San Antonio Baptist Association
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One Mission
Many Expressions
One Mission
Many Expressions
We are a family of autonomous Baptist Churches doing
Great Commission and Great Commandment efforts together.
The San Antonio Baptist Association is comprised of over 385 churches that are active at some level of cooperation as well as 250+ house churches. Over 470+ churches have been a part of SABA since 1858. Our congregations represent African, African-American, Anglo, Arabic, Burmese, Chinese, Deaf, Hispanic, India, Korean, Laotian, Philippine, Romanian, Vietnamese, and other people groups.
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Our Mission:
What we do
We exist to connect, encourage, and
support churches for kingdom impact
Our Strategy:
How we accomplish the mission
KINGDOM IMPACT
Engaging God-led relationships globally
DIGITAL DEPARTMENT
Technologically enhancing kingdom impact
LEADER DEVELOPMENT
Investing in those who invest in others
CHURCH STARTING & RENEWAL
Innovative efforts toward disciple making movements resulting in reproducing churches
Our Measures:
How we define success
The number of churches and leaders we serve
The depth to which we serve churches and leaders
The stories of kingdom impact from those we serve
The number of strategic partners with whom we connect,
encourage and support in kingdom impacting relationships
Our Values:
Why we do it
Collaborative Connections - God-directed relationships that result in Kingdom impact and expansion. (Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Corinthians 3:10; Acts 1:8)
Missional Mindset - Intentional obedience to Christ’s Commission among all people groups based upon proven missiological principles. (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:45-47; Acts 1:8)
Strategic Creativity - Innovative contextual ministry, which results in reproducing disciples, trained leaders, and new churches. (Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Timothy 2:2; Acts 14:23)
Spiritual Vitality - Christ-centered collective activities, which promote the overall spiritual health and welfare of God’s people. (Matthew 9:37-38; Romans 8:14-17, 26-28; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 3:16-19, 5:18)
Executive Leadership Team Members
SABA Constitution
Article III, A. 1.
Kevin Nelson - Moderator - Calvary Hills BC
Nick Holguin - Treasurer - Oakridge BC
Rick Hudson - Kingdom Expansion Team - Lackland BC
Philip Sundar - Church Starting & Renewal Team - CJC Life Church
Chris Johnson - Rotating Member 2023-25 - FBCSA
Darrell Horn - SABA Executive Director
Santiago Vasquez - Vice-Moderator - Valley Hi FBC
Gwen Edwards - Clerk - True Vine BC
Jerry Cannup - Leader Development Team - Man in the Mirror Ministries
Andrew Bedo - Moderator - Digital/Technology Team - Oakridge BC
Rodney Hopes - Rotating Member 2024-26 - True Vine BC
Alto Frio Board Representatives
SABA Constitution
Article VIII, Section Two
Darrell Horn - Permanent - SABA
Sammy Espinoza (2022-2025) - Kingsborough Ridge BC // Mike Lujan (2024-2027) - Southwest BC
The following lists can be found in two historical books.
• George E. Stewart. Giants in the Land. Columbus: Brentwood Christian Press. 1993. Pgs. 10-12.
• A Baptist Century Around the Alamo 1858-1958. San Antonio: Perry Printing Company. 1958.
Associational Missionaries and Directors of Missions
J. B. Cole 1906-1908
T. C. Long 1913
J. S. Henderson 1919-1928
E. J. Gregory 1943-1945
C. G. Carter 1949-1953
A. A. Brian 1954-1955
George E. Stewart 1961-1980
Robert Schmeltekopt 1984-1987
Charles Price 2000-2013
J. D. Ballard 1908
J. T. Renfro 1917
Julius P. King 1929 – no date of resignation
D. B. South 1945-1949
W. H. Colson 1953-1954
Cecil Ray 1956-1961
Ken Coffee 1980-1983
Lewis E. Lee 1988-2000
Darrell Horn 2015-present
Moderators of Association
1858 – J. I. Laudermilk
1859 – R. M. Currie
1860-1861 – no record
1862 – S. E. Pearce
1863 – R. M. Currie
1864 – no record
1865 – J. N. Key
1866 – no record
1867 – S. E. Pearce
1868 – G. W. Waddell
1869 – J. N. Key
1870 – R. M. Currie
1871 – no record
1872 – J. V. E. Covey
1873 – no record
1874 – J. N. Key
1875 – W. D. Johnson
1876 – no record
1877-1878 – W. H. Dodson
1879 – E. B. Prue
1880-1881 – no record
1882-1883 – W. H. Dodson
1884 – A. G. Martin
1885 – W. D. Johnson
1886-1887 – W. J. Collins
1888 – W. H. Dodson
1889 – no record
1890-1891 – E. E. King
1892-1892 – J. D. Walker
1894 – E. E. King
1895 – E. J. Smith
1896 – no record
1897-1898 – W. W. Sloan
1899-1900 – A. J. Harris
1901-1902 – George W. Key
1903-1904 – A. J. Harris
1905-1906 – R. F. Stokes
1907-1909 – W. W. Boone
1910 – T. J. Griffith
1911-1914 – S. J. Porter
1915-1925 – W. W. Lee
1926 – Calvin Nelson
1927 – Jessee Yelvington
1928-1929 – D. B. South
1930-1932 – E. W. Marshall
1933-1937 – R. R. Lloyd
1938-1939 – D. H. Truhite
1940 – R. G. Baucom
1941 – Tallie Williams
1942-1943 – C. S. Cadwallader
1944-1947 – Carl McGinnis
1948 – C. S. McKinney
1949 – Bryon Bryant
1950-1951 – J. M. Garner
1952-1953 – J. Ray McVoy
1954-1959 – Vernon Elmore
1960 – Clyde J. Childers
1961 – W. R. Miller
1962 – O. G. Barrow
1963-1965 – Jack R. Taylor
1966-1967 – Bob Wideman
1968-1969 – Gene Russell
1970-1971 – James Todd
1972-1973 – Earl Johnston
1974 – Loren White
1975 – Ralph Arms
1976-1977 – Charles Kemble
1978-1979 – James Puckett
1980 – Charles Wisdom
1981-1982 – Jimmy Towers
1983-1984 – Bill Perdue
1985-1986 – James Carey
1987-1988 – Dan McLendon
1989-1990 – Max Brunnemann
1991-1993 – Wilbert H. Long
1994-1997 – E. Mark Briggs Jr
1998-1999 – Douglas Diehl
2000-2001 – Jerry Dailey
2002-2003 – Alfonso Flores
2004-2005 – Marshall Moore
2006-2007 – Edward Hayes
2008-2009 – Jesse Aguilar
2010-2011 – Jim Perkins
2012-2013 – Brent Bryant
2014-2015 – Victor Rodriguez
2016-2017 – Rick Hudson
2018-2019 – Jesse Grice
2020-2021 – Sammy Lopez
2022–2025 – Andrew Bedo
2025-2026 – Kevin Nelson
Resources
Choose which resource that best fits your need!
"SABA not only has the resources I need but their staff has the expertise to help me know how to use those tools."
Our Strategic Partners
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SABA Video Library
AROUND THE HORN
Around The Horn with Jerry Canupp - conversations with leaders who invest in others (Episode 1)
Around The Horn with Greg Henson - conversations with leaders who invest in others (Episode 2)
Around The Horn with Kevin Ezell - conversations with leaders who invest in others (Episode 3)
Around The Horn with Kevin Abbott - conversations with leaders who invest in others (Episode 4)
AROUND THE HORN
Around The Horn" is an inspiring video series hosted by Dr. Darrell Horn that showcases meaningful conversations with leaders across the San Antonio area who are deeply committed to investing in others. Through each episode, Dr. Horn brings thoughtful insight and a heart for connection, drawing out stories of mentorship, leadership, and community impact. The series highlights the diverse ways individuals are making a difference—whether in churches, nonprofits, businesses, or neighborhoods—and invites viewers to reflect on how they, too, can lead lives of influence and service. "Around The Horn" is more than just a conversation—it's a celebration of people building up others for the good of the city.
(2024) 21 DAYS OF PRAYER
21 Days of Prayer is a powerful video series that brings together 21 pastors from across our network to share short, impactful devotionals centered on the theme of prayer. Each day, viewers are encouraged and challenged through Scripture and reflection to draw closer to God and prepare their hearts for what’s ahead. This series serves as a spiritual journey that builds momentum and unity across our churches, all leading up to our Association’s Annual Gathering, which takes place every year during the third week of October. It’s more than just a countdown—it’s a shared season of seeking God together.
21 DAYS OF PRAYER (2024)
David Garcia (Day 1)
Paul Robins (Day 2)
Johnny Tec (Day 3)
Carlos Quijada (Day 4)
CHURCH STARTING
Dr. Roland Lopez | Church Planting - Part 1 (English)
Dr. Roland Lopez | Church Planting - Part 1 (Spanish)
SABA'S 1st Annual Church Starting Telethon
Dr. Roland Lopez | 4x4 Challenge for Evangelism (English)
CHURCH STARTING
Church Starting is one of the most vital missions of our association, as we seek to reach new people and communities with the hope of the gospel. We believe that starting new churches is one of the most effective ways to see lives transformed and neighborhoods impacted for Christ. Through training, support, and partnership, we come alongside church planters to help them launch healthy, gospel-centered churches across San Antonio and beyond. It’s not just about starting services—it’s about starting movements of hope, healing, and spiritual renewal in places that need it most.
UMTC
The Urban Missionary Training Center video series highlights the heart of our mission to equip and empower leaders who are called to serve in the unique context of the urban landscape. These videos showcase the stories, strategies, and spiritual insights of missionaries and practitioners who are actively engaging the city with the gospel. Through this training center, we provide practical tools and theological grounding for those passionate about urban ministry—whether that’s church planting, community development, or disciple-making. The series is both an inspiration and a resource for anyone called to love and lead in the heart of the city.
URBAN MISSIONARY TRAINING CENTER (UMTC)
UMTC - Introduction to 4 Fruits
UMTC - How to Judge Spiritual Movements: Fruit 1
UMTC - How to Judge Spiritual Movements: Fruit 2
UMTC - 6 Phase Urban Training
JANUARY BIBLE STUDY (2025)
Doug Diehl: January Bible Study (1 Timothy)
Bill Coker: January Bible Study (1 Timothy)
Rodney Hopes: January Bible Study (1 Timothy)
Glenn Simmons: January Bible Study (1 Timothy)
(2025) JANUARY BIBLE STUDY
The January Bible Study is an annual video series designed to help churches and individuals start the year grounded in God’s Word. Each year, we focus on a specific book of the Bible, with trusted pastors and teachers walking through its themes, insights, and applications for today. These sessions are a great resource for Sunday School classes, small groups, or personal study—bringing biblical depth and fresh perspective right at the beginning of the year. The series encourages spiritual growth and unity across our churches as we collectively dive into Scripture and seek to live it out in the new year.
SUMMER TECH CAMP
The Summer Tech Camp is an exciting, hands-on experience for middle and high school students designed to ignite creativity and spark interest in today’s most in-demand digital skills. Over the course of the camp, students dive into the world of technology—learning everything from video editing and audio production to graphic design, artificial intelligence, and more. Through guided projects and real-world tools, they build confidence, explore career paths, and discover how tech can be used for good. This video series captures the energy and growth of the camp, showing how the next generation is being equipped to lead in the digital age with both skill and purpose.
SUMMER TECH CAMP
Summer Tech Camp (Volume 2)
Mackenzie Schapiro - Magazine Pitch
Silas Saenz - Magazine Pitch
Mackenzie Huff - Magazine Pitch
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
![Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 1]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/b6byrvvST3I/mqdefault.jpg)
Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 1]
![Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 2]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zyxc03rJ82Y/mqdefault.jpg)
Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 2]
![Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 3]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/yjR6k7ZI82I/mqdefault.jpg)
Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 3]
![Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 4]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-UBfaawiLVk/mqdefault.jpg)
Dr. Rudy Gonzalez - Baptists and Religious Liberty | English [Part 4]
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
The Religious Liberty video series is a timely and informative resource that explores the importance of protecting and practicing our faith freely in today’s culture. Featuring pastors, legal experts, and ministry leaders, each episode unpacks key issues surrounding religious freedom—from the biblical foundation to current legal challenges—and how churches and individuals can respond with wisdom and conviction. This series equips viewers to better understand their rights, engage in respectful dialogue, and stand firm in their beliefs while living out the gospel. It’s both a call to awareness and a reminder of the vital role faith plays in a free society.
HUNGER WALK
The Annual SABA Hunger Walk is a heartfelt community event hosted by the San Antonio Baptist Association every November, with the mission of raising awareness and funds for hunger relief. Local families, churches, and organizations come together for a family-friendly walk, reflective worship, and fellowship—all in support of food distribution programs across SABA congregations. What began as a simple neighborhood walk has grown into a powerful expression of compassion, volunteerism, and unity. Each walker strengthens our commitment to serve those facing food insecurity, live out the Gospel in action, and foster lasting community impact.
HUNGER WALK
SABA'S 13th Annual Hunger Walk
11th Annual Hunger Walk
2020 Hunger Walk Invitation
2019 SABA HUNGER WALK
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
(Day 1) Joe Roberts - 12 Days of Christmas
(Day 2) Mark Lugo - 12 Days of Christmas
(Day 3) Carlos Quijada - 12 Days of Christmas
(Day 4) Angel Vega - 12 Days of Christmas
(2023) 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
The 12 Days of Christmas video series is a special holiday edition that introduces our Church Starting pastors in a fun, personal, and meaningful way. Over 12 days leading up to Christmas, each video features one of our church planters sharing their story, their calling, and the heart behind the church they are starting. It’s a chance to celebrate the season by getting to know the men and women who are bringing the light of Christ to new communities. This series not only spreads Christmas cheer—it also invites our churches to pray for, support, and connect with the incredible leaders planting churches across our city.
THANKSGIVING
The Thanksgiving Video Series is a beautiful celebration of the rich diversity within our pastoral community. During this season of gratitude, each video highlights a different pastor, sharing about their cultural background, family traditions, and what thankfulness means to them. From various languages, cuisines, and customs, we get a glimpse into how God is working through a mosaic of cultures to build His Church. This series not only deepens our appreciation for one another but also reminds us that unity in Christ is strengthened through the beauty of our differences—all in a spirit of thanksgiving.
THANKSGIVING
Thanksgiving: Jerry Cosper (1 of 4)
Thanksgiving: Earl Grant Jr. (2 of 4)
Thanksgiving: Johnny Tec English (3 of 4)
Thanksgiving: Johnny Tec Spanish (3 of 4)
21 DAYS OF PRAYER (2023)
Robert Welch (Day 1)
Michael A. Richardson (Day 2)
Kevin Nelson (Day 3)
Phillip Sundar (Day 4)
(2023) 21 DAYS OF PRAYER
21 Days of Prayer is a powerful video series that brings together 21 pastors from across our network to share short, impactful devotionals centered on the theme of prayer. Each day, viewers are encouraged and challenged through Scripture and reflection to draw closer to God and prepare their hearts for what’s ahead. This series serves as a spiritual journey that builds momentum and unity across our churches, all leading up to our Association’s Annual Gathering, which takes place every year during the third week of October. It’s more than just a countdown—it’s a shared season of seeking God together.
LEGACY PASTORS
The Legacy Pastors video series is a heartfelt tribute to the faithful men who have served over 25 years at the same church—shepherding their congregations with dedication, love, and perseverance. Each episode shares the unique story of a pastor’s journey, the challenges they’ve faced, and the lasting impact they’ve made in their communities. Through these conversations, we honor their faithfulness, celebrate their legacy, and learn from the wisdom they’ve gained through decades of ministry. This series is more than a reflection—it’s a thank you to those who have paved the way and inspired the next generation of leaders.
LEGACY PASTORS
Legacy Pastors Video Series: Jesse Grice
Legacy Pastors Video Series: Robert Campos
Legacy Pastors Video Series: Jerry Cosper
Legacy Pastors Video Series: Steve Branson
JANUARY BIBLE STUDY (2023)
2 Timothy Bible Study: Gary Patterson
2 Timothy Bible Study: Charles Biggs
2 Timothy Bible Study: Doug Diehl
2 Timothy Bible Study: Sammy Espinoza
2023 JANUARY BIBLE STUDY
The January Bible Study is an annual video series designed to help churches and individuals start the year grounded in God’s Word. Each year, we focus on a specific book of the Bible, with trusted pastors and teachers walking through its themes, insights, and applications for today. These sessions are a great resource for Sunday School classes, small groups, or personal study—bringing biblical depth and fresh perspective right at the beginning of the year. The series encourages spiritual growth and unity across our churches as we collectively dive into Scripture and seek to live it out in the new year.
(2024) JANUARY BIBLE STUDY
The January Bible Study is an annual video series designed to help churches and individuals start the year grounded in God’s Word. Each year, we focus on a specific book of the Bible, with trusted pastors and teachers walking through its themes, insights, and applications for today. These sessions are a great resource for Sunday School classes, small groups, or personal study—bringing biblical depth and fresh perspective right at the beginning of the year. The series encourages spiritual growth and unity across our churches as we collectively dive into Scripture and seek to live it out in the new year.
JANUARY BIBLE STUDY (2024)
Titus Bible Study
Dr. Rudy González - TITO BILBE STUDY (Spanish)
Titus Bible Study
Dr. Rudy González - TITO BILBE STUDY (Spanish)
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS (2022)
12 Days of Christmas: Steve Santacruz (Day 1)
12 Days of Christmas: Manny Alaniz (Day 2)
12 Days of Christmas: Jaime Alcala (Day 3)
12 Days of Christmas: Santiago Vasquez (Day 4)
(2022) 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
The 12 Days of Christmas video series is a special holiday edition that introduces our Church Starting pastors in a fun, personal, and meaningful way. Over 12 days leading up to Christmas, each video features one of our church planters sharing their story, their calling, and the heart behind the church they are starting. It’s a chance to celebrate the season by getting to know the men and women who are bringing the light of Christ to new communities. This series not only spreads Christmas cheer—it also invites our churches to pray for, support, and connect with the incredible leaders planting churches across our city.
(2021) 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
The 12 Days of Christmas video series is a special holiday edition that introduces our Church Starting pastors in a fun, personal, and meaningful way. Over 12 days leading up to Christmas, each video features one of our church planters sharing their story, their calling, and the heart behind the church they are starting. It’s a chance to celebrate the season by getting to know the men and women who are bringing the light of Christ to new communities. This series not only spreads Christmas cheer—it also invites our churches to pray for, support, and connect with the incredible leaders planting churches across our city.
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS (2021)
12 Days of Christmas - Javier Medina (Day 1)
12 Days of Christmas - Manny Alaniz (Day 2)
12 Days of Christmas - Raed Safadi (Day 3)
12 Days of Christmas - Jacob Oladipupo (Day 4)
21 DAYS OF PRAYER (2021)
Day 1 - Ray Still
Day 2 - Joshua Fuentes
Day 3 - Vincent Robinson
Day 4 - Robert Campos
(2021) 21 DAYS OF PRAYER
21 Days of Prayer is a powerful video series that brings together 21 pastors from across our network to share short, impactful devotionals centered on the theme of prayer. Each day, viewers are encouraged and challenged through Scripture and reflection to draw closer to God and prepare their hearts for what’s ahead. This series serves as a spiritual journey that builds momentum and unity across our churches, all leading up to our Association’s Annual Gathering, which takes place every year during the third week of October. It’s more than just a countdown—it’s a shared season of seeking God together.
SHERPA
The SHERPA Training video series is designed to equip pastors with the essential tools and insights needed to navigate legacy and leadership transitions smoothly and intentionally. Through practical teaching and real-life stories, this training helps pastors understand the importance of preparing for healthy succession—both honoring the past and embracing the future. SHERPA guides leaders in building strong foundations, developing next-generation leaders, and fostering a vision that carries the church forward with clarity and purpose. It’s a vital resource for pastors committed to stewarding their ministry well through every season.
SHERPA
Will Heath - Change vs. Transition (1 of 4)
Will Heath - Stewardship (2 of 4)
Will Heath - Navigating Pushback (3 of 4)
Will Heath - Weight Redistribution (4 of 4)
LEADERSHIP TRANSITION WORKSHOP
Leadership Transition Workshop - DOUGLAS JACKSON
Leadership Transition Workshop - TOM WILSON
Leadership Transition Workshop - ROBERT WHEAT
Leadership Transition Workshop - ANSON NASH
LEADERSHIP TRANSITION
The Leadership Transition Workshop is a focused training experience created to guide church leaders through the often complex process of leadership change. This workshop provides practical strategies, biblical wisdom, and collaborative tools to help churches navigate transitions with grace, clarity, and unity. Whether preparing for a pastoral change or shifting leadership roles, participants learn how to honor the past, communicate effectively, and lay a strong foundation for the future. It’s an essential resource for churches seeking to embrace change while maintaining health and momentum in their ministry.
(2020) ANNUAL GATHERING
The Annual Gathering Testimonies video series captures the powerful and inspiring stories shared by pastors, leaders, and members during our yearly Association gathering. These personal testimonies highlight how God is working through our churches—bringing transformation, hope, and renewal in communities across our region. Each testimony reflects moments of breakthrough, answered prayer, and faithful perseverance, reminding us of the impact of unity and collective mission. This series encourages and uplifts viewers, celebrating God’s faithfulness and the vibrant life of our association.
ANNUAL GATHERING INTERVIEWS (2020)
SABA Annual Gathering 2020 - Andrew Bedo Interview
SABA Annual Gathering 2020 - David Thompson Interview
SABA Annual Gathering 2020 - John Nkunzigoma Interview
SABA Annual Gathering 2020 - George Ramirez Interview
2025 Events
