Linking Pastors and Congregations Together

In the ever-evolving landscape of church ministry, the need for connection, support, and spiritual renewal is greater than ever. The Truett Church Network (TCN) steps into that space with a focused mission: to support, equip, and encourage pastors, ministers, chaplains, and churches across regions and generations. Rooted in the vibrant Baptist heritage of the George W. Truett Theological Seminary, the TCN offers a lifeline of camaraderie, wisdom, and practical tools for those serving in ministry whether they are students, alumni, or friends. 

The TCN provides educational opportunities that help ministers as they grapple with serving in and alongside the Church in the modern era. Katy Reed-Hodges, minister of Congregational Life at First Baptist Church Arlington, notes, “The Truett Church Network has been a much-needed, life-giving resource as I navigate life in church leadership. I have long appreciated the unique role Truett plays and adding a network of tools and relationships to an already trusted source has been both enriching and impactful for many of us. The programs are well-designed, the material is relevant, and the connections are fruitful.” Through initiatives such as Leadership Huddles, Covenant Groups, engaging podcasts and webinar series—including “Todd Talks” and “Pro Ecclesia”—as well as pastors conferences and one-day conferences, the TCN is investing deeply in forming Christian leaders. 

The Truett Church Network has been a much-needed, life-giving resource as I navigate life in church leadership.”

– Katy Reed-Hodges

These offerings and engagements allow participants to learn from some of the leading voices around the world. In the spring of 2025, the TCN hosted Glenn Packiam, pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California, who led the Pastors Conference in a conversation centered upon “Resilience and Credibility: Ministry in a Changing World.” Additionally, world-renowned experts Lyndon Drake, research fellow at University of Oxford, and Anna Robbins, president of Acadia Divinity College and dean of theology, and Pablo Rivas, assistant professor at Baylor University, led a day conference exploring AI and the Church.

The TCN also seeks to fill a void in ministerial life by fostering deep relationships and helpful connections. For Chris Curran, pastor of Southland Baptist Church in San Angelo, the TCN is more than a professional network—it is a family. “The Truett Church Network has a special role in Baptist life. The TCN provides a place for men and women in the ministry to find camaraderie and friendship. It also hosts events for ministers to reflect on their calling, be refreshed in their work, and be renewed through the Spirit,” Curran reflects. “I always look forward to spending time among the Truett family.”

The TCN provides a place for men and women in the ministry to find camaraderie and friendship.”

– Chris Curran

Within this network, ministers find assistance for identifying and moving to new places of service. J.T. Thornton shares of his experience of ministry transitions, “The Truett Church Network has had a major impact on my life personally and on our church. In 2021, when the Lord was leading me out of student ministry and into a lead pastor role, the Truett Church Network was there for more than church placement and connection. They also walked alongside me as I discerned where the Lord was leading; they were some of my greatest encouragers and supporters. As a pastor, we just recently hired a quality student pastor who we likely would not have come in contact with if it weren’t for the Truett Church Network.” With the TCN’s ongoing efforts to place pastors and ministers around the state and country, Kris Knippa, a Texas Baptist (BGCT) area representative in the Panhandle of Texas, shares, “My hope is that my region continues to become populated by pastors who are part of the Truett network.”

Meeting with the church after Kenneth’s connection gave me hope to grow not only as a pastor, but also to replenish from my spiritual deficit.”

– Torrence Spears

Torrence Spears, current Truett student and new pastor at Greater New Light Missionary Baptist Church in Waco, recalls his experience seeking a pastorate while completing his studies. Spears shared, “Nothing [as far as a ministry opportunity] was working for three to six months and then Kenneth McNeil, director of the Office of Ministry Connections, called with encouragement and a strong recommendation for a church in Waco. I was completely drained and was about to give up. Kenneth encouraged me, recommended me, and journeyed with me throughout the process. Meeting with the church after Kenneth’s connection gave me hope to grow not only as a pastor, but also to replenish from my spiritual deficit.”

The TCN also seeks to foster moments of deep worship, quiet reflection, and divine encounters that are grounded in the greater Seminary community. Mackenzie Rock-Jentsch, worship pastor at Renew Church, Waco, has led worship at the last two Pastors Conferences. These powerful moments of worship are enriched by meaningful relationships. As Rock-Jentsch reflects, “Each year, I get to be surrounded by my heroes and peers in ministry. It has been a time of refreshing and homecoming.” In these sacred spaces, the TCN invites worshippers to remember that ministry is not only about what is done, but who we become together in the presence of God.

At its heart, the Truett Church Network is a reminder that no pastor must walk the path alone. Through thoughtful leadership, intentional gatherings, and a vibrant spirit of collaboration, the TCN is cultivating a movement where ministry leaders are not just surviving but thriving. As the Church faces new challenges and opportunities, the TCN stands as a faithful companion, helping leaders remain grounded in their calling, connected to one another, and refreshed by the Spirit.

For more information about the resources available to alumni, pastors, and friends in ministry through the Truett Church Network, visit truettseminary.baylor.edu/programs-centers/truett-church-network.