Rev. Ray Still, senior pastor of Oakwood Baptist Church in New Braunfels, addressed new and returning Howard Payne University students, faculty and staff at University Convocation on Wednesday. The event marked the first chapel service of the academic year.

Rev. Still, who has led Oakwood Baptist Church for 20 years, has served on the boards of McKenna Memorial Hospital, McKenna Legacy Foundation, Christus Santa Rosa and Houston Baptist University. He is also the chairman of the New Braunfels Bond Advisory Committee. Rev. Still has been married to his wife, Sandra, for 32 years and they have one son.

Rev. Still discussed the various journeys students will take during their years at HPU.

“God is always in motion,” he told the students. “Where does He want to take you? What does He want to show you? The faculty members at HPU will challenge you. What will you be open to experience with Jesus?”

Additional Convocation program participants included Dr. Bill Ellis, president; Dr. W. Mark Tew, provost and chief academic officer; Dr. Gregory Church, associate professor of music; Dr. Jennifer Clement, assistant professor of psychology; Mike Dillard, assistant professor of business administration; Katherine Licce, senior music major from Bertram; Catherine Mullaney, senior English major and president of the Student Government Association from Boylston, Mass.; Dr. Allen Reed, professor of music; Dr. Elizabeth Wallace, professor of music; and Dr. Julie Welker, professor of communication and president of the Faculty Assembly.