Toll free 800-803-5201 Vol. 185, No. 38 www.thealabamabaptist.org September 24, 2020 Informing. Inspiring. Connecting.

INSIDE Alabama coast cleaning up after Sally omar Beach Baptist RChurch in Orange Beach and Camp Bald- win in Elberta each sus- tained significant dam- Second in a series: age as Hurricane Sally ‘See Jesus’ in the made landfall at Gulf faces of those Shores in the predawn with mental health issues hours of Sept. 16. Romar Beach Baptist Pages 6–7 Church suffered exten- sive damage, inside and out, according to pastor Chris Fowler in a Sept. 17 Facebook post. Win- dows built to withstand Photo by Sam Evans 160+ mph winds were Robert Whittle watches from his porch in Leesville, Louisiana, as a disaster relief crew made up shattered, likely by fly- of mostly Alabama Baptists removes a tree from his house. He and his wife, Elsie, were without insurance and without much help until the cleanup crew showed up. ing debris, Fowler said, and floor tiles and light poles were damaged. COVID-19 and Still standing its impact on Responding The church’s board- Alzheimer’s walk also was destroyed, Page 11 but Fowler noted in his post that the “cross right next to the board- walk took the full force of estimated 125 mph to needs winds too — but STILL STANDS!” ABDR volunteers deploy to Louisiana after Hurricane Laura (See ‘Flooding,’ page 8) hen Robert and winds and tornadoes had torn family in East Texas. And Elsie Whittle through their hometown of when they came back, they’d heard Hurri- Leesville, Louisiana. They’d lost their second “kitchen” Wcane Laura was lost their kitchen, and since — a tree had fallen on their headed right for them, they they didn’t have homeowner’s porch. Interpreter looks, couldn’t believe it. insurance, Elsie had been finds ‘clear’ minis- cooking on the porch. Now Different kind try opportunity A tree had already fallen on the back of their home ear- they might lose everything. But that’s when a storm of a Page 15 lier this summer when high But they couldn’t think different kind showed up — a about that — right then, they team of Alabama Baptist Dis- just knew they couldn’t lose aster Relief volunteers mostly power. from North Jefferson Baptist Association, plus two from Facebook photo “Robert has to have elec- A beachside cross at tricity because he’s on South Carolina. Romar Beach Baptist oxygen, so we couldn’t stay They pulled a tree off the Church withstood winds here,” Elsie Whittle said. front of the house using a from Hurricane Laura. So they headed to stay with (See ‘Working,’ page 8) PAGE 2 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020

OUR EXTENDED ALABAMA BAPTIST “If ye continue in My word, then ... FAMILY ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31–32 ALABAMA BAPTIST STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS (ISSN 0738-7741; USPS 011-080) © The Alabama Baptist, Inc. 1-800-264-1225 | www.alsbom.org is published weekly except for one week in Offices: Prattville July and December by The Alabama Baptist, Leadership: Rick Lance, executive director Inc., at 3310 Independence Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209. Phone: 205-870-4720. ALABAMA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOMES Statewide phone: 800-803-5201. Website: www.thealabamabaptist.org & FAMILY MINISTRIES Email: [email protected] 205-982-1112 | www.alabamachild.org or [email protected] Main office: Birmingham Periodicals postage paid at Hattiesburg, Miss. Leadership: Rod Marshall, president and CEO ANNUAL TAB SUBSCRIPTION RATES ALABAMA BAPTIST Includes print, digital, app and full web access HISTORICAL COMMISSION 205-726-2363 | www.abhconline.com Group Rate per subscriber per year — $16.25 (Check with your church or group to find out if Office: Birmingham it has a TAB group account) Leadership: Lonette Berg, executive director Individual — $34.95 per year (50 issues) ALABAMA BAPTIST RETIREMENT CENTERS Photo by Sam Evans JENNIFER DAVIS RASH 800-264-1225, ext. 329 | www.abrc.org Maggie Evans (right) talks with Barbara Molde as a disaster relief crew including EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Main office: Prattville some Alabama Baptists removes trees from Molde’s yard in Leesville, Louisiana. Cynthia Watts Carrie B. McWhorter Leadership: Ray Burdeshaw, acting president Executive Assistant Content Editor

THE BAPTIST FOUNDATION OF ALABAMA Maggie Evans Janet Erwin 334-394-2000 | www.tbfa.org TAB staffers Special Assistant Copy Editor Offices: Montgomery Debbie Campbell Grace Thornton Leadership: Barry Bledsoe, president Director of Special inspired by SBDR Communications Assignments Editor SHOCCO SPRINGS Linda Harrison Margaret Colson BAPTIST CONFERENCE CENTER Director of Human Special 256-761-1100 | www.shocco.org volunteers Resources Assignments Editor Location: Talladega James Hammack Hannah Muñoz Leadership: Russell Klinner, executive director ye opening and encourag- Digital Services Digital Editor Manager ing” — that’s how Jessica Lauren C. Grim Ingram, event coordinator Sarah Gill Creative Services ALABAMA CITIZENS ACTION PROGRAM E Digital Services Manager 205-985-9062 | www.alcap.com for TAB Media, described getting Associate Offices: Birmingham Amy Hacker Jessica Ingram Creative Services Leadership: Joe Godfrey, executive director to see the work of Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers helping Event Coordinator Associate ALABAMA WMU Annette Brown Melanie McKinney families and communities devas- Guest Services 334-288-2460 | www.alabamawmu.org Advertising Manager Offices: Prattville tated by Hurricane Laura. Haley Piersol Pam Holt Photo by Susan Stevens Leadership: Candace McIntosh, executive director Ingram — along with Susan Client Coordinator Outside Sales Rep Jessica Ingram takes notes while inter- Stevens, a sales representative for Deb Lowery Susan Stevens viewing a Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Financial Assistant Outside Sales Rep JUDSON COLLEGE TAB Media — spent a week in volunteer from Arkansas who had been Richard Maddox Freelance and guest 800-447-9472 | www.judson.edu mid-September visiting with SBDR clearing debris in Sulphur, Louisiana. Computer Services contributors Location: Marion Leadership: Mark Tew, president teams around Lake Charles, Louisi- ana. At the same time, Maggie Ev- chosen to dedicate their retirement NEWS SERVICES SAMFORD UNIVERSITY ans, special assistant to the editor at to disaster relief — passionately Baptist Press (BP), Associated Press/Religion 205-726-2011 | www.samford.edu News Service (AP/RNS), Morning Star Location: Birmingham TAB Media, and her husband, Sam, serving largely without recogni- News (MS). Leadership: Andrew Westmoreland, president were doing the same thing just tion,” Ingram said. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: UNIVERSITY OF MOBILE north of there in the DeRidder and Maggie Evans said she and Sam The Alabama Baptist 251-675-5990 | www.umobile.edu Leesville areas. were touched by the same thing 3310 Independence Drive Location: Mobile All of them went to collect sto- — that volunteers had a “ferocious Birmingham, AL 35209 Leadership: Lonnie Burnett, president ADDRESS CHANGE ries, photos and videos to come endurance” to keep doing tough Send old and new addresses, back and share with TAB readers work at house after house in order and name of church to: Subscription Department and Baptists in other states. Along to share the love of Jesus with the 3310 Independence Drive Birmingham, AL 35209 the way, they also occasionally hurting, marginalized and those Allow two weeks.

jumped in and helped. without help or homeowner’s insur- To the best of our knowledge, Many of the volunteers “have ance. (TAB) all of the ads in The Alabama Baptist represent legitimate companies and offerings. However, one should always exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

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Having issues with the timely Accredited member of Evangelical delivery of your print edition? Council for Financial Accountability Every TAB subscriber also can receive the digital issue via email ‘Nation’s Top Regional Christian Newspaper’ each week at no additional charge. 1999, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 Contact [email protected] as judged by Associated Church Press, Baptist The crossword puzzle to request the digital edition. Communicators Association, Evangelical Press can be found on page 17. Association or Religion Communicators Council SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 3 OPINION

By Jennifer Davis Rash MY President and Editor-in-Chief [email protected] RASHIONALE @RashionalThts Sometimes well-oiled machines are taken for granted early 20 years ago A few aspects have adapted coming lead mission strategist of TAB editor emeritus Bob Ter- in January 2001, through the years, but the heart for Autauga Association, also ry that grew us into a team able an earthquake and soul of “giving a cup of helped TAB staff members cov- to consistently and thoroughly registering 7.6 on cold water in Jesus’ name” has ering DR learn the terminology share the DR story. the Richter scale remained the same. and the difference of trained and Ndevastated El Salvador’s city of untrained volunteers. Dr. Terry led our young team Santiago de Maria. And TAB’s commitment to through coverage of the April and partnership in telling the DR volunteers don’t just show 1998 tornado outbreak, taught More than 4,500 families lost DR story continues. up and figure out what to do on us how to cover cleanup efforts homes in the then-city of 36,000 the spot. They are well trained as well as capture the emotions and developed makeshift shel- Mark Wakefield, who cur- for specific assignments, and attached to such loss, and how ters out of cardboard, tents and rently leads Alabama’s DR ef- deployments are made through to do it all in a timely fashion. blankets. forts, works diligently to keep an orderly system. Each volun- our coverage teams educated teer knows exactly what he or The 2001 assignment in El Aftershocks followed and a and informed about DR deploy- she will do — it’s an incredibly Salvador resulted in a six-page month to the day later, a sec- ments such as what you will efficient system. feature in the next issue of TAB ond earthquake (registering 6.6) shook the city and nation read about on pages 1, 8 and 9. showcasing a variety of inter- again — while Alabama Baptist Along with the mentorship views and photos telling the Disaster Relief volunteers were Mel Johnson, who led Ala- and partnership from our state’s story of Santiago de Maria, its cleaning up from the first quake. bama’s DR efforts before be- DR leaders, it was the guidance people and the DR effort.

That was my first experience with an earthquake. It also was RASHIONAL THOUGHTS my first time to wear an N95 mask and serve as an embedded reporter. Lots of firsts on that assignment but the opportunity Personal note about Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to dig in deep with volunteers hile September is Child- live life to its fullest (despite the love, prayers and various forms from Disaster Relief’s “Yellow Whood Cancer Awareness obstacles that undoubtedly will of assistance. They want to help. Shirt Army” helped me truly Month, it’s one particular day appear in our path) and laugh as If you are a church family or understand the difference made during the month — Sept. 24, much as possible (even amid the small group with a family on the through this ministry. the date of this week’s issue pain and fear). She knew childhood cancer journey, — that brings the full scope of how to celebrate life — then know there are mul- The late Tommy Puckett, then childhood cancer into focus for and I want to be like Belle head of DR for the Alabama tiple ways to help even our family. when I grow up. Baptist State Board of Missions, if the family is too over- A few minutes before midnight To read more about encouraged me to learn every- whelmed to know what on Sept. 24, 2009, doctors con- thing I could about DR and sent Belle, visit caringbridge. they need at the moment. me to the state training one year firmed a mass on the brain of our org/visit/bellemitchell or I’m happy to share sug- to make sure I did. 2-year-old niece Belle — and check the “Snapshots of gestions if you want to from that moment, life changed Belle” category at rashion- BELLE & HER BROTHER contact me, but the main forever for her and all of us. He put me in every course althoughts.com. thing to remember is that Those who have known me a So many of you have — even chainsaw, but only to the journey will be a long one, while know the joy she brought walked a similar path and under- observe (whew!) — so I could no matter the end result. And it to so many and why I contend stand all that is involved in the gain insight into each role. He will always be part of who they my heart is forever streaked in battle against childhood cancer. also spent time explaining con- are from here on out. cepts, strategies and protocols. hot pink (her favorite color). Our family and friends continue We are nearing six years with- supporting efforts to fund research Finding steady, consistent Before long, I understood out her now, but the mark she and assist families currently in the ways to relieve some of the each part of the whole and the left will never fade. heat of the battle. pressures of everyday life truly connection between volunteers, Belle taught me how to love If you are one of those families, makes a difference and definitely churches, associations, state like Jesus (consistently showing then I hope you are letting your shines some Jesus on them. conventions, and at that time the grace, mercy and forgiveness), church family surround you with —Jennifer Davis Rash North American Mission Board. PAGE 4 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 OPINION

Share your comments, letters to the editor, blog excerpts, social media posts Six reasons your pastor may consider leaving During this COVID-19 By Thom Rainer place among church members churches will be able to support Churchanswers.com pandemic, we face extreme about the post-quarantine church. ministries financially in the future. challenges that requires each t’s a trend I have not seen in my Gather in person or wait? Masks or In the early stages of the pandemic, church to reexamine itself lifetime. Some [pastors] are just no masks? Social distancing or not? giving was largely healthy. Church concerning what God is going Iweeks away from making an Too many church members have members stepped up. Government to do in this challenging time. announcement. ... They are leaving adopted the mindset of culture and infusion of funds for businesses and The question we have to or getting ready to leave. There are made these issues political fights. consumers helped as well. Now, address is: What can we do many reasons why, but allow me Pastors deal daily with complaints the financial future is cloudy. Can as a pastor and staff to make to share the top six reasons, under- about the decisions the church the church continue to support the a difference in the commu- standing that they are not mutually makes. ministries they need to do? Will the nity as we minister to a lot of exclusive. 3. Pastors are discouraged about church need to eliminate positions? hurting people? 1. Pastors are weary from the losing members and attendance. These issues weigh heavily on pas- I thank you in advance for pandemic, just like everyone else. For sure, it’s not all about the num- tors. the bold ministry that you are Pastors are not super humans. They bers. But imagine your own mindset 5. Criticisms against pastors already doing. God has His miss their routines. They miss see- if one-half or more of your friends have increased significantly. One hand upon your congregation. ing people as they used to do so. stopped engaging with you. And pastor recently shared with me the Thank you for sharing the They would like the world to return heart of God, along with your pastors have already heard directly number of criticisms he receives to normal, but they realize the old or indirectly from around one-fourth compassion and love. are five times greater than the pre- normal will not return. of the members that they do not plan Barry Cosper pandemic era. Church members are 2. Pastors are greatly discour- to return at all. Associational mission worried. Church members are wea- aged about the fighting taking 4. Pastors don’t know if their strategist ry. And the most convenient target Bessemer Baptist for their angst is their pastor. Association 6. The workload for pastors has Letters to the Editor increased greatly. Almost every pastor with whom we communicate s a graduate of Gordon Col- pray for loved ones, the physi- expresses surprise at their level of Alege and former professor cal needs of others, our country work since the pandemic began. It at Gordon-Conwell Theological and military, etc. I asked myself, Believers are to be people really makes sense. They are trying Seminary (and a current faculty “how often do I pray fervently of the truth as the Jesus we to serve the congregation the way member at Samford University or with a great intensity for mis- follow literally calls Himself in Alabama), I’m very happy to sionaries?” they have in the past, but now they “truth” (John 14:6). see the recent piece about A.J. Acts 12:5 tells us that while have the added responsibilities that Ed Stetzer Gordon in The Alabama Baptist. Peter was in prison, he was have come with the digital world. What a wonderful legacy! prayed for fervently. It is my And as expected, pastoral care needs Roy Ciampa prayer that I will pray without among members have increased dur- Birmingham, Ala. ceasing, not only for the mis- ing the pandemic as well. sionaries in Nigeria but for all Pastors are burned out, beaten up A godly person — one read and re-read the article, missionaries around the world. and downtrodden. who serves Christ and ex- I“violence in Nigeria,” in the Sue Rash Many are about to quit. hibits purity and integrity in Sept. 3 issue. As a Christian, I Cairo, Georgia You may be surprised to discover his life — is not necessarily your pastor is among them. welcomed or admired by those who live differently. Share online or email [email protected] Billy Graham SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 5 OPINION Learning to live faithfully in a fallen world requires the development of spiritual maturity.

JOSH WESTER Chair of research in Christian ethics, Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission

Periodically, we need to get away. have the mindset of their ancestors, the best moral, ethical and theologi- In Mark 6:31, Jesus said to the dis- but that’s not all of the leaders. cal statements we want, but when ciples, “Come aside by yourselves So with the ones who have the the world sees us grasping for pow- Photo by Susan Stevens David Williams of Grace Baptist to a deserted place and rest a while.” mindset of “there’s no way we will er for ourselves instead of clinging Church in Virgilina, Virginia, serves In this great big beautiful but busy function like the ways of old,” we to the cross and sacrificially loving in Louisiana in mid-September. world, sometimes we need a good lock arms and become emotionally others, it’s a clanging cymbal that porch, a patch of woods or some involved with each other, as well as contradicts our message. quiet place where we can come spiritually connected. Pastor Alan Cross ‘Get back apart ... before we come apart. We are not tokens, passive, nor Petaluma, Calif. Director of Missions Bill King do we tone down our blackness out there’ Tuskegee Lee Association because God made us that way and On intercessory prayer: t was a disaster relief trip in He adores us (Rev. 7:9). Believe Believer, you have a mighty en- I2018 to Dawson, Georgia. We [as Black pastors] are very me, our perspectives are heard. In gine in your hand. Use it well, use it Ryland Davis came down there well aware of the SBC’s past, but the midst of all this that’s going on, constantly, use it with faith, and you with us, and I had planned on we are also well aware of their re- God’s Word will win ... [has] al- shall surely be a benefactor to thy him being one of our main pentance and how they are trying ready won. Love covers a multitude brethren. chainsaw guys. We were in the to right the wrongs of their ances- of sins. Charles Spurgeon back at a house cutting on a tors by strategically hiring African Pastor Dewayne Rembert tree and one of the other guys Americans to bring about unity and Montgomery, Ala. Love is evidence of a transformed was cutting. I could see that we restoration on state and regional heart. Let’s take it seriously. could use a second guy safely, levels. We also know that some still We can release and promote all of Trillia Newbell so I turned around and said, “Ryland go get your chaps and hard hat and bring a saw.” He said, “Alright!” So he’s out, and I get back focused on my job and figure he’ll be back in a few minutes. After a while, I realize he’s not back yet. I look and he’s stand- @RMattBoyd beauty and joy! I took a deep breath strangles our self-sufficiency, 2020 ing in the middle of the street It’s His power and His ministry, and shouted “hallelujah.” is showing us what we’re really with his chaps on, saw in hand and I cannot save the world but carry working with ... and for. talking to somebody. And I’m the responsibility to point to the One like, “Okay, he’s checking to that can. #churchplanting @john316marshall see if they know how to get to We like long-term planning, but @TinaBoesch heaven.” I go back to my work. God gives us only day-by-day, of- The most unforgettable people, I get a little task focused, so @PastorJFC ten second-by-second, leadership. the best colleagues and leaders, are after about 5 minutes, I’m re- Not everyone who begins with We live in a spotlight, not a flood- the ones who open doors for others, ally getting frustrated that he’s you finishes with you. Attitude: Be light. I struggle in this. If I depicted the ones who see potential and call it not there. I look, and he’s still thankful for the season you had with an image of me trying to wait on out, the ones who aren’t threatened talking. Finally, he comes back, them and wish them well as they Jesus, I would be squirming in a by creativity but cultivate and en- and it looks like he’s walking move forward. chair and constantly checking my courage it, the ones who lift up other about a foot off the ground. He watch. voices. said, “That guy just accepted @timkellernyc Jesus.” I told Ryland, “Take If I have the smile of God, all @jrwilliams740 @EdLitton your chaps off, put your saw other frowns are inconsequential. Rare is the person who will do Prayer is not God’s suggestion down and go back into the what is right no matter what it box. He needs not my instructions or street and see if you can find might cost them. ideas. I need to submit to His infinite anybody else.” @sygarte wisdom, power and might. That week we saw seven peo- I was living under water for de- ple saved, just because Ryland cades, holding my breath, seeing @jaredcwilson stopped being the chainsaw guy poorly, lost and confused. Then a 2020 is the mineral spirits to the @DustinBenge and started being an evangelist. hand entered the water from above. varnish of our ideal churches and Every sermon of every faithful —David Williams I grasped it, and Jesus pulled me up dream ministries. This is a harsh man should be preached with only (Transcribed from interview) into the air and light — a world of good. As it shatters our idealism and one audience member in mind: God. PAGE 6 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020

SECOND IN A SERIES The church can help ‘See Jesus’ in the faces of those with mental health issues By Tracy Riggs could have been diagnosed earlier to die — he just wanted the pain to questions in the Bible,” Johnson Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist if she had realized children could stop. said. uicide. Bipolar disorder. have depression, Warren said. He Warren said she “kept on believ- Steve Marshall, Alabama Attorney Addiction. Churches tend to battled depression and a borderline ing, kept on hoping, kept on asking General and mental health advocate, shy away from such topics, personality disorder the majority of for a miracle, kept praying Scrip- lost his wife to suicide in 2018. He Sbut the issues affect people his life. ture, kept begging others to pray told Not Alone Conference partici- in the pews every Sunday across When Matthew was 12, he asked as fervently as we were,” all along pants that his wife, Bridgette, had a Alabama and the nation. his mother to kill him and put him knowing Matthew might die. lifelong battle with mental illness, Kay Warren, wife of Saddleback out of his misery. “For years we lived with the beginning in childhood with mi- Church Pastor Rick Warren, has The Warrens sought advice from knowledge that any given day could graine headaches. This led to an ad- dealt with some of these issues per- doctors, psychiatrists and other be the day he couldn’t fight any lon- diction to opioids and a cascade of sonally, losing her 27-year-old son, mental health pro- ger,” she said. other issues. Matthew, to suicide in 2013. War- fessionals, and Marshall said that just prior to her ren spoke about him at the 2019 numerous Mistaken ideas suicide Bridgette seemed “as happy Not Alone Conference. Christians “I wasn’t stupidly naïve or ridicu- as I had seen her in a long time.” Diagnosed with de- prayed for lously convinced God would deliv- Soon afterward, she went down- pression at age Matthew. er,” Warren added. “I just knew He hill, complaining of various physical 7, Matthew He was could, and I would ask Him to do it ailments, he said, noting she said a Christian until either He delivered Matthew she would go to the hospital but who led oth- here on this Earth or welcomed him instead committed suicide the next ers to Christ, home sooner than we expected. afternoon. Warren said, “Many people in the church have Bridgette told Marshall on the and didn’t the wrong idea that mental illness is morning of her death, “I don’t have only a spiritual problem and can be really want any purpose, and I’m tired. My ‘fixed’ with prayer,” Warren said. body’s failing me, and I don’t know Those outside often think the why. I’ve had pain for a long time, church is ignoring the problem, and I don’t want to endure it any- and they’re not necessarily wrong, more. I’m just a burden.” said Jeremiah Johnston, author and president of the Christian Think- Advocates needed ers Society. Warren believes the church is “Too often difficult ques- uniquely positioned to help fill the tions aren’t addressed in gaps where the mental health system the church, though Jesus hasn’t been able to keep up. asked more than 300 Research suggests 25% of those questions and experiencing a mental health emer- there are more gency go to a pastor before they than 3,200 seek a mental health professional. There is a great tradition of car- ing for the physically sick, with the church the entity that invent- ed the idea of hospitals — but not a great tradition of caring for those with mental 123rf.com illness, Warren lamented. SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 7

She noted the message of Isaiah 61, which says the Messiah came to bring good news to the poor and to release the captives. So often the “captives” described in this verse are thought to be in physical captivity, Warren said, but the captivity can also be emotional. Some of the poorest people are those living with mental illness, she said, and they also are “captive” — both physically and emotionally. Emphasizing that mental illnesses are real, common and treatable, Warren shared some powerful sta- tistics: 4One in five will live with a mental illness in the next year. 4There are not enough psychia- trists, psychologists, social workers or other mental health professionals to keep up with the need. 4A shortage of inpatient beds exists, which means those who need help often are unable to get it in time. 4The prison system has become the No. 1 provider for mental health care. 4In 2018 there were twice as 123rf.com many suicides as murders. Warren said the church needs to Many think mental illnesses re- One simple thing anyone can do R — Remove the stigma sur- see Jesus in the faces of those in quire professional help so there’s — notice the one sitting by himself rounding mental illness need. Her prayer, she said, is that nothing they can do. at church. Sit with that person; lis- The church has an amazing ability believers have eyes to see those with A better way to think about it is ten; invite him for coffee or a movie. to validate or invalidate people. No issues of mental illness. simply as an illness. Caring doesn’t If everyone did this, there would be one should have to whisper about cost a penny, but it requires an in- much less loneliness in the world. his or her life while at church. ‘The least of these’ H — Help with the basic needs Church should be a safe place and “Remember that Jesus said, ‘What vestment of time. People who deal with mental ill- of people living with mental illness a powerful way to help remove the you have done for the least of these, and their families ness often burn bridges with friends stigma. Remember, it’s not a sin to you have done for Me.’ ” Mental illness is a “no casserole” be sick. Warren devised an acronym, and family. When they turn to the illness. If there is a death or physi- church, they find they aren’t accept- C — Collaborate with the com- CHURCH, which spells out practi- cal issue, we are quick to jump in munity cal ways the church can help: ed there either. God loved us when and help with food or other physical Team up with mental health pro- C — Care for people living with we were still sinners and He expects needs. fessionals to receive training on the mental illness and their families us to do the same with others. However, we whisper about those signs of suicide and other mental with mental illness. We withdraw. If health topics. someone has been diagnosed with a Build a resource list of mental mental illness, it’s similar to being health and other needed services. diagnosed with a physical illness H — Offer hope Practical ways and can be overwhelming. We are hope dispensers. People the church can help Help with practical needs need to know we won’t give up on Having someone help with practi- them; won’t walk away. There is a “forever family” with C — Care for people living with mental illness and their cal needs can allow the newly di- agnosed person time to sort out the stronger bonds than human families families. new reality. and relationships. Help with the basic needs of people living with U — Utilize volunteers Many times when people get a H — diagnosis and cooperate with a treat- mental illness and their families. In every congregation there are people who are able and willing ment plan they are healed. U — Utilize volunteers. to help. They can pray, coordinate But there are some who have the meals, help a newly diagnosed best care who aren’t healed in this R — Remove the stigma surrounding mental illness. person navigate the mental health life. This is true for both physical system, do home visits or be trained and mental illnesses. C — Collaborate with the community. as a short-term counselor until a pro- The message of the church should H — Offer hope. fessional is available. be, “Whether you are healed or ill Churches can open their doors to we are here for you.” Connection is support groups. extremely important. PAGE 8 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 Working together SBDR volunteers serve thousands of hours, meals, gospel conversations in Louisiana (continued from page 1) cause damage, teams in Louisiana skid steer loader and chainsaws, and kept going. the Whittles cheered. “Flexibility is the key to this They were one family of many work,” said Tim Folds, the blue hat who had help show up in their yard crew leader of Geneva Baptist As- in recent days. sociation Disaster Relief, which was On Aug. 27 — a few weeks before also serving in Leesville. “You nev- Hurricane Sally pounded Alabama er know during storm season what’s and the Florida Panhandle (see going to happen.” story, page 1) — Hurricane Laura, a category 4 storm, plowed through Divided attention the Whittles’ state as well as parts It was a personal statement for of Texas. It caused major damage, Folds, who serves as pastor of Pleas- killed 14 people and left more than ant Hill Baptist Church, Slocomb. half a million without power. As Hurricane Sally made landfall But Southern Baptists responded, on the Alabama coast in the wee including many Alabama Baptists. hours of Sept. 16, Folds found his For more disaster relief photos, So far, Southern Baptist Disaster attention divided. While he cut up visit tabonline.org/DR2020. Relief volunteers have collectively trees in Louisiana, he was thinking served more than 93,700 hours, pre- of his church back home, as well as Photo by Sam Evans William Edwards of Ridgecrest Baptist Church, Dothan, cuts up a tree that fell outside pared more than 315,000 meals and his daughter who lives in Bonifay, Barbara Molde’s house in Leesville, Louisiana, when Hurricane Laura hit Aug. 27. helped with cleanup at more than Florida, just about an hour from the 1,100 homes that had significant Gulf Coast. storm damage from Laura. They’ve Phil Merritt, a member of Wa- forth all day, and he seems to be smile to their face,” Merritt said of also made nearly 1,200 gospel termark Church, Ashford, also felt doing well,” Merritt said Sept. 16, the disaster relief work. presentations and seen 263 people torn between two disasters. His son adding that he was right where he Just down the road from the crew make professions of faith in Christ. lives in Fairhope, just northeast of needed to be for the moment. that was working on the Whittles’ And even as other crews got ready Mobile. “People are in misery when we home, Folds and Merritt worked to help in places where Sally might “We’ve been texting back and come to them, and we can bring a to help homeowners like Barbara Flooding, downed trees cause most damage in Alabama (continued from page 1) treme Ministries (Pell City) along with strong winds, to Mobile and Baldwin coun- tions to begin receiving In Elberta, Camp Bald- cutting and cleaning up our most of coastal Alabama, ties remained closed through and assessing requests for win took a direct hit from RV park and main campus then trekked north across Sept. 18 as well. assistance. Sally, losing more than area. Hopefully we will central Alabama. Sally’s winds brought “This is a developing 100 large trees and sus- be able to host The National down power lines and trees, situation,” said Mark taining severe damage to more volunteers Weather Service Wakefield, disaster relief To donate to leaving nearly a half million its pier and zipline, along to help here and hurricane disaster measured more people without power in strategist for the Alabama with water damage to also in our com- relief efforts, than 8 inches of Alabama and Florida. Baptist State Board of some buildings. munity around go to sbdr.org/ rainfall in some By Sept. 18 at 7 a.m., Ala- Missions. Camp director Gil John- us, which is also connect/donate/. parts of south- bama Power reported that “The leadership will son said a kitchen genera- in bad shape.” eastern Alabama power had been restored to be constantly evaluating tor provided temporary Hurricane on Sept. 16, all but 75,000 customers in and adjusting the plan. I power to run the freezer, Sally made landfall near bringing the threat of river the Mobile area. am grateful for all the en- cooler and well, enabling Gulf Shores as a Category flooding across the region. couragement and support camp staff to take care of 2 storm, the first hurricane In Elba, the Pea River ABDR at work that has been offered. families, volunteers and to hit Alabama since Hur- crested at 2 feet above flood Alabama Baptist Disaster Other states are standing neighbors during cleanup. ricane Ivan in 2004. The stage, with localized flood- Relief set up incident man- by to assist us. We will “[We] already have storm’s slow movement ing forcing school closures. agement sites in Mobile and ask for their help when three volunteers from Ex- brought torrential rainfall, Many school systems in Baldwin Baptist Associa- appropriate.” (TAB) SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 9

Molde, who came back to Leesville after the storm to nd trees down all around her house. She was thankful for the Sept. 16 arrival of a yellow-shirted Southern Baptist Disaster Relief chainsaw Pointing to Jesus crew consisting of volunteers from Alabama, Florida and South Caro- lina. Jackson County couple spends retirement chasing storms, loving people It’s “truly amazing” to be on the ebbie Reese has met receiving end of disaster relief ef- a lot of people over forts, she said. TAB the past 13 years that MEDIA A crew also helped with cleanup she says she’ll never at First Baptist Church, DeRidder, D forget — people who have lost Louisiana, which was one of the homes, friends, family members state’s seven Incident Command and in some cases, everything. To view disaster relief Centers, hubs where Southern Bap- But there’s one memory tist teams from across the country videos, visit in particular that moves her converge to serve the areas in need. youtube.com/ to tears — the day she saw a The church had 17 pecan trees tabmediagroup. 10-year-old girl in Moore, Okla- down around it when a trailer full of homa, standing and staring at volunteers from Alabama showed the spot where her school used up, cleared the church property and to be. A tornado had ripped left, said Dan Batchelor, pastor of administration at the church. through the building a couple of “We don’t know who they were, weeks before. but we said, ‘Roll Tide,’” he joked. “I went and put my hand on But Batchelor is serious when it her shoulder and just started Photo by Sam Evans comes to ministering to the com- talking with her,” Debbie said. Al and Debbie Reese — experienced white hat leaders for disaster relief — munity. “It ended up she was suffering spent a week serving at the Incident Command Center for Hurricane Laura from survivor’s guilt because relief at East Leesville Baptist Church in Louisiana starting Sept. 17. The He’s been through storms be- Reeses are members of South Sauty Baptist Church, Langston. fore — prior to coming to First, her friend was killed and she DeRidder, he served in a similar was not — she was not at school role at Trinity Baptist Church, Lake that day.” Al, got into disaster relief work in ment — the Incident Command Charles, an area about an hour south That simple gesture led the 2007, she said. They’d both retired Center at East Leesville Baptist that was hit particularly hard by young girl to write the idea on from a career as special agents Church in Louisiana — Al gets Hurricane Laura. the back of a t-shirt for the sake with the Naval Criminal Investiga- to wear the white as they work of everyone around her, to pos- tive Service, and they “knew when to help those with damage from Grieving with others sibly help someone else — “If we retired we needed ministry, and Hurricane Laura. He grieves with the people around you’re hurting, or this is the one He led But Debbie is still his white him who face signi cant losses. if you’re sad, just “It’s our mission that us to,” Debbie said. hat — the real boss, he joked. “I try to ease them toward looking put your hand on They ended up at Al said when he and Debbie to what they do have. They still have my shoulder and God has placed us in South Sauty Baptist start out toward a disaster relief their life. They still have their fam- I’ll talk to you.” Church, Langston, assignment, they always “say ily,” he said — and they still have a Debbie said the to be able to share whose pastor, Jerry a prayer that God would go Father who loves them. opportunity to help Butler, did chainsaw before us and prepare safe pas- By coming alongside Batchelor, the young girl — His love with others training for disaster sage for us and that He would Alabama crews and volunteers from Lauren — through relief volunteers. touch the people that He has al- other states help the Incident Com- her healing process who are hurting.” “He got us involved ready intended for us to reach.” mand Center keep rolling to help the in that way made at that time, and it hurting people in the community. an impact on her Debbie Reese was such a great op- Answered prayers Crews have been serving between too. And every member, South Sauty portunity,” Al said. He remembers one speci c time that happened in St. Au- 2,000 and 3,000 meals a day from year since, Debbie Baptist Church, Langston The Reeses went First, DeRidder, working in con- has put her hand to training together gustine, Florida — he knocked junction with the American Red on the shoulder of and haven’t stopped on the door of a woman who Cross. person after person, asking them since. They’ve traveled all over the cried and said she’d been pray- And from the most experienced what they need, showing them Southeast and to other parts of the ing for someone to come help workers to the rst-time volunteers love and pointing them toward country ministering to people in her. like David Branham, a member of the hope of Jesus. the aftermath of hurricanes,  oods “I said, ‘Well your prayers Calcedonia Baptist Church, Gar- and other disasters. have been answered, and our dendale, all say they see clearly the ‘It’s a mission’ They’re both trained as white prayers have too because He purpose that keeps them going even “It’s a mission,” she said. “It’s hats for Southern Baptist Disaster coordinated this meeting be- when they’re weary. our mission that God has placed Relief, which means either one of tween both of us,’ ” Al said. “It’s been great,” Branham said. us in to be able to share His love them can be called out as the lead “That’s one of the things I love “We’ve got to pace ourselves, but with others who are hurting.” disaster relief director for a com- about this mission — being everybody is really great at checking It was through God’s guid- mand post when needed. able to show and share the love on one another and taking care of ance that she and her husband, For their most recent assign- of Christ.” (TAB) one another.” (TAB) PAGE 10 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 Alabama Baptist leaders offer advice for new church year By Michael J. Brooks tural Christians’ may find is talking about others they Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist it easier to not attend the can serve. n “ever-changing church since it might not “Service projects help us situation” is how be as convenient as it once connect,” Yates explained. Mike Jackson was,” Jackson explained. Webinar co-host Ken Al- Aof the Alabama George Yates, SBOM len, also an SBOM church Baptist State Board of Mis- church health strategist, health strategist, noted that sions describes the current said every church must seek just as people can become situation in church life due what works in its context. disoriented after an injury, 123rf.com to the COVID-19 pandemic. “It may take us a few the church has received blow “The situation is ... al- months or even years to get after blow and is experienc- elect new deacons now, but plained. “A better way is to most changing over the virus ing “disorientation.” churches can suggest ex- ask church leaders to help. hour by hour in “We must focus and social un- “We’ll be inviting people tending the terms of their For example, a preschool public school rest in America, to regather, and we need to current deacons,” he said. leader can recommend to the and even in on sending, more but going back help with their anxiety and “And [they] are important. nominating committee those football,” Jack- to the way explain the personal bene- than on gathering, They’re taking the lead in he or she knows who have son said. “It’s a things were is fits,” he said. “We should ex- this time and helping our a heart for this work. Thus time our church for the work of unwise,” Yates plain how meeting together churches through their con- the nominating committee leaders face said. “We must is God’s design for believers tributions.” becomes a ‘clearing house’ great strain.” focus on send- and benefits us in an emo- Yates noted another aspect of sorts.” Director of discipleship.” ing, more than tional and spiritual way.” of church administration, Allen noted budgeting is the SBOM’s on gathering, Jackson noted some re- George Yates the nominating committee, another difficult issue fac- office of Lead- for the work of search suggests that an in- which normally presents rec- ing the church. “Maybe the erCare and SBOM church health discipleship. creased number of pastors ommendations in Septem- church can have a ‘dream church health, strategist “I don’t call could leave active ministry Jackson served it ‘the new nor- in the coming months. ber, but might be off sched- and hope’ meeting and iden- as host for the SBOM we- mal,’ but I call it ‘the new “This could be the result ule this year. He said there tify between two and five binar “Forecasting the Fu- reality,’” he said. “We must of many post-pandemic might be “a better way” to priorities for budgeting,” he ture.” listen to multiple voices in factors including church pursue the process. suggested. “It’s a good time making decisions these next closures, burnout/depression “We sometimes ‘pick and to refocus on ... how much Returning to church months, not just to those and conflict,” he said. “Pas- choose’ from among those the church can do for mis- He referenced a recent ‘squeaky wheels’ at the mo- tors must network and con- rotating off another commit- sional impact.” post by former LifeWay ment. We have spiritually nect in some way,” he noted. tee, or someone who will Watch the full webinar at Christian Resources CEO mature members to whom “Scripture commands us to always say ‘yes,’ ” Yates ex- vimeo.com/452665927. Thom Rainer who specu- we must listen for counsel.” bear one another’s burdens.” lated that some church Yates noted one church Jackson also spoke about members won’t return after that recently prepared and deaconship in the church in the quarantine. delivered a special meal to the face of a pandemic. “Those Rainer calls ‘cul- its seniors. Now the church “It might be difficult to SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 11

COVID-19 and its impact on ALZHEIMER’S Pandemic-forced separation exacerbates memory-related care concerns By Laura Lee Leathers inadequate to describe the mostly sleeps through Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist loneliness, anxiety, pain their visits. On the days ince the early days and heartbreak of this ex- she does try to commu- of the COVID-19 perience. This instance is nicate, it isn’t easy to pandemic, those a snapshot of the isolation living in nursing understand what she is S COVID-19 has created and saying. homes, assisted living facil- gives us a realistic view of ities and memory care units what is happening today — Relying on caregivers have been greatly the growing isola- “Mom has declined quite affected by the tion and holding on a lot since March, due to pandemic. Those September is World to hope. the advanced care required with dementia and Alzheimer’s Lanell Smith their families have because of her disease,” Month. has found herself Smith said. “Our family suffered the grief of caught up in this separation as these feels that her decline may new dilemma. Her Photo courtesy of Jennifer Smith Whitaker facilities closed to outside have been exacerbated by mother, Vernice Downs, the lack of visits with those Byron Smith, 91, a retired Alabama prison chaplain and pastor, visitors. hugs his daughter, Jennifer Whitaker, through a plastic window was diagnosed in 2016 with Social media has given us she knows and loves.” at his memory care community in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Alzheimer’s. Downs is now many photographs and sto- Care is not the problem, in the advanced stages of ries about the disease and Smith said. its impact on people’s lives the disease and living in “Mom receives won- walking this road will tell because there was little we during this time. a facility in Montgomery. derful care at the nursing you there are moments of could do for her. The staff Her last unrestricted visit home, but it’s difficult not frustration, sadness, anger at the nursing home are a Window visits was during the final week to be able to monitor her and hopelessness. Mean- great blessing. I know she One photo depicts an of March. health personally. It’s hard while, the disease doesn’t is well cared for, and that elderly woman sitting in a Since then, Smith has to know whether stop its progres- means the world to us. wheelchair, reaching out to tried Facetime and window we’re just catch- sion because of We hope that she doesn’t visits, but “nothing com- For a list of touch an individual stand- ing her on a bad resources on COVID-19. The worry and wonder why we ing outside her window. pares to being able to hug day or if the ap- Alzheimer’s memory-making haven’t been able to visit Studying the photo, you Mother and say, ‘I love parent decline is disease and moments which her. We are trusting God to see tears on the wrinkled you’ in person,” she said. her new normal. dementia, visit could have been be her comfort.” woman’s face. Words seem These days, Downs It’s harder to tabonline.org/ are gone. watch for those dementia-care. Smith said No easy answers subtle physical or she has gotten There are no easy or pat cognitive changes through by rely- answers to this growing that can indicate sickness. ing on her faith. debilitating disease and We must rely more heavily “My faith in God and His COVID-19’s impact. But on her caregivers than ever goodness has helped me support groups, articles and before, and while we trust navigate the challenges and organizations providing in- them to give her great care, uncertainty,” she said. “In formation and tools to help it hasn’t been easy.” a way, it has been easier in small and large ways are Anyone who is currently to leave her in His hands available.

“WAIT ON THE LORD: BE OF GOOD COURAGE, AND HE SHALL STRENGTHEN THINE HEART: WAIT, I SAY, ON THE LORD.”

PSALM 27:14 PAGE 12 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 NEWS stories you should know 3 Stanley shifts to pastor Chick-fil-A pulls plans emeritus at FBC Atlanta for San Antonio airport n a video announcement following hick-fil-A said Sept. 14 that it Ithe online service at First Baptist Cno longer plans to open a restau- Church, Atlanta, Sept. 13, longtime rant in the San Antonio airport, even pastor Charles Stanley announced though the Texas city relented after his transition to pastor emeritus. more than a year of legal wrangling. “As much as I love being your The dispute between the restaurant pastor, I know in my heart this sea- chain and the city began in March son has come to an end,” Stanley 2019 when some city council mem- said in a prerecorded message. bers opposed Chick-fil-A getting a Stanley, who recently turned 88, spot at the airport, citing donations will become pastor emeritus. He made by company owners to anti-

Screenshot/SBC graphic (right) said he will focus his energies on In LGBTQ causes. SBC Executive Committee Touch Ministries, which he founded “While we are not pursuing a lo- President and CEO Ronnie Floyd in 1977. cation in the San Antonio airport at hosted an online event Sept. Stanley served two years as as- this time, we are grateful for the op- 15 to talk about the 2021 SBC sociate pastor at FBC Atlanta before portunity to serve San Antonians in Annual Meeting to be held in being named pastor in 1971. The our 32 existing restaurants,” Chick- Nashville June 15–16. SBC President J.D. Greear announced Sept. church has more than 12,000 mem- fil-A said in a statement. 14 the 2021 theme, “We Are Great Commission Baptists.” The theme connects to a movement around the SBC to use the unofficial name, bers and millions of online viewers. Texas Attorney General Ken Pax- which was approved by SBC messengers in 2012 and reflects what Anthony George will transition ton praised the agreement. Republi- we should be known for, Greear said. More information can be found from his position of associate pas- can Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill at sbcannualmeeting.net and at tabonline.org/2021-theme. (BP) tor, which he accepted in 2012, to in 2019 in defense of Chick-fil-A senior pastor. (TAB) and religious freedom. (AP) Headline news from around the Southeast Georgia cal ministries “Food for the Poor” and “Matthew season as Hurricane Sally made landfall Sept. 16 The Georgia Baptist Conference Center in Toc- 25: Ministries” also participated in the distribu- in Gulf Shores, Alabama. At the same time, Mis- coa, operating at a loss for the past 20 years, will tion, the Florida Baptist Witness reported. sissippi Baptists still are responding with relief be offered for sale on the real estate market, The efforts in Louisiana, following Hurricane Laura’s Christian Index reported. Purchased in 1963 by Louisiana landfall on Aug. 27, Mississippi’s Baptist Record the Georgia Baptist Convention, the camp is pro- Trinity Baptist Church in Lake Charles, Loui- reported. “God is at work, even in the destruction jected to lose $1.1 million this year, partially due siana, has become a hub for community outreach of the storm,” said Hubert Yates, interim disaster to the pandemic lockdown, and currently needs a after Hurricane Laura cut a swath of destruc- relief coordinator for Mississippi Baptists. projected $8.31 million in repairs. Operations at tion through the city of 78,000 on Aug. 27. The the camp will be suspended Sept. 30. church is reaching into the community with Tennessee clean-up efforts, provision of 20,000 meals a day Pro-life advocate Abby Johnson spoke recently Florida and distribution of food and other necessities in the chapel on Union University’s campus in Three Florida Baptist churches recently part- donated by church members and the community. Jackson, Tennessee, the Baptist and Reflector nered to provide essential items, such as diapers, As of Sept. 10, the site had registered 115 pro- (Tennessee) reported. During the evening event, shampoo and detergent, to hundreds of families fessions of faith, Louisiana’s Baptist Message hosted by the Union University Auxiliary, John- coping with financial setbacks caused by the pan- reported. son stated that almost a million abortions are per- demic. Parkridge Church in Coral Springs, Flor- formed annually in America. “[God] put you here ida, hosted the event, along with Chinese Baptist Mississippi for one reason and one reason alone, and that was Church of Coral Springs, Florida, and Cross Mississippi Baptist Disaster Relief teams are to evangelize His gospel, and part of His gospel is United Church in Lighthouse Point, Florida. Lo- preparing for their second mobilization of the the gospel of life,” she said. SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 13 NEWS Giving improves as Alabama news pandemic continues OBITUARIES new part-time congregational wellness strate- iving to congregations has shifted upward 4Billy Austin, longtime leader of Alabama gist/catalyst. He will assist in the areas of church Gafter churches closed their buildings earlier Baptist Retirement Centers and interim director planting, revitalization and partnerships with Af- this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, ac- of missions of Tuscaloosa Baptist Association, rican American churches. Leatherwood is pastor cording to a new State of the Plate survey. died Sept. 12. He was in his 59th year of ministry. of House of Hope and Restoration in Huntsville. Research conducted in August finds that 64% Austin served as manager of Clara Verner Craig Carlisle is director of missions. of churches across the Tower — an Alabama Baptist facility until 2007 HALE ASSOCIATION country reported in Au- — from 1988 until becoming president of ABRC 4Back in 1840, 11 people decided there need- gust that giving is ei- in 1991. He retired from ABRC ed to be a church on Five Mile Creek. Now 180 ther up (22%) or steady Jan. 31, 2013. years later, New Hope Baptist Church, Mound- (42%). By contrast, in During his ministry, Aus- ville, still meets. The congregation celebrated April, a similar share tin served as pastor of several that milestone anniversary Aug. 23 with a special of churches (65%) said churches including First Baptist they had seen a drop in service. Pixabay photo Church, Tuscumbia; Hopewell New Hope Baptist built its current building giving. Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa; East more than 130 years ago after the original log “This is encouraging news for churches across Tallassee Baptist Church, Tal- building burned, and by God’s grace they’re still America,” said Brian Kluth, a former pastor who lassee; and First Baptist Church, meeting there today, said church member Faye is now national spokesperson for the National Bowling Green, Florida. AUSTIN Colburn. Association of Evangelicals’ Financial Health He served two terms on the “We had a great day,” initiative. “These new findings show that most State Board of Missions, one term on the State said Colburn, whose churches and their families are figuring out ways Board’s executive committee and 30 years as reg- husband, Eugene, to survive and even thrive in the midst of all the istration secretary for the Alabama Baptist State has kept up with the challenges that the pandemic has thrown their Convention. church’s history and way.” Austin was a graduate of Samford University in sketched its buildings The findings are based on responses from 1,076 Birmingham and Southwestern Baptist Theologi- for the church records. Photo courtesy of New Hope Baptist mainline, evangelical and independent Protestant cal Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. She was saved at the churches. Seven in 10 of them had less than 200 Austin is survived by Linda, his wife of 53 church in 1960 and finds her life’s story inter- attenders before the pandemic. years; a son, Mark Elliott Austin; and one grand- twined with that of New Hope Baptist. A third of the responding churches were in cit- daughter. (TAB) “The church was our life,” Colburn said. “In the ies or suburbs, almost another third were from CALHOUN ASSOCIATION 1950s, Sundays were set aside for worship and towns, about a quarter were from rural areas or 4Gail Cates says it would take a lot to get study of God’s word. The highlight of the year small towns and 9% were from large cities. her off the piano bench. But it didn’t take much was the revival.” The majority of respondents — 87% — said to totally surprise her — she had no idea Antioch The week before the revival, the men of the their congregations are currently meeting for Baptist Church, Oxford, was planning a special church would gather under a brush arbor and pray, in-person worship services. But 58% said atten- service Aug. 30 to honor her for 50 years as their she said. “I live up the road from the church, and dance in person is half or less compared with pre- pianist. Her brother preached the sermon that we could hear them praying for hours.” (Grace pandemic times. Six percent said they had seen morning, and her grandson sang Thornton) an increase in attendance. (RNS) the special music. “The whole thing was very touching,” she said. “I was com- pletely surprised.” Cates got started as a church Persecuted church pianist 63 years ago at nearby Grace Baptist Church. Then Mother of four killed in India while daughter three times and assaulted three other when she joined Antioch Baptist protecting daughter from attack Christian girls. Christian sources say followers of the CATES in 1970, she had barely walked NEW DELHI, India — A Christian in the door when someone who tribal Sarna religion, influenced by mother of four was killed in July had heard her play at a revival asked if she would Hindus, persecute Christians. Po- play for them that day. for refusing to let her daughter lice officials discount that such “I’ve been doing it ever since,” Cates said. be raped by Hindu men. incidents constitute persecu- “I’ve gotten to play with a lot of music ministers Two masked Hindus slit the tion.

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4Brooklyn Baptist Church will not hold its sack and dropped it in a river. c homecoming service scheduled for Oct. 11. The Her husband has relocated the fam- Police arrested four suspects. Two sus- church will celebrate its 200th anniversary next ily due to ongoing threats against his family. pects were released; the other two confessed year. India is No. 10 on Open Doors’ 2020 World and were charged with rape. Watch List of places where it is most difficult ETOWAH ASSOCIATION Assailants had previously raped Devi’s to be a Christian. (MS) 4Jarman Leatherwood is the association’s PAGE 14 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 IMB, Barna partner to examine future of missions By Margaret Colson nations. Let us not miss it, leaders to spark that willing- The Alabama Baptist because now is the time. We ness into action by doing all hat is the future of are ready to go.” we can to engage our con- missions? Sarah Farley from IMB’s gregants with real life mis- W To answer that student team said that young sions experiences. question, the International adults have much to offer In today’s context, that Mission Board commis- to the spread of the gospel, might be facilitating your sioned Barna Group this but they may hesitate to be members to participate in year to conduct a survey and involved in long-term mis- a virtual prayer walk. Or prepare a report on younger sions because of financial, perhaps you can invite mis- Christians’ perspective of educational and lifestyle sionaries to join a special missions. concerns. conference call with your “As the largest mission- congregation to share about ary-sending agency of our Missions education their work and pray for them kind, we’re compelled to She encouraged churches, from long distance. search for solutions to the leaders and parents to “en- “We will have to be cre- challenges of a declining gage them with account- ative, but God is still at missionary candidate pipe- Unsplash.com ability when it comes to in- work, and we have a special line and a plateaued giving vesting in missions, engage opportunity to join Him in stream,” IMB President Paul firms what many Christians son Thomas, IMB’s African them with relationships with making His gospel known Chitwood said in the report. already know intuitively, American church mobilizer, missionaries from the neigh- “We’re obliged to ask such as the finding that spoke to the hopeful statistic and equip them The full report, The borhoods to the the hard questions: How do young Christians who know that Black churchgoers are and disciple Future of Missions, nations.” we bridge the gap between a missionary are more likely eager to engage in missions. them so they is available at barna. IMB and shrinking church attendance to say they will give to mis- When speaking to church- can go.” com/missions. Barna Group and a burgeoning world sions, pray for missionaries es, Thomas says he wants to Gay agrees, will continue population that doesn’t have and go on a short-term or “unearth the rich history of saying that the discussion access to the gospel? How long-term missions trip. African Americans in mis- Alabama Baptists should of the future of missions as does the next generation At First, Montgomery, he sions so they actually see be encouraged that church part of IMB’s Every Church, contribute to fulfilling this said, “We recognized that themselves there.” members are willing to par- Every Nation Summit, Oct. spectacular vision so beauti- truth a long time ago, and Global missions ticipate in missions through 29, at 7 p.m. Learn more and fully revealed in Revelation? for this reason we are con- praying, giving and going. register at imb.org/future- In essence: What is the fu- “We need to dispel the “It is up to us as church ofmissions. stantly looking for ways to myth that all generations ture of missions?” introduce our congregation On Sept. 2, representa- and all ethnic groups aren’t to missionaries from the called to global missions,” tives from Barna Group and field.” TAB CLASSIFIEDS IMB conducted a webinar Thomas said. The church maintains a Oscar Tortolero, IMB’s to discuss findings with an mission house to host in- Hispanic church mobilizer, Place a classified ad for $1 per word. international group of close residence missionaries and mentioned the unique gift- For more information call 205-870-4720, ext. 102, to 1,000 people, includ- conducts a tri-annual global edness of Hispanics growing or email [email protected]. ing Brian Gay, minister of missions celebration, invit- up in the U.S. who are often missions at First Baptist ing enough missionaries to multilingual and culturally Church, Montgomery. the design, fabrication and join every Sunday morn- prepared to reach others in CHURCH POSITIONS installation statewide. www. Research notes ing Bible study class in the the U.S. and take the gospel FULL-TIME MINISTER reliablesigns.com. Give Danny, “The presenters on the church, including youth and overseas. OF MUSIC & WORSHIP Stephanie and the rest of the webinar did an excellent young adult classes. “We have a huge poten- LEADER team a call: 1-800-729-6844 During the webinar, Ja- tial to take Hispanics to the Southside Baptist Church, or 205-664-0955. job of breaking down the Andalusia, Alabama, is seeking research and sharing their an individual to provide BUSINESS findings. Some information worship and music leadership. they shared was very en- Send resumés to: southside@ FOR SALE NEW & USED couraging. For example, one sbcandalusia.com or Southside STAIR LIFTS Baptist Church, 1213 West Lift chairs, power wheelchairs, presenter emphasized that Bypass, Andalusia, AL 36420. car lifts, scooters and walk- ‘half of young Christians 18 in-tubs. We service Alabama. to 34 (52%) qualify as po- SIGNS 1-800-682-0658. tential missionaries.’ While I NEED A NEW CHURCH TRAVEL/VACATION wish that number was closer SIGN? to 100%, it is exciting to see Reliable Signs Services, a full- LOG CABIN RENTAL that many young people are service sign company located Lake Guntersville area, beauti- qualifying and identifying in Alabama for 26 years, is ful view and fully furnished. themselves as candidates for ready to help you grow your Discounts to ministers. Log on church sign ministry. From dig- to www.paradisevista.net to see missions work,” said Gay. ital message signs to traditional pictures. Call for reservations Much of the information signs. Reliable Signs handles at 205-540-3600. shared, Gay believes, con- SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 15

TAB Interpreter looks, fi nds MEDIA ‘clear’ ministry opportunity By Grace Thornton been our way of serving the commu- The Alabama Baptist nity during COVID-19.” hen COVID-19 hit, Vickie For much of her life, Brown has Brown knew sewing looked for where God might be Wwasn’t her gift. But she providing opportunities. When she wanted to help people in any way was a student at Troy University, she she could, so she reached out to Jean remembers wondering where God Theology 101 Caldwell, a friend who was making might have gifted her for his purpos- masks by the dozens for people in es. Then while working at a summer BIBLICAL THEOLOGY FOR PEOPLE IN THE PEW the community. camp, she saw deaf campers speak- “I’d never sewn before, but she ing in sign language and wondered Biblical Mysteries got me going,” Brown said. if that might be something she could And it wasn’t learn. long before that Soon after, she God’s Will seemingly unrelated moved to Tuscaloosa ministry circled for graduate school By Jerry Batson, Th.D. have eternal life, it is a disclosure Special to The Alabama Baptist back around to at the University of we could never have imagined or something she was his week Theology 101 Alabama, and on her discovered. We can only conclude gifted in — Deaf draws our attention to what rst Sunday visiting that His action is to the praise ministry. She made the Bible calls the mystery Calvary Baptist, she of His own glory and not called some masks for the of God’s will. In Ephesians looked down from forth by our deserving it. It is one employees at Ala- T1, after speaking of “the good the balcony and of God’s most blessed mysteries. bama Sunshine, a pleasure of His will” (v. 5), the saw someone in the sauce company in passage later speaks of “the mys- front interpreting the Gracious plan Fayette. tery of His will” (v. 9). As we From all eternity, God had in service through sign “David Smith, the have been emphasizing the past mind this gracious plan He would language for the co-owner, is deaf, two weeks, a biblical mystery is carry out in Christ. In the full- deaf members of the and he’s a member something God has disclosed or ness of time, He unwrapped this Photo courtesy of Vickie Brown congregation. of our Deaf minis- made known, which we mortals Vickie Brown, a sign language “I called the next mystery when His only-begotten try at church,” said would never have known or un- Son was wrapped in swaddling interpreter, serves the Deaf com- day and got in- Brown, a member munity during the pandemic by derstood apart from that divine volved,” Brown said. clothes at His birth and in a loin- of Calvary Baptist sewing masks with clear panels. disclosure. cloth at His death. The realization That was in 1976. Church, Tuscaloosa. She’s now been of God’s revealed plan awaits its And after that rst round of home- Redemption full achievement in the “fullness involved in Deaf ministry for more In this passage from Ephesians, made masks, Smith’s sister Julie than 40 years. In 1977, she and her God’s will is that people experi- of the times” when He gathers to- Madison, the other co-owner of Ala- gether “in one all things in Christ husband moved to Pell City, where ence redemption, which God bama Sunshine, sent Brown a sug- she started a Deaf ministry at First both which are in heaven and has made known and available gestion and a pattern to go with it. Baptist Church. Then they moved which are on earth” (v. 10). through Christ’s atoning blood. She’d heard of someone in Ken- to Brent, and she was the sign lan- God will achieve the fullness of At the heart of this revealed truth tucky who had found a way to make guage interpreter at Brent Baptist His will, including a miraculous of redemption is God’s “forgive- masks with a clear panel so that the Church from 1979 until 2007, when conception and virgin birth, an ness of sins, according to the Deaf and hard of hearing would be they moved back to the Tuscaloosa riches of His grace” (v. 7). Who incarnation of Himself, a sinless able to read the wearer’s lips. area and Calvary Baptist. would have ever dreamed for a life and a sin-bearing death, a People in different parts of the moment that a Holy God would bodily resurrection and exaltation country had started replicating the Watching a little seed grow choose the shed blood of His in- to God’s right hand. masks, but as far as Brown knew, no On Sundays now, she’s back at the carnate Son as the basis for offer- The fullness of God’s will still one was doing it in their part of the church where she rst started learn- ing repentant sinners an eternity awaits Christ’s return for the re- state. ing, doing sign language interpreting of forgiveness? What we would deemed and their endless fellow- So she tried making some for with her homemade mask with the have never discovered, God has ship in the beauty and purity of Alabama Sunshine, and from there, clear panel. freely disclosed in the gospel. new heavens and a new earth. “it just mushroomed,” she said. An “When COVID-19 rst started, I Furthermore, God’s provision article about the masks ran in the thought to myself how hard it was of and disclosure about sin’s Jerry Batson is Tuscaloosa News, and she started going to be for the Deaf community forgiveness is not based on hu- a retired Alabama getting “orders” for the masks from to read lips, but I had no idea that man goodness but His own “good Baptist pastor who individuals, school systems who through her sending us that pattern also has served as wanted them for their students in pleasure which He purposed in associate dean of that it was going to become such a Himself” (v. 9). When we ponder Beeson Divinity speech therapy, even a wedding in big project for us and such an area the greatness of God’s love in School at Samford North Alabama. of focus,” Brown said. “It’s amazing that He gave His only begotten University and “We don’t charge for it; it’s our how God has a plan and orchestrates professor of several Son because He does not desire schools of religion ministry,” Brown said. “I think God things. Sometimes a little seed is that anyone should perish but during his career. gives you ministry and things to do planted and it’s amazing what grows and opportunities to serve. That’s out of that little seed.” PAGE 16 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 11 Alabama Baptist STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS

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The 2020 Annual Meeting of the Alabama Baptist State Convention, scheduled for November 17-18 in Montgomery, will not be held this year. Myers-Mallory.org UPDATE Watch The Alabama Baptist, email, social ON media and alsbom.org/convention for details STATE about an online one-hour State Missions Celebration, Tuesday, November 17 at 2 p.m., CONVENTION and a virtual IMB Sending Celebration that AND same evening. Also, visit albaptistpc.com for PASTORS information about the virtual Alabama Baptist CONFERENCE Pastors Conference taking place all STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS day Monday, November 16. SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 17 Important to implement, review children’s ministry area policies By Michael J. Brooks demonstrate that we care another ministry of hanging Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist for people. This is where we a backpack on the wall with anielle Bell, minister all quite literally ‘get on the items like flashlights but to children at Daw- same page.’” also with laminated copies Dson Memorial Bap- Bell said in one church a of policies, most of them in tist Church, Birmingham, volunteer offered to serve bullet points for ease of ref- said her congregation prac- in both morning Sunday erence.” ticed an intruder alert a few Schools. 3. Practice. “We try to months ago and discovered “Whereas I appreciated practice the ‘small’ things “we weren’t as prepared as his spirit, I referred him and the ‘big’ things.” we thought we were.” to the written In the former “One of the doors we policy that said For more children’s category she thought was locked wasn’t our workers ministry ideas, visit mentioned her and the walkie-talkies in the needed also to dandibell.com. church’s use of sanctuary were on a differ- demonstrate security labels ent channel from ours,” she their faithful- To reach the and writing inci- said. “This is a major reason ness to worship, SBOM office of dent reports. we need to practice the ‘big’ so he couldn’t Sunday School and “We note any discipleship, call things like fire, weather and miss worship by 800-264-1225. cuts or scrapes intruder drills.” working another and get the hour. The policy teacher to write ‘Safety First’ tips in place helped me with this what happened (for incident Bell was presenter for the matter.” reports). We also report our recent “Safety First” webi- Bell listed several policy contacts with the parents.” nar coordinated by the office topics, including job de- Bell addressed the stan- of Sunday School and dis- scriptions, discipline, social dard policy of “two unre- cipleship of the State Board media, child protection and lated adults” in a room with of Missions. incident reporting. children. Bell noted three major ar- 2. Procedure. “We have “Maybe in smaller eas to consider. our policies available in the churches, cameras in the 1. Policies. “We’re peo- classrooms,” Bell said, not- room might substitute, but ple-centered, but policies ing the policies, or how-tos, I think you should talk with help us deal with people should be reviewed periodi- your attorney or your insur- better,” she said. “Policies cally. “I found an idea from ance carrier,” she said.

Across man, he humbled the tribute. 28. ____, a servant of 1. In ____ was there himself. (Phil. 2:8) (2 Sam. 20:24) Jesus Christ. Christian Crossword a voice heard. 36. Summer TV fare. 5. To bar legally. (Rom. 1:1) By Janet Adkins Copyright 1994 ©Barbour Publishing Inc. (Matt. 2:18) 38. By faith ____ch was 6. ____ la la. 29. Short for Anthony. 5. And so forth. translated. 7. Pharisees and 31. For a ______some 8. Cut them with ___, (Heb. 11:5) lawyers rejected the would die. (Rom. 5:7) and with harrows. 39. Then I will set my ____ of God. 34. Joy shall be in a (1 Chron. 20:3) face against that (Luke 7:30) ____ over one sinner 12. They called his man and his ____. 8. And thou shalt be that repenteth. name ____: he is (Lev. 20:5) ____, because there (Luke 15:7) the father of Jesse. 40. I will ____ of thee. is hope. (Job 11:18) 35. There was no room (Ruth 4:17) (Job 38:3) 9. His king shall be for them in the ____. 13. Standing room only. 43. Grain. higher than ____. (Luke 2:7) (abbr.) 44. Tel ____. (Num. 24:7) 36. Sunbeam. 14. Equal. 45. Miss Farrow. 10. ____ me thoroughly 37. Improves. 15. Freezing point 47. We stumble at ____ from mine iniquity. 39. Picture holder. centigrade. day. (Isa. 59:10) (Ps. 51:2) 40. For a good man 16. Greek “T.” 51. Anger. 11. Thin strip of wood. some would even 17. House. (Spanish) 52. Put on strength, O 19. Atomic Energy ____ to die. 18. Value of 15 across. ____ of the Lord. Commission. (Rom. 5:7) 20. To break camp. (Isa. 51:9) 20. And the ____ hear. 41. Not rendering ____ 24. To be. (Spanish) 53. ____ Timnah. (Matt. 11:5) for evil. (1 Pet. 3:9) 25. Then I will be an (Gen. 36:40) 21. Sicilian resort. 42. Polish distance ____ unto thine 54. Ardor. 22. After “bees” and measure. 55. No. (Scottish) enemies. (Ex. 23:22) before “dees.” 46. ____ and Ithrite. 56. I am ... the bright 26. Matthew, sitting at 23. Belonging to me. (2 Sam. 23:28) and morning ____. the ____ of custom. 26. His father saw him, 48. Though our ____ (Rev. 22:16) (Matt. 9:9) ... and ____ and fell ward man perish. 30. One. (Scottish) Down on his neck. (2 Chron. 4:16) 31. My ____Sal. 1. Woman’s nickname. (Luke 15:20) 49. Central European 32. Chinese Communist 2. Lincoln’s nickname. 27. The son of Omri, river. Party chairman 3. Mal de ____. the son of ____. 50. Abner, the son of 33. Found in ____ as a 4. And ____ was over (1 Chron. 9:4) ____. (1 Sam. 14:50) PAGE 18 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS For September 27 Explore the Bible Bible Studies for Life By Robert L. Olsen, Ph.D. By Jeffery M. Leonard, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile Associate Professor of Biblical Studies, Samford University ation, and He will GOD REIGNS provide for us, HONOR LIFE even the added Isaiah 23:8–18 ultimately in the Exodus 20:13; element of kill- form of salvation 1 Samuel 26:7–11, 22–25 ing a person on Chapters 13–23 of Isaiah focus through Christ. purpose does not on the judgments of the surrounding We can trust Some biblical commands are el- entirely square nations of Israel. Israel lies on the God despite our circumstances and egant in their simplicity. Consider, things away. After all, Numbers 35 path between Egypt and the rest of know He is more powerful than any for example, the Decalogue’s com- also commands that the murderer Asia Minor, an area where empires situation we face. We are called by mand, “Thou shalt not steal.” What be killed, and this imposition of the often came to power. Scripture to trust in the Lord not our could be clearer? And yet, a mo- death penalty is certainly done on The Assyrians, Babylonians, Per- circumstances (Matt. 6:25–34). ment’s reflection tells us that behind purpose. One additional clarifica- sians and Greeks all held part of this apparent simplicity lies a web tion is needed: murder involves in- Asia Minor at some point and had God is active. (13–14) of complexities that requires a great tentionally killing a person without to contend with Egypt. Therefore, To show how Tyre would not deal of explanation and clarification. divine permission. Israel was often forced to defend remain safe, Isaiah pointed to the Although stealing might seem to We respect life by herself against invading troops or Chaldeans in Babylon. The leader be something as simple as breaking form alliances with various nations of the Assyrians, Sennacherib, de- into a person’s home and taking that acknowledging God’s authority for protection. This often caused the feated the Chaldeans earlier, and this person’s property, the Torah tells over it. (1 Sam. 26:7–11) people of Israel to trust in these alli- showed that Assyria had the power us that lots of other actions can be An illustration of this last element ances instead of trusting in God. to carry out the attack on Tyre. thought of as stealing too. of murder is vividly played out in Through the prophets, God would Just as God gave an assurance He Taking another person’s ox is David’s interactions with Saul. On send warnings to the people of Ju- would fulfill His plan, God gives us stealing (Ex. 22:1), but so is letting one occasion when Saul was pursu- dah and Israel to turn to Him for assurances of His promises. One of your grazing livestock wander over ing David through the wilderness, their salvation, not the surrounding the greatest episodes of this comes and eat in a neighbor’s field (22:5), David and two of his men daringly nations. When Israel refused to do in Romans 8:18–39. carelessly letting a fire get out of snuck right into Saul’s camp. this, God would use the surrounding In this section, Paul gives us as- control and burning up a neighbor’s David’s companion Abishai nations to chastise Israel in order to surance that our salvation is secure grain (22:6) or leaving an open hole begged him to let him kill Saul and bring them back to God. in Christ and nothing can separate and letting a neighbor’s animal fall rid David of his enemy. But David However, God did not consider us from God. In trying times, this in and get hurt (21:33–34). All of refused. David was certainly not these foreign nations innocent. They section is a bulwark against doubt these actions are stealing in a sense. without his flaws, but on this occa- faced God’s wrath for their actions. and fear. Because Christ has risen On the other hand, there are times sion his actions were exactly right. from the dead and intercedes for us, when taking property is not seen as David insisted, “The Lord him- God is just. (8–12) we can see Christ’s love for us and stealing. Reasonable taxes, for ex- self will strike him, or his time will Chapter 23 of Isaiah deals with the the assurance that we cannot lose ample, are not treated as stealing in come and he will die, or he will go Phoenicians, specifically the city of our salvation. the Bible, even though they involve into battle and perish. But the Lord Tyre. Tyre was a rich and prosperous taking away someone’s property. forbid that I should lay a hand on city due to its port and interactions God is honored. (15–18) Stealing is a more complicated the Lord’s anointed.” with the rest of the Mediterranean Isaiah prophesies that God will matter than it might first appear. world. However, this wealth led to restore Tyre and this restoration will We respect life by treating pride, a sin which God detests. involve the profits from Tyre’s busi- Human life is precious to God every life as equally valuable. Tyre was built partly on an island, ness as dedicated to the Lord. — and should be precious to (1 Sam. 26:22–25) making it a difficult city to capture. One of the key themes throughout us. (Ex. 20:13) David recognized that even The Assyrians would exact tribute the Old Testament is the nations will What is true for stealing is certain- though Saul was his enemy, he did from Tyre but the city on the island come to know God. Even though ly true for another of the Ten Com- not have God’s permission to harm was not able to be subdued. Despite the nations continually attack and mandments: “Thou shalt not kill.” the one God had anointed as king. being on an island, the city of Tyre harass Israel, in the end, all nations As masterful as the King James To do so would have been murder. was still not out of the reach of God. will come to a true knowledge of the Version can be, its rendering “kill” David took the king’s spear and wa- When Alexander and the Greeks Lord. has generated a great deal of confu- ter jug to show Saul that though he invaded the area centuries later, the We see this in part today, as mis- sion. After all, the Bible condones could have killed him, he did not. Macedonian ruler took rubble from sionaries go throughout the world and even commands killing of vari- Clearly moved by David’s having the part of Tyre on the mainland and telling people about Christ, bringing ous sorts. Key here is that the com- spared his life, Saul himself called used it to create a bridge out to the redemption to the people of all na- mand is directed not against killing off the pursuit of his young rival. island, where he then captured the tions. per se but against murder. The effect that David’s act of mer- city and enslaved its populace. It also helps us look at the sur- Here, Numbers 35:15–21 provides cy toward Saul produced taps into What we can glean from these rounding nations not as enemies of a helpful clarification as it outlines a much deeper aspect of the sixth verses is that God will carry out His the United States, but as people who the difference between a person commandment. What God ultimate- promises, and nothing can stop Him are in need of the gospel. who kills someone unintentionally ly desires for humanity is an ethic of from carrying them out. This is valu- This should refocus our perspec- and the person who does so on pur- life and mercy rather than violence able for us today. As we live with tive so that we see people as crea- pose. It is the latter person who is and revenge. This ethic of mercy so much uncertainty around us, we tures made in the image of God, not described using the same term as the only begins with the command not can be assured God knows our situ- foreigners who are strange to us. Decalogue (Hebrew ratsakh). But to murder; it does not stop there. SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 19 Media TV/MOVIES reviews Disney’s ‘Mulan’ is an entertaining remake, but price, ethics at play By Michael Foust in the middle of the night, entering Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist the army disguised as a man. trip to the theater for The gravity-defying battle action a family of four costs is jaw-dropping, and the colorful around $40 — and scenery makes you wish you could that’s without the pop- hop on a flight and visit China in corn and soda. person. The 2020 version also con- AWhat if you could save a few tains enough surprises to keep fans bucks and watch the same movie at of the 1998 movie guessing. home on the comfort of your couch? That’s the proposal Disney pre- Mostly family friendly sented to families this month when it The film contains no coarse lan- skipped the typical theatrical launch guage or sexuality, although we amid the pandemic and debuted do see Mulan’s clothes-less body “Mulan” (PG-13) on Disney Plus for from behind, blurred by the camera the eye-opening “Premier Access” and obscured by foliage, when she price of $29.99. bathes in a pond. The movie is Disney’s latest live- “Mulan” earned its PG-13 rat- action remake and tells the story of ing for sequences of violence that Disney photo ‘Mulan’ a courageous Chinese woman who include bow-and-arrow and sword disguises herself as a man in order battles and multiple bodies lying on the same province, Xinjiang, where but resulted in the death of seven to fight in the army and defend her the ground. (The violence remains it has forced 1 million individuals astronauts. country from invasion. bloodless, but we see ar- (mostly Uighers) into concentra- But is it worth $29.99, rows kill soldiers dozens tion/labor camps. That’s an issue Children especially when it report- of times.) that’s far more problematic than the 4“Red Shoes and the Seven edly will be free to sub- The film offers posi- $29.99 price tag. Dwarfs” (VOD, DVD) — It’s a mod- scribers on Dec. 4? The tive messages about Also streaming this month: ern retelling of the Snow White story answer to that question loyalty, bravery, telling — only this time, the princess must will vary with each fam- the truth and devotion Adults/teens save seven princes who are turned ily, although I can offer to family. Some have 4“Social Dilemma” (Netflix) into dwarves. It has a surprising end- one opinion: “Mulan” is argued that the movie — Former employees for Facebook, ing that teaches the true meaning of one of Disney’s best live- also promotes women Instagram and other Internet giants beauty. Rated PG for some action/ action remakes yet. in combat, but the film’s reveal how social media is changing peril. The movie is a retell- real message is for par- society for the worse. Rated PG-13 4“Spirit Riding Free: Riding ing of the 1998 animated ents to celebrate their for some thematic elements, disturb- Academy: Part 2” (Netflix) — film, which itself asw daughter’s talents. (Mu- ing/violent images and suggestive Lucky and her friends continue their based on a poem/folk song, the “Bal- lan’s father had urged her to “hide” material. adventures at the prestigious Palo- lad of Mulan,” set in China around her gifts — gifts that could have 4“Away” (Netflix) — American mino Bluffs Riding Academy. The the 6th century A.D. been used in ways that didn’t in- astronaut Emma Green leaves her “Spirit” series is a favorite of horse- volve a battlefield if he had encour- husband and daughter behind to loving children, including my young Plot involves sacrifice aged her.) join an international crew to Mars. daughter. Rated TV-Y7. The film follows an active young Of course, “Mulan” also pres- “Away” is a 10-part dramatic series girl whose sense of adventure col- ents moviegoers with an unbiblical that is entertaining but also includes lides with her society’s belief that worldview. Her family has a shrine, some sensuality, a little language Meet the women should be quiet and serve presumably to their ancestors. Her (but not over the top) and an LGBT their husbands. The plot thickens father asks the ancestors to protect angle. If you want a filtered version, reviewer when China faces invasion, and her in battle. When she has success, then monitor VidAngel and Clear- Michael Foust covers the Mulan’s aging father — who has no he tells her they’re celebrating. Fi- Play. (Neither had released filters as intersection of faith and sons — is drafted into the army, even nally, a bird-like phoenix — which of mid-September.) Rated TV-14. entertainment as a media though he is partially disabled and we learn is the “emissary” to the 4“Challenger: The Final reviewer for The Alabama walks with a leg brace. ancestors — flies high over her, ap- Flight” (Netflix) — This four-part Baptist. He also is the husband Knowing her father will face cer- parently protecting her. docuseries examines the 1986 Space of an amazing wife and the tain death, Mulan steals his sword Meanwhile, Disney has been Shuttle Challenger explosion, a di- father of four young children. and armor and escapes on horseback criticized for filming “Mulan” in saster that could have been avoided PAGE 20 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 God is ‘my biggest supporter’ Former Phillies infielder Travis Mattair hopes to shed God’s light over the world By Bill Sorrell “I had the biggest head the nurse Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist had ever measured and big ol’ ears,” hile listening to Kari Mattair said. “The first time my dad Jobe’s “Revelation Song,” saw me he said, ‘He’s a moose’ and WTravis Mattair had a rev- it stuck.” elation of his own. His parents, Steve and Carol Mat- “I wasn’t really happy with base- tair, are his role models. ball at the time,” said Mattair, who “They are incredible. They have had been drafted by the Philadelphia always taken me to church. I didn’t Phillies in the second round of the know why they took me early on 2007 Major League June amateur in my life. It all made sense when draft but had left the Phillies’ spring I found out who Jesus was,” said training in 2010. Mattair, a member of South Hills, a Always wanting to play college Baptist church in Kennewick. basketball, Mattair, then 21, knew Through Baseball Chapel, which he was at a point in his life that this he enjoyed during seasons, he also would be his last opportunity, so he grew spiritually. walked on at Boise State. About two However, baseball threw its share weeks into fall practice, he got a call of temptations at him. from the Phillies asking if he had Photo courtesy of Daniel Venn/Pensacola Blue Wahoos “It’s a test every day. You’ve re- TRAVIS MATTAIR any interest in returning to the team. ally got to check yourself through “It was kinda like God [saying], ‘I prayer,” Mattair noted. “Your mind think you need to give this a second in the good times, in the bad times. “He cares about everybody. He’s goes places it shouldn’t. It’s a moral chance,’” said Mattair who was go- He is my biggest supporter, espe- funny. He is always joking, keeping choice. When [choices] are thrown ing to his job as a barista at a coffee cially in this game. It’s very calming the mood and spirits up in the club- at you, you have to take a look at shop when he heard “Revelation.” and reassuring that He is always house,” Anderson said. yourself and say, ‘What would Jesus A third and first baseman, Mattair there with me. Cincinnati Reds pitcher Michael do?’ and ask, ‘Is this what I really played seven seasons in professional “He is always a rock to stand on Lorenzen, who played with Mattair need to be doing right now or should baseball, the last three with the Cin- when you feel like you are falling,” in Pensacola, described Mattair as a I be doing something else?’” cinnati Reds organization and with he said. “He is every- servant. “He is always the Pensacola Blue Wahoos in the Life is so much Mattair depends on his favorite thing. There is not a there to uplift other Bible verse, Philippians 4:13, “I can Double-A Southern League in 2013 day that goes by that people. He is less wor- and 2014. brighter when He do all things through Christ who He is not leading me. ried about himself and strengthens me.” In his 788-game career, he hit 63 I am so thankful He is more focused on oth- home runs, had 364 RBIs and ended is on your side. When Mattair returned to the on my side, and I found ers.” Phillies in 2011 he tore his oblique, with a .246 batting average. Him. Hopefully I can Drew Hayes, who Travis Mattair missing two months. “I never did get Mattair’s faith journey shed His light over the pitched for Cincinnati right,” he said. But throughout baseball and be- world.” after Pensacola, called He was traded the next year and yond, his faith has been the lead-off Mattair’s former teammates saw Mattair’s example “positive.” eventually retired from pro baseball hitter. Through Young Life, Mattair, the light through his actions and ex- “The way he treats people, the in 2015, shifting to coaching. a native of Kennewick, Washington, ample. way he handles fans. He’s some- Mattair coached at Pensacola became a Christian when he was a Former Pensacola teammate body you can look to every day to Training Academy and RBI Pen- freshman in high school and contin- Bryan Anderson, a catcher who be a positive light in the clubhouse,” sacola (Reviving Baseball in Inner ued to grow from there. played for St. Louis, the Chicago Hayes said. “He’s nice to everybody. Cities). He is founder of Unlimited “It completely changed my life,” White Sox and Oakland, said Mat- ... He’s a gentle giant.” Training Academy in Pensacola. he said. “God gave me something tair always set a good example “by Mattair, who is 6’5” and 210 In July 2019, he was hired as head to look up to and somebody bigger being a good Christian, by being a pounds, received the nickname baseball coach at Gulf Breeze (Flor- than myself that I can always turn good person, a great teammate” with “Moose” the day he was born. He ida) High School, coaching his first to. I know He is always there for me, “good leadership.” weighed 10 pounds, 2 ounces. season in 2020.

To read Travis Mattair’s story in its entirety, visit tabonline.org/TravisMattair.

ENCOURAGE EQUIP ENGAGE ßßR P.O. Box 160, Ashville, Alabama 35953 Physical address: 33620 US Hwy 231, Ashville Phone: 205-594-5173 FAX: 205-594-2232 Web site: stcba.org Dr. Danny Courson, Associational Missions Strategist Email: [email protected] Mrs. Linda Smith, Ministry Assistant Email: [email protected] Thursday, September 24, 2020

Birthdays & Anniversaries St. Clair Baptist Association October ANNUAL MEETING 2 Rev. Jack Washington Restoration TH 7 Rev. Andy Smith Pleasant Grove MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 12 Rev. & Mrs. Jacky Connell Eden Westside First Baptist Church of Ashville 14 Mrs. Cindy Alexander Reeves Grove 15 Mrs. Matthea Glass Cropwell 19 Rev. & Mrs. Trei King Pine Forest ONE SESSION ONLY: 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. 23 Mrs. Suzette Maddox Argo 24 Mrs. Roxanne Phillips Evening Star No Meal will be served. 26 Mrs. Rebecca Lee Northside Fellowship 29 Rev. Bryan Robinson Macedonia #2 Everyone is invited! Pastors and Messengers are urged to attend. MINISTRY POSITION

We will receive an offering for ALCAP & AL Baptist Children’s Homes Macedonia #1 Baptist Church 1655 Levine Rd., Margaret (Total offering will be divided equally between the two entities) Seeking a Part-time Student Minister Please send resume to: CHURCH CLERK NOTICE P O Box 347, Margaret AL 35112 Deadline for completing/returning the 2020 Annual Church Profile - ACP Jeff State IMPACT Ministry is Monday, September 28. Your promptness is appreciated! Please help us be 100% in reporting. IMPACT Student Ministry is now meeting twice a month on Thursday mornings at 10:15 a.m. at New Hope Baptist Church in Pell City. Please remember to update your Leadership, If your church or WMU group would like to Historical and Deceased supplement reports for 2020. provide brunch, please contact Helen Jackson, at 205-594-7376. Thank you to the clerks that have completed their reports. Be a blessing to a student!

St. Clair Baptists, thank you for your faithfulness to our Lord and to His church. The pandemic we are still experiencing has impacted us in many ways and will continue to do so for a while. I’m grateful for your patience, understanding and encouragement for your pastors, staff, and church leaders during these difficult days.

Thank you for your faithfulness in giving to the Cooperative Program as our missionaries in many parts of the world are still on the field serving. Some have had to return to the United States for a time but hope to get back to their place of service as soon as allowed. The work of missions and ministry continue, and your giving allows the work to keep moving forward.

I encourage you to support the Come to Christ Crusade, October 4-8, 6:31 pm - 8:30 pm, each evening at Eden Westside Baptist Church. If you would like to serve as a counselor for this event, training will be offered on Sunday, September 27, from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, or from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm. Contact [email protected] for additional information.

We hope every church will be represented at our Annual Meeting, Monday, October 26th at FBC Ashville. We will begin at 6:30 pm and conclude around 8:30 pm. Now, more than ever, we need to support and encourage one another. Please elect your messengers and come participate in fellowship and worship with all the churches of St Clair Baptist Association.

In October, I will be delivering Associational Prayer Guides to every church. I would like every member of every congregation to receive and be encouraged to use this prayer guide daily. This will serve as a reminder that we are one body in Christ, and we need to work together to fulfill the Great Commission. Thank you for allowing me to serve the churches of STCBA.

In Christ, Bro. Danny