BCF PROFESSOR AND STUDENT PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL CONFERENCE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 11, 2008

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Over 200 Baptist church musicians gathered at First Baptist Church of New Orleans, LA June 15-17 for the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Church Music Conference (SBCMC). Among those participating was The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) Professor Buford Cox and student Carol Bailey.

The theme for the meeting was Rebuilding the Wall: Reclaiming Music as Ministry. According to Cox, the conference focused on preparing children and youth as future church musicians through music education in the church, and the role of music in ministry and missions. Highlight speakers were Randy Edwards of YouthCue and Keith Getty, modern hymn writer/composer.

Bailey was invited to lead a hymn during one of the general sessions. As the only Baptist college student, Bailey joined other Baptist seminary students in leading congregational music. His reaction to the experience was more than enthusiastic, "I was in awe as I stood before the congregation and as I thought about what a mighty God we serve!" Commenting specifically on the conference, Bailey said, "It was a great experience for me. I got to meet lots of people and hear some terrific music." Bailey was one of six recipients of a scholarship to attend the conference.

Dr. Buford Cox, BCF Associate Professor of Piano, continues in his role as Secretary-Treasurer of the SBCMC. For more information about the Southern Baptist Church Music Conference, please visit www.sbcmc.org, or for more information about music programs offered at The Baptist College of Florida, please call 800-328-2660, ext. 438 or visit www.baptistcollege.edu.