Ministerial Health

Texas Baptists Interim Church Services and the Intentional Interim Ministry (IIM) network named Dr. H. Lynn Eckeberger the 2023 Interim Pastor of the Year.

Hernandez, who is not eligible to receive Social Security, lives off of his pension from working more than 20 years at the local school. While it can be difficult for pastors like Hernandez to make ends meet, Texas Baptists’ Center for Ministerial Health is providing some much-needed support.

"The financial resources provided by GuideStone are geared specifically for the unique financial challenges and opportunities ministers face,"

"[It] started me on a journey toward a more balanced schedule in all of life."

The program was originally launched in 2022, when 95 recipients were awarded grants, and interest in the grant has continued to grow.

The award reflects cumulative service, as all these ministers have helped multiple churches through difficult interim periods, excelled in peer reviews of their Intentional Interim Ministries, and provided additional leadership for the Interim Ministry Network of the BGCT.

“We’re thankful to be connected with a convention that sees its pastors and the ministry we do, and offers these resources,”

Christian and Matia Messemer share how they manage their Christmas expenses and still find ways to honor their family’s Christmas traditions and celebrate while not overspending.

"Helping our pastors stay strong spiritually, emotionally, financially, and in all ways remains a high priority for Texas Baptists,”