by Mark Milioni
One of my favorite things about Fellowship Week is reuniting with old friends and with my heroes; people who have faithfully served the Lord with their lives. Their faithfulness serves as an encouragement to us all. This year we honored three very deserving recipients, Shirley McCullough, Bill Dowell, Jr., and Richard Bemarkt with the Fellowship Faithfulness Award.
Shirley McCullough has taught in the Business Department at BBC since 1974. Her teaching helped shape the ministries of many. She said, “It is a humbling experience witnessing students become vessels fit for our Master’s use.” She introduced the concept of pre-registration and the use of computers to the BBC campus. These words may best describe her, “I am a teacher: It’s who I am. It’s my passion, my calling, and my world. I am not in it for the income, I am in it for the outcome.” Well done, Mrs. McCullough.
The name Dowell is very well known at BBC. Bill Dowell, Sr. was one of her founders and served as the first president. Bill Dowell, Jr. taught at BBC for nearly 40 years, teaching Bible, theology, and communications. Countless numbers of students learned how to study the Bible and how to be a pastor under his leadership. Well done, Dr. Dowell.
Richard Bemarkt taught at BBC for 43 years. He reflected, “The last 43 years have been both the most challenging and rewarding years of my ministry. Anytime I visit a church or camp, I always come in contact with former students I have had the opportunity to influence for the cause of Christ. What a blessing that is to me.” Well done, Bro. Bemarkt.
There were many more in attendance who are heroes of faithfulness. Rick Blue and Mike Harmon completed their Bachelor of Science degrees this year. What a pleasure to shake their hands as they walked across the stage. Our speakers for the week have proved faithful even through the difficulties of life and ministry. Our students have also been examples of faithfulness. Kshitiz and Sahaj Ghimire completed their finals week at BBC while suffering the grief of the devastation of their hometown due to the earthquake in Nepal.
We also celebrate the faithfulness of those who could not attend Fellowship Week this year. Mr. and Mrs. Ghimire were scheduled to be at graduation, but the needs of their ministry and country kept them in Nepal. Elmer Deal, a BBFI missionary hero, was called home only three days before Fellowship Week began. I am sure he is hearing, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”
BBC is a testimony to the faithfulness of those she has served. We would not exist were it not for the faithful giving and support of our churches, alumni, and friends. Because you give, we are able to continue to train men and women to take the Gospel of Christ around the world. I encourage you to become one of our faithful supporters today.