Issuu

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CO N N ECTI N G YOU TO WH AT’ S H APPEN I N G I N TH E LI FE O F WMU OF TE X AS

Making Disciples of Jesus Who Live on Mission R E AC H I N G T E XAS AN D BE YON D F OR C H R I ST

PA S S P O R T T O H O P E

Submit Your Stories In 2019, WMU of Texas challenged you to blanket our state, country, and world with the hope of Jesus Christ. We know that you are already serving in your communities, but we want to hear about what you are doing. When you share your story, you encourage women and churches across the state to be on mission. Submit your story (3-6 sentence paragraph) with two high-resolution photos, your name, church name, event description, date of event, participant names (if applicable), and who you were able to serve to wmutx@texasbaptists.org. The paragraph and photos may be included on the WMU of Texas blog, newsletter, website, social media accounts, and more. Submissions may be edited for clarity.

Thank you for submitting your stories, and may God be praised!

Contents W M U O F T E X A S B E L I E V E S I N I N T E N T I O N A L LY M A K I N G D I S C I P L E S B Y C R E AT I V E LY E N G A G I N G I N L O C A L M I S S I O N S , E S TA B L I S H I N G PA R T N E R S H I P S FOR MISSIONS, AND EMPOWERING LEADERS FOR WORLDWIDE MISSIONS.

Director-Treasurer

Multicultural Ministries

From the Office of the Executive

The Best Kept Secret

What is WMU of Texas?

Engage 8

Engaging in Local Missions… Because it’s Biblical

WMU of Texas Engaging in

Establish 18

Embrace

Missionary Birthdays Prayer Calendar

Empower 31

Becoming a Reality

Worldwide Missions

Partnering for Missions

The Dream of Mary’s House

Strengthening the Bond with

Empowering Others for

Are You Empowered to Go?

The Next Chapter for CWJC/CMJC

in Texas

Why Acteens?

Leaving a Legacy

What is the Heartbeat of Sisters Who Care?

Equipping the Next Generation

Connect 34 WMU of Texas Staff

WMU of Texas Board of Directors

WMU of Texas Calendar of Events

THE BRIDGE Published bi-annually by WMU of Texas Tamiko Jones Executive Director-Treasurer

(214) 828–5150 10325 Brockwood Rd. Dallas, Texas 75238

WMUT X.ORG I AMT E XASMI SSI ON S .O RG

Missions Journey: Kids

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

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Associational WMU

@WMUOFTEX AS

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE

Executive DirectorTreasurer

“The future is as bright as the promises of a faithful God.” – Mary Hill Davis, Waco, 1911 FO R OVER 14 0 YEAR S , WMU of Texas can say that God has been faithful. Through willing servants, He has established this organization with a legacy of praying, giving, and going. We pray for our partner missionaries as well as our Texas Baptist missionaries serving in our state and around the world. Also, we promote our state and partner mission offerings to support missions and ministry efforts to reach the lost for Christ. Moreover, we are grateful to be able to keep going and serving as God opens doors. Even in 2021, you, our partners, continue to mirror the tenacity of Mary Hill Davis as you seek to support efforts related to missions in Texas and abroad. Today, this organization exists to walk alongside your efforts. From the southern border of Texas to the northern panhandle, there are opportunities to share the Gospel through missions discipleship. Whether you desire to start a small group of Mission Friends® or promote the Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions®, we can help you fulfill the assignment God has for you. Our state office staff is ready to join you in your next meeting, in person, or virtually, to share the many ways you may choose to join us in missions or to provide support to you as you discover mission opportunities in your community. God allows us to continue to impact the Kingdom in extraordinary times by engaging in local missions, establishing partnerships for missions, and empowering others for worldwide missions. I encourage you to browse through the ministry updates of this edition of The Bridge magazine to determine ways you and your small group may engage in missions. WMU of Texas is here for you, so take another look and let us know how to help you! In His Service,

TAM IKO C . JO N ES Executive Director-Treasurer WMU of Texas 2

the best kept secret H

ave you ever had a secret and you couldn’t wait

The third secret is the many options where you can plug

until it was time to tell? Well, I have a secret and I

in. There is a group just for YOU; from preschool to senior

can’t wait to share it!

adults including Sisters Who Care, Multicultural WMU and Missionary Parents Fellowship.

If you are picking up The Bridge for the first time, you might wonder what WMU of Texas is all about. Here are

The fourth secret is how we reach Texas for Christ. The

four secrets that will help.

Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions supports over

Millard and Annette Bledsoe, the sister of Mrs. Sam

1906-1931), showed us how to pray for and support Texas

Houston, organized a Baptist women’s group in the Old

missions. This offering is emphasized in September but

North Church in Nacogdoches. By 1880, WMU of Texas

promoted throughout the year.

was organized, eight years before national WMU. WMU of Texas is ready to cast the vision, lead, guide, Age-level missions groups in Texas started and continue

instruct, and fulfill the Great Commission in Texas. Fresh,

today: preschoolers (1866), children (1908), youth (1906),

new strategies are available. YOU are needed now more

and adults (1839). But we need YOU to bridge the gap!

than ever. Let us help you, your church and those you lead step into the future with obedience and faithfulness...

The second secret are the great resources available.

reaching “the uttermost ends of the earth.”

As you lead, help is available for your personal mission field. You can access our online training library, materials from national WMU (wmu.com) and two state websites wmutx.org and iamtexasmissions.org.

EAR L AN N B UMP US President, WMU of Texas

By her example, Mary Hill Davis (president, Texas WMU,

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The first secret is our fascinating history. In 1839, Massie

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80 ministries and helps people find salvation in Christ.

W H AT I S W M U O F T E X A S ?

WMU of Texas believes in intentionally making disciples by creatively engaging in local missions, establishing partnerships for missions, and empowering leaders for worldwide missions.

E NGAG E in local missions

E S TA B L I S H partnerships for missions

Start a missions-discipleship group at

• WMU of Texas Women's Build Project

your church or in your community:

• Texas Baptists Missions • Texas Baptists River Ministry Projects

P RE S C H O O L

• Women Helping Women Pad Project

• Mission Friends®

• Worldcrafts℠ • Christian Women’s Job Corps® / Christian Men’s Job Corps℠

CHIL D R EN (G R A D ES 1 – 6 )

• Texas Baptist Universities &

• Girls in Action® (GA)

Seminaries

• Royal Ambassadors® (RA)

• Pure Water, Pure Love℠

• Children in Action℠ (CA) ST UD EN TS (G R A D ES 7– 1 2 )

L E A R N M O R E AT W M U T X . O R G

• Acteens® • Challengers®

EMPOWER

• Youth on Mission℠ AD ULTS

• Embrace (mentoring young women) • Women on Mission®

others for worldwide missions Empower missionaries and ministries through

• Adults on Mission℠ (co-ed)

the Mary Hill Davis Offering® for Texas

• Sisters Who Care (African

Missions, Lottie Moon Christmas Offering® for

American women)

International Missions, and Annie Armstrong

• Missions Discipleship for

M A RY H I LL DAV I S O F F E R I N G

• Missionary Parents Fellowship

iamtexasmissions.org L E A R N M O R E AT W M U T X . O R G

LOT T I E M O O N C H R I ST M AS O F F E R I N G &

• Multicultural WMU

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Easter Offering® for North American Missions.

Hispanic Churches

To order materials, visit wmutx.org/give

Connect with Us (214) 828–5150

W MU TX @ TE X AS B A P TI STS .OR G 103 25 BROC KWOOD R D. DA L L AS , TE X AS 7 5 2 38

@ WMU OFTE X AS

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A N N I E A R M ST R O N G E AST E R O F F E R I NG

BUILD

women's

ON OCTOBER 17–26, 2021, WE WILL BUILD OUR 11TH HOME IN SOUTH TEXAS!

Each year, over 30 women volunteers assemble into two teams to build a home for a special family in partnership with Buckner International. These families serve alongside the WMU of Texas teams to build their homes. All skill levels are needed to successfully complete the home. Consider joining us in Peñitas, Texas this October!

BUILD DATES

Team 1: October 17–22, 2021 Team 2: October 21–26, 2021 COST

$300 per week (includes meals, lodging, and supplies) Scholarships available. Email wmutx@txb.org for details. Must apply by September 15, 2021, to be included on either team. ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?

Sarah Viana Administrative Assistant/Office Manager (214) 828-5150 sarah.wmutx@txb.org 6

Visit wmutx.org/engage/womens-build

project

ENGAGE

IN LOCAL MISSIONS

Engaging in Local Missions ...BECAUSE IT'S BIBLICAL

rom the beginning of creation, God’s purpose has

to be a learner. Discipleship can naturally occur in

been to establish His kingdom on earth where

community with other believers but it also requires

people from every tribe and nation worship and glorify

intentionality. It involves teaching what the Bible says

His name. He provided a way throughout time for

about taking God’s redemptive plan to our neighbors

individuals to enter into a redemptive relationship.

and across the world. It involves engagement through

This redemptive thread is woven through every book

praying, giving, mobilizing, and going. Through missions

of the Bible culminating with Jesus and His offering

discipleship, we begin to see the world through God’s

the ultimate gift of life for our redemption.

eyes, rather than our own. And what better place than your church to engage in local missions? Won’t you

Missions is the involvement of followers of Jesus in

join the missions discipleship movement by mentoring

God’s redemptive plan, fulfilling His purpose for all

someone and engaging them in God’s plan to fulfill

people to know Him and have a relationship with

the following verse:

Him. Missions discipleship is the process of teaching, preparing, and engaging the body of believers

"All the nations you have made will come and

called the church in activities that demonstrate God’s

worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory

redemptive love for each and every individual living

to your name." – Psalm 86:9

on our planet. The very word discipleship means

For more information on missions discipleship,

JAC K IE FAUGHN

contact Teri Ussery at teri.wmutx@txb.org.

Board of Directors, WMU of Texas

Missions Journey: Kids READY FOR A

B R A N D N E W A DV E N T U R E FOR YOUR CHILDREN’S

I am so excited to share this with children’s ministers, leaders, and teachers across our state. National WMU has redesigned the children’s missions curriculum, consolidating it into a single piece for all leaders (GA®, RA® and

WELCOME TO THE NEW WMU CHILDREN’S MISSIONS CURRICULUM!

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MISSIONS EXPERIENCE?

as well. Go to wmu.com/missionsjourneykids to see what’s new and order a free sample! This exciting new curriculum is available September 2021.

TER I US S ERY Age-level Strategist, WMU of Texas teri.wmutx@txb.org

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CA℠) and a single piece for children. The resource packet is still available

WHY ACTEENS? TER I US S ERY

Age-Level Strategist, WMU of Texas

IN TODAY’S WORLD OF CRAZY SCHEDULES AND COMPETING ACTIVITIES, why should churches choose to place value on starting or continuing Acteens or Youth on Mission for their students? I could give you a thousand reasons from a leadership perspective. It builds strong, biblically grounded leaders for the future. It instills the mandate of sharing Christ with a lost and dying world. It provides an opportunity for students to explore a possible call to vocational missions. But that’s just me. You need to hear it from those whose lives have been changed through their experience as an Acteen.

HOPE HOWARD National Acteens Panelist, 2021

Acteens taught me that the best way to lead others is to follow The Great Commission. The word therefore, means that because of Jesus gift, I share the gospel with others. The word go calls me to action, near or far, across the world, or at the coffee shop down the street.

Being an Acteen has given me the opportunity to not only be discipled by women who live on mission, but granted me experiences where I have been able to influence other Christian girls to live a missions lifestyle. When you see other people living with a missions mindset, it convicts you to do the same thing in YOUR life!

MARISOL SANDOVAL Former Acteen, Current Acteen Leader, Board of Directors, WMU of Texas

Being an Acteen has made an impact on missions discipleship in my life by teaching me the value of serving others. It has shown me that as a follower of Christ, I am made to serve others and share the Gospel with them.

HANNAH HOWARD National Acteens Panelist, 2020

NAYELY VALLEJO

As I look back on my Acteen days, I have realized that it was more than just learning and praying for missions. Acteens has created me to be dedicated to missions.

National Acteens Panelist, 2014

It has been 3 decades since I completed my Acteens journey, but the impact of those Acteen years still resonates in my relationship with Christ today. Acteens taught me to memorize Scripture and to go to God's Word for direction and answers. I still treasure the scriptures I learned as a GA and Acteen. Acteens challenged me to give and support missions and showed me how my dollars make a difference around the world. As an adult, I now have opportunities to sacrificially make a difference in the lives of others that I was not able to do as a young teenager, but that discipline and desire was fostered through my missions education experience. Acteens gave me a passion to "go" and share Jesus and His love with the people in my neighborhood, the people in Texas, the people

truly believe my call to ministry as a teenager was directly impacted by my experiences, learning, and growing as an Acteen. My husband and I serve in ministry in a local Baptist church, and we take student groups on a mission trip every summer to work in homeless ministry and to share the Gospel through music. Acteen mission trips and

Acteens program, and it stirred a love in my heart for serving and going on mission trips. I

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in North America, and with those around the world. Mission action was the fuel of our

share the love of Jesus Christ with a world in need of hope.

DARCI PITTMAN HILL National Acteens Panelist, 1991

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T AC T E E N S , C O N TAC T T E R I U S S E R Y AT T E R I .W M U T X @ T X B . O R G

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service opportunities gave me an understanding and a desire to help others and

t a e tb r a e hof Sisters Who Care? What is the

S UZ ETTE M ITC HEL L Former Sisters Who Care Consultant, WMU of Texas

Sisters Who Care is Women on Mission® in the African American church. What is the heartbeat of SWC? I am glad that you asked. You may be surprised to know that it is something old and something new. It is something old because African American congregations have always done missions. From feeding families to providing shelter and clothing, it has been the Christian heart that has responded to the needs. From generation to generation, the value in taking care of those in need has been emphasized. Also, discipleship training continues to be the cultural form of missions discipleship in the African American church. Mission groups exist to encourage interaction between generations of women and to offer opportunities for mentoring, leadership development and serving... together. In many African American churches, the small group may not be called Women on Mission, but the heartbeat is the same. What is new? Through the introduction and structure of WMU, African Americans are able to bring organization to their missions experience.

African American churches to partner with individuals, churches, and other Texas Baptist ministries around the state to serve and support state missions. National WMU started SWC in the late 1990s, bringing together the

around the world. WMU of Texas offers opportunities, through SWC, for

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Praying for others leads to praying for missionaries and their work

Bridging the old with the new is the heartbeat of Sisters Who Care and we can thank WMU of Texas for assisting along the journey.

To learn more about the Sisters Who Care network or to start a new group, contact us at wmutx@texasbaptists.org. We look forward to serving with you!

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ideas and passions of women to meet needs while sharing the Gospel.

WMU OF TEXAS ENGAGING

Multicultural

Ministries TAMIKO JO N ES Executive Director-Treasurer, WMU of Texas

WMU of Texas continues to walk alongside our

to provide opportunities for leadership, fellowship

multicultural congregations as they encourage and

and mentoring new generations.

equip their members towards a missional lifestyle. We value our partnership with all congregations

Likewise, one of our new board members, Quynh

and seek to support their missions efforts. Through

Anh Nguyen, leads the fellowship of Vietnamese

national WMU, we encourage the use of print and

women. Their desire is to ignite the women’s hearts

digital resources available to assist various cultures

for missions, to increase women’s participation in

in reaching the lost for Christ and encouraging

the Lord’s mission work and to leave a generational

spiritual growth. We are thankful to be able to

impact of faithful servant leaders. Currently serving

highlight several fellowships and to share their hearts

25 churches, the Vietnamese fellowship seeks

with you regarding their missions and ministry efforts.

ways to inspire the women and equip them for a missional lifestyle. They have a heart for training

Our work with Hispanic congregations is vital to

and equipping, especially those desiring to serve

reaching Texas for Jesus Christ. WMU of Texas is

children.

grateful for the work of Libo Krieg and Ruth Mendoza in mentoring and equipping leaders across the

WMU of Texas also partners with Laotian, Korean,

state. They are currently working with churches

and African congregations. We look forward to

in East Texas, San Antonio, Midland and Houston

expanding our service to all interested cultures.

to empower, encourage and minister to the needs

May God continue to open doors of opportunity to

of all women through discipleship. It is their desire

partner in missions!

T O L E A R N M O R E A B O U T M I S S I O N S F O R M U LT I C U LT U R A L C O N G R E G A T I O N S , C O N TAC T U S AT W M U T X @ T E X A S B A P T I S T S . O R G 14

National WMU Resources R E LE NT LE SS | WMU Emphasis for 2020-22 But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. –Heb. 10:39 NIV As we make disciples of Jesus who live on mission, we will be relentless in • Living authentic faith in Christ

• Giving sacrificially

• Seeking God in prayer

• Witnessing to others

L E A R N M O R E AT W M U. C O M

T HE W M U D I G I TA L CATA LO G The 2021-22 WMU digital catalog features the newest resources, as well as traditional resources, to help you and your church engage in missions discipleship, compassion ministries, and leadership development. L E A R N M O R E AT W M U S T O R E . C O M

O N TH E J O UR NE Y C O NVE R SAT IO NS Have you subscribed to ON THE JOURNEY CONVERSATIONS with Sandy Wisdom-Martin and guests? This podcast is designed for women who want to develop a missional lifestyle. Listen to engaging conversations that will inspire you to go deeper in your Christian faith walk. S U B S C R I B E T O DAY AT W M U. C O M / P O D C A S T

M ISSION S L EA D ER & M I S S I O N S P L AN B O O K This easy-to-use Missions Leader guide introduces you to the year’s overarching themes and special projects. The Missions Plan book is a comprehensive resource for growing missions involvement in your church or Adults on Mission group. L E A R N M O R E AT W M U. C O M

ESTABLISH

PA R T N E R S H I P S F O R M I S S I O N S

s n o i s s i M r o f Partnering A S S O U T H E R N B A P T I S T S , W E O F T E N TA L K A B O U T H O W W E C O O P E R AT E F O R T H E TA S K O F M I S S I O N S . H E R E I S O N E E X A M P L E O F A T H R I V I N G M I S S I O N S PA R T N E R S H I P I N T E X A S .

Over the past two years, the World Missions Center (WMC) at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS) has had the distinct privilege of joining hands with WMU of Texas in the task of missions discipleship. Working with WMU of Texas has allowed the WMC to create more opportunities for students on our campus to learn about missions, no matter their season of life. For example, WMU and the WMC worked together to launch a new opportunity called Mommy and Me Missions Storytime. This storytime not only equips moms to teach their children about missions, but also provides an opportunity for mothers to be encouraged and empowered to see their season of life as a unique opportunity to live out the Great Commission. WMU of Texas has also provided internships for SWBTS students to explore a call to missions here in Texas. Missions is for every believer in every season. When we work together, we can equip and empower more people to fulfill their calling and see that ministry does indeed begin now.

SAM B R ITTIAN Associate Director, World Mission Center SWBTS

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WORLD MISSIONS 18

CENTER, VISIT SWBTS.EDU/WMC

THE DREAM OF

Mary's House BECOMING A REALITY

I director of the World Missions Center (WMC) at

t began with a vision from Dr. Brent Ray, former

Dr. Adam Greenway, and the staff of the WMC, we are continuing the partnership.

with WMU of Texas in providing missionary housing

former reference library on the corner of Broadus

for two families on the campus of SWBTS. The initial

and Stanley, as a new residence for two stateside

suggestion was to name the home, Mary’s House,

missionary families. We have been joined by the

in honor of Mary Hill Davis, former leader for WMU

architectural team of Texas Baptists and are on the

of Texas and tenacious supporter of missionaries.

final approval of the redesign. Please stay tuned for

The WMU of Texas board of directors visited SWBTS

ways you may participate in this historic partnership.

in the Fall of 2019, held hands and prayed over the

Meanwhile, join us in prayer, that the home will be a

property, asking that the plans of God would be

safe, loving and peaceful place that will encourage

revealed and established.

and support missionaries and their families for many years to come. You may also donate to the

In early 2020, during a visit to the campus of SWBTS,

project by mailing contributions to WMU of Texas,

we were given the keys to the house by Dr. Ray.

c/o Suzette Mitchell, 10325 Brockwood Rd, Dallas,

We are grateful for his vision and his leadership

TX 75238. Please include a note that the donation

in establishing the framework for this partnership.

is for Mary’s House.

Dr. Ray passed from this life to the next in 2020, but through the unwavering support of SWBTS President, TAMIKO JO N ES Executive Director-Treasurer, WMU of Texas

WMU of Texas will sponsor the refurbishing of the

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in Fort Worth in 2019. It was his desire to partner

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Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS)

Strengthening the Bond W I T H A S S O C I AT I O N A L W M U

I HAV E H A D T HE PL E AS UR E O F R EAC HIN G O UT to associational WMU directors for the past year and a half, and in that time, I have learned so much. I have learned that each association is unique. They have different kinds of leadership teams and events; they have different participation, needs, and challenges. What do they have in common? They believe in serving Christ in their communities and beyond through hands-on projects and teaching missions. Meeting these leaders has been not only educational but also a lot of fun. What, then, is the role of WMU of Texas when it comes to associational WMU groups? Do we tell them what to do? Give them a road map of how we want to see their group continue? Not at all! We celebrate their identity. We offer support if they need it. We offer training and an annual meeting where they can connect and glean new ideas. Additionally, Executive Director-Treasurer Tamiko Jones is starting roundtable discussions with associational directors. We are here to engage with them. If you are an associational WMU director and I have not spoken with you, please call or email me so that I can learn about your specific group. I would love to get to know you and add you to the upcoming roundtables.

FR ED D IE MARTIN K A Ministry Assistant, WMU of Texas 20

(214) 828–5160 | freddie.wmutx@txb.org

The Next Chapter H

ello, I am Chris Rowley and I am the new Christian

ministry will challenge teens to consider their goals,

Women’s Job Corps® and Christian Men’s Job

relationships and finding God’s plan for their lives.

Corps® state consultant. Having led CWJC in Austin

And, we will look at how specific trades training can

for over 20 years I am excited to have the opportunity

become a part of CMJC to equip men for Christian life

to be the chief servant of and cheerleader for CWJC/

and living wage jobs.

CMJC in Texas! Ephesians 2:10 is the verse the Lord has laid on my There are currently forty-one nationally recognized

heart as we move forward in extending the reach of

CWJC/CMJC sites in Texas that equip men and women

CWJC/CMJC in Texas: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ

and hope as they attend job readiness classes, are

Jesus for good works, which God prepared

engaged in weekly Bible study, and paired with a

beforehand, that we should walk in them."

mentor for encouragement and accountability. My prayer is that individuals, churches, and associations CWJC/CMJC is a powerful local mission opportunity

in Texas will hear the call of God and be obedient to

for churches and individual believers. Our vision is

complete the good works He has designed for them

to see every county in Texas served by at least one

through CWJC/CMJC!

CWJC/CMJC ministry site as churches and Baptist associations recognize this ministry model as an incredible opportunity to mobilize their congregations to reach their “Jerusalem” for Christ. C HR IS R OWL EY Be on the lookout for the statewide launch of a youth version of CWJC/CMJC called Thrive 2:7. This

CWJC/CMJC State Consultant, WMU of Texas

as participants gain self-confidence, purpose, skills,

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for life and employment. Lives are literally transformed

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C H R I S T I A N WO M E N ’ S J O B C O R P S – T Y L E R / P H OTO BY G R O S S I N C P H OTO G R A P H Y – G R O S S 3 1 6 I N C . C O M

for CWJC/CMJC in Texas

leaving a

legacy WMU of Texas has eight endowments that have been established to help provide a secure financial base for the mission and ministries of WMU of Texas.

is a partnership that began in 1999 benefiting WMU of Texas and national WMU. It provides missions resources and training for church and associational WMU.

J OY FE N N E R M I S S IO N S P R OJ E C T E N D OW MEN T

JEAN E L AW L EAD ER S HIP D EVELO P M EN T EN D OWM EN T

assists individuals to move beyond their church walls and get involved in hands-on missions experiences in the US or overseas. It was established in 2001 to honor Joy Phillips Fenner upon her retirement as executive directortreasurer of WMU of Texas.

makes funds available to help women develop missions leadership skills for service in their local churches. The endowment was established in 2000 by Mrs. Law’s family to honor her service as president of WMU of Texas.

E U L A M A E H E N D E RS O N M E M O R I A L S C HO L A RS HIP E N D OW M E N T

B EC KY EL L IS O N CWJC /C MJC EN D OWM EN T

was created in 1986 in memory of Miss Henderson, who served 34 years as executive leader of WMU of Texas. This endowment provides scholarships for women pursuing a career in WMU or in missions who are enrolled in graduate study at designated schools in Texas.

was renamed in 2021 in memory of Becky Ellison. This endowment was started in 2002 in celebration of CWJC’s fifth anniversary. The endowment provides grants for sites as well as scholarships for CWJC/CMJC graduates to continue their education.

A M E L I A BI S H O P M I S S IO N S C O M M U N I CAT I O N E N D OW M E N T helps WMU effectively tell the missions story by developing writers, language websites, and other avenues of communication. This endowment was created in 2006 to honor Mrs. Bishop, a missions communicator and former president of WMU of Texas.

VAL ER IO EN D OWMEN T FO R HIS PAN IC MIN ISTR IES was created in 2016 to honor the missions contributions and leadership of Pastor Mike and Mary Valerio. Mary is a former president of Hispanic WMU of Texas and the first Hispanic woman to serve as an officer of WMU of Texas. Funds will be used to support Hispanic ministries across Texas.

WMU of Texas will receive and acknowledge any contribution and deposit the funds as designated by the donor. Give online at wmutx.org/give | WMU of Texas | 10325 Brockwood Road | Dallas, TX 75238 For the Texas Touch Tomorrow Today and Valerio Endowment for Hispanic Ministries endowments, send contributions to the WMU Foundation. Give online at wmufoundation.com | WMU Foundation | PO Box 11346 | Birmingham, AL 35202

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was established in 1995 and funds a variety of ministries and projects such as leadership training events for multicultural churches, expenses for volunteer ethnic consultants, resources for missions education camps, Missionary Parents Fellowship, a pre-college retreat for missionary kids (MKs), and Texas Baptist Nursing Fellowship.

TO UC H TO M O R R OW TO DAY EN D OWM EN T

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

WO R L DTO U C H E N D OWMEN T

equipping the next generation THE EULA MAE HENDERSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (EMHM) provides scholarships for women pursuing a career in WMU or in missions who are enrolled in graduate study at Baylor School of Social Work, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Truett Theological Seminary, or Dallas Baptist University. This year, WMU has the privilege of assisting six students through the EMHM scholarship, four of whom will graduate this summer. It is exciting to learn how God is working in the lives of the students. Solange Balikunde, a student at Truett, was able to apply the knowledge she has received while doing an internship and learning in Rwanda with Transformational Leadership Africa, Inc. The organization’s mission is to empower African leaders through effective teaching and mentoring to equip them with skills for spiritual, social, and economic transformation in their communities. Kathleen Sotomayor, a DBU student, partners with a mission organization, East West, to intentionally share the Gospel. She along with friends from the mission lead a weekly Bible study sharing Biblical principles and tools. Kathleen and the mission group also go into the harvest, door to door, asking for prayer requests and seeking people and houses of peace that will receive the gospel message. Kathleen shared “It has been exciting to see what the Lord does. This is what I would like to do for a living and God is allowing me to learn and practice these tools during this season of preparation that I am living.” Kethosino Vero, a student at SWBTS, plans to serve through biblical counseling by equipping pastors and church leaders in a Bible Institute in Nepal to help the untouchable and oppressed people using the Bible. Only God knows the many ways that the EMHM Scholarship will equip these students and others to join Him in the field of missions and discipleship.

I am humbled and honored to receive this scholarship, and I do not have enough words to express how grateful I am. This is my last semester at Dallas Baptist University, and your financial support has made this dream come true. I truly believe you are a part of this huge puzzle in my life’s calling. – Izabel Alvarez, EMHM Recipient

SUZE T T E M I TC H E L L Financial Assistant, WMU of Texas 24

For more information about EMHM, contact wmutx@texasbaptists.org

Embrace

– Cindy Lopez, EMBRACE Mentee

– Jassmine Posada, EMBRACE Mentee

For more information about sponsoring EMBRACE in your church or community, visit wmutx.org/embrace

Through the EMBRACE program, I had the opportunity to be paired with a wonderful mentor. She was a spiritual mentor. We prayed together and encouraged each other. I am grateful for this experience and continue to mentor younger ladies as they continue to seek the Lord. I believe in having mentors to help guide and develop us spiritually and professionally. This program came at the right time as I prayed for a spiritual mentor. The curriculum also challenged me to look at the spiritual disciplines. We had discussions of the different topics and were able to share about the impact and struggles we were facing. Meeting women from different organizations and hearing their stories reminded me that we all can be used by God in ways we may have never imagined. His plan and timing is always perfect.

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

This past year brought learning to my life in many ways. The threat of a global pandemic took me with the whole world like in a wave in the sea of life. I am very thankful that I haven´t been on that journey alone because in 2020 I also started EMBRACE, a mentorship program through WMU and Texas Baptists. EMBRACE has reaffirmed that my journey, my voice, and who I am, matter to a group of women who seek to fulfill God´s mission. In the middle of hard times, God has been using EMBRACE to keep me on the right path and to affirm that I am valuable and important for His mission in this world. Although I am a foreigner in the United States, I have had the privilege to have a Godly woman as a mentor. She has been pouring out wisdom upon me and supporting me through prayers, encouragement, and the provision of tools to endure in the mission of accomplishing God's calling for my life. EMBRACE, thank you for opening your arms to an international student like me. You have made this foreigner feel at home!

THE BRIDGE

EMBRACE is a six-session experience for young women searching for their purpose in ministry. Through group sessions with featured speakers, small group discussion, time with a mentor and written personal reflection to guide time in scripture, participants have the opportunity to grow in their faith journey and uncover God’s purpose and calling.

Texas BaptistsMissionary Birthdays P R AY E R C A L E N DA R

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lucas Cordeiro (MAP Brazil) 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . Abraham Cervantes (River Ministry) 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Penny Currie (TXB Missionary) 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sarah Cardosa (MAP Brazil) 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anderson Imaculada (MAP Brazil) 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tamara Brooks (TXB Missionary) 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grace Ogburn (TXB Missionary) 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cristina Lambarria (River Ministry) 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luciara Alves (MAP Brazil) 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jailson Lima (MAP Brazil) 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chit Swe (MAP SEA) 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eliene Pereira (MAP Brazil) 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shon Young (River Ministry) 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shaun Lynch (TXB Missionary) 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . David Kemerling (TXB Missionary) 30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Douglas Nascimento (MAP Brazil)

2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jorge Orozco (Church Catalyst)

M AY

JUNE

4 . . . . . . Cutberto Ramirez Rodriguez (River Ministry)

13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Let Ja Pao (MAP Missionary SEA) 15. . . . . . . . . Larry Mayberry (MAP Missionary Urban) 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ella Currie (TXB Missionary Kid) 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chuy Galarza (River Ministry) 21. . . . . . Fabiano Domingos (MAP Missionary Brazil) 23. . . . . . . . . . . . Márcio Brito (MAP Missionary Brazil) 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . Katilin Warrington (TXB Missionary) 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alicia Lee (TXB Missionary) 29. . . . . . Elaine Okasawara (MAP Missionary Brazil)

12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mario Gonzalez (River Ministry) 17. . . . . . . . . . . . Danilo Antunes (E-Training Equipper) 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nathan Clark (Church Catalyst) 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Roland Lopez (Church Catalyst) 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jonatan Guerrero (River Ministry)

3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Miria Reis (MAP Brazil) 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mathues Mello (MAP Brazil) 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Raimundo Macedo (MAP Brazil) 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alderlane Silva (MAP Brazil) 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joel Oliveira (MAP Brazil) 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcos Alves (MAP Brazil) 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Roseles Santos (MAP Brazil) 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sara Soares (MAP Brazil) 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloria Chavira (River Ministry)

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ashley Harrison (TXB Missionary) 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloria de la Peña (River Ministry) 11. . . . . . . . Raimundo Nonato (TXB Missionary Brazil) 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Guillermo Lozano (River Ministry) 14. . . . . . . . . . . . João Gomes (TXB Missionary Brazil) 17. . . . . . . . . . . Tomás Corrêa (TXB Missionary Brazil) 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julia Wallace (TXB Missionary) 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ed Jennings (River Ministry) 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerry Joule (Church Catalyst) 28. . . . . . . . . . . . Kelma Paes (TXB Missionary Brazil) 29. . Rafael Aguilar Araujo (TXB Missionary Canada)

2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke Connally (TXB Missionary) 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Silvia Briones (River Ministry) 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . Cleyde Nery (MAP Missionary Brazil) 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Lee (TXB Missionary) 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Seaberry (TXB Missionary) 14. . . . . . . . . . Eli Catachunga (MAP Missionary Brazil) 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Noemi Aguirre (TXB Missionary)

Texas BaptistsMissionary Birthdays P R AY E R C A L E N DA R

MARCH

APRIL

7 . . . . . . . . . . Thiago Moraes (MAP Missionary Brazil)

10. . . . . . . . . . Neliana Jesus (MAP Missionary Brazil)

7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pedro B. Muñoz (River Ministry)

10. . . . . . . . . . . . Sheyla Brito (MAP Missionary Brazil)

8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sie Davis (Church Catalyst)

11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Albert Diaz (Church Catalyst)

9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anna Currie (TXB Missionary Kid)

12. . . . . . . . . . Josivan Arruda (MAP Missionary Brazil)

13. . . . . . . . . . . Cilene Arruda (MAP Missionary Brazil)

12. . . . . . . . . . . Bruna Gomes (MAP Missionary Brazil)

21. . . . . . . . . . . . . Pedro Silva (MAP Missionary Brazil)

15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keron Jackson (TXB Missionary)

24. . . . . . . . . . . . Roni Souza (MAP Missionary Brazil)

20. . . . . . . . Marcelo Okasawara (MAP Missionary Brazil)

28. . . . . . . . . Raquel Minowa (MAP Missionary Brazil)

20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Loren Kendig (TXB Missionary)

31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Muñoz (River Ministry)

27. . . . . . . . Brenda Ferreira (MAP Missionary Brazil) 30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karah Ballew (TXB Missionary)

J U LY

AUGUST

7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bobby Herring (Church Catalyst) 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Emilio Vega (TXB Missionary) 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tiffne Whitley (TXB Missionary) 13. . . . . . . . Aline Imaculaada (MAP Missionary Brazil) 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Janeene Young (River Ministry) 15. . . . . . . . . . . Thang Gin Len (MAP Missionary SEA) 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stephen Currie (TXB Missionary) 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lorenzo Ortiz (Church Catalyst) 26. . . . . . . . . . . Alysson Reis (MAP Missionary Brazil) 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susan Howard (TXB Missionary)

2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yamileth Guzman (River Ministry)

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

4 . . . . . . Cutberto Ramirez Rodriguez (River Ministry)

2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kim Howe (TXB Missionary) 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Gomez (Church Catalyst) 10. . . . . . . . . . . Bianca Vieira (MAP Missionary Brazil) 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nick Howard (TXB Missionary) 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Manuel Montano (Church Catalyst) 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susana Hernández (River Ministry) 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luis Arturo Davila (River Ministry) 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Guy Caskey (Church Catalyst)

6. . . . . . . . . . . Núbia Ribeiro (MAP Missionary Brazil) 6. . . . . . . . . Eleama Franklin (MAP Missionary Brazil) 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . Zachary Currie (TXB Missionary Kid) 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . Rhuan Silva (MAP Missionary Brazil)

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tillie Burgin (Church Catalyst)

THE BRIDGE

22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ed Sena (Church Catalyst)

I AM TEXAS MISSIONS

Mary Hill Davis, the namesake for our State Missions Offering, saw Texas as a rich harvest field and she intended to look forward to emphasize the possibilities of the future. As we reflect on the generosity of God to us in the past and as we trust Him to lead us in meeting the needs across Texas through missions and ministry, I pray you will join us in looking forward to the future. Together, let us accept the challenge to be a part of God's story in order to minister to our great state of Texas. For we can all say, I am Texas Missions.

The gospel is of utmost importance. Thus, missions should be of utmost

importance to the church. We joyfully support the Mary Hill Davis Offering

in effort to help take the good news to every street corner in Texas. Dr. Jeff Gravens, Pastor

Second Vice President, Texas Baptists

| SPRING / SUMMER 2021

" Jordan Villanueva

THE BRIDGE

First Baptist Church, Sulphur Springs

I am a strong supporter of the Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions because I have personally been blessed by this wonderful ministry. Back when I was a college student at Howard Payne University, I received the Ethnic/Minority Scholarship that was provided through the generosity of the churches that supported the Mary Hill Davis Offering. I plan on continuing to give to the Mary Hill Davis Offering in the hopes of blessing others just like I was.

L E A R N M O R E AT I A M T E X A S M I S S I O N S . O R G

EMPOWER

OTHERS FOR WORLDWIDE MISSIONS

Empowering Others Mission Board, I have the privilege of working with

ready to make the move in a healthy way. Those who

students and leaders to discover their role in the

are called must count the cost, give sacrificially and

mission of God. I help empower them to take the

inspire others to give so that their ministry continues

next step in world missions.

uninterrupted. An important facet of my role is to motivate and inspire others to pray for those who

Missions is not about taking a trip or adding a stamp

go. I am called to model an obedience to God’s call

to your passport. It is about everyone having the

on my own life and challenge others to do the same.

opportunity to hear about Jesus and His power to save them from their sins. Your part in missions may

So, what is your role? What is God calling you to do

look different than someone else’s, but it’s just as

right now as your next step in world missions? Is it

important.

to pray for missionaries? Is it to give so that they continue going? Is it to equip the called? Whatever

My role is to help identify and equip those called

God is asking you to do as your next step, do it with

to live their lives in a cross-cultural context. Their

fervor for the sake of the Gospel.

challenge is learning a new language and going

AP R IL FR AN K L IN OTT Senior Student Mobilization Associate, International Missions Board

deeper into a different culture, ensuring they are

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

In my role as a student mobilizer for the International

THE BRIDGE

for Worldwide Missions

Are you empowered to go? RYAN & S EAN E R IC E North American Mission Board New Orleans, LA

SE VE N YE A R S AG O, our family moved back to New

experiencing first-hand the promise that the Lord would

Orleans to plant Connect Church. Ryan had grown up there,

never leave us nor forsake us. Additionally, the Lord in His

and we first met there, so we already loved the city when the

providence provided others who had caught the vision of

Lord called us to plant a church there. With both excitement

church planting.

and trepidation, we set about the task knowing that planting on our own was not an option. If church planting were a

The Apostle Paul understood this when he wrote to the

sport, it would require the ultimate team effort. We were

church thanking them for their partnership in spreading the Gospel. “I give thanks to my God for every remembrance of you, always praying with joy for all of you in my every prayer, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now” Philippians 1:3-5. Looking back, we see churches of all sizes coming alongside us. One reason we chose the North American Mission Board was the strong emphasis on churches partnering with church plants to reach cities like ours. Partnerships with churches who mobilize their people have helped us move forward as a church plant. Elementary school second graders to 80-year-old senior saints have all joined in the effort to share the Gospel through our church plant. One group of ladies were so eager to serve they organized a group to paint some church offices and help spruce up our home when we had a new baby. This same group came back a few more years to serve with community outreach sharing the good news of Christ. Regardless of our age, God can use us for His glory when we are willing to be on mission; each person using whatever gifts God has given them to reach others with the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. But going on mission does take great effort. So, if we were to write a “thank you” note, it would begin like the letter to the Philippian church. “We give thanks to God and remember each one of you and your heart to get on mission with us.”

CONNECT

WITH WMU OF TEXAS

WMU OF TEXAS

Staff

Tamiko Jones

Beth Campbell

Teri Ussery

Executive Director-Treasurer tamiko.jones@txb.org (214) 828-5177

Communications Consultant beth.wmutx@txb.org (214) 828-5155

Missional Lifestyle Strategist for Age-Levels teri.wmutx@txb.org (214) 828-5374

Freddie Martinka

Suzette Mitchell

Sarah Viana

Ministry Assistant freddie.wmutx@txb.org (214) 828-5160

Financial Assistant suzette.wmutx@txb.org (214) 828-5154

Administrative Assistant / Office Manager sarah.wmutx@txb.org (214) 828-5158

Brandi Jones

Chris Rowley

TBD

Marketing Specialist brandi.wmutx@txb.org (214) 828-5152

Christian Women’s / Men’s Job Corps State Consultant chris.wmutx@txb.org (737) 280-8660

Missional Lifestyle Strategist for Adults-Multicultural

C A L E N DA R O F E V E N T S 2 02 1 JUN E 13– 14 WMU Missions Celebration and Annual Meeting in Nashville, TN JUN E 2 0 World Refugee Day AUGUST 11 Virtual CWJC/CMJC National Training S EP TEM B ER 12 – 19 Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions Week of Prayer O C TO B ER 1– 2 WMU of Texas Board of Directors Meeting N OVEMB ER 1 Baptist Women’s Day of Prayer N OVEM B ER 6 WMU of Texas Regional Training N OVEMB ER 12 – 14 Texas Baptists Annual Meeting, Galveston, Texas N OVEM B ER 2 8– D EC EM B ER 5 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering Week of Prayer

2 02 2 JAN UARY 11 FEB R UARY 12 Children’s Missions Day FEB R UARY 7 – 13 Focus on WMU Week M AR C H 6 – 13

THE BRIDGE

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

MAR C H 2 5 – 2 6 WMU of Texas Pursue: Annual Meeting and Missions Celebration MAY 14 World Fair Trade Day JUN E 2 0 World Refugee Day T O L E A R N M O R E A B O U T E A C H E V E N T, V I S I T W M U T X . O R G

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

MAR C H 2 2 World Water Day

Annie Armstrong Easter Offering

WMU OF TEXAS

Board of Directors PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

Eli Salazar Crystal City, TX mseli2@aol.com

Susan Morgan Houston, TX susan.morgan@sbcglobal.net

Amanda Gay (2020-2024) Amarillo, TX ace_gay@sbcglobal.net

Belva Bowers (2019-2023) Texas City, TX belva.bowers@gmail.com

Brenda Bourgeois (2018-2022) Lubbock, TX brendabou@aol.com

Charlotte Wright (2018-2022) Cedar Hill, TX neetmel@att.net

Debbie Goulding (2020-2024) Alvarado, TX debbie_goulding@hotmail.com

Donna Trusty (2018-2022) Dublin, TX trustyd13@gmail.com

Frankie Harvey (2020-2022) Arlington, TX frankieharvey@gmail.com

Georgia Hobbins (2019-2023) Boling, TX gghobbins@gmail.com

Kay Kolb (2018-2022) Midland, TX kkolb351@gmail.com

Earl Ann Bumpus Graham, TX earlann@rocketmail.com

R E C O R D I N G S E C R E TA R Y

M-A-L Jackie Faughn (2019-2023) McKinney, TX jfaughn54@gmail.com

M-A-L Marisol Sandoval (2019-2023) Garland, TX esandoval4710@gmail.com

M-A-L Marsha Saucier (2018-2022) Round Rock, TX mlsaucier@gmail.com

Mary Martinez (2020-2024) El Paso, TX marymartinez79936@yahoo.com

Norma Powell (2019-2023) Los Fresnos, TX norjoepow@gmail.com

Pam Davis-Duck (2018-2022) Houston, TX redonia51@att.net

Ruth Hiner (2018-2022) San Antonio, TX hinerry@me.com

Susan Green (2020-2024) Longview, TX lwstgreen@gmail.com

Vanessa Quintanilla-Lerma (2020-2024) McAllen, TX rgv.riverministry@gmail.com

SPRING / SUMMER 2021

Lynn Montgomery (2019-2023) Tyler, TX professorlynn1@aol.com

THE BRIDGE

Board members are ready to serve across our state. They serve as a liaison between the state office, associations and local churches. Find the board member located nearest you and introduce yourself!

10325 BROCKWOOD ROAD | DALLAS, TX 75238

Non-Profit U.S. Postage PAID Permit 1276 Dallas, TX

TH E BRI D GE I S M A D E P O S S I B L E BY YO UR G I F TS TO T H E M ARY H I L L DAVI S O F F E R I NG F O R T E X AS M I S S I O NS .

The 2022 WMU of Texas Annual Meeting & Missions Celebration will be in

Corpus Christi!

Explore the Gulf Coast Capital with us on March 25–26 at First Baptist Church of Corpus Christi. You will not want to miss this unforgettable experience. M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N W I L L B E P O S T E D T O W M U T X . O R G / P U R S U E