Research for the World, Baylor in Deed

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” 

Matthew 5:16

All throughout campus, Baylor faculty and students utilize their God-given gifts and passions to address the world’s greatest challenges through research. Their work and its impact exemplify the Baylor mission in action. Truly, they are “Baylor in Deed” to those who benefit from advances in health, engineering or technology or are served by resources that provide access to food and clean water or bridge disabilities across a wide spectrum of human need.

This research impacts neighbors close to home and around the world. It reflects Baylor’s unique position as a Christian research university. Through the years, the University’s size has grown as has its influence and impact. The Baylor motto now reads Pro Ecclesia, Pro Texana, Pro Mundo: “For the Church, for Texas, for the World.” The addition of Pro Mundo to Baylor’s 173-year old motto is rooted in our Christian mission that is global in scale. It further captures our commitment to deepen Baylor’s impact beyond state and national borders to countries and peoples around the globe.

As the University builds on the success of recent years, we consider the question, “What does the world need Baylor for?” We recognize the work of a Christian research university must be informed, first and foremost, by its faith commitment. It is crucial that Baylor be recognized as a global expert on issues at the intersection of Christianity and society. As Christians, we are uniquely called to love God and neighbor, to be faithful and wise stewards of God’s creation, to care for the sick and wounded, to feed the hungry, and to stand up for and attend to the needs of “the least of these.”

On National Research Administrator Day, we celebrate all who play a role in Baylor research—those whose support advances that work behind the scenes, and those engaged in research in labs and in the field. In so doing, Matthew 5:16 reminds us that as we celebrate their good deeds, what we truly celebrate is the chance to participate in God’s redemptive work around the world, and to point people towards our Father in heaven.