Yuletide greetings from Grace Bible Theological Seminary! On Wednesday, December 6, gathered in the jubilant joy of the Lord, faculty, staff, students, and supporters of GBTS celebrated God’s faithfulness throughout the past year. The night’s events included a prayer from President Jeff Johnson, congregational worship with hymns “Come, Behold the Wondrous Mystery,” “Behold Our God,” and “Joy to the World”, a year-end highlight video provided by Media Specialist Christian Santos, and a devotional given by Provost Owen Strachan.
Setting the joyous tone for the evening was Master of Ceremonies Jeff Moore, Director of Admissions and Enrollment, as he gave a warm welcome and greeting to all attendees with brief reflections on Christ’s birth. Jeff Johnson offered a prayer of thanksgiving for the Lord’s abounding provision and work both in the seminary and within the lives of each student. In addition, Johnson voiced his gratitude for those who have committed to steadfast prayer for the seminary, as well as for the financial support of GBTS donors. He recognized the significant role of generous beneficiaries to educate the next generation of pastors, church planters, and missionaries.
A year-end highlight video produced by Christian Santos featured images of the seminary’s G3 Pre-Conference, library dedications, Fall class footage, and an announcement of accreditation status by the Association of Reformed Theological Seminaries (ARTS). GBTS gives all glory to God for His provision and answered prayers in achieving these milestones.
Owen Strachan delivered an exhortation, admonishing brothers and sisters in Christ to rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4). Strachan reminded students and attendees, “The call to rejoice is unmissable, and the call to rejoice is ever renewing, because our joy is found in God, not in our circumstances.” In conclusion, Strachan remarked, “Joy is what ought to mark us as Christians. When people think of us, they should think ‘joyful’!”
The end-of-year festivities were hosted by Grace Bible Church of Conway. At the conclusion of the program, guests were dismissed to a hall arrayed in shimmering snowflakes and winter forestry. Two delectable fountains of flowing chocolate were featured, along with an assortment of hors d’oeuvres, fruit, cookies, and refreshments provided by the women of Grace Bible Church. The faculty and staff of GBTS would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our talented team of volunteers, especially Whitney Pryor and Kayla Irons, for organizing the delicacies and decorations that made the night so special.
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