Theme Verse: "Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord." - Psalm 102:18

HEROES TODAY AND HEROES OF TOMORROW

One of the things I appreciate about our conference is the interaction with people who have been and continue to be my heroes of ministry through music. The nature of the 2006 conference theme, Heritage and Hope lent itself well to the presence, participation, and celebration of those who have built music ministry in Baptist life and practice. At the risk of leaving someone out, I don’t dare begin to name my own heroes, many of whom I saw again at the conference gathering. The conference organization is structured around the arenas from which these heroes come in terms of their vocational practice and ministry: local church music ministers, educational ministers, and denominational ministers.

I am convinced that the genius and most unique feature of the Baptist Church Music Conference is the interaction of these divisions. The catalogue of Denominational servants; including all phases of activity from local and state leadership to those engaged in writing, composing, and publishing to those who serve on the mission field supported by the rest of the system (or organism if you prefer) and others; include lots of heroes. I can testify to being encouraged, strengthened, confronted, and supported by those serving in these roles throughout my entire ministry. Educational leaders; from college and seminary professors to administrators to instructors to librarians and office support; have had a tremendous effect on my development in thinking, skill level, and philosophy of ministry. Local Church music ministers; from fulltime vocational practitioners to part time leaders to volunteer graded choir leaders to instrumentalists, and a myriad of others; serve where the proverbial water meets the wheel, and have been fellow pilgrims in my journey as well as lifelong friends modeling faithfulness. I have been significantly helped professionally, personally, and spiritually by heroes in each of these categories. At the annual gathering I have opportunity to have my memory stirred as I see some of these, and to be engaged again and anew in the ongoing conversation of our ministry in this aspect of Kingdom work.

So what of tomorrow? In the throes of stylistic change, consumerist culture, and completely different organizational models of not only music ministry, but ecclesiology itself, what is the future of minister musicians? Will tomorrow’s children, a future generation, have heroes that come from the disciplines and dynamic of church music? Can we foster an environment in which young people even have the opportunity to meet, know, and be profoundly influenced by the kind of ministry-statesmen (and women) that have impacted us? Are you and I going to be somebody’s hero in God’s economy?

The theme of the 2007 conference in Orlando will look to stir conversations as to what is ahead, and to challenge us in that regard. I encourage you to consider NOW registering and taking advantage of the discounted registration fee. We have some exciting program personnel being lined up that you will not want to miss. Steve May, our host Minister of Music, will be a fine host. I also encourage you to think about BRINGING YOUR FAMILY next year. Our hotel is available at the conference rate for additional stays, and what a great time to go to those theme parks they have in Orlando…you know the ones.

I am greatly honored and privileged to serve you this year. I appreciate your confidence and request your prayer support.

Indebtedly,

Paul Clark

REGISTER NOW to take advantage of our Early-Bird discount.