For the past two years, I have had the absolute privilege of serving as the Youth Leader at First Baptist Church in Timpson, Texas. What started as a small group of 12 students has, by God’s grace, blossomed into a vibrant ministry of over 40 teenagers.

We aren't just growing in numbers; we are growing in spirit. Recently, we celebrated two new salvations and six baptisms. Seeing these young people publicly declare their faith is the greatest reward a leader could ask for.

The Challenge

To better serve these students and my community, I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. I have completed 33 credit hours so far, maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

Because I serve in a bi-vocational capacity—working a full-time job to support my family while leading the youth ministry—I do not qualify for most traditional full-time student scholarships. Up until this point, I have been blessed to pay for my schooling out-of-pocket using savings and cash-flow.

However, I am now planning on entering a Teacher Certification program alongside my seminary studies. This dual path will allow me to be a light in our local school system while continuing to shepherd the youth at FBC Timpson.

Why I Am Asking For Your Help

My goal is to finish my education debt-free so that I can remain fully focused on the ministry God has placed in front of me. Your support will go directly toward:

• Tuition and Fees for my remaining seminary hours at SWBTS.
• Curriculum and Certification costs for my teaching program.
• Books and Resources that will help me better equip the next generation of believers in East Texas.

How You Can Help

1. Pray: Please pray for the students in Timpson—that their hearts remain soft to the Gospel—and for me, as I balance full-time work, ministry, and my studies.
2. Give: Any gift, no matter the size, is a direct investment in the youth of Timpson and my future as a teacher and pastor.
3. Share: Please share this link with anyone who has a heart for student ministry or East Texas.

Thank you for standing with me as I "study to show myself approved" (2 Timothy 2:15).

In Christ,

Cole Fleming

Youth Leader, FBC Timpson