BGCT-Baylor Joint Statement on Special Relationship Agreement

Media Contact: Lori Fogleman, Baylor University Media and Public Relations, 254-709-5959
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Tuesday, February 21, 2023

DALLAS and WACO, Texas – Leaders from the Baptist General Convention of Texas (BGCT) and Baylor University have jointly reviewed the relationship agreement between the two organizations and deemed no changes are necessary. The special agreement, initially agreed upon on November 4, 2011, calls for a joint review by the BGCT and Baylor every 10 years. The most recent review was delayed two years as both organizations managed through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The BGCT provides approximately $1.3 million annually to Baylor in the form of scholarship dollars in support of pastoral and ministerial education through George W. Truett Theological Seminary, financial aid for BGCT-affiliated pastors and ministers and their families, and in support of Baptist Student Ministry activities. As part of the review of the ongoing relationship agreement, Baylor confirmed that BGCT-provided funds are being allocated to their intended purposes.

Baylor has had a special agreement with the BGCT for more than three decades; however, the relationship between the two institutions has been closely intertwined since the University’s founding in 1845.

“For 178 years, Baylor and Texas Baptists have served side by side to shine a light on God’s Kingdom across Texas, the United States and worldwide,” said Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone, Ph.D. “We remain firmly rooted in our shared history, and Baylor remains committed to maintaining our historic, mutually beneficial relationship with the BGCT and Baptists in Texas. We look forward to continuing our special relationship over the next decade and beyond.”

“The BGCT is optimistic about continuing this mutually beneficial special relationship agreement with Baylor University for another ten years as together we prepare Christian leaders for service in and through Texas Baptists churches,” said BGCT Associate Executive Director Craig Christina, Ph.D. “This relationship enables the BGCT to offer a positive, Christ-centered influence on the issues confronting Baylor’s campus, will strengthen the presence of Baptist Student Ministry on Baylor’s campus, and will ensure our continued partnership with the George W. Truett Theological Seminary.”

With more than 20,000 students, Baylor is recognized as the world’s largest Baptist university. Baylor recently achieved “Research 1,” or R1, status as one of the leading research universities in the country.

Texas Baptists continues to be the largest Baptist state convention of its kind, with more than 5,300 affiliated congregations, a broad network of education, health and human care institutions, and a ministry staff guided by the Great Commission and the Great Commandment to “share Christ and show love” in Texas and beyond.