By Tom Willoughby

It is with joyful spirit and thankful heart that I write my last official article for the BCMC. Our days together in Nashville were marked by high moments of worship, inspiration and fellowship. Thanks to each of you who attended the conference. And, thanks to all who provided leadership in some aspect of the program. 

"Heritage and Hope….Passing the Baton" was a wonderful theme for our Fiftieth Anniversary Celebration. Not only did we acknowledge, with gratitude to God, our heritage as a conference, but we projected a bright future. Paul Clark will expand this theme as he shapes the program for the 2007 conference in Orlando. I hope that you will decide now to attend. 

The Baptist Church Music Conference is strong. Our future is bright. I believe some of our very best days are ahead. I encourage you to aggressively enlist new members. Tell what the conference means to you.  Invite someone to join you in Orlando next summer. 

One more word of encouragement. "Pass the Baton" in your own setting.  Invest yourself in young people. Help them discover their gifts, and find the joy in serving God. 

Thank you for the honor that you have given me to serve as your President. May God bless you and enrich your life and give you joy as you serve Him. 

Tom Willoughby

Tom Willoughby is the Minister of Music for First Baptist Church of Lawton, Oklahoma, and was the President of the Baptist Church Music Conference for the 2005-2006 term.