GRTS 2009 Alumnus of the Year
May 5, 2009
Konopka named GRTS Alumnus of the Year
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary honored Rev. Louie Konopka as alumnus of the year for 2009 at its Spring Banquet. The event was held on April 3 at the Gainey Conference Center on the Cornerstone University campus. Approximately 180 individuals were in attendance, including faculty, staff, students, and friends and family of the Konopka’s. The alumnus of the year award is a distinct honor, given to select individuals who make significant contributions to the work of the Kingdom of God, model the fruits of the spirit in relationships, demonstrate longevity in service, and embrace and embody the core values of GRTS.
Pastor Louie is the Senior Pastor at Blythefield Hills Baptist Church (BHBC) in Rockford, Michigan, where he has faithfully served for twenty-eight years. Prior to service at BHBC, he completed a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Studies at GRTS in 1981. As a pastor, his charge and passion “to always make disciples” has proven challenging but joyful. Under his leadership, BHBC has grown from a body of 200 worshipers to over 2000. The congregation deeply appreciates Louie’s commitment to biblical exposition, his humble and honest style, and the emphasis he places on the balance between proclaiming truth and demonstrating love.
While Pastor Louie’s love for the church is clearly evident, his adoration for his family is just as obvious. He and his wife, Mona, have been married for thirty-six years. They have four grown children and five grandchildren. Louie confesses that his favorite hobby is time with “those little ones”. Please join GRTS in congratulating Rev. Louie Konopka, the 2009 alumnus of the year.
