Leaders of the Coffee County Baptist Association and Samford University’s Ministry Training Institute honored James Preachers for his 48 years of service to MTI through the association during a special presentation Aug. 19.
Kevin Blackwell, executive director of MTI and assistant to the president for church relations at Samford, was on hand to present Preachers with Samford’s special Bell Tower Award signed by Beck A. Taylor, Samford president.
Also presenting Preachers a certificate of appreciation was Jud Waldrop, Coffee Association’s director of missions, who now oversees the Coffee Association’s MTI site.
‘Led faithfully’
“Coffee Association’s involvement with Samford’s MTI flourished under the leadership of James Preachers,” Waldrop said, noting Preachers not only led the effort there but also taught classes throughout the years. “He led MTI faithfully in our area through the years.
“Many bivocational pastors have studied under him over the years,” Waldrop noted. “James remains passionate about seeing men and women dive deeper into the Word of God and prepare for ministry, whether as a pastor, Sunday School teacher, church staff member or just someone wanting to know more.”
With the hand-off from Preachers to Waldrop last year, Preachers was determined to continue his support, so he signed up as a student. And now he can attend as many classes as he wants free of charge.
“We named him a permanent student in the program,” Waldrop said. “The association will pay his tuition and buy his books as long as he wants to attend.”
Relaunching effort
The Aug. 19 celebration of Preachers also marked the official relaunch of Coffee Association’s partnership with MTI. Twelve students have enrolled in this first of 32 courses — Biblical Interpretation. Kaleb Wimberly, associate pastor of First Baptist Church Enterprise, is the instructor.
Wimberly is among four instructors, all with earned doctorates, who will rotate teaching the courses.
For more information about MTI (locations, class offerings, class fees, etc.), visit the MTI web page here or call 205-726-4055.
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