The Texas State BBF met on January 13-14, 2025, at the Waco Hilton in Waco, TX, for one of the largest Texas state fellowship gatherings in recent years. The theme, CONNECT, emphasized the importance of connecting with God, mentors, and spouses. This meeting was the first since the passing of Pastor Matt Lowry, and much of the fellowship centered on prayer for his family and church, highlighting the deep sense of loss within the BBFI community.
Monday night’s session honored Jerry and Freddie Thorpe for their decades of ministry in Texas. Testimonies from Rick Blue and John Theissen, along with video tributes from pastors, missionaries, and former church members, reflected on the profound impact of Thorpe’s ministry. BBFI Central Office Director Randy Harp presented Thorpe with a framed certificate to mark the occasion.
The night concluded with a message from Robby Pollard, senior pastor of The Brook Church in Houston, TX, on Connecting with God While Struggling. Pollard’s message resonated deeply with attendees, acknowledging the challenges of ministry and offering hope through God’s presence.
Tuesday morning featured a message from Lucas Campbell, senior pastor of New Life Baptist Church in Santa Fe, TX. Following the sermon, a panel discussion moderated by Texas State Chairman Kyle Densmore brought together Greg Baxter, John Theissen, Kim Beckham, Joel Byers, Lonnie Lehrman, and Robby Pollard. The discussion focused on practical ways to foster authentic connections and support for one another within the ministry.
Tuesday night concluded with a special worship service led by Robbie Seay, Vice President of Leader Development at The Worship Initiative. Known for his songwriting and worship leadership, Seay also mentors young leaders who are navigating the intersections of worship, ministry, and leadership.
Church planting was highlighted, with a commitment to support Connection Point Church in Abilene, TX, led by Joe Roberts. This underscores the Texas BBF’s dedication to expanding Gospel outreach throughout the state.
Reflecting on the gathering, Densmore shared, “CONNECT was the theme, and we experienced that on a real and special level the last two days. Trying to sort through the emotions and struggles of losing one of our own, God’s grace came in a very timely and needed way, as it always does.” He added, “The prayer is that the connections made, and the encouragement that was received, will be lasting and fruitful for the Gospel and glory of Jesus Christ.”
The meeting had a noticeably younger crowd. Harp shared, “I loved seeing 17 former Mission University students I had in the classroom over the last few years now serving the Lord in local church ministry.”
The TX BBFI typically meets three times a year, but in 2025, it will meet twice, as the national BBFI meeting will take place in September at Central Baptist Church in Tyler, TX.
