On Saturday, June 20, 2026 the Wisconsin General Baptist State Convention, Inc. where Reverend Keith T. Evans serves as President and Brother Leonard Cratic services as Laymen’s President and the General Baptist State Convention of WI, Inc. where Dr. Frederick E. Jones serves as President and Deacon Albert Brown serves as Laymen’s President held their combined Annual Deacon’s Gala at the Hampton Inn at State Fair Park. The purpose of this year’s gala was to recognize pastors of both conventions who have served over forty years and to recognize faithful deacon who have passed since Covid to present. Ten pastors and thirty deceased deacons were recognized that evening. Pastors and family members of deceased deacons were presented with plaques. Reverend Carl M. Heard served as the guest speaker. The theme for this event was “Steadfast In Service: Anchored in Faith, Drive by Love” – I Corinthians15:58.