Baptist Collegiate Ministry Strategist Lynn Loyd, center, speaks to campus ministers Saturday during a Community College Winter Workshop. (Mary Alford/ABN)
LITTLE ROCK – Campus ministers from community colleges and smaller college campuses around the state gathered in Little Rock this weekend to attend the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Community College Winter Workshop.
During the two-day event, Jan. 17-18, campus ministers had the opportunity to discuss the vision, mission and culture of Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM), recap their fall semesters and fellowship together.
On Saturday, Jan. 18, participants discussed several topics including discipling students, local church partnerships and college RSO funds, which are funds that support registered student organizations (RSOs) at a college or university.
Additionally, participants heard from ABSC International Student Consultant Bit Stephens and Baptist Collegiate Ministry Strategist Lynn Loyd.
Stephens focused on international student ministry, sharing ways BCMs can connect and build friendships with international students. Additionally, she shared an Arkansas Baptist News article, “[Next Generation] Raising the flag for international students in Arkansas.”
Loyd led participants in discussion on small groups. He provided an outline describing small groups and how they are valuable because they bring community, which does not always happen during large group worship. He said the goal of a small group is to see people’s lives changed.
Lynn then led participants in a devotion with a focus on, “What are the next steps?” He read scripture from Joshua 3-4. He encouraged participants to set themselves apart, seek God’s presence, be willing to step out in faith, and be willing to speak out about God’s work in their life.
“If we want to see God do something big on our campus … then we need to be setting ourselves apart,” Loyd said.
Loyd ended his time with the group by handing out river rocks to serve as a reminder as they start the new year to be thankful and faithful for what God is going to do in 2025.
“I hope it will be a reminder to us to do what it takes to set ourselves apart in our culture, so we are a usable vessel for Him. That the rock would remind you every day … this is a new beginning. He is going to do something wonderful on my campus.”
The 2025 Lead Defend apologetics conference is scheduled for March 8 at Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock.
The conference equips the next generation to defend their faith. Students experience powerful worship, engaging messages, and practical breakout sessions. Early bird Tickets for Lead Defend are $35 per person. After Feb 20, tickets are $45.
For more information on Lead Defend, click here.