las recomendaciones a la Asamblea de la Convención en el tiempo señalado en el programa de la Convención.

Articulo IX - Conferencias y Organizaciones Auxiliares

Cláusula 1 – Organizaciones

Las reuniones anuales de esta Convención incluirán conferencias preparadas y dirigidas por las siguientes organizaciones: la Unión Femenil Misionera, los Varones Bautistas, la Conferencia de Ministros, la Conferencia de Esposas de Ministros y la Conferencia de Jóvenes.

Cláusula 2 – Presidentes de Compañerismos

Habrá otra organización auxiliar de compañerismo compuesta por los Presidentes de Compañerismos o Asociaciones respectivamente, con el propósito de promover y coordinar la misión y visión de la Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas dentro del espíritu de Unificación. Las reuniones de esta organización auxiliar se llevarán a cabo según lo determine el Presidente de la Convención en consulta con el Director de la Obra Hispana.

Articulo X - Reuniones

Cláusula 1 – Reunión Anual

Las reuniones de esta Convención se celebrarán durante el mes de junio, con la excepción de que la Cámara Ejecutiva puede cambiar la fecha de la junta para coordinar las juntas especiales en colaboración con Texas Baptists (BGCT). El número de las sesiones plenarias, con un máximo de cuatro, se dejará a criterio de la Comisión de Orden y Programa en consulta con la Mesa Directiva.

Cláusula 2 – Coordinación de Programa

La Mesa Directiva juntamente con la Comisión de Orden y Programa coordinaran el programa de las conferencias, organizaciones auxiliares, y de las sesiones plenarias. El Presidente de la Convención presidirá en estas reuniones.

Cláusula 3 – Reuniones Administrativas

El Presidente de la Convención, por acuerdo de la Mesa Directiva y en consulta con el Director de la Obra Hispana, convocará a los oficiales de la Convención a reuniones administrativas para tratar asuntos relacionados con la obra hispana.

Cláusula 4 – Cuota de Inscripción

Empezando en con la Reunión Anual de 2019, la Mesa Directiva puede establecer una cuota de inscripción para ayudar a cubrir los costos de la Reunión Anual.

Articulo XI - Enmiendas

Esta Constitución podrá ser enmendada mediante el voto de dos terceras partes de los mensajeros votantes, de acuerdo con el siguiente procedimiento: (1) La enmienda será sometida por escrito a la Comisión de Constitución y Reglamentos a mas tardar durante el mes de enero antes de su primera reunión. (2) La enmienda será propuesta y secundada durante la Primera Sesión Plenaria. (3) Se publicará en el Boletín de la Convención antes de cualquiera de las sesiones plenarias. (4) Se votará sobre ella durante cualquiera de las sesiones plenarias. La enmienda entrará en vigor un día después de las reuniones anuales de la Convención. La enmienda aprobaba pasará a la Comisión de Reglamentos para que se le incorpore en esta Constitución.

Articulo XII - Reglamento

Los mensajeros debidamente inscritos por la Comisión de Arreglos Locales (Subcomisión de Inscripción y Credenciales) durante las reuniones anuales, constituirán la Asamblea de la Convención. Si surge alguna disputa sobre la validez de las credenciales de algún mensajero, la Subcomisión de Inscripción y Credenciales investigará el asunto y presentará un informe a la asamblea en sesión regular de negocios. La asamblea de la Convención, por el voto de la mayoría de los mensajeros votantes, decidirá tal disputa.

Articulo XIII - Procedimiento Parlamentario

Cláusula 1 – Procedimiento

Este organismo basará su procedimiento parlamentario en los estatutos asentados en su Constitución y Reglamento. Además usará como guía en sus plenarias de negocios como referencia complementaria Robert’s Rules of Order, en su última edición.

Cláusula 2 – Suspensión de Reglas

La suspensión temporal de las reglas parlamentarias o de alguna cláusula del reglamento podrá llevarse a cabo mediante un voto de dos terceras (2/3) partes de los mensajeros votantes en sesión de negocios.

Cláusula 3 – Asuntos Misceláneos

Todo asunto que no sea del conocimiento de la Mesa Directiva y que se requiera que se considere como asunto misceláneo, deberá ser sometido por escrito lo más pronto posible y antes de la Primera Sesión Plenaria a la Mesa Directiva para su consideración, para que pueda llevarse a la deliberación de la asamblea en su sesión de negocios.

Cláusula 4 – Extensión de Tiempo

No se extenderá más de quince (15) minutos la deliberación de un asunto nuevo, a menos que se apruebe una extensión de cinco (5) minutos más por las dos terceras (2/3) partes de la asamblea votante.

Artículo XIV - Enmiendas

Este Reglamento podrá ser enmendado en la misma forma y bajo el mismo procedimiento tal como lo estipula el Artículo XI de la Constitución.

ADOPTED: June 28, 2011

Amended: June 27, 2017

Del Escritorio Presidencial: Desarrollando Madurez Espiritual en Nuestra Amada Convención.

El sendero que existe entre el lugar en el que estamos y el sitio donde Dios quiere que estemos requiere una posición de absoluta entrega a Él y de una vida completamente rendida a su servicio. A esta jornada de la vida cristiana le llamamos crecimiento espiritual y su resultado o meta es avanzar hacia la madurez espiritual.

El crecimiento espiritual tiene tres aspectos: el cambio, el crecimiento y el quebrantamiento.

I. Cambio

El primer lugar, el cambio es parte del proceso de madurez. Si no estamos dispuestos a cambiar y avanzar en nuestra comunión con Dios, entonces no creceremos espiritualmente. No podemos aferrarnos a los viejos caminos, a las viejas ideas, a los viejos sentimientos o a los antiguos conceptos erróneos acerca de Dios, del Espíritu Santo, o de la vida cristiana y a la vez crecer hasta llegar a ser la clase de personas que Dios desea que seamos. La madurez requiere un cambio y una disposición de adoptar los ajustes necesarios que sean positivos y beneficiosos, tal y cual lo declara el apóstol Pablo, “examínalo todo, y retén lo bueno” (1 Tesalonicenses 5:21-22).

Nuestra Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas, tomó una decisión de fe hace algunos años para oficial y legalmente convertirnos en una entidad sin fines de lucro con el motivo y propósito de servir mejor a nuestras iglesias. Durante este proceso, y con la guía de Dios, hemos podido enfocarnos en varias iniciativas para el beneficio de los pastores y sus congregaciones.

Una de nuestras iniciativas es Iglesias Abundantes dirigida por el Dr. Tony Miranda, con el propósito de ayudar a las congregaciones bautistas hispanas a navegar el conjunto único de desafíos que enfrentan en el ministerio como los son ministrar a las diferentes generaciones de inmigrantes, uso diverso del idioma y atender a las necesidades culturales que cambian rápidamente en este país.

Por otro lado, tenemos a la iniciativa Conexión dirigida por el Pastor Jorge Vázquez cuyo objetivo es el de fortalecer y apoyar a los pastores bautistas hispanos en Texas para crecer en su ministerio pastoral formando grupos de apoyo y crecimiento espiritual entre ministros. Este es un esfuerzo contextualizado para cada red de compañerismo local y su propósito es fomentar relaciones continuas que conduzcan hacia un desarrollo saludable a nivel personal y ministerial. Esta iniciativa también se enfoca en conectar a las esposas de pastores con el mismo objetivo.

II. Crecimiento

Un segundo aspecto del proceso de madurez, que está estrechamente relacionado con el cambio, es el crecimiento. No todos los cambios tienen como resultado crecimiento, pero si todo crecimiento está marcado por un cambio. La madurez espiritual significa crecer hasta que seamos plenamente parecidos a Cristo en nuestro carácter y forma de pensar, esto incluye nuestras decisiones, pensamientos, sentimientos y acciones, tal como leemos en 2 Pedro 3:18, “Creced en la gracia y el conocimiento de Nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo.”

Todo lo que crece en el mundo natural, crece en lo que los científicos llaman un “medio de crecimiento”. En los laboratorios científicos, este medio de crecimiento algunas veces es la tierra, otras veces es el agua, y algunas veces son incluso ciertos productos químicos. Así, en el plano espiritual, el medio de crecimiento para la madurez espiritual es el amor. Crecemos espiritualmente cuando nos amamos los unos a los otros. El apóstol Pablo declara, “Sino que, siguiendo la verdad en amor, crezcamos en todo en aquel que es la cabeza, esto es, Cristo, de quien todo el cuerpo, bien concertado y unido entre sí por todas las coyunturas que se ayudan mutuamente, según la actividad propia de cada miembro, recibe su crecimiento para ir edificándose en amor” (Ef. 4:15,16).

En este proceso debemos tomar en cuenta que nuestro crecimiento no es algo que nos lleva hacia la independencia. Este modelo se observa en el mundo físico. Por ejemplo, los niños crecen en una total dependencia de sus padres. El crecimiento espiritual está marcado por una consciente dependencia del Señor Jesucristo. La madurez espiritual suprema es un estado de total dependencia del Espíritu Santo para que Él gobierne, guie y guarde nuestra vida.

Una manera que la Mesa Directiva de nuestra convención ha demostrado una dependencia total en nuestro Señor Jesucristo, es establecer un fondo de dotación para su autosuficiencia. Este paso requiere de fe, buena mayordomía y total dependencia de Dios acompañada de continuas donaciones financieras por parte de todos los que aman la obra que Dios hace a través de la Convención.

III. Quebrantamiento

Finalmente, un tercer aspecto del crecimiento espiritual es el quebrantamiento. Si vamos a cambiar y a crecer, debemos estar dispuestos a alejarnos de todo lo que nos haya estado reteniendo o empujándonos hacia abajo, o impidiéndonos estar en una posición en la cual recibamos lo mejor de Dios. Debemos estar dispuestos a renunciar a aquellas cosas que hemos estado reteniendo y a las cuáles nos hemos aferrado con toda nuestra fuerza.

Alguien dijo una vez: “Un alma se convierte de un momento a otro, pero para llegar a ser un cristiano maduro se requiere toda una vida”. Recordemos que la conversión tiene lugar instantáneamente; sin embargo, la madurez requiere muchos años, o incluso, de toda una vida.

La obra de Dios a través del quebrantamiento nos llama a no acumular sino a desechar. Él nos llama a deshacernos de todo lo que nos estorba en este proceso de formar nuestro carácter para quebrantarnos y hacernos conforme a su plan y voluntad para nosotros, tal como lo dice el apóstol Pablo, “despojarnos de todo egoísmo hasta que podamos decir: Todo lo que soy y todo lo que tengo es de Dios. Él está en mí y yo estoy en El y eso es lo único que importa” (cita abreviada).

¡Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas, sigamos cumpliendo fielmente nuestro llamado!

Sergio A. Ramos, Presidente de la Convención Bautista de Texas

STATEWIDE EVANGELISM

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JANUARY 21-22

TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH

SAN ANTONIO, TX TXB.ORG/EC

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