September 9, 2024
East Texas Baptist University held its annual Convocation chapel service on Monday, September 9, welcoming students, faculty, and staff to Baker Chapel for a time of worship, prayer, and dedication to officially launch the 2024-2025 academic year. Through Convocation, the University provides students with a greater understanding of the Christ-centered mission of ETBU and God's purposes for each Tiger student by sharing the values, core commitments, and traditions of the institution.
"Convocation is an opportunity for us as a University family to come together and dedicate this academic year to God," said Dr. Thomas Sanders, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. "We commit our teaching, learning, service, and all we do on campus to honor Him."
This year's Convocation chapel service featured a message from Dr. Fred Luter, Jr., the first African American President of the Southern Baptist Convention and the senior pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church (FABC) in New Orleans, Louisiana. Dr. Luter has been a prominent figure in pastoral leadership for decades, growing FABC from 65 members in 1986 to over 2,000 before Hurricane Katrina. In the aftermath of the storm, his leadership helped rebuild not just the church but also the faith of a dispersed community, inspiring many through his perseverance and hope in God's work amidst tragedy. His ministry continues to impact countless lives in New Orleans and beyond.
During the service, ETBU honored Dr. Luter's contributions to the cause of Christ by awarding him an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity. His son, Pastor Fred "Chip" Luter III, an ETBU Board of Trustees member, accompanied him for the special recognition. Dr. Luter delivered the charge to the campus community following the presentation, placing emphasis on the importance of boldly proclaiming the good news of Christ.
"If God can change you and me, He can change and transform anyone," Pastor Luter said. "The Gospel is personal, powerful, practical, and persistent; it will continue to exist and endure. My friends, no matter where you've been or what you've gone through, you can always depend on the Gospel."
Convocation also included the annual dedication of ETBU's undergraduate classes. Overseen by Director of Academic Success Dr. Bryan Mead, this student-led moment featured Scripture readings over each class, encouraging them to embrace the year ahead with faith and perseverance. Students also joined together to recite a commitment, pledging to let their light shine and glorify God through their academic work and campus life.
"The Light on the Hill has long been a symbol of the eternal guidance of Christ that we cherish at East Texas Baptist University," Dr. Mead shared. "This light represents the unwavering presence of God in our lives, illuminating our paths as we pursue knowledge, excellence, and wisdom. As you step into this new academic year, whether you are just beginning your college journey or preparing to graduate, may His light continue to lead you in all that you do. Let it shine through your studies, your relationships, and your service to others. Our prayer is that each of you will embrace the calling God has placed on your life, allowing His light to not only guide you but also to reflect from you, so that others may see His glory through your actions."
The ceremony ended with the official pronouncement of the 2024-25 academic year by University President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn.
"With the conclusion of Convocation, I proclaim the official start of the 2024-25 academic year at ETBU," President J. Blair Blackburn said. "As Dr. Luter challenged us this morning, we will not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. May this University be known for our commitment to Jesus. We proclaim ETBU for the Gospel to the glory of God."