Renovation was the dominant activity at
BT as we tackled deferred maintenance, remodeled some spaces and
fixed things that broke. The biggest job was the roof (actually
roofs). It took longer than planned but cost less than we had
anticipated.
The chapel
was the most visible job. Brighter lights, fresh paint and new carpet
have created a cheerful multi-purpose space. Crosspoint
sent large teams of volunteers on two occasions to paint the
chapel, other do-it-yourself projects saved us thousands. Soon there
will be new seats and sound system.
Other work included upgraded lighting
in the gym and sanctuary and completion of the Brunnemann Building
rehab.
Our
children’s ministry enjoyed field trips to Magik Theater, the
Rodeo,
Morgan's
Wonderland and Camp
Zephyr. Vacation Bible School attracted a larger number of
unsaved children than usual, resulting in 40 professions of faith.
BT
youth were among the first groups to experience the inaugural year of
BOUNCE
mission camp. This BGCT program is a complete missions package that
combines summer camp and disaster relief. One youth called it the
best camp ever.
There
were some memorable worship moments as well including the children's
musical “Truth
Works,” the Christmas cantata “Mary
Did You Know?” and a special “Hanging
of the Green” worship experience. Special guests included
recording artist Eve Miller and the youth choir from FBC Kingfisher,
Oklahoma. Guest preachers included author Tomi Grover, Mark Newton,
Baylor's Director for Church Engagement, and Josue Valerio, BGCT's
Director of Mission Mobilization.
The
most important event of the year was the formation of the church
council that meet for the first time on January 4. The church council
puts the BT ministry leaders in the same place at the same time to
plan ministry and coordinate efforts towards our goal of
soul-winning.
Last
year was a turning point. It takes ten years for an organization to
turn around and we are halfway there. Lessons of the past five years
were implemented in 2014 as a foundation for future growth. Some of
our endeavors fell flat but a few showed spectacular results.
I
expect that 2015 will be a year of tremendous growth. Seeds that we
have planted will soon start bearing fruit.
Three
key areas for 2015:
Our
worship planning team is tasked with creating several worship
experiences throughout the year that will attract our casual
attenders and make first time attenders want to return.
We
will be hosting the Texas Deaf Church Conference and the
Bi-vocational/Small Church Conference. Two other conferences are in
the negotiation process.
This
summer we will offer an urban missions experience, Our partners
include the Baptist General Convention of Texas and a growing number
of local churches and ministries
I can
see God's hand guiding us. He opens doors to new relationships and
closes others that would not have worked in the interest of building
His Kingdom. He has provided us with resources and friends as He
builds His church.
