Nearly half of CP funds support next-generation ministry like Congreso

I hope and pray you are doing well during this season of preparation as we remember Jesus’ suffering, death and burial, and as we anticipate celebrating his resurrection from the dead.

One of the Texas Baptists events that has been characteristic of this time of year is Congreso. I attended Congreso as a teenager multiple times, received my call to ministry there, and have returned as an adult numerous times, rejoicing about what God continues to do. 

This year was no exception. I gave a greeting at the opening session on Thursday night. Over 1,000 students were gathered at First Baptist Church in Richardson, eager to worship in song led by Chris Benites & Co. and to hear the preaching of God’s Word through Robert Purvey.

With the theme “obey,” students considered the importance of the Great Commission and many responded by making spiritual commitments. I never get tired of watching young people praise God joyfully and step forward in faith and obedience. What a privilege it is to witness that! You can read the full story here.

I took my grandson, Daniel, on stage with me when I gave the greeting. Not only did I attend Congreso as a student, but when we became parents, we took our children from the time they were toddlers until they were students in their own right. I figured, now it is time to start with my grandchildren.

The Psalmist offers his perpetual praise to the Lord and then commits to doing so “from generation to generation” (79:13). That is our commitment as Texas Baptists as well. We want to make sure the next generation is encouraged, equipped and challenged to obey the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.

During the month of March, we have seen God at work through two weeks of Beach Reach, one week of BOUNCE (student disaster relief), and Congreso weekend. Thousands of students worshipping, serving, sharing the gospel and making commitments to Christ!

Yet, for Texas Baptists, our commitment to next-generation ministry goes beyond spring events. It is a year-round, long-term investment. Almost 45% of our Cooperative Program budget supports ministry to the next generation. That is well over $12 million.

What a privilege it is to support Baptist Student Ministries on 137 college campuses, ten Texas Baptists colleges and universities, one academy, provide financial assistance to almost 1,000 students preparing for ministry at our Texas Baptists schools and seminaries, and partner with agencies that minister to vulnerable children.

Additionally, we provide next-generation ministry support through our discipleship and nextgen team, our evangelism team, our music and worship team, our Texas Baptists en Español office, our African American Ministry office and Intercultural Ministry office provide resources and events such as Conclave, Worship University, Congreso and summer camp experiences, and others.

I am also glad to share with you that we have hired David Foster, Jr. to direct our Millenial/Gen Z pastors network which has also been known as The Pastors Common. He is a great leader, and we are blessed to have him on our team.

Thank you for your support of the Cooperative Program. Keep praying for the next generations that God is raising up for his purpose and for His glory!