By Loretta Fulton

Hundreds of Messengers, or delegates, and their guests are expected in Abilene Nov. 16-18 when the Baptist General Convention of Texas holds its annual meeting at the Abilene Convention Center. 

“The theme this year is LIVE OUT GC2: Love God, Love People and Make Disciples. God calls His church to faithfully live out the Great Commandment and the Great Commission, or the two “GCs”. GC2 churches love God well, love their neighbor tangibly and make disciples of all nations.”

Dr. Julio Guarneri

Dr. Julio Guarneri is executive director of the BGCT. Click here for more information. The convention gets under way at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, with registration and ends with receptions beginning at 8:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday will begin with various breakfasts. Workshops both days will begin at 8 a.m. Monday’s schedule ends with receptions at 9 p.m. On Tuesday, the convention wraps up with a “Lunch & Learn” at noon.

All three days will include meals, featured speakers, worship sessions, and time for fellowship. Following is a list of meals and receptions hosted by Hardin-Simmons University, Howard Payne University, and the Baptist Studies Center at Abilene Christian Univesity:

The Baptist Studies Center at Abilene Christian University will host a free dinner at 5 p.m. Sunday in the Hunter Welcome Center on the ACU campus. “Join us to meet students serving in the region, learn more about graduate theological education in West Texas, and connect with fellow attendees.” Registration ends Nov. 13. Click here to register. 
The Friends & Family Hardin-Simmons alumni Dessert Reception will begin at 8:30 p.m. Sunday in the Ellis Engagement Center on campus, 2211 Cedar St. The reception is free but an RSVP is requested. Click here to RSVP. 
Hardin-Simmons University, with is affiliated with the BGCT, will host a luncheon on Monday. The luncheon is free and open to the public. Contact Carmen Vasquez for more information at Carmen.vazquez@hsutx.edu
Logsdon School of Theology at Hardin-Simmons will host a free dinner at 5 p.m. Monday. Click here to RSVP. 
Howard Payne University Alumni and Friends will host a dinner at 5 p.m. Monday.  Cost is $25 per person. Click here to register. 

Loretta Fulton is creator and editor of Spirit of Abilene