Two weeks ago we gathered in Atlanta for the 2013 National Festival of Young Preachers. “Wow” is the word we’ve heard over and over again in response to the tremendous blessing of those three days. 120 Young Preachers lifted their voices from across the spectrum of Christian traditions, they attended workshops led by leaders in the field of homiletics, and everyone made a myriad of connections and friendships.
I am now pleased to announce the 2013 Gospel Catalyst Network: Tyler Best, Aaron Carr, Larry T. Crudup, Jenny Marble, Trayce Stewart and David Telfort. Each is an exemplary servant leader and lives in a region where the Academy will be hosting festivals within the next 12 months.
Tyler Best AoP’12 is a student at University of Evansville in Evansville, IN. Tyler was so inspired by his experience at last year’s National Festival, he purchased a Festival in a Box and created a Festival of Young Preachers in his hometown last June. His school has a Festival scheduled next month and he’s working on a denominational festival for the summer. Now that’s inspiring!
Aaron Carr AoP’12 is a student at Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. As an FTE Fellow his first AoP experience was participating in a week long preaching camp in 2011. Since then he’s been committed to the ideals of the AoP. Thanks to Aaron for his energy and time spent encouraging Young Preachers and volunteers for the 2013 Fest there in Atlanta. He’ll be a big help for Fests happening in the Southeast this summer.
Larry T. Crudup AoP’10 is a student at SMU Perkins School of Theology in Dallas, TX. His enthusiastic networking helped Perkins connect to the AoP. The result, in 2013 Perkins’ preaching professor, Dr. Alyce McKenzie, served at the Festival in multiple roles including serving as mentor for the additional 6 Young Preachers from Perkins. Larry will again work with the Texas Regional Festival of Young Preachers.
Jenny Marble AoP’13, a student at Anderson University School of Theology, Anderson, IN, just experienced her first National Festival. She shares, “I want to be challenged, grow, network, and encourage. I believe in AoP.” Jenny will be a Catalyst in her school and denomination as we plan for the 2014 Festival in Indy.
Trayce Stewart AoP’12 is a graduate and now on the admissions staff of Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, IN. Trayce is a dynamic Young Preacher who has already been actively networking for the AoP in Indianapolis. Thanks to Trayce for helping connect Indiana folks who served in multiple roles in Atlanta.
David Telfort AoP ‘12, a Yale Divinity School student in New Haven, CT, was also an FTE Fellow at the 2011 Preaching Camp Aaron attended. As a native New Yorker with a passion for preaching he will be a real asset at the New York Regional Festival this September. David also has a contact list in mind for enriching AoP and Yale’s connection.
With many thanks to the 2012 Gospel Catalyst team we welcome Dominique Robinson, Kadri Webb, Rachel Brocker and Brandon Perkins in the role of Alumni Catalysts. Larry and Aaron also served on the 2012 team and are strategically placed to keep up the good work this year. Brandon has academic commitments that won’t allow him to be with us in Indy, but expect to hear from Dominique, Kadri and Rachel as they determine how to use their best gifts in preparation for 2014 Festival.