DALLAS (ABP) — The Baptist General Convention of Texas has launched a process of “revisioning” that is expected to lead to reorganization of the convention's work.
Charles Wade, executive director, announced formation of four “Revisioning Teams” of 10-13 people each — a laity team, a team of older pastors, a team of younger pastors, and a team of BGCT staff members. Wade also will seek input from associational directors of missions, presidents of BGCT-affiliated institutions and seminary students.
“Three years ago we made some changes in our organizational structure, and we have seen welcome improvements,” Wade said. “The time is right for us to look at what the role of our convention will be in the years ahead.”
The teams will identify critical issues facing the convention and its churches, provide opinions regarding priorities, and suggest “possible models for organization,” said Chris Liebrum, director of human resources. “We need a clearer vision that we can build towards, a vision that is so clear, so compelling it will communicate to all Texas Baptists a positive direction for the future,” Liebrum said.
Sherrill Spies, a member of First Baptist Church in The Woodlands who has experience in strategic planning and organizational design, will guide the process, Liebrum said. “Not only does she know organizations, she knows Texas Baptists.”
Wade expressed appreciation to Ken Hall, current BGCT president, and other officers for “their encouragement in seeing that the convention move forward aggressively in responding to the challenges presented by a changing Texas and by a world in desperate need of the gospel. The officers and I desire the best Texas Baptists can do.”
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