While the 114th anniversary is not particularly significant, it did mark five years since the COVID shutdown. God sustained us during those challenging times but many of our campus partners did not survive. Over the last year, we have experienced a renewed spirit, a fresh wind as God is moving us in new ways. God sent new non-profits and churches to the BT campus to replace those that did not survive, and baptisms have been increasing. New workers and leaders are emerging. It was time for a celebration.
The homecoming event drew attendees from near and far. Former staff members Philip and Mary Ann Stevens, Gary Bradley, and KQ Scott returned to take part. More than two hundred people attended the picnic, and 170 gathered for worship. The worship service featured heartfelt testimonies from Mary Ann Stevens, Gary Bradley, and Steve Grinnell. Musical contributions came from Karen and her sister Susan on a piano duet, and Philip Stevens performed a beautiful solo. Campus partners were part of the celebration, as well. Many others had expressed their desire to attend but were unable due to prior commitments, as the event was planned on short notice.
The celebration was made possible by the hard work of the Baptist Temple community. Our team worked diligently to prepare and serve food, organize the worship service, and ensure everything was ready. During the worship service, one team was in the kitchen preparing the meal while another was at the park decorating and setting up.
A big THANK YOU to all who gave of themselves and for the generous financial contributions from our members and friends that enable us to continue to serve this community in which God has placed us.
The success of the event has sparked conversations about making homecoming an annual tradition to celebrate God’s ongoing work through Baptist Temple.
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