Last week Marvina and I had the privilege of attending the Annual Bible Lectureship at Freed-Hardeman University, in Henderson, Tennessee. One of the most significant annual events in our brotherhood, this lectureship is in its 82nd year. The lectureship featured about 156 speakers, and drew attendees from around the world. This year’s theme was: “Entrusted with the Faith: Multi-Generational Mission in Timothy and Titus.” It was an excellent program, featuring in-depth studies from the New Testament books of Timothy and Titus, and related subjects.
My association with the FHU Lectures goes back to the 1960’s when my parents would attend from year to year. My dad would use his vacation time to bring my mother, and spend the week. Sometimes they would go with other members of the congregation, like the preacher, Clifford Lyons and his wife, Marty. It was in this way, that my parents learned about the work of the school, and later encouraged me to enroll as a student. I first attended the lectures as a young man, with my parents in the 1970’s. I shall never forget the impressions those mighty preachers made upon my young mind. I’m sure this was a big part of my growing desire to attend a Christian college, and eventually to preach the gospel.
Last week Marvina and I heard many lessons, went to a mock debate featuring Noah Icenhour and another young alumnus, browsed the book and literature displays, attended the Open Forum,, a number of congregational singings and worship services. The fellowship was very rich, and we made many new friends.
One of the best parts about the lectures is the chance to renew old friendships, and to see brethren we’ve known for so many years, some not since college days. We met the new president of Freed-Hardeman, David Shannon. It was a joy to be on campus again, and to see continued improvements, renovations and other progress. It’s always a special treat to see and speak with the enthusiastic students, who give us so much reason to feel good about the future of the church.
I want to mention two other highlights for me personally. First, I had the chance to visit the Old Main Administration Building again, my favorite building on campus, including Old Chapel Hall. Old Main is among the oldest buildings on campus, and was the site of many of my classes, weekend devotionals, and similar events. I can still hear those great voices of the past when I am in that building. Old Main is now being stripped out, prepared for a complete restoration, returned to its former glory. I’m glad the school is preserving this important and historic landmark.
Also, we were privileged to attend the annual luncheon for the Graduate School of Theology on Wednesday. Currently directed by Dr. Mark Blackwelder, the graduate Bible program provides graduate level instruction, including five different Masters’ degree programs, online. I have taken a number of these courses, and am currently enrolled in a New Testament textual study in that manner. These help to keep even long-distance preachers like me studying and focused in God’s word. At the luncheon I “happened” to sit next to a man about my age, whom I thought was totally unknown to me. But as we talked and got acquainted with each other, we discovered that we had both been students in Tom Holland’s class, “Preparation and Delivery of Sermons,” the last lass brother Holland taught at Freed-Hardeman many years ago. What a blessing to be able to reconnect and share some great memories again.
I want to thank our elders for seeing the value in my attendance at events like this, and encouraging Marvina me to go. I also want to thank each of you for your prayers, understanding and support. during my absence Thanks to Ed for preaching for me last week, and to Don and Dick for teaching my classes while I was away. It truly is a chance to “re-charge” and learn about new issues and important news within the brotherhood.
I would encourage you, if you have not previously done so, to make plans to attend this lectureship next year. It is always the first full week in February, and is a true spiritual feast. Within the main lectureship, there are special lectureship tracks for families, teens, and children. It is truly an experience you will never forget, which will strengthen and encourage you and your family spiritually. I brought several extra copies of the program, which will be placed in the foyer for you to review.
If I could only attend one lectureship-type brotherhood event in the year, this one would certainly be among my top choices. Parents, think about your children and bring them along. It may influence them for eternity.
-by Robert C. Veil, Jr.
