Reverend Keith T. Evans, President of WGBSC, Inc. Delivers Final Address

The joint session of the Wisconsin General Baptist State Convention, Inc. (WGBSC, Inc.) and the WGBSC of CE was held during the week of August 3-6, 2026 at the Greater Mt. Eagle Baptist Church in Racine, WI where Reverend Keith T. Evans, Convention President, serves as pastor. The theme was “Living and Proclaiming God’s Word to Transform This World,” Matthew 5:16; Timothy 4:2.

During the week, the state congress held Seminars and a Certified Course class from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM followed by the Annual Session of the state convention. Congress Dean, Mrs. Emma J. Brooks reported more than 137 delegates were in attendance. This number reflects both adults and children combined.

Seminars included: “Waiting Well in the Waiting Room” Instructor, Reverend Demetris Crum; “Introduction to New Testament” Instructor, Reverend Aaron Cain; “How to Live an Exchanged Life” Instructor, Reverend John A. McBride; “Faith Practices to Flourish in Chaotic Times” Instructor, Reverend O. J. Newburn. The Certified Course – CCE entitled Strategic Christian Leadership by The Book (Leadership in the Local Church; Course #5006) was taught by Ms. Demetria Thomas. Included at this year’s conference was a book signing event where Ms. Demetria Thomas who authored two books entitled, “Act Like a Christian Leader, Think Like a Drug Dealer” and “Business Building Block from the Bible”; and Reverend James Ivy, Congress President, who authored “Living Like We Belong” signed books for those who purchased them.

Following the congress seminars, the convention continued with its service. Guest speakers during this session included Dr. D. Z. Cofield of Houston, TX who preached on Monday evening, and Bishop Broderick A. Huggins of Bakersfield, CA who preached Tuesday and Wednesday evening. Thursday evening, President Keith T. Evans delivered his eighth and final address.

President Evans reflected on his stewardship during his eight-year tenure as president and the accomplishments of the convention. He spoke of the global pandemic, economic uncertainty, political polarization, public health challenges, inflation that strained families and congregations in Wisconsin and around the world to name a few of the most challenging periods in modern history. Yet, despite the numerous challenges, the Church continues to stand.
Continuing with a few highlights of his report:

• Representing the convention in 2024 in South Africa worshipping and fellowshipping with the National Baptist Churches of South Africa;
• Responding with financial support storm devastated communities across the United States and other regions;
• Partnering with the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. and its mission teams to provide financial support, food, clothing, and other needs to the Wisconsin constituency and churches during the storms and flooding in our communities;
• Providing scholarships and encouragement to the youth and young people;
• Continuing to American Baptist College, Nashville, TN;
• Continuing to support the Convention’s Partnership with VERSITI with blood drives and encouragement of organ and tissue donations;
• Supporting vaccination and health awareness efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  At the conclusion of the President’s Annual Report and Message and it’s acceptance by the body, and the Report of the Election Commission where Reverend James Ivy was recommended to serve as the 11th President of the WGBSC, Inc. was voted upon and accepted by the body, the Convention’s 102nd Annual Session concluded with communion service led by President-Elect James Ivy.