A Building Built for the BMAT

By EMILY SIMPSON
Baptist Progress Editor

There are many things that connect people within the Baptist Missionary Association of Texas. Commitment to God, scripture and sound doctrine being some. Yet in addition to these, another point of connection often overlooked is a special building.
 
The BMAT Office building had its beginnings in south Dallas as the BMA Print Shop and Book Center (an area that is known today as the renovated Bishop’s Arts District). After issues with the declining neighborhood, it was determined that the office should move. A couple options became available; move onto the property owned by a local BMA church or move approximately 30 miles south to Waxahachie.
 
The Texas Baptist Hope for Children had plenty of farmland and was easily accessible for directors at the time. So, in the spring of 1986 a groundbreaking service was held for the creation of a new BMAT Office building, located at 632 Farley Street. This building would house not just the Baptist Progress, but also other departments at the time; Missions and Church Ministries. 

Groundbreaking service for the BMA Office Building in 1986

Mrs. Anita Swayne greeting visitors at the BMAT office

​Today, the office building functions as a hub for the departments and the people of the BMAT. A remodel in 2018 brought a fresh look and a repurpose for the building’s use.
 
“We really have remodeled it to be not only offices, but a hospitality and training space,” Missions Director Heith Mitchell explains.
 
Originally the building held large office spaces alone. With the renovations, smaller offices were created, leaving room for a gathering space and conference/classroom area. With these changes, the building has been able to accommodate trainings and networking amongst people of the BMA.

Renovated hospitality and conference room

Renovated hospitality and conference room

​“We have done our best to make full use of the square footage…we can handle about 25 people at a time,” Mitchell acknowledges.
 
With the emphasis now on hospitality, the BMAT Office building is a place where current departments (Baptist Progress, Missions, and BMLA) serve and where missionaries, church goers, ministries and more can meet.
 
If you are interested in seeing where these departments work on a daily basis, need their assistance or services, or if you are in the Waxahachie/Dallas area and need to host a gathering, you are more than welcome to visit the BMAT office where you will be warmly received. Contact 972-923-0757 to plan your visit.

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