Texas Baptists celebrates unity and diversity at upcoming Family Gathering

McALLEN – The Baptist General Convention of Texas will gather for the 138th Annual Meeting on July 16-18 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.”