Why on Earth Would one Join an Association?

Good question. Fair question. In fact, it’s a question worth asking! Why would your church already busy with worship, ministry, and programs add “commitment to the local Baptist association” to the list? Don't we do enough?

Here’s the short answer: because together we can do what we could never do alone.

But let’s make this fun. Here’s a quick tour of what the Grayson Baptist Association (GBA) actually does, and why your church should want in:

What We Do Now & Will Together Soon...

Associations are generationally diverse and melding pot of skill, passion and resources from the various churches that comprise them. With a serious legacy behind it and new leadership at the help, here is what we are doing and will do in the near future!

1. Pastoral Encouragement & Networking

We believe pastors should never walk alone. Through monthly gatherings, peer support, and fellowship opportunities, the GBA provides encouragement, prayer, and a network of leaders who can lean on each other for wisdom and strength.

2. Pulpit Supply & Interim Help

When a church faces transition, we connect them with trusted pastors, preachers, and ministry leaders to provide pulpit supply, interim leadership, or worship support until long-term leadership is in place.

3. Private Campground & Lake Retreat Access

Our Lake Texoma property includes cabins, a dormitory, RV hookups, tent camping, and a lakeside pavilion. Churches and families can reserve affordable spaces for retreats, camps, or personal getaways.

4. Collegiate Student Ministry Partnership (BSM)

The GBA operates the Baptist Student Ministry at Grayson College as an Associational College Ministry. Our BSM reaches Grayson & Austin College students with meals, Bible studies, worship gatherings, and one-on-one discipleship. This ministry is raising up the next generation of Christ-followers and leaders.

5. Church Website Creation & Support

We provide affordable, fast, and professional websites for churches that need them. From design to ongoing support, we help congregations communicate clearly online and extend their ministry presence into the digital world.

6. Evangelism & Block Party Resources

Through our Evangelism Block Party Trailer, churches can host community events with inflatables, games, and equipment — making it easier to connect with families and share the Gospel in their neighborhoods.

7. Training Events & Leadership Development

From conferences to workshops, the GBA equips pastors, leaders, and church members with training on discipleship, leadership, evangelism, church safety, and more.

8. Church Recommendations & Job Postings

We connect churches with pastors, ministry staff, and leaders by maintaining a job posting network and offering recommendations to churches in search of new team members.

9. Church Crisis Care & Coaching

COMING SOON! When churches face challenges — conflict, transition, or hardship — the GBA provides care and coaching for pastors and leaders, offering biblical guidance and practical solutions to move forward in health.

10. Exclusive Digital Tools

COMING SOON! Through the GBA office, member churches have access to digital tools and resources — from online forms and reservation systems to communication templates and tech support for ministry.

11. Seminary Extension

COMING SOON (& in the past)! We partner to make seminary-level courses more accessible to local pastors and church leaders. This extension ministry helps leaders grow in theological depth without leaving their ministry context.

12. Christian Counseling Center

(COMING SOON!) In development, this ministry will provide Christ-centered counseling to individuals, couples, and families, serving both church members and the wider community with biblical care.

13. Church Planting

COMING SOON! We are committed to reaching new communities through church planting. The GBA comes alongside planters and sponsoring churches to provide coaching, encouragement, and resources for new works.

How Can You Be A Part?

Well, for starters — why not join? If you are interested in being part of a strategic effort to reach Grayson County for Christ in tandem with other like-minded churches, then you are invited!

You may either join as a:

• Member Church – A fully affiliated church within the GBA, affirming our shared beliefs and committing to cooperative ministry and giving.

• Partner Church – A church that wants to join in ministry cooperation and resourcing without full membership status.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Apply – Complete our application (online or through the GBA office).

2. Confirm Contributions – Establish your financial partnership (monthly, annually, or through your church budget).

3. Get Affirmed – Begin friendly cooperation immediately, with official affirmation following.

👉 [Click here to start your church’s application today.]

Final Word

Why on earth should your church join the GBA?

Because it’s not about doing more for the sake of busyness — it’s about doing more together for the sake of the Kingdom. When we pool our gifts, resources, and energy, God multiplies the impact.

Alone, we can do something. Together, we can do so much more.