SUMMIT INTRODUCTION
INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
y n n a D univan D
The annual Mission and Ministry Summit is an exciting time for General Baptists from across the country and around the world to gather for inspiration, encouragement, missional focus, and practical ministry training. Last year’s Summit was cancelled due to the pandemic, but we are excited to see it return in 2021. I was to be the moderator last summer, so I am excited to serve in that role this year! In 2018 when I agreed to serve as moderator, I had no thought that I would also be serving in the role of Interim Executive Director during the meeting. However, God has plans that we sometimes cannot see. On July 26-28, 2021, we will come together in Owensboro, Kentucky, for what will be a memorable few days. The theme of the Summit is “Called.” The last edition of the Messenger previewed the theme, and in this edition, I highlight it again. God calls us to join him on his mission to rescue the world, and he has uniquely placed us to fulfill those callings. I want you to be challenged to respond to the calling God has before you! The keynote speakers for the Summit represent a varied cross-section of leaders. Each one will bring a unique set of insights to challenge us to respond to God’s call for us for the next generation. Karl Vaters (Lead Pastor of Cornerstone Christian Fellowship in Orange County, California) is a champion of small church ministry and its impact. He will be sharing a breakout session and be the keynote for one of our main sessions. The other keynote speakers are General Baptists with a passion for ministry in their communities: Brandon Petty (Lead Pastor of Generation Church in Portland, TN), Josh Carpenter (Lead Pastor of Grace United General Baptist Church in Paragould, AR), Chris Vaught (Lead Pastor of Connection Point Church in Jackson, MO), and Charles Richardson (Lead Pastor of Hitts Chapel General Baptist Church in Piggott, AR). I will also be speaking on the last evening.
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