Baptist Medical Dental Fellowship held its annual meeting from February 29 to March 2, 2024, at Shades Mountain Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL., and the Beeson School of Divinity at Samford University. The theme of the meeting was “Surrendered to Serve,” and attendees heard from various speakers, listened to missionary and student testimonies, and discussed opportunities to serve. Dr. Danny Woods gave the keynote address, and Dr. Rich Hutchens led a Bible study. Nathan and Lindsey Lyon led worship.
Attendees heard testimonies from individuals serving in the Asian Pacific Rim and Central Asia. They watched video testimonials from members and students expressing gratitude for the scholarships and grants given by BMDF. Moreover, there were video updates from friends in Ukraine and information on how to pray for those serving there. Reports were given by Send Relief, the Baptist Nursing Fellowship, and the IMB on how God is working through these organizations to spread the Gospel to the Nations. Bill Sisson led a discussion on starting free medical clinics in local churches.
During the business session, Dr. Merrill Moore, a founding member and president of BMDF in 1991, was recognized for his generous donation, which he left after his death in 2021. The donation will help BMDF support its mission partners and students in the future. It was also reported that the grace of God is revitalizing BMDF’s work, as the membership has doubled over the past 15 months.
Attendees heard how they share the Gospel locally and internationally from Christ Community Family Residency, Cahaba Family Residency, and Samford University School of Health Sciences. Dr. David Parks spoke about the new mission exhibit and the impact of missions worldwide. The exhibit includes a display of the life of Martha Myers, M.D., a Samford graduate and BMDF member who gave her life while sharing the Gospel in the Middle East. During the meeting, opportunities to serve were discussed and will be sent to BMDF members within the next two weeks.
In closing, one of our colleagues shared that he was rejuvenated and refreshed spiritually. He was challenged and reminded of our priority as believers: to testify to Christ above everything else we do. Hence, since being back, I have been much more intentional and strategic in articulating the Gospel of Christ and more frequently sharing my testimony of God with my patients.
We hope that you might consider joining us next year as we meet at First Baptist Church, Durham, N.C. The dates of the meeting are March 13 – 15. As time comes closer, we will keep you informed.
Bob