Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary was established to serve the church by providing rigorous theological education grounded in Scripture and faithful to historic Christian doctrine.
Founding and Early Years
In 1950, the Baptist Missionary Association of America considered establishing a seminary after an invitation from the Texas association. By March 17, 1954, a committee was appointed to plan the seminary’s founding.
The first trustees were elected, and plans moved forward for the seminary’s establishment in Jacksonville, Texas.
Groundbreaking took place on land donated for the seminary’s permanent home.
The first classes began with 57 students and five faculty members.
Growth and Development
1963–1964
A new library building was completed and dedicated as Kellar Library.
1971
BMATS was granted associate membership in the Association of Theological Schools.
1980–1981
The John W. Duggar Library Annex was completed, doubling the seminary’s library space.
1982–1986
The seminary progressed through accreditation milestones, including becoming a Candidate for Accreditation and later receiving full accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Leadership Transitions & Facility Expansions
Over the years, BMATS continued to grow under various leaders:
Dr. Gerald D. Kellar
served as president from 1956 to 1967.
Dr. John W. Gregson
led from 1967 to 1971.
Dr. John W. Duggar & Dr. Philip R. Bryan
served in leadership roles through the 1970s and 1980s.
Dr. Charley Holmes
succeeded Dr. Bryan as president in May 1999.
1993–1994
A major renovation campaign updated student housing.
2010
The Roy L. Grimsley Building, including expanded classroom space and technology to support global learning, was dedicated.
2008 & 2021
BMATS gained and reaffirmed accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools, underscoring the institution’s ongoing commitment to academic quality.
Ongoing Mission
Progress has continued under each administration, with steady growth in students, faculty, financial support, and outreach ministries. BMATS remains dedicated to training preachers, lay workers, and church leaders within the Baptist Missionary Association of America and beyond.
