Introduction
From June 26 to 28, 2025, St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church in Kingsville, Texas, had the blessed honor of hosting the San Antonio District Church School Convention. Under the leadership of Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. W. Raymond Bryant, First Lady Rev. Linda Carmen-Bryant, and host pastor, the Rev. Leslie M. Copeland of St. Paul AME Church, Kingsville, Texas. The convention offered an unforgettable gathering of worship, wisdom, and witness. Congregants, youth, and educators from across the district came together to grow in faith and fellowship.
Theme & Scripture
Centered on the theme, “Don’t Let the World Mislead You: Drugs Are a Drag,” the convention echoed the charge of Romans 12:21 (NIV): “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This powerful message served as both a spiritual rallying cry and a moral compass, particularly for our youth navigating an ever-challenging world.
Convention Highlights
Thursday – Opening & Inspiration through Justice and Worship
The convention commenced with a compelling Environmental Justice Session led by Armon Alex, a science communicator and advocate from Corpus Christi, Texas. Armon, who serves as Head of Development and Outreach at Heirs to Our Ocean and co-leads the Gulf of Mexico Youth Climate Summit.
That evening, worship rose like a tide of praise as 110 congregants gathered for a spirited and soul-stirring service. Guest speaker Oscar “Lil Oscar” Jesus Cantu, a Kingsville native and former professional boxing world champion turned evangelist, preached a message of grace, restoration, and purpose. The atmosphere was one of rejoicing, humility, and heartfelt worship as lives were renewed and the Spirit moved powerfully through the sanctuary.
Friday – Equipping the Saints through Education and Engagement
Friday welcomed more than 80 youth, all eager for a full day of purpose-driven activities, empowerment, and spiritual growth. The focus was on drug awareness, prevention, and holistic care, with presentations that spoke directly to the realities facing today’s youth and families.
The Boys and Girls Club of Kingsville led dynamic team-building sessions that encouraged collaboration and youth empowerment through honest conversation and interactive exercises.
The Kingsville Police Department delivered a deeply informative demonstration of their drug detection tools and provided life-saving knowledge on the dangers and legal consequences of THC and vape products.
Equally impactful, the Coastal Bend Foundation presented age-appropriate workshops addressing drug prevention, youth protection, and adult self-care. Their wisdom added value across generations, helping parents and caregivers support youth while caring for themselves.
Attendees then enjoyed a group tour of The King Ranch, blending history and fellowship in a peaceful, reflective atmosphere. The day concluded joyfully on the grounds of St. Paul AME Church in Kingsville, where horse rides brought smiles to all ages and celebrated the unity and freedom found in Christ.
Saturday – Celebration, Commissioning, and Closing Charge
Saturday brought the convention to a meaningful and spirit-led close, with 80 youthful participants engaging in a day designed to uplift every generation.
Middle school and older youth enjoyed a full day of learning and exploration with the STEM Department of Texas A&M University-Kingsville, where they were inspired by dynamic presenters and hands-on experiments that sparked curiosity and confidence. Meanwhile, younger children were immersed in lessons about the importance of living drug-free and choosing good over evil. Through storytelling, games, and joyful play, they learned values that will shape their hearts and habits.
Adults gathered for a time of spiritual renewal, diving into the power of personal prayer. The district united in a sacred moment of intercession led by Sis. Dell Braziel of Bethel AME Church, San Antonio, whose leadership created a space of healing, reflection, and recommitment.
The day took a unique and transformative turn with a presentation from a Chick-Fil-A representative, who shared the company’s philosophy of hospitality and sincere customer care. This eye-opening session reminded attendees that kindness, authenticity, and service are not just business practices—they are Christian virtues that can transform how we treat one another in every setting.
Adding to the day’s richness, Valton “Val” Stinson II of Soulful Solution Counseling led a powerful session titled “Bridging the Gaps: Improving Communication Between Generations.” His engaging discussion emphasized that intergenerational understanding is essential for building stronger families and communities. Through practical tools and heartfelt dialogue, participants were equipped to foster deeper connections across age groups.
The Church School Convention concluded with a powerful and passionate message from Presiding Elder Rev. Dr. W. Raymond Bryant, who preached from Romans 12:21 (NIV): “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” His message called all to live with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to doing good in every circumstance—no matter the cost.
Impact & Reflections
The 2025 San Antonio District Church School Convention was far more than a scheduled gathering—it was a divine appointment that stirred hearts, transformed perspectives, and ignited renewed purpose across generations. From the opening session to the final benediction, each moment carried spiritual weight and intentionality.
This convention succeeded not only in educating minds but in edifying souls. Youth were not simply entertained—they were empowered. Through engaging sessions on drug awareness, intergenerational dialogue, and environmental justice, young people gained tools to resist temptation, speak with conviction, and lead their peers toward truth and hope. The investments made in them—by presenters, volunteers, and mentors—affirmed their value and reminded them that the Church is not waiting on the next generation but walking with it now.
Adults, too, were stretched and strengthened. The emphasis on prayer, hospitality, emotional wellness, and community-building provided a safe space for reflection and rededication. The entire district was reminded that effective ministry is holistic—it must reach the head, the heart, and the habits.
Most importantly, this convention was marked by spiritual breakthrough. Lives were changed—some even eternally. The decision of three individuals to give their lives to Christ stands as a testament to what happens when preparation meets anointing and when community creates space for God to move freely.
We give all glory to God for the vision, unity, and purpose made manifest during this convention. May the seeds planted over these three days continue to grow into lives of witness, service, and unwavering faith across the San Antonio District and beyond.
