INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Southern Baptist Convention Makes Historic Move

August 2012 Newsjournal of the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware • www.baptistlifeonline.org

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Southern Baptist Convention makes historic move ...... 8 SPECIAL SECTION: U.S. Elections ...... 11-14 Dixon (above) reflects on NAAF leadership ...... 15 Lessons Learned: Taking Gospel to schools IS legal ...... 16 Christian Jail Ministry sets hearts free ...... 18-19 PERSPECTIVE BY DAVID LEE Let’s make a difference s followers of Christ we Pray for them. Help meet financial needs. Loan them some of are taught to respond your leaders and members for a while to help them return to to the hurting people the critical mass necessary to revitalize their ministries. Share Aaround us. Our Lord possessed facilities with them. Encourage the pastor and his family. that kind of heart. Despite Partner with them in a Vacation Bible School, an outreach distractions and barriers, he ministry effort, a mission trip. continued to connect with To be successful the relationship must be mutual. Avoid those who needed him. paternalism. Journey together. Pray for one another. Serve one I want to challenge another. Give God the glory for the results. churches to expand their As we move forward in Great Commission effort, we are sensitivity to include hurting going to need each other more than ever before. The stronger of churches around them. Daily us should join hands with those who need help. Jesus reminded David Lee I see churches struggle. With all faithful stewards, “To whom much is given, much is BCM/D Executive someone to come alongside required!” Director them, many of these could start Interested? Want to share your blessings with another the journey back to health and church? Are you struggling and open to receiving help from impact. a fellow church? Contact me. We will help make those Adopt a church. Literally, find a church that is in need of connections. help and see if you can become an ongoing partner with them. Together we can make a difference.

PERSPECTIVE BY BOB SIMPSON How important is a birthday? ome birthdays seem to have more significance than others. Spiritual Revival and National I once asked my paternal grandfather, who was in his late Renewal.” (Read more about it eighties at the time, “Pop, do you mind getting old?” He on page 14 in this issue). It can quipped,S “No, considering the alternative!” Birthdays are im- be used by an individual, a small portant (especially that they keep coming). We often tease each group, an entire church, or even other by asking, “Is this the big one?” or “Is this the big 40 (or 50, a larger group of churches. Here’s or 60, etc.?).” how: First, decide to use the But some milestones of age are very noteworthy. As I write “40/40 Prayer Vigil” as a personal this today it is July 4, 2012. If you do the math, our country is guide and pray for 40 days from 236 years old. I believe that this particular birthday of America any starting point. Secondly, may be one of the “big ones!” I say that because our country is decide to use the Guide as a call certainly in a mess. Things are chaotic in the economy, in politics, to prayer leading up to the elec- in culture, and, too often, even in our churches. tion on Nov. 4. You can choose Bob Simpson Yes, this is an election year. Dr. Fred Luter, our newly either the ‘40 days’ (praying each BCM/D Chief elected SBC president, has recently said, “I am convinced that day between Sept. 26 and Nov. 4) Operating Officer and the downward moral decline in America will not change because or the ‘40 hours’ (praying for 40 Editor of BaptistLIFE of who is in the White House. I truly believe the moral decline hours between 4 p.m. on Nov. 2 will only change because of who is in God’s House!” until 8 a.m. on Nov. 4). Thirdly, you can create a sign-up list and After the death of Moses, the Lord spoke to his successor, ask others to join you in the prayer time. And fourthly, you can Joshua. It was a highly momentous time. The Lord said, “Above register your commitment to join the vigil at the 40/40 Prayer all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the Vigil web site (www.4040prayer.com) to let others know you are whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not joining the national movement to seek God for personal spiritual turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success revival and national renewal. wherever you go. This book of instruction must not depart Can a ‘re-birth’ day be as significant as a ‘birth’ day? Let’s from your mouth. For then you will prosper and succeed in find out as we commit to pray for ourselves, our families, our whatever you do.” churches, and for our great nation! I highly commend to you the “40/40 Prayer Vigil for Resolutions for the BCM/D Annual Meeting, Nov. 11-13, 2012 Those who would like to submit resolutions for consid- the committee before the first session. Other resolutions may eration to the BCM/D annual meeting Nov. 11-13, 2012, at be referred to the committee by the general body.” Global Mission Church, Silver Spring, Md., may send them Resolutions coming from the floor must be ready to copy to: Resolutions Committee, 10255 Old Columbia Road, and distribute. They should have a valid reason for not meet- Columbia, MD 21046-1716. ing the 45-day rule. The BCM/D Constitution and Bylaws state that “only All proposed resolutions must be received via email or resolutions presented to the resolutions committee at least 45 dropped off at the Baptist Mission Resource Center to Misty days in advance of the annual meeting will be considered by Pearson by Thursday, Sept. 27, 2012.

Page 2 August 2012 PERSPECTIVE BY KEN STALLS Typoglycemia! f you spend any time on the internet, you probably have run Consider two passages: “In across a strange type of an article. For lack of a better term, I Him, we have redemption like to use what one author called “Typoglycemia”. It is truly through His blood, the forgive- Ifascinating, but believe it or not, you can eventually read it. Here ness of sins in accordance with is an example. the riches of God’s grace that He lavished on us with wisdom and “I cdn’uolt blveviee that I cluod alulcaty uesdnat- understanding.” (Eph. 1:7-8, nrd waht I was rdanieg. The phanonmneal pweor NIV) and “We know also that of the hmaun mnid aocdcrnig to rscheearch taem at the Son of God has come and has Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in what given us understanding, so that order the ltteers in a word are, the olny iprmoatnt we may know Him who is true.” tihnig is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the (I John 5:20, NIV). rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you Our Lord has made it pos- can siltl raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae sible for us to understand that Ken Stalls the haumn mnid deos not raed ervey ltteer by which is totally incomprehensi- BCM/D President and istlef, but the word as a wlohe. Scuh a cdonitoin is ble for those who do now know Pastor of South End arppoiately cllaed Typoglycemia. Amzanig, in’st it? Him as Lord and Savior. He has Baptist Church, Yes and you awlyas tghuoht slpelnig was ipmorantt.” enabled us to comprehend that Frederick, Md. which is necessary for eternal life For some unknown reason, both the spell check and gram- and the abundant life here in this world. Rather than feel proud mar check on my computer just suffered a major heart attack. or be boastful, why not tell others so that they too can enjoy this As amazing as this is, remember that our Lord has done amazing gift. something far greater for all of us who are called by His Name. Thanks for the privilege of continuing to serve as president of our blessed BCM/D. May His greatest blessings be yours as you continue to serve Him. Christian families needed: Opportunity to minister to Japanese August - October Events boys this December in Bel Air, Md. (www.bcmd.org/calendar or 800-466-5290 + ext. below) By Sharon Mager, BCM/D Correspondent August ______2-5 Boys Camp, Camp Wo-Me-To (x226) BEL AIR, Md.—Oak Grove Baptist Church is of- 9-10 Willow Creek Association Global Leadership fering a holiday international mission trip that comes right to your door. The church is partnering with American Conference, Riva Trace Baptist Church Home Life International to host 120 ninth grade boys (x219) from Hakodate, Japan, Dec. 7-15. The boys need host 11, 18 ESL Training for new teachers, First Baptist, families – Christian families willing to take the youth in Laurel, Md. (x226) for the week and share their day-to-day walk with Christ. “We spend so much money to send folks to other September ______countries. This is different, the people are paying to come 3 Labor Day - Offices are closed here. It’s a brief introduction to missions and a wonderful 7-8 Youth Evangelism Conference at Global cultural experience,” Douglas Brooks, Oak Grove Church’s missions coordinator, said. Mission Church (800-536-6759 x110) Brooks said when the opportunity presented itself, 9 Asian Concert of Prayer at Hanuri Korean his first thought was about the logistical issues, but he Baptist Church (410-977-3816) began to envision the possibilities, the ministry doors that 25 Children’s Ministers Seminar, BMRC (x218) could open for families and the blessings that the boys 27 Stewardship Training for Church Planters, could take home with them, especially during the holidays BMRC (x222) when they could hear the Christmas story and experience 28-29 Breathless: A Gathering for Women, Faith worship with their host families. Baptist Chuch, Glen Burnie, Md. (x218) Host families are required to have a dedicated room for two boys with separate beds. They must provide three meals per day, transportation, perhaps car pooling, to October ______and from John Carroll School in Bel Air, and they must 12-14 Ministers Family Getaway, DoubleTree spend time with the youth on Saturday, Sunday and three Resort, Lancaster, Pa. (410-977-9852) evenings. The families will attend a host family orienta- 12-14 Deaf Retreat & Interpreter’s Conf., Skycroft tion and a Friday farewell program. Each family must (x222) also submit a letter stating that they are active members 17 Multiplying Church, BMRC (x222) in good standing with a local Bible-believing church. A 18-19 Hours of Prayer Retreat (x219) $200 stipend will be provided to each family. For more information, contact [email protected] or call 25-26 Soul of the Servant Retreat for Ministry (443) 617-5209. Couples (x219)

August 2012 Page 3 VOLUME 97 ISSUE 4 / August 2012 BaptistLIFE (ISSN 331-640) is published bimonthly except for January as a Cooperative Program ministry of the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware. BaptistLIFE 10255 Old Columbia Road CONTENTS Columbia, MD 21046-1716 (Phone) 800-466-5290, ext. 245 (Fax) 410-290-6627 Send address changes & advertising questions to: [email protected] BaptistLIFE Staff Bob Simpson Executive Editor Iris White Managing Editor/Mailing p. 8 Shannon Baker Design Editor/ BCM/D National Correspondent Sharon Mager BCM/D Correspondent

Address change: Send the new address with the old mailing label at least three weeks prior to move or send an email to [email protected] with your old and new information. p. 20 p. 19 Advertising rates are available. We do not automatically accept all advertising. We typically accept ads Features Perspectives for services provided to Maryland and Delaware Baptists related to or SOUTHERN BAPTIST assisting in starting new churches and DAVID LEE p. 2 CONVENTION MAKES HISTORIC strengthening existing ones. Acceptance BOB SIMPSON of advertising does not constitute an MOVE p. 8 p. 2 endorsement of any advertiser’s products SBC Messengers elect first black KEN STALLS p. 3 or services. The deadline for news and advertising is the first day of the month president, approve descriptor GAYLA PARKER p. 20 preceding the next issue. JOHN COLEMAN p. 21 Free Subscription by request SPECIAL SECTION: U.S. ELECTION p. 11-14 Press Releases and Photos: We With November’s national election SPECIAL SECTION: welcome letters from readers, press releases and photos of topics of interest approaching, one must wonder: are 2012 U.S. Elections to Maryland/Delaware Baptists. Digital Christians losing their voice? photos sent electronically are preferred. If you send glossy prints, please include DIXON REFLECTS ON NAAF a SASE for return. LEADERSHIP p. 15 Letters to the Editor (LTTE) do Dixon recounts the difficult not reflect the views or opinions of situations he faced as president of BaptistLIFE. We prefer letters from Maryland and Delaware. Only letters the SBC’s African American group marked clearly for publication as a LESSONS LEARNED: TAKING THE In the special section, LTTE, signed with addresses will be BaptistLIFE examines whether considered. Please include a daytime GOSPEL TO SCHOOLS IS LEGAL Christians are losing their telephone number for verification p. 16 voice in the political arena. purposes. Letters may not exceed 300 Says Alliance Defense Fund, words. Letters attacking churches or It’s hard to believe it’s almost Back- individuals will not be published. Letters to-School time. Are your kids ready the future of religious freedom depends on a free pulpit to will be edited for clarity, BaptistLIFE to share the Gospel with their style and space considerations, but not communicate fundamental, for content. We regret that we cannot classmates? biblical principles to respond to all letters not accepted for congregations across America. publication. CHRISTIAN JAIL MINISTRY SETS HEARTS FREE p. 18-19 Cover photo: BaptistLIFE is a member of the James Dixon, president of NAAF, and Ric Association of State Baptist Papers, Dale Pace never “did time,” but Worshill of the Southern Baptist Messianic Baptist Press News and Evangelical he has invested much of his in the Fellowship celebrate the election of Fred Press Association and is printed by Luter. (See article on page 15.) Carroll County Times, Westminster, Md. lives of inmates, where he’s seen God’s transforming power. August 2012

News Briefs...

Maryland Marriage Alliance is NOT the case. The Boy Scouts of missions pastors and anyone interested surpasses petition requirement by America (BSA) remains committed to in medical missions. About 25 health 105,000 signatures the moral and ethical standards, which care missionaries will be there along have been affirmed several times in with IMB leaders to talk about ongo- The Maryland Marriage Alli- Southern Baptist Convention resolu- ing work and opportunities for service. ance turned in over 160,000 petition tions.” Rebekah Naylor, IMB missionary signatures for a referendum vote on Turner also noted scouting emeritus, said, “We hope to see a num- gay marriage to the Maryland Board remains one of the finest evangelism, ber of those attending mobilized into of Elections, surpassing their goal family ministry, and religious educa- service overseas among people groups of collecting 150,000 and the state’s tion tools available for established with little or no access to health care. requirement of 55,000 signatures. The churches as well as new church plants. These ads would play a crucial role in signatures represent an effort to make a Scouts and their families involved in the our strategy to raise awareness about statement to legislators, the media, and religious emblems program are often the event.” the state of Maryland that people care reached for Christ and it is not uncom- Register online at regonline.com/ about seeing marriage upheld as one mon for youth participants to clarify medadvance2012. man, one woman. their calling to vocational ministry. “Marriage is priceless, and we will “While I am happy to report BaptistLIFE has a new blog! not give up this fight,” said petition Scouting’s commitment to the organizer, Derek McCoy. “We will leadership standards, I remind read- The newBaptist LIFE blog is continue in our efforts on your behalf ers that opponents to these policies far more interactive and colorful and to uphold this timeless institution. As are relentless and highly vocal,” he takes advantage of several multimedia we prepare to launch the next phase of cautioned. “Unfortunately, the ‘silent capabilities, including slideshows our campaign, we will also be working majority’ remains largely unheard. I for images, enhanced commenting on ways to spread the word about the believe this is an opportune time to features, and a place to leave news tips. importance of standing for marriage as encourage Southern Baptist churches Visit online at www.baptistlifeonline. far and wide across the state as possible.” and individual members to send a org to see all the changes. Learn more at www.maryland- note of affirmation to BSA for the marriagealliance.com. The Maryland moral and ethical commitments to Looking ahead: 2012 Baptism Marriage Alliance is a grassroots, which they have remained true for 102 photos wanted for October cover of non-partisan, interfaith coalition years.” Their address is: Boy Scouts of BaptistLIFE dedicated to preserving the traditional America, P.O. Box 152079, Irving, TX definition of marriage in Maryland 75015-2079. BaptistLIFE would like to feature law. The Maryland Marriage Alliance a mosaic of 2012 baptism photos on our is supported by the Maryland Family 2012 Week of Prayer for Maryland/ cover for our October issue. To do that, Alliance, the Maryland Catholic Con- Delaware Missions materials we are gathering baptism photos from ference, and the National Organiza- available online our churches to post on our BaptistLIFE tion for Marriage, and is the leading Facebook (to celebrate now) and then entity in Maryland focused solely to The Missions M/D state missions use them on the cover. Please feel free the preservation of marriage. offering funds many ministries in to post your photos directly to Bap- Maryland and Delaware in partnership tistLIFE’s Facebook page or send them Boy Scouts of America remains with churches and associations. Thank to Shannon Baker ([email protected]), committed to moral/ethical you for working with the BCM/D Sharon Mager, ([email protected]) or leadership standards to reach Maryland/Delaware and Iris White ([email protected]). beyond! WE CAN’T STOP! During the recent meeting of the To assist you in promoting the Southern Baptist Convention in New missions offering in your church, the DID YOU KNOW . . . Maryland Orleans, a BCM/D has developed several materi- provided the original leadership and number of als, including promotional videos, staging area for what became the SBC’s concerned prayer guides, bulletin inserts and post- Brotherhood Commission. messengers ers, which can be accessed at bcmd. The Layman’s Missionary visited the org/offering. Movement was organized in 1906 by Association John Sleman in Washington, D.C. A IMB seeks to mobilize more health of Baptists prominent Maryland layman, member care workers for overseas service for Scouting of Eutaw Place Baptist Church, was booth to ask instrumental in bringing this movement if they had The International Mission Board to the SBC, where in 1907 it became an heard correctly that the Boy Scouts of and its Global Medical Alliance are auxiliary. He united men for missions as America were planning to loosen their sponsoring a health care missions con- Annie Armstrong did for women. standards regarding requirements for ference at the International Learning adult leaders. R. Chip Turner, Chair- Center in Richmond, October 11-13. Who was he? man of BSA Religious Relationships, The event, entitled MedAdvance, is for For this answer and more historical answered, “I am pleased to say this all health care personnel, pastors and insight go to http://bcmd.org/history

August 2012 Page 5 Churches partner for mission trip to Nicaragua By Sharon Mager This will be a new step of faith for a non-threatening forum and gang mem- BCM/D Correspondent Glen Burnie Baptist Church. bers got saved and began witnessing to “We support the Cooperative Pro- others. One guy was the town drunk and SEVERNA PARK, Md.—Dave gram and the convention fully, but to the is now a church leader,” Bob Rudman said. Brown, pastor of Severna Park Baptist best of my knowledge I don’t know of any “Gang leaders who used to intimidate Church, and John Rudman, pastor of team that has ever gone on an interna- with fear are now church leaders.” Glen Burnie Baptist Church, both began tional trip,” Rudman said. The churches have been raising ministering at their churches in December Ten people are participating, five funds through dinners, yard sales, a silent 2009. They met through the Arundel from each church. It’s a multigenerational auction, a car show and a music program. Baptist Association, and they struck up an group with five women and five men, Children in VBS saved pennies to easy friendship. Now the two pastors are ranging in age from 16 to 70. buy school uniforms for the children in preparing to lead their churches on a com- The teams will work with the Mes- Nicaragua who can’t attend school if they bined mission trip to Masaya, Nicaragua, siah Project and with “Pastor Roberto,” don’t have uniforms and supplies. Aug. 16-23, where they will minister to the native pastoral leader. They’ll stay The VBS funds are donated to a around 1,000 children. at “The Land of Judah” orphanage for back-to-school program the Rudmans Brown said the upcoming trip is a abused and abandoned children. In the started with friends in Ohio to help the natural extension of missions. In 1960, mornings and afternoons they’ll visit two Nicaraguan children. Thirty-five dollars Glen Burnie Baptist started Severna Park different villages leading VBS-type activi- provides a complete uniform, shoes and Baptist in a local outreach effort to minis- ties including telling Bible stories, doing backpack filled with supplies. ter to the nearby Severna Park area. Now puppet shows, drama, crafts, face-painting The team needs donations of bowls. the two churches are combining to reach and sports. Mary Rudman said village people come the world through international missions. It will take the team about 40 min- for food, sometimes hot soup, and have Neither pastor was sure where God was utes in a bus to travel the three kilometers inadequate bowls to receive it. leading them so they began to seek His to the villages due to the incredibly poor “It can be something as simple as direction. roads. three for $1 at a dollar store,” she said. “John and I were praying and we got Mary, Rudman’s wife who has They also need crayons and beads the churches praying together,” Brown ministered in Nicaragua, several times, for outreach ministry. said. “We did that for two months and said one of the most exciting aspects of The pastors are trying to emphasize out of that we felt the Lord was leading working with the children is that it is an 100 percent participation, encouraging us to South America...It finalized into entry point for reaching adults. Many of all members to be involved in the trip in Nicaragua,” he explained. those adults are gang members. some way, either committing to pray, give Severna Park Church has some “While we’re ministering to the or go. They’re close to 90 percent. mission experience. They’ve had several children, these guys are standing around “Our churches had been stagnant members individually participate in trips hearing it. and haven’t had a vision to reach out. As to Scotland, and Moldova. Since Brown’s “In one village we’ve gone to they new pastors, we want to cast that vision to arrival, they’ve done local trips to Balti- were overrun by gangs. Missionaries were spread the Gospel,” Brown said. more and Appalachia. going through, presenting the Gospel in

Churches deliver ‘pillow case’ dresses to Nicaragua GLEN BURNIE, Md.—Pat Schwarz, a member of Glen Bur- get these dresses,” she said. nie Baptist Church, is a quilter. She belongs to the Friendship Schwarz is also using scrap material to make more dresses. Quilters Club in Linthicum, where club members make dresses “Not every child is a standard pillowcase size.” out of pillowcases for third world countries. Schwarz had never In fact, they’re taking dresses for girls from 15 months old participated in that project, but when Glen Burnie Church to adults. partnered with Severna Park Baptist to make plans for a They’re also collecting t-shirts, shorts and swim trunks for mission trip to Nicaragua in August, Schwarz thought boys along with headbands and hair clips for the girls. that the dresses might be a perfect ministry. “I’m so excited. We’re taking them to the vil- “It was as if all of a sudden the Lord spoke lages. We’ll stay in an orphanage and take a bus and to me and said the dresses are just what they give them out.” need,” she said. Schwarz is taking the project even further. Schwarz explained that in poor countries, While sewing, she thought of the adage about giving if children are poorly dressed they’re at a a boy a fish, and he’ll eat for a day and teaching him to greater risk of getting attacked. The better- fish and he will eat for the rest of his life. dressed children are assumed to be from a She led an initiative to purchase a sewing ma- higher class and are usually left alone. chine, take it with them, along with material, and teach Schwarz planned a sew-in day and about 10 la- the villagers to sew. dies from both churches, attended and made over 20 Schwarz initially wasn’t going to go on the trip, but dresses. Others made dresses at home. Altogether, as she made the dresses, she began feeling God to lead Schwarz collected over 100 dresses. her to take the step. “Instead of the pillowcases with ties drawn “The Lord just laid it on her heart. I just knew through the top, we’re making them with pretty God was going to call her and lead her on the trip,” flowers, bows, buttons, pockets and appliques. John Rudman, pastor of Glen Burnie Baptist Church, These little girls are going to feel so special when they said with a smile.

Page 6 August 2012 CrossLife Community Church attracts track & field campers through their sports ministry By Sharon Mager, BCM/D Correspondent residents chose sports or recreation activities over counseling and Bible studies when asked what they would like a church to ELKRIDGE, Md.—CrossLife Community Church had offer. a record high attendance at their annual track and field camp So the church responded. They began a “Get Fit” minis- in June. About 140 kids participated. Campers were assigned try last year and started offering Zumba classes, aerobics, and teams, each with their own names and matching colored shirts. pilates. They’re using the classes to build relationships with Camp began with a half hour of Bible study and learning about people in the community. The church is also a lead sponsor for topics such as teamwork, perseverance, respect and sacrifice. a 5K run for the Elkridge food pantry. Then it was off to the races. Mackall said that as a result of the sports ministries several They warmed up on the track for fun and silly stretches people have made decisions to follow Jesus and some have gone and then a headed out for a warm-up lap. Throughout the week on to become church leaders. they learned high jumps, long jumps, shot put, discus, javelin, John Mackall himself enjoys athletics and participates in and hurdles. They also had snacks and games. The last ten triathlons. minutes of each day was spent encouraging the campers with CrossLife Church meets at Rockburn Elementary School. awards for living out their lessons they learned in Bible study. They average 80 on Sundays. Mackall said the church has grown At the end of the program, each camper took home a slowly and steadily through the years. medal and kids’ meal gift certificates from Chick-Fil-A. “We give the kids medals and tell them they’re not getting it because they did great, but because in God’s eyes they are gold medal winners,” John Mack- all, pastor of CrossLife Church, said. “This year God showed up in an interesting way. The first day of camp the athletic director was to open the shed so we could use the high jump equipment. High jump is a highlight for the kids—a must have. He did not show up or respond to my many phone calls. No one had a key because the track coach put a new lock on the shed.” Mackall said it was 9 am and the kids were preparing for the jump in a half hour. One of the helpers said he had a few master lock keys at home and drove off to get them. Mackall then remembered he too had master lock keys in his truck for the church trailer. “I thought, I might as well try. I tried both keys three times...and I prayed, ‘Lord you need to open this lock.’ I tried one more time and the lock popped open and the high jump was set up on time. I tried for 15 minutes on two different occasions to open that lock again with my key, and I could not do it. The coach and the custodian asked how I opened the lock and I told them, ‘I didn’t; God did!’” “This area is sports crazy,” Mackall said. While reviewing demographics for the area, Mackall said

August 2012 Page 7 Ellis Prince

SBC Officers Kevin Marsico Maryland/Delaware ministers SBC WRAP-UP: Historic meeting –1st black president elected, descriptor approved By Michael Foust, Baptist Press “Here is a convention that has been responded with an emotional 70-second talking this racial reconciliation thing standing ovation. With cameras flash- NEW ORLEANS (BP)—In one and now they’re putting their money ing as Luter walked to the podium, he of the most historic meetings in the where their mouth is,” said Luter, pastor pointed heavenward and, while wiping Southern Baptist Convention’s 167-year of New Orleans’ Franklin Avenue Baptist away tears, said simply, “To God be the history, messengers meeting June 19-20 Church, whose building was flooded after glory for the things that He has done.” elected the body’s first African American Hurricane Katrina but has been rebuilt Outgoing SBC President Bryant Wright president and voted to keep the conven- into a mega-church amid the city’s much- then put his arm around Luter and prayed tion’s name while approving a descriptor, reduced population. for him. “Great Commission Baptists,” for those Luter called his election “a genuine, Luter’s election came with a histori- churches that wish to use it. authentic move by this convention that cal coincidence: He was elected on June The momentous occasion in New says our doors are open.” He also said he 19, or “Juneteenth,” a yearly date in which Orleans brought media from across the hopes to see minorities promoted to other many African Americans celebrate the nation to see the election of Fred Luter, positions within the convention, “and I’ll emancipation of slaves. His election also a descendant of slaves who now is the be a cheerleader promoting that.” came as Americans commemorate the president of a convention whose founders, About 7,900 registered messengers 150th anniversary of the Civil War. in 1845, defended slavery. attended the annual meeting, and nearly “This is not just an Anglo conven- The convention officially repented every one of them -- plus family members tion,” Luther told media members. “... I’m of its racist past at the 1995 meeting, and and several dozen media representatives Exhibit A that this convention is serious has seen the percentage of non-white -- were in a packed convention hall when about saying that our doors are open to churches grow, from 5 percent of the SBC Luter was elected. New Orleans pastor everyone. I hope to be a spokesperson in 1990 to 19 percent in 2010. Last year, David Crosby nominated Luter, and to that, because let’s face it: There are messengers approved a landmark report recording secretary John Yeats cast the some African Americans, maybe Asians encouraging ethnic diversity in committee convention’s official ballot. or Hispanics who for years felt that they appointments. “It is my high honor to cast this his- were not welcome in the Southern Baptist Luter, who was unopposed and toric ballot of the convention for Dr. Fred Convention. That’s not the case anymore.” received a lengthy standing ovation from Luter as president of the Southern Baptist Two days prior to Luter’s election, messengers when elected, told media at a Convention,” Yeats said before adding, several hundred Southern Baptist messen- news conference that he sees his election “Hallelujah!” gers visiting New Orleans -- most of them as being a turning point for blacks and Yeats’ expression seemed appropri- white -- attended Luter’s church, wanting other ethnic groups. ate for a historic day, and messengers to see him and the congregation he had

Page 8 August 2012 helped rebuild. At the close of the second than they are about winning the lost for In other matters: service, Luter called on Jimmy Draper, Christ.” He then addressed Calvinists, – More than 1,100 decisions for former president of LifeWay Christian some of whom he said “seem to think that Christ were made during Crossover, the Resources, to pray. Prior to his prayer if we do not believe the same thing about yearly evangelistic emphasis prior to each Draper addressed Franklin Avenue church soteriology that they believe then some- annual meeting. members, referencing Luter’s pending how we are less intelligent or ignorant.” – International Mission Board Presi- election and telling them to applause, Soteriology is the study of the doctrine of dent Tom Elliff reported on the progress “This is not tokenism. ... We’re electing a salvation. of IMB’s Embrace challenge, issued at the great leader who happens to be black.” “I do believe we can find some ways 2011 SBC in Phoenix, where he called The convention has made several to work together better,” Page said, “and on Southern Baptist churches to claim moves in recent years in an attempt to I believe that the leaders of both of these responsibility for evangelizing all of the reach out to ethnic groups, including the groups can come together to say, ‘Here’s world’s then 3,800 unreached, unengaged establishment -- by the Executive Com- how we can return to working together people groups (UUPGs). He said 1,281 mittee and the North American Mission like we once did.’” Southern Baptist churches and entities Board – of an African American Advisory Page confirmed again that he plans have indicated an interest in embracing Council and a Hispanic Advisory Coun- to assemble a group of advisers to help a UUPG. Of that number, 474 churches cil. Last year’s ethnic diversity report cited chart a way through the division sur- and entities have taken steps to go deeper the “need to be proactive and intentional rounding Calvinism. But that will not in that commitment. “It means some of in the inclusion of individuals from all include revising the Baptist Faith and you are taking this really seriously, and ethnic and racial identities within you’re saying we want to count Southern Baptist life.” the cost, we want to see what’s Luter told the media he wants involved,” Elliff said. “I want to tell to see the convention become even you on behalf of the International more diverse during his presidency. Mission Board, we’re absolutely He also said he wants to spotlight thrilled. We welcome you to the evangelism and missions and help field, we rejoice that you’ve taken bring together factions within the up this mantle and we praise convention. God that the Kingdom is being expanded because of your involve- ‘GREAT COMMISSION BAPTISTS’ The Council of Korean Baptist Churches met in Baltimore ment.” Passage of the descriptor June 18-20. Chuno Chi, pastor of Laurel Korean Baptist – North American Mission “Great Commission Baptists” also Church said having the meeting in the Baltimore/Wash- Board President Kevin Ezell was momentous, although the ington area, where there is a heavy concentration of Kore- encouraged congregations to get vote total was closer than some ans is a contributing factor to the large turnout. The other involved in planting churches and had expected. The proposal came reason, he said, is due to the emphasis on opposing same supporting church planters. To via a recommendation from the sex marriage in Maryland. Many pastors made special underscore the urgency he quoted Executive Committee, which arrangements to attend because of that emphasis, especially statistics showing that in some had proposed it after a task force with the meeting being so close to the nation’s capitol. states in the Northeast, Midwest –appointed by Wright–studied and the Northwest, there is only whether to change the name of one Southern Baptist church for the convention. In the end, the task force Message, Southern Baptists’ statement of every 20,000-plus people. In Canada, it’s recommended the convention keep its beliefs, he said. one in 117,000, he said. By comparison, name but also adopt a descriptor, “Great Wright also addressed the issue in the ratio in the South is one in less than Commission Baptists,” that can be used by his convention sermon. 10,000. “Church planting is an evangelis- any church. Usage is voluntary. “Our calling is to be centered on tic strategy,” Ezell said. NAMB has a goal Messengers debated the descriptor Christ and grounded in the Word, while for Southern Baptists to plant a net of for about a half-hour before approving it, agreeing to disagree on the finer points of 5,000 new churches by 2022, Ezell said. 53-46 percent. theological issues,” Wright said. “May we When including churches that die each The task force said the descriptor all agree that Christ ... has given us a very year, that means Southern Baptists must would be beneficial to churches and clear message and mission for the church.” plant 13,500 new churches. “We will church planters outside the South—some Wright added, “If we pride ourselves never be able to plant that many churches planters say the convention’s regional more on being a traditional Southern unless God does a work in His people,” name is a barrier—as well as to ethnic Baptist or more on being a Calvinist or a Ezell said. churches whose members might view the Reformed theologian, more than we are – About 800 people, representing name “Southern Baptist” negatively. thankful that we are Christ-centered and 600 Korean Baptist churches from across biblically based ... then it is time to repent 40 states, including Alaska and Hawaii, CALVINISM of theological idolatry.” met at the Westin Baltimore Airport The issue of Calvinism also was Messengers also overwhelmingly Hotel in Linthicum. Md., June 18 -20 addressed from the platform several times, passed a resolution “On Cooperation for the annual meeting of the Council with each speaker urging messengers to and the Doctrine of Salvation,” which of Korean Baptist Churches. This year’s remain united for the Great Commis- said in part, “We affirm that The Baptist theme was “Churches planting churches.” sion. Executive Committee President Faith and Message provides sufficient pa- The keynote speaker was Sun Ro Kim, of Frank Page—who said he’s not a Calvinist rameters for understanding the doctrine Han Ma Eum Baptist Church in the city —addressed each side of the debate. He of salvation, so that Southern Baptists of Kangwon Province. told the non-Calvinists: “There seems may joyfully and enthusiastically partner Messengers elected Sung Ho Kim, to be some non-Calvinists who are more together in obedience to the Great Com- pastor of Living Stone Korean Baptist concerned about rooting out Calvinists mission.” continued on page 10

August 2012 Page 9 continued from page 9 on the name of the Lord in a prayer of – Nathan Lino, senior pastor of Church of Dallas, Texas, as president of repentance and faith.” Northeast Houston Baptist Church in the council and approved resolutions A resolution on gay marriage Humble, Texas, was elected first vice emphasizing the need for church planting and civil rights rhetoric declared: “We president, while Dave Miller, pastor of and to support efforts opposing same sex deny that the effort to legalize ‘same-sex Southern Hills Baptist Church in Sioux marriage. marriage’ qualifies as a civil rights issue City, Iowa, was elected second vice – Messengers passed nine resolu- since homosexuality does not qualify as president. Yeats was re-elected recording tions. a class meriting special protections, like secretary and Jim Wells re-elected registra- A resolution on the sinner’s prayer race and gender.” The resolution also tion secretary. said the prayer is “not an incantation that said messengers “stand against any form results in salvation merely by its recita- of gay-bashing” and that messengers Michael Foust is associate editor of Baptist tion and should never be manipulatively “express our love to those who struggle Press. With reporting by Erin Roach of employed or utilized apart from a clear with same-sex attraction and who are Baptist Press and Don Graham of the articulation of the Gospel.” It further engaged in the homosexual lifestyle.” The International Mission Board. said that messengers “promote any and resolution was submitted by two African all biblical means of urging sinners to call American pastors. MD/DE Baptists given national recognition Robert Anderson with Frank Page

Jessie Arce

NEW ORLEANS—Prominently the NAMB’s “The Faces of the SBC” town New Orleans through their Youth featured in this year’s annual meeting exhibit; on Mission experience during the annual of the Southern Baptist Convention in Byron Day of Immanuel Baptist, meeting; New Orleans were several Maryland/ Laurel, Md., and Ellis Prince of Gallery Ellis Prince of Gallery Church and Delaware Baptists. Church, Baltimore, served on the 2012 Kevin Marsico of NorthStar Community Kevin Ezell of the North American Committee on Committees. Day also Church in Ijamsville, Md., represented the Mission Board recognized the Baptist served as secretary of the National African Northeast region in NAMB’s Send North Convention of Maryland/Delaware as American Fellowship; America effort. seeing the fastest start to church planting James Dixon of El Bethel Baptist Ellen Udovich, BCM/D team strat- in history with more than 30 churches completed his two-year term as president egist for Acts 1:8 missions involvement, started the first six months of 2012. of the National African American Fel- assisted in Crossover New Orleans events David Lee, BCM/D Executive lowship; held prior to the annual meeting. Director, was also recognized because Dennis Kim of Global Mission Other Maryland/Delaware messen- the Baptist Convention of Maryland/ Church in Silver Spring, Md., served on gers were elected to serve as SBC commit- Delaware (a convention of fewer than 500 the 2012 Committee on Resolutions. tee members and trustees: congregations) was the top giver to the David Lee, among other entity Brian M. Corrick of Nanjemoy Bap- Annie Armstrong Easter Offering. heads, presented remarks at the annual tist was elected to served as an Ethnics and In addition, several Maryland/Dela- National African American Fellowship Religious Liberty Commission trustee. ware messengers, shown in alphabetical banquet; Cecil B. Cunigan of Colonial Bap- order, served and/or were honored during Sherry Lee, BCM/D missionary for tist, Randallstown, Md., and Nelson Miles this year’s annual meeting of the Southern ministers’ wives and families, was selected of Friendship Baptist, Sykesville, Md., were Baptist Convention: to be on the board of officers for the 2014 elected to serve on the 2012-2013 Com- Robert Anderson of Colonial Bap- Ministers’ Wives’ Luncheon; mittee on Nominations. tist Church, ending eight years as an SBC Gayla Parker, executive director of David A. Hall of Oak Grove Baptist, Executive Committee member, received a Maryland/Delaware’s WMU, hosted a Bel Air, Md., was elected to serve on the denominational appreciation award from book-signing of “Active Compassion: A SBC Executive Committee. the Black Southern Baptist Denomina- Calling to Care,” during the annual WMU Bob Simpson of The Church at tional Servants Network; missions celebration and annual meeting Severn Run, Md., was elected to serve as Jessie Arce of Healing Water Bible held prior to the annual meeting; a LifeWay trustee, and Victor Simpson Church International in Bear, Del., and Parker, assisted by her husband, of Emmanuel Baptist in Huntingtown, Samuel Nuon of First Cambodian Baptist Freddy, also led Southern Baptist students, Md., was elected to serve as a Golden Gate Church in Reston, Va., were featured in who “prayer”-cached throughout down- Seminary trustee.

Page 10 August 2012 Special Section 2012 u.S. Elections

Are Christians losing their “Congress shall make NO law respect- ing an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ...” voice in the political arena? –First Amendment to the Constitution Alliance Defense Fund urges pastors to ‘Speak Up’ of The United States of America (The Bill of Rights) to Save America on Oct. 7 From the day the Pilgrims first set public facilities that are available to other “The moral issues with public policy foot at Plymouth Rock, the cornerstone private groups ... denied access to public implications being debated today are of American government has been reli- funds that other private organizations far too important for Christians to gious freedom. can draw on to help the hurting ignore, especially at election time. Do This is the land where and underprivileged ... denied your homework on the candidates and pastors have been free to the uses of suitable property vote your values – your biblical values.” preach the Gospel of Jesus through arbitrary land ordi- –Tony Perkins, President, Family Christ and explore the nances and zoning restrictions. Research Council positive impact of biblical These government roadblocks truth on every aspect of the are increasingly impeding “The advice I give to pastors is preach culture. church efforts to evangelize and the Word. When you stay on the Word, This is the nation minister to their communities. it’s going to cause problems, but it will where Christians, in the In response, the Alliance take care of itself.” – Victor Kirk, Pastor, name and for the glory Defense Fund began Pulpit Sharon Bible Fellowship, and member, of God, have been free Freedom Sunday in 2008. The Maryland Citizen Clergy PAC to minister His love and goal of Pulpit Freedom Sunday, administrate their churches scheduled for October 7, 2012, “I want to report to you, friends, that without government inter- is simple: have the Johnson my imprisonment here has had the ference or regulation. Amendment declared unconsti- opposite of its intended effect. Instead But all of that is tutional – and once and for all of being squelched, the Message has changing – and changing A statue of Rev. remove the ability of the IRS to actually prospered.” –The Apostle Paul, fast – in America today. Peter Muhlenberg censor what a pastor says from Philippians 1:12, MSG Today, government removing his the pulpit. intrusion into the affairs clerical robe to ADF is actively seeking to “Educate yourself on the issues. I think of the Church poses a reveal a military represent churches or pastors we suffer a lot as pastors because, while growing threat to church uniform stands in who are under investigation we love God, sometimes we live beyond autonomy and to even the statuary hall in by the IRS for violating the the reality of where we live... Sometimes most basic religious liber- the U.S. Capitol Johnson Amendment by preach- we’re so heavenly-minded, we’re no ties – including freedom of building. ing biblical Truth in a way that earthly good.” –Harold Dugger, Pastor, speech, freedom to exercise expresses support for – or op- First Baptist Church of Capitol Heights religious beliefs and freedom of access. position to – political candidates. ADF (Md.) and member, Maryland Citizen Intimidated by threats (including represents all of its clients free of charge. Clergy PAC the possible loss of their church’s 501(c) The future of religious freedom (3) tax exemption) brought on the depends on a free pulpit to communicate “It merits revisiting what the early Johnson Amendment (see below), many fundamental, biblical principles to con- church did because the fact we are pastors have stopped exploring the mes- gregations across America. Join a grow- here, fighting this fight again, they did sage of the Scriptures as it relates to is- ing movement of bold pastors preaching something correct... and they had a sues that might be considered “politically biblical Truth about candidates and respite for at least a couple of centuries. sensitive,” and stopped exhorting their elections from their pulpits on October They spoke out and had an intellectual congregations to obey biblical teaching 7, 2012. stand against [such issues as being faced today]. And they backed it up with where it conflicts with the dictates of an --via Alliance Defense Fund lifestyle.” – Keiffer Bent, Pastor, Berwyn increasingly “tolerant” secular culture. http://www.speakupmovement.org Meanwhile, across America, (Md.) Baptist Church churches are being denied access to

WHAT IS THE JOHNSON AMENDMENT? The Johnson Amendment was passed by Congress in 1954 as an amendment to section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code. The Johnson Amendment states that entities who are exempt from federal income tax cannot: “Participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of – or in opposition to – any candidate for public office.” The Johnson Amendment was added to the tax code as a result of the political machina- tions of Lyndon B. Johnson who was running for reelection to the U.S. Senate.

August 2012 Page 11 Special Section 2012 u.S. Elections Legal dos and don’ts for pastors By Richard Land, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission “The First Amendment of the Constitution was originally intended to guarantee, not take away, our freedom of religious expression.” Richard Land, President, For Faith & Family Do... Preach on moral and social issues 1 and encourage civic involvement Engage in voter registration activties that avoid promoting 2 any one candidate or particular Distribute educational materials to voters (such as voter guides), 3 but only those that do not favor a particular candidate or party and that cover a wide range of issues Conduct candidate or issues forums where each duly qualified candidate 4 is invited and provided an equal opportunity to address the congregation 5 Invite candidates or elected officials to speak at church services*

Page 12 August 2012 2012 u.S. Elections Don’t... 1 Endorse candidates on behalf of the church Use church funds or services (such as mailing lists or office equipment) to contribute directly to candidates or political 2 committees Permit the distribution of material on church premises that 3 favors any one candidate or political party 4 Use church funds to pay fees for political events Set up a political committee that would contribute funds directly to 5 political candidates 6 Allow candidates to solicit funds while speaking in a church “Is that legal?” There are legal limits to what churches may do, but your hands are not completely tied. In fact, you may be surprised at how much influence you can have. Unfortunately, many are confused about what is and what is not legal given the IRS restrictions on political activity by churches and other tax- exempt organizations. While it is impossible to lay out a definitive list of “dos” and “don’ts” since the IRS interprets what is and isn’t legal, this resource is offered as a general guideline.

*Churches that allow only one candidate or a single party’s candidate to speak can be seen as favoring that candidate or party. No candidate should be prohibited from addressing a church if others running for the same office have been allowed to speak. Exempt from this are candidates or public figures who may speak at a church, but they must refrain from speaking about their candidacy. Visit www.ivotevalues.org for a Voter Impact Toolkit

August 2012 Page 13 Special Section 2012 u.S. Elections Southern Baptists urged to pray for elections during upcoming 40-day prayer vigil

By Shannon Baker N.J., Land said. Spanish, at the 40/40 Prayer Vigil web BCM/D National Correspondent There had been “a calamitous site, www.4040prayer.com. economic collapse” and “great talk of An individual, a small group, an NASHVILLE—Just in time for succession and civil war.” They began entire church body, or an even larger the upcoming elections, the Southern to pray God would send revival, and a group can use this prayer guide. Baptist Convention’s Ethics & Religious God-sent revival “leapt across the Hud- Here’s how: Liberties Commission and the North son into New York City” and “swept First, decide if you want to use this American Mission Board has partnered like a prairie fire” along the northern as a personal guide to 40 days of prayer together to urge Southern Bap- or ask others to join you. tists to participate in a “40/40 “If My people who are Second, decide if you want Prayer Vigil” for spiritual to pray for forty days, forty revival and national renewal. called by My name humble hours, or a combination of the The 40/40 Prayer Vigil themselves, pray and seek two. The guide is designed to consists of 40 days of prayer support any of these options. from Sept. 26 to Nov. 4, 2012, My face, and turn from their • Pray once each day culminating in 40 hours of evil ways, then I will hear between September 26 and around the clock intercession November 4, for forty days of during the last three days of the from heaven, forgive their prayer. Vigil. The Vigil focuses first sin, and heal their land.” • Pray for forty hours, be- on personal renewal, revival (2 Chronicles 7:13-14 HCSB) tween 4:00 p.m. on November 2 and repentance. It then covers and 8:00 a.m. on November 4. an expanding circle of prayer concerns, U.S., Land said. • Pray for 40 days, between from the family and church to the As a result, an estimated one mil- September 26 and the morning of nation. lion people were added to the church November 2 and then pray for 40 hours Stressing the importance of prayer, rolls of the northern states, which at between 4:00 p.m. on November 2 and the Vigil calls Southern Baptists into a the time had a population of 26 million 8:00 a.m. on November. season of prayer to get “our own hearts people. Third, if you decide to make this together for this important election as Shortly thereafter, Abraham a group effort, create a sign-up list and well as just praying for the Church, that Lincoln was elected as president of the ask others to join you in prayer. God would revive His people again,” U.S., from a new party that hadn’t even Fourth, register your commitment explained Barrett Duke, vice president existed prior to 1854, held the Union to pray at the 40/40 Prayer Vigil Web for public policy and research for the together and eliminated slavery. site to let others know that you are ERLC, in a conference call. “With approximately one out of joining the national movement to seek Joining him in the call was Richard six voters who had a conversion experi- God for spiritual revival and national Land, ERLC president, and Larry ence and united with the church, with renewal. Wynn, vice president of evangelism and such a close election, that made the Organizers say anyone who shares leadership development at NAMB. difference,” Land said. the burden for revival among God’s “We are convinced, as a Commis- Wynn added, “Our God is the people and for the future of America is sion, that our only hope for America to same God today that moved in the welcome to join in this intensive period be the America we desire for her to be revival [Land] described, the same God of prayer. There is no cost to participate. is for there to be a revival that ripens who moved in the New Testament Also, the guides can be used any time of into an awakening and culminates in a when the church was birthed, and they the year, not just before election time. reformation,” Land agreed. “None of literally turned the world upside down Visit online at www.4040prayer. these things are going to happen with- for Christ. We at the North American com to sign up, download the prayer out God’s people getting on their faces Mission Board believe it can happen guide, join a blog conversation about before God.” again, and that’s why we are partnering prayer and the need for revival and The “last great general revival” in with this.” renewal, or stay notified of the latest the U.S., in 1858, started in a noonday To assist in the prayer times, the developments in the Vigil. businessmen’s prayer meeting of the ERLC offers a fully downloadable men of First Baptist Church, Newark, prayer guide, available in English and

Page 14 August 2012 Dixon reflects on two years as NAAF president

By Shannon Baker “I felt like we needed to deal with BCM/D National Correspondent the situation from a redemptive posture,” Dixon said, acknowledging the outcome COLUMBIA, Md.—Although his could have been a disaster. “We were very tenure started rocky, James Dixon, outgo- redemptive, very supportive, but very firm ing president of the National African with him.” American Fellowship of the Southern In the midst of it all, Dixon said his Baptist Convention, thanks God for the “brethren” and all present experienced difficult situations he faced. a powerful moment. He added, “We “I take race reconciliation seriously, definitely need to continue the conversa- and I’m passionate about what I believe. tion concerning racial reconciliation. We My opening statement when I took of- cannot allow what God has placed in our fice caused some people to become very hands to be hindered in terms of us going uncomfortable,” explained Dixon, noting forward to make an impact in this whole he was misunderstood, causing him to racial situation.” experience stressful times. “Many of them Dixon, part of the SBC Executive didn’t care for my leadership because of Committee’s African American Advisory the stands I was taking—especially with Council, was in the room when New racial reconciliation.” Orleans Pastor Fred Luter became the Notwithstanding, Dixon pointed to James Dixon, with his wife Dessie, outgo- first African American to be elected SBC two situations, which “really drove home ing president of the National African president. the joy” of his national presidency: one American Fellowship, respond to the elec- “This has been a long time coming,” involving the North American Mission tion of Fred Luter, pastor of Franklin Av- shared Dixon, commenting immediately Board and one involving the Ethics & enue Baptist Church in New Orleans, La., after Luter’s electrifying election. “As Religious Liberty Commission. as the first African American president of I look back on how long I have been a Also high on his list was the SBC’s the Southern Baptist Convention. Southern Baptist—30-plus years—I didn’t focus on the multi-ethnic community think I would live long enough to see this! and the election of Fred Luter as SBC “This whole process has been God- president. The pastor of El Bethel Baptist driven. It happened at the appropriate Dixon, missionary for African Church in Fort Washington, Md., said time, the right time, and God has placed American church development at the Bap- he also feels God used him to “impact it here so that we may establish better tist Convention of Maryland/Delaware the situation” involving ERLC President relationships among people—not just recalls asking questions that challenged Richard Land’s “injudicious” comments white people, not just black people, but NAMB’s new president, Kevin Ezell, on the Trayvon Martin case on his call-in His people.” when it appeared that the multi-ethnic radio show March 31. Martin, a black Dixon praised God for allowing community was being cast aside. “At that teenager, was shot and killed by neighbor- him to be “a bridge-builder for Southern point, the questions caused trouble in the hood watchman George Zimmerman, a Baptists.” water,” he said. Since that time he holds Hispanic, in Florida in February. “As I look back at my two-year ten- monthly prayer meetings with Ezell and After meeting with Dixon and ure as president of NAAF, if I had to do it Frank Page, the president and CEO of the five others from NAAF, Land issued a all over again and go through everything I SBC Executive Committee. five-part apology (http://www.bpnews. have gone through to get the same results, Dixon credits the power of prayer for net/bpnews.asp?id=37795) and wrote I would do it the same way. To God Be the the establishment of a better relationship personal letters to those he offended: Glory!” with Ezell and a change in the environ- President Obama, Al Sharpton, Jesse ment at NAMB and throughout the SBC. Jackson, and the Martin family. Michael Mattar: Let’s talk about immigration Editor’s note: This article has been edited for Immigration is one of the most responsibility: space. Read the full article online at www. controversial topics we face in our society 1) All of us can agree that something baptistlifeonline.org. today. The immigration crisis is tearing the must be done. What we’re doing now social fabric of our nation in ways that are about immigration isn’t working. recently attended a 40-hour Intensive far easier to rend than they are to mend. 2) Government is limited on what it Basic Immigration Law Training class We are a nation of immigrants — can do. Even the very best of government in Orlando, Fla., sponsored by World whether our ancestors came early or late. has its focus on what it must do and its Relief.I As Montgomery Baptist Associa- As Americans, we should always have limitations on what it can do. tion Language Missionary to our ethnic room in our country for those who are 3) The void that is created by that churches, I, along with our office staff, willing to embrace the American dream limitation is the place where the Church have received numerous calls wondering and the ideals that both inspired that has an important role. It is, if you will, a how immigrants could get assistance with dream and define it. The time to forge a separation of Church and State not along immigration issues. Due to the lack of fair, just and compassionate consensus on ideological lines, but practical ones. The knowledge and resources, MBA is in the this issue is now. government can only do so much. The gap process of compiling materials and con- The government has a certain role that exists is a place for the Church to move. tacts to assist pastors and their members and responsibility regarding the issue with these issues. and the Church has a different role and continued on page 23

August 2012 Page 15 churches we’d see churches grow, lives changed and societies transformed,” Vogel said. The Gospel is promoted in the schools through CEF’s Good News Clubs. The clubs include Bible lessons, songs, memory verses, missions lessons and games. The Gospel is clearly presented. Vogel said CEF weaves mes- sages into Bible stories to encourage saved children and to speak to unsaved children to lead them to know Christ. Currently CEF is working with 76 schools throughout Maryland, reaching 2,000 children each week. Vogel said the opportunity is incredible, and the need is great. He cited statistics from George Barna that 83 percent of Christians accept Christ to him before they are 15 years old, and 80 was when he heard that it was completely percent will never enter a church. WINDSOR MILL, Md.—Bill legal to take the Gospel to the schools. In CEF partners with churches to Vogel was a successful businessman. He fact, the Supreme Court, made the ruling smooth the process of taking a Good owned World Financial Agency, a suc- in 2001 in a case called Good News Bible News Club to a school. “We sit down with cessful investment company. He faithfully Club v. Milford Central School District. you, lay out a plan and identify the school supported Child Evangelism Fellowship The ruling stated that Bible clubs must most apt to affect your church. We raise (CEF), a non-denominational Bible-based be given the same access to school up five to 10 workers, train them, screen worldwide organization founded to evan- facilities accorded any other non-school them, and provide them with curriculum gelize children, help them grow spiritually related group. and insurance. We also approach the and guide them to a local Bible-believing “That was the mind-blowing thing school district to help get that church into church. Vogel’s wife, Beth, had been for me!” Vogel said. After that, Vogel sold the school.” involved in the program since she was 10 his business and went into full-time minis- While CEF would like for the years old in the Dominican Republic. She try with CEF. He is now CEF’s director of church to sponsor CEF, Vogel said CEF was raised in the mission field and her strategic ministries in Maryland. will partner with a church whether it sister was a missionary with CEF. “It still blows my mind. Just think, provides sponsorship or not. Money will “I was the guy who wrote the check,” If every Bible-believing church adopted a not stand in the way, he said. Vogel said. school, wrapped their arms around that For more information, see But when he attended a CEF fund- school and beyond to the families, and www.cefmaryland.org/Good-News- raising event, and heard the testimonies, connected them to local Bible believing Clubs.aspx. he had a deeper calling. What really spoke Good News Club grows Colonial Baptist Church

REISTERSTOWN, Md .—AWA- Ministry, said. team leader. Sixteen NA attendance has almost doubled and McKennie said volunteers have served VBS enrollment is up, new families are the church became so far. After a recent visiting Colonial Baptist Church in Ran- involved with CEF after presentation at Colo- dallstown and the church attributes most a representative spoke at nial, other members of that to Good News Bible Clubs. one of Colonial’s missions have stepped forward Colonial partnered with Child Evan- conferences and told to say they want to be gelism Fellowship (CEF) last year to begin listeners that it was legal to involved. School of- the club at Hernwood Elementary School. share the Gospel in public ficials, students, parents Good News Bible Club volunteers teach schools. and church members children Bible stories, encourage scripture He said, “I was have all testified how memorization, present the Gospel and surprised. I didn’t think we God has blessed them encourage attendance at local churches. could go into schools to through the clubs. The first six-week session drew 42, the next talk about Jesus Christ.” “Every volun- session 32 and the most recent spring ses- McKennie discov- teer that has gotten sion brought 63 children to the club. ered that his church was involved has grown “Five kids have accepted Christ as in the process of forming a team. He spiritually. They also get a lot of energy their personal Savior,” Vinson McKennie, volunteered and went to training. from the kids” McKennie said. a deacon in training at Colonial and the “I came away really excited about Cathy Gantz, principal of Hernwood director of the church’s Good News Club it,” he said. He was asked to become the continued on page 17

Page 16 August 2012 Churches, BCM partner to touch Rosedale

By Shannon Baker to trust God more. When BCM/D National Correspondent sharing with guests, the Waldorf, Md., native ROSEDALE, Md.—Baltimore answered questions about churches and Baptist Collegiate Ministries her life. (BCM) partnered together to serve the All throughout the suburban Rosedale community with a grounds, dozens of volun- block party in late June. teers reached out to share In prior months, Baltimore Baptist the Gospel with adults Association (BBA) Director of Missions and children of all ages, Bob Mackey challenged BBA churches said Irizarry. “They were to consider local missions as an option such a joyful team. I give to spending thousands of dollars to go glory to God,” he said. overseas. “Why not do missions in your Irizarry also said the own backyard?” he asked. college students were such And that’s exactly what Long Green an integral part of the Baptist Church of Glen Arm, Md., did. ministry, “as they reached the energy and enthusiasm of youth.” They, along with students from area col- out to guests their own age. I think that Jessica Senasack, collegiate minister leges and universities, coordinated with was a very great plus to have them there.” from the University of Maryland in Col- Hazelwood Baptist Church to reach Summer missionary, Madison Rose, lege Park, underscored the importance of the northeastern Baltimore County an intern for Anne Arundel Community allowing students to participate in such community. College, spent the day ministering to the ministries. “It’s a win for the church, who “I was wholeheartedly for it,” shared “really sweet” children who came. The receives the help from the students, but Hazelwood’s pastor, Ed Reese, explaining University of Alabama student loved how it’s also a win for the students, who gain his church’s budget wouldn’t have allowed the churches “really reached out to reach ministry experience,” and what Senasack the large missions effort. “We were thrilled the community.” ultimately hopes for, “a missions lifestyle.” to have Long Green come in to continue “It’s wonderful to see students from “It was a real blessing to see some what we’ve done.” our Baptist collegiate ministries partner college students from BCM around the Over 300 people with local churches area and two churches pool their efforts to attended the “Com- to reach out to com- touch a community in Jesus’ name,” said munity Bridge” evan- munities,” said Mike Mackey. “I heard one weary mom on her gelistic event, which McQuitty, missionary for way out with a big smile on her face and featured free food, collegiate church planting three children in tow say, ‘I feel like I have pony rides, carnival- for the Baptist Conven- been at the fair all day.’” type games, prayer tion of Maryland/Dela- “To see the Gospel shared, persons stations, face painting ware. register for a planned small group to and giveaways from “BCM/D churches begin in July, and having clean fun in a area businesses, shared invest a lot in student Christ-like environment is a product of organizer Arnaldo ministry through the what happens when pastors collaborate for “Nando” Irizarry, a bi- State Mission Offering Kingdom purposes,” Mackey said. lingual field represen- and the Cooperative Reese agreed, “One of the most tative for Nielson TV Program, and events like rewarding things, besides multiplying Ratings and a member the ‘Community Bridge’ our effectiveness, is the sweetness of the at Long Green. carnival allow our college fellowship between the churches. It was In addition, students to give back! encouraging for me personally and for our there were three performers from jazz to “Outreach events like these also pro- members. We limit ourselves when we try the classics to hip-hop. Hip-hop performer vide opportunities for students to minister to do our own things and don’t look for Samantha Peoples, a freshman from alongside other believers. The collegians opportunities to help others. We would Towson University, used her performance benefit greatly from the expertise of older miss out on so much!” as an interactive conversation to teach how Christians, while our churches appreciate

Good News Club grows Colonial Baptist Church, continued from p. 16 Elementary School, is very enthusiastic brought peace to Herndon,” Gantz said. praise the Good News Club. about the clubs. Gantz reported that since Gladys Turner’s granddaughter, “They have really influenced my the club began, the suspension rate has Jasmine, attends Good News Club at baby because a lot of change has come dropped from 11.5 percent to 2.5 percent. Herndon Elementary. over her since she she’s been going to this “That’s hard data. The Good News “It’s a long time since they tried to get club. I know that God is good and God is Club works,” Gantz said. “It has a very Jesus out of the house but because of the moving. I want each and every one of you positive impact.” Gantz said she’s also seen Good News Club, He is back in the house continue to pray that GNC spread their higher report card grades. and He is filling these children’s mind with blessings all over.” -- By Sharon Mager “The Good News Club has just the love of God. I praise the Lord and I

August 2012 Page 17 Dale Pace from The Church at Covenant Park is the founder, president emeritus and lead chaplain of Christian Jail Ministry. CJM offers hope to Howard County Detention Center (HCDC) inmates By Sharon Mager, BCM/D Correspondent Before his return to Maryland in 1979, Pace led programs in several dozen correctional institutions, including jails, JESSUP, Md—There’s a bleak stretch of Route 175 in prisons, juvenile facilities, and halfway houses. He was certified Jessup, the address of several Maryland correctional institu- as a Supervisor Correctional Chaplain by the Association of tions. Howard County Detention Center (HCDC) is one Evangelical Institutional Chaplains. He authored a book, now of those institutions and at any one time home to 300-350 out of print, on ministry to inmates that was used as a text in inmates–many who are broken, addicted and totally void of seminaries and Bible colleges. any self-esteem. Christian Jail Ministry (CJM) brings hope into “The first inmate I spoke to accepted Christ. I considered that sanitized intimidating facility. that a bit of confirmation,” Pace said of his call to ministry to Dale Pace, a soft-spoken gentleman and scholar and a prisoners. member of The Church at Covenant Park, Ellicott City, is the Pace worked prayerfully and tirelessly to grow CJM, founder, president emeritus and lead chaplain of Christian recruiting churches, chaplains and other volunteers. In addition Jail Ministry, a non-denominational ministry sponsored by to his ministry with CJM, Pace, a former pastor, was a member various churches, including many BCM/D, the Mid-Maryland of the Principal Professional Staff of the Johns Hopkins Univer- Baptist Association and Mid-Maryland Baptist churches. Pace sity Applied Physics Laboratory and taught at times in graduate never “did time,” but he has invested much of his in the lives of technical management programs at Johns Hopkins. inmates, where he’s seen God’s transforming power. CJM’s ministry now involves up to 300 volunteers each “There are a number of people whose lives have really year in its ministry from several dozen area churches. More turned around and changed,” Pace said. “They are drawn to the than 4,000 inmates a year pass through the Howard County intangible benefits of what happens inside a person.” Detention Center and the majority of them return to the com- “The ministry’s mission is fueled by the sentiment behind munity from the detention center. Corinthians 5:17, ‘Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a While CJM would like to devote ministry to those in jails new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things and help those who are transitioning back to the community, are become new.’” funding won’t allow for both, so the ministry is primarily fo- “The power of Christ can transform anyone, no matter cused on ministering to inmates while in the detention center. what that person has been or done,” Pace said. Pace wants to see churches step forward and help with Pace and his children moved to Columbia in 1979 and the transitioning of the inmates. The most important way a began looking for churches. They visited a Presbyterian church church can help is by providing a liaison for inmates, someone whose pastor was providing pastoral counseling at the Howard who will stand by the newly released man or woman, help them County Detention Center. Learning of Pace’s previous involve- acclimate into the church, provide resource information and be ment with ministry to prisoners suggest Pace take the lead a friend. The church can also help by providing transportation in ministry at the Detention Center, which he did and CJM and guidance in helping the inmate find a job and, if necessary, began. housing.

Christian Jail Ministry is dealing with a great problem. More inmates want to attend chapel than the chapel area can hold. Average attendance has grown from 50 in January to 75 in April. CJM responded to that need by offering an additional worship service from 9-10:30 am. The principal speaker in those services initially will be the Rev. Jerry Hoots, a retired BCM/D pastor. There is a big need for churches to step forward and help lead services as well as funding.

Page 18 August 2012 Christian Jail Ministry How can your church help? • Pray for CJM, its chaplains, volunteers and for the inmates • CJM would like to have churches volunteer to receive inmates • Volunteer to provide a worship service • Individuals can volunteer to help with Bible studies or one-on-one discipleship • Help with administrative tasks • Give to fund the program

For more information, see the CJM website: www.christianjailministry.org or call (410) 997-0253 Prison Chaplain Gerard Washington Christian Jail Ministry (CJM) at HDCD By Sharon Mager, BCM/D Correspondent While attending Celebration Church in Columbia, Wash- ington heard the call for volunteers and responded. JESSUP, Md.—The men, mostly under 30, a mixture of “I knew God laid it on my heart,” Washington said. black, white and Hispanic, praised God mightily, singing “Hail, “God lifted me out of that kind of lifestyle. I was never Jesus, You’re My King,” in loud, strong voices. Some raised their sentenced to do time in jail, but I did spend time in Howard hands, others looked to heaven. It was a worship service so ex- County Detention Center (awaiting trial),” Washington said. citing that surely the angels must have been present and partici- “I was blessed. I did some things that I should have gotten time pating. That service was the beginning of a Celebrate Recovery for but the Lord spared me.” program at Howard County Detention Center (HCDC) and “God delivers you out of situations because he knows the singers were inmates. what you can do—go back to these young men and women Prison Chaplain Gerard Washington asked the men, who find themselves in that situation and give them hope.” “How did you picture God when you were a child?” Washington said he had breakfast with a young man who “Santa Clause,” one man quickly said. “As a giant,” an- had been back to prison three times. “He truly accepted Christ other man said laughing. Others said a father figure, a ghost, or as Lord and Savior. He had a true encounter and is moving on.” non-existent, one said. “I saw him as the moon,” one man said. The man has a job as a seafood manager and when he can “I was in jail for five years and seven months and when I came he attends early morning prayer with Washington. out I looked up and saw the moon. I saw God in the moon.” Washington said he was initially nervous when he began “Let me tell you how I saw God,” Washington said. “I doing jail ministry. “God gives us the strength to get through saw God as someone who was going to zap me when I did those things, then once you start doing them they’re not as something wrong. But he’s a loving God!” Washington quoted hard. A lot of times people need to stretch themselves a bit. John 3:16. The inmates sat quietly, some shaking their heads in “The highlight is seeing someone make a change in their agreement. life and becoming productive citizens, working, being good Washington began ministering as a chaplain for Christian mothers and fathers, taking part in their churches. The heart- Jail Ministry in January after volunteering over a decade. He ache is seeing them come back in.” loves his job. He loves the inmates, and it’s obvious they love and respect him as they hug him, shake his hand and listen so attentively. TOOLS TO HELP YOUR NEED AFFORDABLE leader. Send resumes to PO Box 65, Perry Hall, MD 21128; FAX to (410) CHURCH GROW— FAMILY HOUSING— 529-7189 or email to angie.shaw1@ Available to help the local church: Long -tenured SBC NAMB Missionary verizon.net. develop praise and worship teams, Service Corps missionaries considering write missions policies, provide written relocation to Pasadena, Md., area to be educational materials catered to specific close to family. Looking for affordable WANT TO ADVERTISE? need, and, discover their organizational single family housing in that area. Call Deadlines are the first day of each strengths and weaknesses through or e-mail us at (301) 384-0524, cell month for the following month’s issue. research and analysis. Contact Michael (410) 978-9885. e-mail fwn@comcast. Contact [email protected] for ad Callahan by email at callahanmb@msn. net. pricing. Acceptance of advertising does com. Cell is (240) 460-0634. not constitute an endorsement of any MUSIC LEADER—White advertiser’s products or services. Marsh Baptist Church of Perry Hall,

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August 2012 Page 19 Has anyone ever told you about God? these kids to learn?” etc. and a station for making a open waiting for the next part A leadership team was witnessing bracelet. of the story. I wanted to freeze put together and we began As the children sat in a time and relish in the pure joy praying about “what we want- circle waiting for instructions, of what I was witnessing. ed these kids to learn.” The I heard Rachel Faulknor from When the group of first ministry projects included First Baptist Church, Fayette- graders left Rachel, I thanked “prayer”-caching modeled ville, Ark., ask, “Has anyone her for the amazing way she after the “geocaching” craze. ever told you about God?” was working her station. She re- GPS coordinates were used I watched half a dozen little sponded, “But Ms. Gayla, that’s for students to find a “prayer heads shake their head “no.” the way I learned it in GA’s.” cache;” Prayer walking done Rachel responded, Is missions education in a treasure hunting style. “Well, just wait until you hear important? Yes indeed it is! At each stop the student about Him. He is amazing!” I watched the results of mis- learned something about that I stood there for a while sions education up close and particular area, what scripture listening as Rachel told them personal as I watched 17-year- says about prayer and how about God the creator and old Rachel tell the story of to pray specifically for that moved on to telling them salvation to group after group particular GPS location. about God the Savior and how after group of children who The students also served He sent His son. came through her station. at The Friendship House, a As she told the story “For God so loved ministry for women and chil- the children placed the beads the world He gave His only dren in crisis, baked cookies carefully on the leather strap. begotten Son…” (John 3:16) for maritime ministries, and After each bead, they would Has anyone ever told you Gayla Parker cleaned countless yards near look up at her with eyes wide about God?” BCM/D WMU the ninth ward. Executive Director, And then there was the Missionary for block party being sponsored Missions Education/ by Missions Lab at the New Customization and Orleans Baptist Theological SBC WMU Seminary. It was there that I was reminded once again, it wasn’t about what “I would his year at the South- teach these kids” but what ern Baptist Conven- “God would teach through tion my days were not these kids.” Tfilled with business sessions, Two hundred fifty reports, or meetings. Instead children came through the my days were filled with block party rotating from one leading students in ministry station to another. There was projects all over the city of the water balloon station, face New Orleans. When I was painting, beanbag toss, pop- given this assignment, my first corn machine, bouncy thing, thought was, “What do I want mosquito tag, water station,

Page 20 August 2012 ‘Patience, Church Planter’

By John Coleman, Pastor of EverSpring Church and offerings were abysmal. This has kept me going when y brain is littered with useless television and movie a few months pass without references. I vaguely remember scenes from the 70’s a baptism. This has kept me television show, Kung Fu, where a young orphan was going when I have felt alone, taughtM patience by a Shaolin monk sensei. tired, frustrated and confused What I remember is just scattered black and white images, (all common feelings for but I have been quoting dialogue from that show my whole life. church planters). This is especially evident when my children seem too hurried to be safe or too rushed to be successful at a certain task. I tell God has called me to a them, “Patience, Grasshopper.” In this small phrase, I’m saying, ministry of consistency. “Relax and take your time to assess the situation, or at the very So often we read the sto- least, to enjoy the moment,” just like that monk in Kung Fu ries of great men and women taught his student to focus on what was lasting. Okay, maybe of God and forget that it’s not exactly like Kung Fu, but you get the point. between the lines are years and years of consistency. God So, “Patience, Church Planter.” blesses consistent faith. Your Come on, you know we all need to hear it. In fact, community trusts consistent “Patience, Church Leader,” might be more appropriate because presence. John Coleman can be learning to be patient in any areas of ministry will keep us all Over the past few reached by phone or sane. months, God has been bless- I have learned the importance of patience and persever- ing us with new families every text at (443) 523-6878 ance over the past few years as a church planter. In late 2009, few weeks. We have moved or by email at john@ we set out to pioneer a new work in Bear, Del. Three other into a building strategically everspringchurch.com. families joined us as we embarked on a mission to start a church located on a main road in the that would help people experience the transforming power of heart of our area of ministry. Christ’s Gospel in their lives. Just a few Sundays ago God One of our first meetings was in the public library. It was a drove this point home in my heart. We baptized 11 people small, poorly ventilated room, but I didn’t mind. I had dreamed (after about a six-month drought in baptisms)! The majority of being part of a revival I believe God desires to bring to my of those baptized were from families connected to our church home state of Delaware since I was a teenager, so starting small from the community that we have been trying to touch consis- was not a problem to me. tently through kindness outreach. Rather, the actual problem arose in the usual place...my I had to hold back the tears Sunday as the video of fathers expectations. I was convinced EverSpring Church was going to hugging sons and daughters after their baptisms played during grow so fast that I’d soon be writing books on how God made our service. Many of these folks have been attending our church it all happen so suddenly. I should have known better, for this for nearly a year. God made is so clear to me again: we are called isn’t even my first church plant! By now I should have learned to a ministry of consistency. that my expectations don’t always match God’s plan. God is going to do amazing things in Delaware in my gen- We are now in our third year of ministry at EverSpring eration! I really do believe this; moreover, I believe EverSpring and we are just reaching an average attendance approaching will play a part in that movement. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t 100. If you had asked me when we were meeting around the wish it would happen tomorrow, but I hear God’s loving re- table with the core team during those early days, I would have minder to move steadily forward, “Patience, church planter.” estimated this level of growth in our first six months. Don’t get me wrong; being optimistic is not a bad thing. In fact, we dream too small most of the time. Where our “dream” becomes negative or counterproductive in ministry, though, is when we measure our “success” by some preconceived number or human Columbia Extension Center time frame. All church planters (at least, the honest ones) want to Baptist Mission Resource Center • Columbia, MD have the next big cover story. We all want our church to be the FALL 2012 SPRING 2013 next Saddleback, and at least in the beginning that’s what I Fridays 7:00-9:30 pm Fridays 7:00-9:30 pm wanted, too. Saturdays 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Saturdays 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Today, though, I don’t ask God to enable EverSpring to be the next cover story. I don’t pray to be the next Rick Warren or Session 1: Aug. 10-Sept. 8 Session 1: Jan. 25-Feb. 16 the next Steven Furtick. However, I do pray for help to lead my Survey of Christian Ethics Leadership & Family Ministry church forward in the best way possible to reach my commu- Session 2: Sept. 14-Oct. 12 Session 2: Mar. 1-Mar. 23 nity and my generation. I do pray for the strength to fight my Into to Church History 1 Intro to Missiology desire to seek success in light of my own expectations, rather Session 3: Oct. 26-Nov. 17 Session 3: April 8-May 4 than God’s plan and timing. Intro to Christian History 2 Biblical Hermeneutics Do you want to know how God has been answering my prayers? There has been no audible voice, but in my spirit I have For more information: contact Ken White heard Him speak to me over and over again this gentle admoni- 443-745-2904 or [email protected] or go to: tion: “Be consistent. Be steady. Don’t worry. I am with you.” www.sbts.edu/extension/centers/columbia-md/ This has kept me going through the months when attendance

August 2012 Page 21 What God is doing in our churches:

Blue Ridge Baptist Association is starting an Evangelism pants were asked to submit questions in a drop box anonymously. Training Center to help Christians learn how to share their faith. Wilson said that relieves the awkwardness of asking hard ques- BRBA Director of Missions Bruce Conley said the association tions in a public setting. will use a variety of resources including Evangelism Explosion; First Baptist Church, Elkton, (SBA) “Just Walk Across the Room,” based on a book by Bill Hybels; has called Greg Weigel Billy Graham School of Evangelism resources and Saddleback as associate pastor to education and discipleship. He comes to material. The association hopes to have two to three training Elkton from Ogletown Baptist Church. He and his wife Cindy events each year. began their ministry on May 6. The senior pastor is James S. The first session will be an evangelism training event spon- McBride. sored by Covenant Baptist Church, Shepherdstown, W. Va., on First Baptist Church of LaPlata (PBA) is reaching out to their Aug. 18, working with Evangelism Fellowship Training. community this summer. The church had Vacation Bible School Following the training session, participants will be invited and backyard Bible clubs last month and is now in the midst of to go to “Bike Night” in Martinsburg, W. Va., to get some hands hosting an Upward flag football and cheerleading camp. on time witnessing and sharing Gospel information to those interested. Fort Washington Baptist Church (PGBA) will host the Prince George’s Baptist Association’s next roundtable discussion on Canton Baptist Church (BBA), Baltimore, opened its outdoor Nov. 3. The topic is “Should Christians join fraternities, sororities venue, “The Dock @ Canton” in May. The outdoor covered and secret orders?” and it’s the second of a two-part series. patio area has a cool, outdoor cafe type feel. It’s ideal for the many dog walkers who daily pass the church. In fact, Steve Wolver- Iron Hill Baptist Church (DBA), Newark, had their tenth annual Father’s Day car and bike show on June 17. About 80 cars were registered. Church members served about 600 hot dogs, water bottles, chips and sno-cones. They also had a moon bounce and a kids’ train. Linthicum Baptist Church (ABA) women are making dresses and pants to send to a missionary in Haiti and also yarn dolls to send to a journeyman in Madagascar to give to children as he goes to different villages to spread the Gospel. Redland Baptist Church (MBA) will have a handbell camp from 9 am-noon Monday through Thursday from Aug. 20-23. Each child will learn to play English handbells and have fun doing crafts, learning American Sign Language, and playing games. Upper Seneca Baptist Church (MBA), Germantown, had an official dedication service for their new church sign on June 10. The PrimeTimers at Bethel Baptist Church (MMBA) honored Jimmy Jackson and his wife, Cleo, for 60 years of Western Baptist Association churches are in full swing in service to the Lord and the thousands of people who have their annual fair and special event summer ministry. Churches been touched and blessed by their faithfulness. volunteered at Grantsville Days and the Allegany County Fair. This month they’ll be at the Garrett County Fair. Volunteers ton, pastor of Canton Church, took notice of those people and man baby comfort stations, providing clean, safe areas to care for thought an outdoor venue would be a perfect way to connect to their children’s needs. They also give away free walking sticks. The the neighborhood. sticks have beads on their handle that the volunteers use to share On opening day, the church offered food and drinks and the Gospel. pet-related activities in an effort to get to know the dog owners. The Sunday following the opening day, several of those people OBITUARY—William Harold Lipham, Sr., of Tucson, Ariz., returned and sat outside to listen to the service. passed away on July 1, 2012 after a valiant fight against leukemia. He is survived by his wife of almost 53 years, Carol Jean Lipham, College Parkway and their family: son Douglas W. Lipham, daughter-in-law Shan- Arundel ABA Baptist Church non, and grandsons Kyle and Jaxyn of Monroe and Kannapolis, (ABA) Baltimore BBA , Annapolis, N.C.; son Steven W. Lipham, daughter-in-law Beverly and grand- has a topical Sunday sons Camden and Aidan of Gallatin, Tenn., and son William Blue Ridge BRBA school class called (Bill) H. Lipham, Jr., daughter-in-law Judy and granddaughter Delaware DBA “The Shuffle.” Ron Ella of Tucson, Ariz. Wilson, who teaches Eastern EBA Lipham was born in Pensacola, Fla., on Feb. 25, 1936, the class, said it’s and was raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. He served 56 years as Mid-Maryland MMBA designed for people a Southern Baptist minister in Texas, Virginia, Maryland, Ken- Montgomery MBA who don’t want tucky and Arizona. In Maryland, he served at Calvary Baptist “homework” type in Bel Air, Md., Indian Head Baptist and Elkridge Baptist. He Potomac PBA classes, but still want was a graduate of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Prince George’s PGBA challenging deep Louisville, Ky. studies. The current In lieu of flowers, the family suggests gifts to the Interna- Susquehanna SBA session is called tional Mission Board, SBC, in Richmond, Va.

ASSOCIATION KEY... KEY... ASSOCIATION Western WBA “Tough Questions Tackled.” Partici-

Page 22 August 2012 “Dear Counselor” with CentrePointe Counseling, Inc. “What should I do if I suspect an eating disorder?”

Dear Counselor, ceptable “substance” to abuse create an environment for these I am recently married and have noticed some unusual disorders to flourish. behavior of my wife which had not caught my attention As you have already discovered, denial that there is a during our courtship. Whenever we share a meal together problem is common and resistance to treatment is high in at home or in public, invariably at the end of the meal she most cases. However, these disorders do not go away without will excuse herself and go to the restroom. While this professional help. I would encourage you to engage the help might not be too odd, what has me worried is that when I of others to collect more “data” from observations such as have passed the restroom at home after dinner she seems to your own. Close friends, family, trusted persons from church be vomiting. When I ask her about this, she says everything may help to confirm or deny your suspicions. Then, you can is fine. —“Worried” bring those persons together, along with your pastor, to speak directly to your wife about your concerns and the necessity of Dear “Worried”: getting help. Your pastor may then be able to help develop a Your observations are significant and may well indicate team who would work with your wife, including such persons that your wife is suffering from an eating disorder known as a therapist, a medical doctor, a psychiatrist, and a nutrition- as bulimia nervosa in which the person follows a pattern of ist. binging and purging. Such persons may also be binging on Used appropriately in combination with other ap- food when others are not around and may be regularly using proaches, certain Scripture verses can be of tremendous help laxatives, diuretics, enemas, etc. accompanied by periods of such as Romans 12:1-2 (renewal of the mind); I Corinthians fasting and excessive exercise. Sometimes with eating disorders 3:16 (treating the body well); 2 Timothy 1:17 (not living in there is simply binge eating where one is powerless over food, fear). As well, there are helpful books like: Mintle (2002), and sometimes there is an obsession with thinness and exces- “Breaking free from anorexia and bulimia;” or Mintle, (2006), sive weight loss in a condition called anorexia nervosa. “Making peace with your thighs.” These eating disorders are estimated to occur in 10 — Tom Rodgerson million females and 1 million males each year and can be life threatening (Mintle, 2011). While reasons for these disorders Send your questions by email to [email protected]. are complex and contextual, our cultural obsession with body For appointment information, call (800) 491-5369 image and the sub-culture of the church where food is an ac- or visit www.centrepointecounseling.org.

Michael Mattar: Let’s talk about immigration, continued from p. 15 To begin with, we have to admit we time and place are the compelling reasons of a governmental law. There is nothing in are a nation of immigrants. Unless you leading to someone seeking to immigrate: Scripture that contradicts a nation having are Native American, you are the product poverty, famine and persecution. It was immigration laws. Let me remind you of immigration. And while it is true the famine that drove the tribe of Jacob to though, that not all illegal immigrants issues and impact of immigration are not Egypt. Persecution drove Joseph and Mary entered this country illegally. Some im- universally applicable to all times and to bundle up their newborn baby, Jesus, migrants became illegal when their ‘status’ places in our history, it is instructive to and head also to Egypt. expired. Many found in this situation try remind ourselves of some of that history. Religious persecution brought thou- to find ways to either renew their status or For example, if you are of German descent, sands to risk the hazardous journey across change status to become legal again. you might be interested to know how the ocean and seek a new life in the new I think we can all feel some anguish many looked at and felt about immigrants world known as America. The potato fam- for people who find themselves in the back when Germans first came to the U.S. ine in Ireland in the early 1800’s brought desperate situation of poverty and famine, In his day, Benjamin Franklin worried about the great Irish immigration to sensing no alternative but to cross the bor- about the impact of German immigrants America. Issues of poverty in Italy similarly der into America in hope of finding work on his beloved Pennsylvania: “Why should brought the Italian immigrants to America and bringing their families with them, only Pennsylvania, founded by the English, be- in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. The to be discovered and separated from them. come a Colony of Aliens, who will shortly issues of poverty, famine and persecution There is much, much, much, more to be so numerous as to Germanize us instead remain the primary issues today causing be discussed about the issue of immigra- of our Anglifying them?” someone to seek to immigrate to the U.S. tion. I hope you’ll take the next step in the Franklin worried about their While illegal immigration has conversation by attending the upcoming language and even questioned their always been a concern within the entirety forums scheduled for Spring of 2013. intelligence toward learning English and of immigration history, it has become a becoming good citizens. Sound familiar? particular boiling point today. Michael Mattar is pastor, Hope Fellowship Familiar also to us are the attitudes Romans 13:1-7 makes it abundantly Church, Sterling, Va., language missionary and treatment of Irish immigrants in the clear that God expects us to obey the laws for Montgomery Baptist Association, and 1800’s and, later, Italian immigrants in the of the government. The only exception to the point person for Embrace Silver Spring. late 1800’s, early 1900’s. this is when a law of the government forces He may be contacted at michaelmattar@ One issue that seems universally you to disobey a command of God (Acts verizon.net, (703) 599-3527 applicable to immigration regardless of 5:29). Illegal immigration is the breaking

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