Inaugurating the new academic year on Aug. 19, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary President Jason Allen noted that the formality of the fall convocation stands "as a visible reminder of the consequence and the divine stewardship that is ours." Allen said the literal meaning of the term "convocation" is to call together or come together for a special purpose -- as such, the intent of the service wa for the seminary community to "dedicate ourselves anew to the church, the Word of God, Baptist distinctives, the Gospel and the Great Commission as a seminary that exists for the church."