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w g w r w .o e .b n ap li tistlifeon BaptistLIFE Newsjournal of the Baptist Convention of Maryland and Delaware April 2003 Truckers’ wives ministry explodes Blackaby comes to Baltimore By Sharon Mager Staff writer

BALTIMORE, Md. — Henry Blackaby and his son Richard, authors of the books “Experiencing God,” and “Spiritual Leadership” are com- ing to Baltimore next month to encourage and motivate spiritual leaders. The father and son team will be the speakers at the Baltimore Association’s official kick-off of “Embracing Baltimore,” a beginning phase in the North American Mission Board’s (NAMB) Strategic Focus Cities (SFC) initiative. The conference will be held on Friday, May 16, 7–9 p.m. and Saturday, May 17, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at Middle River Church, Baltimore. It’s an important first event in a two-year evalu- ation process as NAMB prayer- Ministry to truckers’ wives goes high-tech as new ministry through email and the fully decides which cities will world wide web is launched. Story on page 9. be chosen to implement a SFC initiative. Baltimore is among four cities being evaluated. The other three cities are Cleveland, Faith grows as ministry diversifies San Diego and Denver. If cho- sen, NAMB will pour financial resources and volunteer aid into By Sharon Mager and administration; Tim Byer, The next step will increase the city for planting churches Staff Writer part-time recreation minister; parking and Sunday School and evangelism. The beginning Clyde Way, bi-vocational youth space and expand the office focus will be on calling church- GLEN BURNIE, Md. — Faith minister; and a new pre-school complex. They’re also talking es to prayer and holiness and Church, Glen Burnie, has a minister, Angela Holland. about adding a third service to build and nurture spiritual simple ministry plan: discover “We use ministry as a tool on Sundays. leadership in preparation for where the community itches to reach out to the community. The church averages 650 the tasks ahead. and find a way to scratch it, It’s harder and harder to get in attendance each Sunday. “The greatest need in reach- and do it with excellence. into homes without an appoint- They have reached over 700 ing cities is to have recogniz- The church building ment,” Nichols said. on special Sundays. able, authentic spiritual leaders. is located just a few miles If you’re moving in your own from Baltimore Washington agenda you’re not a spiritual International Airport. Just leader – religious, but not spiri- driving by, a passersby would tual,” Henry Blackaby said. have no idea how much activ- “Our coming, at least from ity is going on in the building. our perspective, is sort of a It’s used every day. There’s foundation – the beginning of Upward basketball, co-ed vol- Strategic Focus City which lays leyball, softball, extravagant a foundation of spiritual leader- musicals, orchestra, praise

Columbia, Maryland 21046-1716 1 Baptist ship – across all denominations. 0255 Old Columbia Road band, choirs, evangelistic out- We’ve had a good response reaches, Awanas and many from other denominations,” he

LIFE other programs for men, said. women, youth, children and Blackaby will be using seniors. It also has a child themes from the book “Spiritual development center with Leadership,” which he and pre-school, kindergarten and Richard wrote. daycare. On Sundays there “We’ll try to expand and are two blended worship ser- personalize the basic truths in vices and Bible studies. Adults the book,” he said. can choose from ten different Blackaby will speak about classes including an in-depth the leader’s challenge, role and Bible study with an empha- Pastor James Nichols, Faith Church, Glen Burnie, preparation, vision and char- sis on the Greek and Hebrew believes that excellence in communication is what helps acter, goal and influence, deci- background, a class that deals his church’s diverse and growing congregation succeed in sion-making and schedule, and with contemporary issues, and suburban Baltimore. pitfalls and rewards. classes for women, men, co-ed There are three phases in and seniors. Faith Church is growing The Family Life Center is a SFC initiative, each taking two “We live in a Baskin- and changing. The church big draw for the church. About years. The first phase is the Robbins kind of society with all completed two phases of a 250 children, 70% of whom are embrace process, the second is Columbia, MD

U. kinds of flavors and we like to building program. It is pre- not members of Faith Church, Pe

Non-profit strategic planning with some

S. try different kinds. Our church paring to start the third and play in Upward Basketball. rm pilot projects and the third is P Postage is like that. We’re not afraid to talking about the fourth. This draws in the children, AID

it #350 implementation to create new try new things,” James Nichols, The first part in 1996 was their families and friends congregations, evangelize, senior pastor of Faith Church “Forward with Faith” and and involves more men and mobilize volunteer efforts, said. Nichols shares ministry included expanding the sanc- women in ministry. work with student ministries duties with Raymond Higgins, tuary. “The Second Mile” in continued on page six and emphasize prayer and music minister; Matthew 2000 saw the completion of church health. Bass, minister of education a Family Life Center/Gym. continued on page seven Lessons learned in the school of adversity

am a cancer survivor! There I of getting back into the swing of second-guessing, Zachariah es should we worry said it. I never dreamed that it things after eight weeks of recov- was struck dumb and did not (Philippians 4:6). Iwould happen to me. Cancer ery. Even the worst snowstorm in speak again for five months until (4) Begin every day with always happens to someone else. Maryland history could not keep he named his newly born son, prayer and thanksgiving (I But, during my January 2003 sur- me from advancing to health. “John.” Thessalonians 5:17-18). gery, it was confirmed that there I am indebted to you my From the beginning, I firmly (5) The Lord will never forsake was cancer present. The really readers and all my friends for believed that God would enable you! (Hebrews 13:5). good news is that it was caught your outpouring of prayer, love me to go through my physical It has been a hard, but very early and limited to an and support. You were certainly ordeal. I never doubted it. Years rewarding journey. God has upper level of tissue. It had not key in helping me recover. I of trusting Him had conditioned been with me every step of Bob Simpson gone deeper or spread out. I am thank you from the bottom of me to just let Him be God and to the way to strengthen, encour- Baptist LIFE Editor, very lucky. Actually, I am fully my heart. I especially need to turn my situation over to Him. I age, sustain and heal me. The BCM/D Director of aware that luck had nothing to thank my wife, Lorraine, who could not second-guess His sov- best part is that He often did Communications do with it. Rather, I am the recip- was truly amazing through it all! ereign will for my life. My fifty- His work through so many of ient of God’s wonderful grace. I I have learned so much one years of serving Him had you! I will never forget how know Who did it! He guided the during this time. You don’t already taught me that He does He worked through so many. hands of my surgeons and He always know exactly how your all things well. Again, thanks for helping to see has restored me to good health. faith will serve you until it is I also found that some me through. He truly is Jehovah Rophe…the severely tested. There is a very things were reinforced within I don’t know if it “takes a Lord our Healer! interesting verse in Luke 1:18 me during the entire process: village,” but I do know it takes My prognosis is excellent. where Zachariah questioned (1) Take one day at a time the family of God to come I am told that I am cancer free. the words (and will) of the Lord (Matthew 6:34). along side to help carry the Even my oncologist does not rec- as expressed through the angel (2) Remember all things work load. ommend any follow-up radiation Gabriel. This occurred when he together for good (Romans And, yes, I am really ready or chemotherapy. I have lost over was told that his wife, Elizabeth 8:28). for the spring. It has been a 40 pounds and am in the process was pregnant. Because of his (3) Under no circumstanc- long winter! I believe we are witnessing a movement of God

ogether we assisted in they reach have no previous two new churches. Now, that these are not isolated stories! starting 21 new disciple- “church” background or expe- church was not in Florida or God is at work in Maryland/ Tmaking congregations rience. A new church on the Alabama or Atlanta. It was a Delaware. in 2001. In 2002, thirty new Eastern shore has baptized BCM/D church in Delaware! Ironically, we see this hap- churches started. Already over 30 since Oct. They pres- The next weekend I led a pening amidst the threat of this year nine new disciple- ently have a list of additional deacons’ retreat for one of our war, the fear of a new disease making congregations have persons won to Christ who are Maryland BCM/D churches spreading across the world, a been launched in Maryland/ awaiting baptism. who has a similar problem. concern about the economy, Delaware. We are trusting God But here is the rest of the Their Sunday morning atten- not to mention the ongoing for the resources to assist in story. More and more I am wit- dance is approaching 700. That battles in our culture wars. planting the 36 other congrega- nessing the hand of God in our number has increased by over You and I are witnessing tions presently on the drawing existing churches. The last two 100 since last year. They have the greatest opportunity in our David Lee board for this year. weekends I have encountered overloaded every part of their lifetimes to reach our area for BCM/D Executive Director The reports we are receiv- God at work in mighty ways. system. They are scrambling to Christ. Where we go and what ing from these new churches I visited a church recently provide seats in multiple wor- we do in the next few months are so encouraging. One con- that has a problem. They are ship services. They are having and years will test our metal as gregation in less than two having trouble parking and parking woes. The deacons believers. Success and obedi- years has reached nearly 300 in seating all the people who are can’t keep up with the care- ence will not be easy and will attendance on Sunday morn- coming. Their main (large) giving responsibilities. They not come without cost. Yet, if ing. They have outgrown their parking lot was full. The new need more staff. One of their we continue to cooperate in meeting facility. A next step smaller parking lot they recent- biggest challenges is discipling responding to our moment for them is to commission a ly acquired was full. Cars were the many who are coming with faith, faithfulness and significant segment of their parked along both sides of the to know Jesus. They are also vision, we could see a genuine, congregation to start a new streets adjoining the property. investigating parenting a new powerful movement of God disciple-making congregation A shuttle bus whisked by me church. I was there not to fix that will shake our region, our in another area. to drop off and pick up people the immediate problem, but to nation and our world. What thrills me most who had parked at a remote help them dream about what Dear Lord, I pray that we, about these new churches is parking location. Parking to do so they can reach even your people, will live to see their passion and focus for attendants with big smiles on more people. One deacon in that happen. Lord, I pray that reaching those who are pre- their faces gave instructions his own way voiced the dream. we will position ourselves as christian. The primary target to those wanting to worship. “I want everyone to have a Maryland/Delaware Baptists for their ministry is that person In addition to such significant piece of this.” for you to use us to help make or family who has no relation- outreach and growth, the Both of these churches it happen. To God be the Glory. ship with Christ. Most of those church has recently parented are over 20 years old. And Great things He is doing. Praise God for volunteers olunteers! Our church- men and women at your pared, tears are wiped. Just a in Illinois, I asked the lady es simply could not church? Here's a look at normal week in the life of a serving orange juice why Vexist without them. "normal" volunteerism in the volunteer! In Romans 16, Paul she attended the church. Her They are the willing and congregations of our conven- mentions 35 men and women answer did not call attention gifted people who offer tion: Bible studies are pre- who have said "yes" to the to the talented staff of the Christ and His commu- pared, songs are rehearsed, call of Jesus to "come follow church. She said she was won nity their energy and time. diapers are changed, kitch- me." Thirty-five names in to Christ and assimilated by Volunteers invest themselves ens are cleaned, guests are one chapter! Paul understood people who took her to lunch, in Kingdom work while bal- greeted, money is counted, that churches cannot survive cared for her preschooler and ancing their jobs, families bulletins are folded, games without the willing and the supported her journey as a and education. It is one of are coached, visits are made, called. single mom. Her applause Tim Simpson the most remarkable parts of prayers are offered, sins He speaks highly of their was directed to the volun- BCM/D President being attached to the local are confronted, children hard work and dedication. teers of a great church! Let church - watching the volun- are taught, newsletters are As gifted as Paul was, he every pastor in our conven- teers, volunteer! edited, notes are written, could not succeed without tion jump to his feet and say, Can you remember the disciples are made, flowers vibrant volunteers. During "Praise God for the hands of many tasks that were per- are planted, ministries are my first trip to Willow Jesus in the Body of Christ! formed last Sunday by the launched, budgets are pre- Creek Community Church Great job!"

BaptistLIFE BaptistLIFE Staff Baptists related to or assisting in starting new churches and Letters to the Editor (LTTE) do not reflect the views or Serving Baptists since 1836 Bob Simpson Editor strengthening existing ones. Acceptance of advertising does opinions of BaptistLIFE. We prefer letters from Maryland Volume 87 Number 3 Iris White Associate Editor not constitute an endorsement of any advertiser’s products and Delaware. Only letters marked clearly for publication Sean Copley Design Editor or services. as a LTTE, signed and with addresses will be considered. BaptistLIFE (ISSN 331-640) is Sharon Mager Staff Writer Please include a daytime telephone number for verification published monthly except January as a Cindy Harper Ministry Asst. Deadlines for news and advertising is the end of day on purposes. Letters may not exceed 300 words and are subject Cooperative Program ministry of the Keith Stephenson Production Asst. the 2nd Friday of the month preceding the next issue month. to editing. Letters attacking churches or individuals will not Sherry Lee Editorial Associate be published. Letters will be edited for clarity, BaptistLIFE Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware Ed Nettleship Photographer Subscription: Free of charge by request to members of the style, and space considerations, but not for content. We Heidi Cokendolpher Photography Intern Postmaster: Send address changes to: BCM/D churches; outside BCM/D churches and members, regret that we cannot respond to all letters not accepted for $10 per year; BackPage Program: $12 per issue. publication. 10255 Old Columbia Road Address Change: Send the new address with the old Columbia, MD 21046-1716 mailing label at least three weeks prior to move. We Welcome letters from readers, press releases and photo BaptistLIFE is a member of the Association of State Baptist (Phone) 800.466.5290 ext. 245 topics of interest to Maryland and Delaware Baptists. Digital Papers and is printed by The Daily Record, Bel Air, Md. Advertising Rates are available. (Fax) 410.290.6627 photos sent electronically are preferred. If you send glossy We do not automatically accept all advertising. We typically (E-mail) [email protected] prints, please include a SASE if you want them returned. accept ads for services provided to Maryland/Delaware ArundelArundel Association Emmanuel Church, book fair on May 17. Books, Fenwick Island Church Gambrills, will have revival cards and other items will be will host the semi-annual About fifty people braved services on April 9–11. Jeff available at reduced prices. Eastern Association meeting the historic snowstorm on Feb. Crook from Madison Street The church will have on May 18. 16 for church services at North Church, Stark, Fla., will be revival services May 18–21. Arundel Church, Glen Burnie. the guest evangelist. The BCM/D executive director Mid-MarylandMid-Maryland Association The parking lot was filled with church will have a meal and David Lee will be the guest Association four wheel drive vehicles. fellowship time before each speaker. A nursery will be Hope Church, Laurel, LIFE comes primarily from North Arundel was one, if not service. The meals begin at 6 provided. moved into their own brand church and association the only, church in the area to p.m. and services are at 7 p.m. Andy Dwyer became full- new building on Stevens Road newsletters, bulletins, have services that day. time youth minister of White in North Laurel. They had an and written reports on The church just moved to BaltimoreBaltimore Association Marsh Church as of February. open house on March 29 and events that are sent to a new building in a retail strip The church started a puppet invited the community to see BaptistLIFE. center on Baltimore Annapolis Children of Woodbrook ministry. Youth workers and their new site and a dedica- You may feel free to Blvd. the weekend of Feb. 9. Church will present the musi- teens meet weekly for prac- tion service on March 30. fax news to us at (410) Members were meeting in a cal “Nic at Night,” a musical tice. The church formerly met 290-6627 or e-mail tent on the grassy grounds about Nicodemus, at 6:30 p.m. at the Laurel Korean Church to Sharon Mager at outside of the current location on June 8. BlueBlue Ridge Ridge Association for 18 months. Prior to that [email protected]. since last May. Before that they Choir members will sing they met for 14 years in North Obituaries are were meeting at Glen Burnie to shut-ins during its “Spring Virginia Avenue Church, Laurel Elementary School. edited due to space High School. The school had Sing” on May 7. Hagerstown, will host the Richard Beacham, pastor restrictions. to be painted last summer and On March 28 the church musical group, the Jacobs of the church, said over 450 administrators told the church had popcorn and parable night Brothers, in concert at 7 p.m. volunteers from eight states, they had to relocate. featuring a movie and discus- on April 10. helped build the church sav- Crossroads Community ing the congregation about Church, Falling Water, $750,000. WV, has a “ServeFest pro- About 200 people attend gram.” Members regularly Hope. They will go on a do random acts of kindness mission trip to minister to throughout the community. In Oklahoma Indians on June 21. February they cleaned public Members regularly volunteer restrooms from Williamsport to work with Elizabeth House, to Martinsburg, treated fami- a food pantry and feed home- lies to “no-cost” laundry and less people twice a month. handed out candy at a local Bethel Church, Ellicott convenience store. City, had a Dad’s day out for Associate pastor Vincent fathers to spend time with Russo, who leads the pro- their children doing activities gram, said the acts are oppor- and crafts. tunities to witness, invite Mason Dixon Church, people to church and plant New Freedom, Pa., had a seeds. On Christmas Eve the busy March. Teens partici- group gave donuts and candy pated in the 30 Hour Famine During the tent time the sion. Those who attended canes to law enforcement offi- to raise awareness and money church grew. Throughout the watched the movie “Road to cers, hospital and jail workers for world hunger. The church hot summer and the cold, Freedom – The Vernon Johns and others who had to work. had a mom’s morning out for snowy winter, the congrega- Story.” They give out tracts and cards mothers of toddlers. A mission tion continued to flourish in Taylor Branch, award- that explain that the activities team from the church went to the tent. When it was cold they winning author of the book are done to show God’s love Jamaica March 14–21. The vol- stayed warm with space heat- “Parting the Waters – America and give the directions to the unteers ministered in schools ers. They even had a candle- in the King Years 1954-63” was church on the back. Russso and led revival services. light Christmas Eve service in the guest speaker. said the investment is small, the tent. Long Green Church, will but the rewards are great, MontgomeryMontgomery Association The church averages 250 have a “Spring Talent Show” many of which we won’t people each Sunday. with a patriotic theme from 4– know about until we get to First Church, Rockville First Church, Kent Island, 8 p.m. on May 3. The afternoon heaven. and First Church, is having “Mayberry” Bible begins with a potluck dinner. Gaithersburg, will host studies, based on old Andy Afterwards church members DelawareDelaware Association renowned composer/pianist Griffith television shows and and friends will share their Joseph Martin, from Austin relevant scripture. various talents and interests. Grace Church, Seaford, Texas, for a Composer At Weems Creek Church, In addition to talent acts, has a Hispanic congregation Weekend May 17 and 18 at Annapolis, the middle school members also display their col- that meets on Sundays and First Church, Gaithersburg. Sunday School class is study- lections and crafts. This is the Wednesdays. Both congrega- Martin will lead a Worship ing the book of Daniel in antic- fourth year for the event. tions will join together to cel- Accompanist Workshop from ipation of seeing the produc- Chestnut Ridge Church, ebrate a Cinco de Mayo festi- 10 a.m. to noon on May 17. He tion of Daniel at the Sight and Lutherville, will welcome val on April 30. There will be will also lead the combined Sound Theater in Lancaster, Anita Gutschick presenting lots of Mexican food, fun and choirs and instrumentalists of Pa., on April 18. the dramatic performance of fellowship. both churches in a Concert of Grace Church, Pasadena, “Women of Power, Passion and Women from Grace are Worship at 6:30 p.m. on May ordained church member Purpose” at 7 p.m. on April 25. hosting a breakfast for a local 18. Both the workshop and the Bobbie Mcrobie as a deacon at Gutschick portrays women of Haitian Church on April 12. concert are free and open to a special service last month, the Bible in their triumphs and North Church, the public. followed by a covered dish tragedies. Wilmington, will host a chil- Bill Archer, minister of dinner. Gutschick is a well- dren’s choir leaders’ work- music and worship, First The church dedicated its known actress/speaker in shop on April 26. James and Church, Rockville said Martin new sanctuary on March 30. the Baltimore/Washington Mary Allcock are the guest is extremely prolific and has Members began a First area. She is a member of speakers. written over 800 anthems for Place program, which is a God the National Speaker’s Bethany Church started choirs. centered fitness program with Association, Christians in a new ministry to widows in For more information, an emphasis on weight con- Theater Arts and the Network the congregation called the or to reserve a space in the trol and balancing the mental, of Biblical Storytellers. She Naomi Connection. Several workshop call First Church, emotional, spiritual and physi- has worked with over 20 com- couples in the church agree Gaithersburg. cal areas of a person’s life. munity theater productions. to regularly stay in touch Germantown Church Brent Rawson is the new Gutschick is also an ordained with widows. As part of the sponsored the start of a new associate pastor of student deacon in her church. ministry the church hosted Korean church, Trinity Baptist ministries at Severn Church. Some of the women she a Naomi banquet. Members Church. Seventeen people Rawson served as minister portrays include Sarah, Mary decorated, prepared and attended the first service of student ministries at First Magdalene, Ruth, Queen served the food. on March 2 at Germantown Church of Satsuma, Ala. for Esther and Martha. Church. Li Zhou is the pastor eight years and serves as one First Church, Dundalk, EasternEastern Association of the new church. of the coordinators for World had its annual high atten- Forty people attended new Changers. The church wel- dance/ kite day on Sunday, Spence Church, Snow church start Vietnamese Love comed Rawson and his family March 23. Church members Hill, will host a presentation Church’s pre-launch wor- with a potluck supper at Old gave a kite to every child who of Heaven’s Gates and Hell’s ship service at Upper Seneca Mill High school cafeteria. On attended. After worship ser- Flames on June 22–24. Church, Germantown, on April 19, the church’s chil- vices everyone gathered for The church’s joy group March 2. Nquyen Louq pas- dren’s ministry will sponsor chicken nuggets, sandwiches celebrated April’s fools a little tors Vietnamese Love Church. a puppet show presented by and other snacks. early. They met last month for Berryville Church Puppeteers Parkville Church will a covered dish dinner, riddles BL • April 2003 • 3 as a community outreach. have a Lifeway sponsored and gags. continued on page four continued from page three Potomac Association Kettering Church, to house for each course of a Vietnamese Church, Lanham, Potomac Upper Marlboro, hosted a meal. congregations had a joint Lexington Park Church family ministry conference worship service on March invited creationist Mark last month. The theme was WesternW esternAssociation 30. Kien Lu, pastor of the Phillips to speak to their “Empowering Families to Vietnamese Church and youth about random versus Live For Christ.” Melvin Women of Second United Church’s pastor Keith intelligent design. Phillips Pride, BCM/D director of Church, Cumberland, hosted Koch both spoke during currently pastors a church strategic planning/church a soup and sandwich lun- the service. The Vietnamese in Colorado. He was for- minister relations, was the cheon last month to raise Church’s choir sang. merly a research biochemist at guest speaker. money for summer missions Real Life Church, Vanderbilt University. The youth group from programs for Ocean City and Hagerstown, signed a con- Gary Willett, pastor of Landover Hills Church will Mexico. tract to rent the Regal 14 Potomac Heights Church have a dinner on April 4 to The church will have a Cinema for a year. Grand sends weekly devotional e- raise funds for a mission trip nursery shower later this opening was on March 30 mails each week to church to Haiti. month to stock its nursery with a preview March 23 at members and friends. On March 9, Faith with toys, books, instruments 10 a.m. The youth are going The women of the church Church, Laurel, recog- and other items the teachers on a summer mission trip to had a fun fellowship last nized Janice McWilliams need. Teachers registered the Roanoke, Va. on June 29–July month called backward night. for 10 years of service as church at a local store. 5. Administrative Assistant. Tim Simpson, pas- New Beginnings Church PrincePrince George’s George’s Association tor of Greenridge Church, and Ministries, Pasadena, SusquehannaSusquehanna Association Clarksburg, and BCM/D had a women’s fellowship Cresthill Church, Bowie, president, will be the guest dinner at a local Italian res- had a men’s fellowship break- The college and career evangelist at revival services taurant last month. Sarah fast last month. Sunday School class of at the church on April 6–9. Pope, wife of North Arundel The church is plan- Pleasant View Church, Port Church’s pastor James Pope, ning a trip to Sight & Sound Deposit, will have a pro- MiscellaneousMiscellaneous was the guest speaker. Millennium Theater in gressive dinner on April 5. Lancaster, Pa. to see the pro- Participants will meet at the United Church, New duction of “Daniel.” church and travel from house Carrollton, and First Easter happenings and ideas to ponder

cal “Nail Scarred sung by an angel over the services. Fifty people are Hands” on Easter tomb. participating in the program morning. The play is not only enter- and special lighting and New taining; it reaches people for staging are included. Beginnings Jesus. Lauterbach said they Severna Park Church Church, average about 400 people will present the musical “The Baltimore, each year that make decisions Love of Jesus” at 7:30 p.m. on will have to accept Christ or recommit Good Friday and at 10:45 a.m. an Easter their lives to him. The church on Easter morning. egg hunt at prepares packages ahead of Whitehall and Grace a local park. time to distribute to those Churches will join together to They have who make decisions. present “Save in the Cross” at skits, music, “The funny thing is that Whitehall at 6 p.m. on April food and one year our special effects 12 and 13. The program is door prizes weren’t working. We were a drama/musical featuring in addition to disappointed, but people about 40 participants. The the main event came forward. It was one of program is free, but tickets are – hunting for candy the nights we had the most required. Call the churches for Calvary filled eggs. On April people making decisions. It’s more information. Church, Bel Air, 6, messianic Jew great to have all these extras, will present “The Passion Scott Brown will give a but it just shows you it’s Easter Ideas for Children Play,” a musical about Christ’s demonstration of the Jewish God’s word being powerful life on April 11, 12 and 13. Passover and its relationship that draws people to Him,” Barbara Cook, children’s Church member Debbie to Easter. Lauterbach said. minister for Northwest Sprouse wrote the play. Over 4,000 people are White Marsh Church has Church, Reisterstown, said The “Joy Singers” choir expected to attend the pre- an annual sedar each year it’s hard to deal with the con- will sing in the musical sentation of “The Passion” on Good Friday. The floor is cept of death with pre-school- “Amen” on April 13. at Northwest Church, swept, symbolizing ridding ers. She tells the children Jesus The church will have Reisterstown. the house of the leaven of sin. died for our sins and then the Maundy Thursday services Associate pastor Grant Participants eat traditional kids do crafts symbolizing with covered dish dinners and Lauterbach said the pro- Passover foods as Fred Dwyer, Easter. Cook said sometimes Good Friday services followed gram is very popular and the pastor of the church, explains they make glitter crosses, cut- by a light lunch. church goes all out on the their symbolic meanings. They ting cross shapes out of card- Grace Church, Pasadena, production. They’ve done add a little modern touch to board and covering them with will have its annual children’s the play for about ten years, the evening with a potluck glitter glue. Easter egg hunt on April 12. though not always consecu- supper and praise and wor- She also suggests read- On Easter morning they’ll tively. ship. ing “Parable of the Lily,” by have a sunrise service on the The musical tells the story Weems Creek Church, Liz Curtis Higgs. It’s a story parsonage lawn across from of Christ from birth through Annapolis, will present about a little girl who receives the church, followed by a con- ascension. It’s narrated the drama/musical “The a mysterious gift box in the tinental breakfast. The church through the voice of a grand- Borrowed Tomb” on April mail. She’s disappointed at choir will present an Easter father who shares the Easter 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. Mark what she finds inside, but on cantata at the regular morning story with his grandchildren. Young, the associate pastor Easter morning she finds the worship service. As the children are waiting of music and worship, rejected treasure is truly beau- Grace Church, Seaford, for their new brother or sister, said the program is the tiful. Cook said the book is a Del., is participating in a Grandpa tells them there was story of Christ’s death and wonderful allegory for chil- series of Lenten services with once a baby for whom people resurrection through the dren. She reads it to them and several community churches. waited much longer. Scenes eyes of two members of the explains the meaning. Higgs Grace’s pastor, Marvin Wright, go back and forth from Jesus Sanhedrin - Nicodemus and has authored many books, will speak on one of the and his disciples to the grand- Joseph of Arimethea. including the “Bad Girls of the seven last words of Christ on father. Forty members are Bible and what we can learn Good Friday at Gethsemane Lauterbach said the show involved in the production, from them.” Methodist Church. features the nativity, baptism which includes special Another book Cook sug- Landover Hills Church and the beginning years, Palm lighting, costumes and a gests is “A Very Blessed will have an Easter music Sunday, the last supper, in the variety of sets. Easter.” It’s an activity book program at 7 p.m. on April garden, the trial, crucifixion, The program is free, but that offers lots of craft ideas 13. The church will have a resurrection and ascension. those planning to attend including resurrection Easter Tenebrae service on Good “Jesus” is actually put on a should call the church to baskets, doorknob hangers Friday. It will be dark large wooden cross, is taken reserve a seat. The website is and witness books. throughout the service until and buried in a “tomb” and Weemscreekbaptist.org. Cook said she likes Easter the end, when a candle is lit, actually ascends with the help Mason Dixon Church, egg hunts because the kids signifying Christ’s resurrec- of modern equipment. New Freedom, Pa., will also enjoy them and the parents tion. “The music is dynamic,” present the musical, “The have an opportunity to fel- BL • April 2003 • 4 Nanjemoy Church’s adult Lauterbach said. The song Borrowed Tomb,” on April 13 lowship and it’s a good out- choir will present the musi- “Arise” is especially strong, at the morning and evening reach ministry. Do you have an appetite for growth?

By David Burt homes and parks. Church filled, “grace” is said. it, or just walk in off the plants are also held in a Prayer is vital to every street for the first time, lue Ridge Association variety of locations. They spiritual endeavor. In fact, there is space for them will celebrate its 50th meet in theaters, homes, this month’s issue of The all at the table. Church Banniversary next year. schools, storefronts, ware- Rainer Report indicates plants promote the same A celebration such as this, at houses, and other church that a major factor in thing: a place for every- least in Baptist circles, usu- buildings. Because church churches not growing is one, especially those who ally means having plenty to planting targets specific a low level of corporate have never realized that eat. Have you every thought demographic groups, a prayer. Prayer is of utmost the church truly exists for about the similarities between church and a church plant importance to everything them. church plants and “potlucks?” can even be located side- done in a church planting Here are a few: by-side and still reach movement, and needs to Because of the empha- entirely different groups permeate all activity and sis on church planting, Blue • Variety. For ones who like of people. In the future we ministry of the specific Ridge Association has doubled meat and potatoes, they will need to become even churches, too. in size and has doubled our can find it at a potluck. more creative as space • Plenty. People never leave budget giving in the past five For the more adventur- becomes more limited. a potluck hungry, unless it years. While this is great, there ous among us, they can • Partnership. Individuals, is their choice. In the same are still so many more who sample new dishes. Still committees, or teams way, churches and church need Jesus. Our mandate is to others are crazy for ethnic organize potlucks. They plants have a Gospel that “Go, and make disciples.” It foods. Likewise, churches do not just happen. There is fit to satisfy every hun- is only through churches and and church plants come in is a purpose, and a group ger our world has. Our church plants “potlucking” different shapes and sizes: in charge of planning. struggle is in broadcasting together for this purpose that traditional, contemporary Church plants are the that the Word we have we can expect to reach the lost and ethnic. But whatever result of vision, planning is “free food” for all to and unchurched around us for the format, church plant- and leadership, too. This receive! Jesus died that all our Lord. Hungry yet? ing targets those who are usually involves a combi- might have life and have it not yet churched. This nation of efforts from par- abundantly. David Burt serves as the unreached population is ent churches, associational • Everyone is welcome. director of missions in present in every element and state convention Potlucks are open to Blue Ridge Association. In of our society. partners, in addition to the everyone, and there is addition, Burt has been • Location. Potlucks are planter himself. always room for more. an active member of the held in fellowship halls, • Grace. At a potluck, Whether individuals come BCM/D’s Church Planting Team sanctuaries, schools, before the first plate is to church and hear about since its inception.

Five powerful prayers for your minister’s family

By Sherry Lee 1. Pray for their protec- on the families of ministers Ask God to strengthen their tion from spiritual warfare. come from within the church. marriages and protect them hat is the greatest Spiritual warfare is real. The Pray that you will never be part from conflicts that would drive Kingdom-building Enemy knows where and of that campaign. them apart. Pray that their Wresource God has when we are most vulnerable 2. Pray for their strength children might find patience given to churches in Maryland and which of the weapons in and energy. Ask that God and nurture in their home and and Delaware? Property… his arsenal are most likely to renew them daily and guard church and develop a strong Buildings… Dollars…valu- bring us down. The ministers’ them from burnout. Contrary personal faith. Seek opportuni- able. The called out army family is a particular target, as to popular opinion ministers do ties to show your ministers’ of ministers He has sent to they serve on the front lines of not work only one day a week. children that you care about us… priceless. Their amazing the battle daily. If one of them In truth they are on call 24/7 them as individuals. Free them Sherry Lee diversity in age, ethnicity and is wounded or captured, the and often sacrifice their fam- from unrealistic expectations Consultant for Ministers culture reflects the microcosm fallout within the ranks will be ily time and their physical and and allow them to be them- Wives and Families that is Maryland/Delaware. great. A single arrow shot into emotional health to the sheer selves. Ministers’ families face The intensity of their passion the heart of a ministry fam- magnitude of their calling. Pray storms just like yours. Wrap and purpose underlines the ily can be a weapon of mass they can prioritize properly. arms of love around them in urgency of the mission. The destruction. Ask God to put Come beside them to share times of trouble. single-minded Kingdom focus a hedge of protection around the load whenever you can. 4. Pray for their that unites them is evidence of your minister and all of his Protect them from the pettiness relationships. Ask that God’s unmitigated charge. As loved ones. Pray that they will that would divert them from God send good friends to recipients of this great gift from be clad in the full armor of God Kingdom work. Encourage share their lives and their God, Baptists in our multi-state and that they would stand in them to get away when minis- journeys. Ministers’ families convention must cover these His strength when confronted try becomes consuming so God often feel isolated and alone. ministers and their families with temptation or evil. Sadly can refuel them. Relationships are necessary with concerted prayer. some of Satan’s cruelest attacks 3. Pray for their family. to good emotional health. We were created for relationship with God and each other. We need people to laugh with us and cry with us and love us just the way we are. Pray that all of your ministers’ family will find believing friends that are trustworthy and accepting. 5. Pray for their finances. Ask that God will meet every one of their needs. Be sure the church is providing a salary commensurate with other pro- fessionals in the community. Help when critical situations arise. If your minister’s car needs repair or his child is sick, be sure the funds are there to cover the costs. If the Lord lays such a need on your heart, fill it yourself or find those who can. Plenty is always provi- sion for a need and it might be someone else’s. Don’t miss the blessing of letting God use you to minister to His minister. Pray for our ministers. Pray for their families. They are priceless. BL • April 2003 • 5 Felder ministers to Maryland State Police

time I give a notification, it confirms the promise that Jesus made to me. That He has prepared a place for me in heaven. Death is not the end, but only the beginning.” Felder is also involved “Each and every in a program called Camp time I have to sit COPS (Courage to be down with a family Outstanding with Pride and and deliver tragic Self-confidence). This is a news about the free program where over 100 death of their loved Calvert County middle school one, it makes me children learn about the life look deeper into my of a police officer and self- spiritual life.” discipline. Dunkirk Church, – Dennis Felder along with Felder, their former pastor, has cooked the meals and said grace for this 5-day program for the past four years. Felder is also a recipient of the 2001 Chaplain of the Year award. According to Ernest Wilkinson of the Fair Practice Unit for the Maryland State Police, there are 40 chaplains assigned to units in Maryland. Once a year nominations are taken and considerations By Stacey Barkley “I had no doubt that God at police functions and death are made based on number BaptistLIFE Correspondent wanted me in the ministry, but notifications. of hours given and different He still knew that I enjoyed “Each and every time activities each nominee is LUSBY, Md. – Dennis police work. About six years that I have to sit down with a involved in with the State Felder, a church planter for the ago, Bill Miller (a chaplain for family and deliver tragic news Police. Maryland/Delaware Baptist Maryland State Police and fel- about the death of their loved Lieutenant Homer Rich, Convention and a chaplain low pastor) asked if I would one, it makes me look deeper commander of the Prince for the Maryland State Police, be interested in becoming a into my spiritual life,” Felder Frederick State Police barracks Prince Frederick barracks in chaplain for the Maryland said. “Even at times I find where Felder is assigned, Calvert County, is aware that State Police. This was a God myself asking the question, nominated Felder for this God knows the desires of our sent opportunity. I was able to ‘Why!’ Even Christ, at the award. “I am not a religious heart. be involved in the life of police point of death, asked, ‘Why person but I respect him as “Like so many boys officers and continue to serve hath thou forsaken me!’ Death a person,” Rich said. “He is dream, I wanted to be a as a pastor.” never makes sense. None of someone to lean on and he is policeman when I grew up,” Some of the duties us have the guarantee that there when you (the barracks) Felder said. “However, God Felder performs are: we will live forever here on need him. It’s amazing to me. had different plans for me. providing counseling for earth. However, we have the He goes above and beyond the Although I surrendered to the police officers and guarantee that we can live call of duty and he wants no the ministry, I always had a administrative personnel, forever with Christ if we know recognition. He does it because passion for police work. grief training, public prayers Him as Lord and Savior. Each it is the right thing to do.” Faith grows as ministry diversifies... continued from page one The gym is also used for popular show music mixed must be an offering of excel- enjoy worship, but when they volleyball and other drop-in with Christmas carols. The lence, he said. leave I want them to know sports as well as special events, program featured a young Nichols referred to the they have been in God’s pres- like the annual “True Love couple during World War II. parking lot ministry. As mem- ence. Six hundred people are Waits” rally. The wife was a Christian who bers and visitors come to the giving up 30 minutes to listen Another big ministry wanted her husband to accept church, the first welcome they to me. I’d better be ready.“ that draws in large crowds to Christ, but the young man get is from smiling parking Now as the church grows, the Family Life Center is the thought he was good enough. lot ministers who help drivers the staff, especially Nichols, weekly Wednesday night din- He went to war, almost died find a parking spot and direct must prepare for change. ners. Over 300 people show and found Jesus. Higgins them the right way. When visi- Nichols knows he can’t be up every week to eat Kathy interspersed “USO” shows tors leave they find candy and everywhere he wants to be. Dayton’s cooking before head- with costumes from the 40’s, notes on their cars, thanking “The biggest challenge is ing to Bible study, children’s Andrews Sisters type char- them for visiting. adjusting my style of ministry. I choir and youth programs. acters and even the Abbott Inside greeters give anoth- love people and it’s a hands-on Matthew Bass said people and Costello “Who’s on First” er smile and handshake and ministry, but I’ve had to adjust are busy but seem to find time routine with the actors who ushers help visitors find seat- some of that. I have to share to make it to the dinners. looked amazingly like Bud and ing. The music and worship is leadership and trust others. After dinner, “Life Lou. For the announcement of carefully planned with a mix Nichols said he loves his University” begins, offering war, Higgins used the record- of the uses of choirs, praise staff and that they are quick to six different adult discipleship ing of President Roosevelt’s band, orchestra and soloists. jump in and help. classes, children’s choir and historic announcement. Ballet Nichols knows he must The staff sincerely loves youth meetings. dancers in white accentuated seek excellence when prepar- one another and affirmed one Four times a year, the climatic moment of the ing his sermons. another in separate interviews. Christmas, Easter, July 4th play when the lead character “I want to do the best Each told how happy and and in the fall, the church sang “O Holy Night.” possible job of communicat- blessed they are to be part of has special drama/musical Higgins said, “David Lee, ing. People need to laugh and the Faith family. extravaganzas that draw large the pastor before Nichols and crowds. These events serve as currently the BCM/D execu- The First Music Celebration & Fellowship an opportunity to introduce tive director, helped the church the Gospel to the community get a sense of reaching the Dinner for Language Churches and the church. December’s community with excellence. April 13, 2003, 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Christmas program brought in He urged us to use all our Global Mission Church 2,000 people over five nights of resources to reach people.” 13421 Georgia Avenue performances. The place was Though the productions Silver Spring, MD 20906 packed, with overflow seat- take a lot of work and commit- 301-460-1656 ing in the Family Life Center, ment, James Nichols said it’s not just the big programs that Please join us in a time of celebration and praise to our Lord Jesus Christ in a multicultural watching the musical via union of churches. Come hear songs of worship, see native attire and enjoy the taste of the closed circuit television. take priority. various cultural foods represented by the diverse languages within your convention. Many of the presenta- “Little things are impor- tant. I know the heart of For more information, contact Donna Shiffl ett at 800-466-5290 tions are original produc- Ext 226 or Dr. Jacob Shin, BCM/D Consultant for tions. Raymond Higgins, the the staff and they want to Language Churches at 301-424-1712 BL • April 2003 • 6 minister of music, wrote the do things with excellence,” Sponsored by the BCM/D Church Planting and Language Churches Christmas program and used Nichols said. All of worship Blackaby kick-off event in Baltimore... continued from page one

As NAMB watches the do a project, rather they want opposed to one community at not ready for that it can just Strategic Focus efforts of the cities, they’re to resource a city that is mak- time with a blitz of resources overwhelm them,” Ryan said. Cities Dashboard looking for specific criteria. ing a grass roots effort. and partnerships. Currently SFC is working “First and foremost, Organizational develop- “If it is successful, and it in Miami and in the strat- Seattle – 2002 NAMB is looking for a strong ment is also a key factor. becomes apparent that God is egy phase for New York and Professions of Faith 1,092 coalition of churches who “The level of organiza- at work, then Baltimore could Vancouver B.C. Church Plants 51 Volunteers 2,665 collectively want NAMB as tion of a city can be put under be chosen as a Strategic Focus “We have been pray- partner for the city to do a great stress when a national City. Then all of the Southern ing that God would move Philadelphia – 2002 wide kind of evangelistic agency such as NAMB begins Baptist Convention turns its in power in Baltimore. The Professions of Faith 5,676 church planting ministry sending representatives to face towards Baltimore and Embrace/Strategic Focus City Church Plants 26 partnership,” Bob Ryan said. spend a large amount of time the surrounding region,” effort may be God’s answer Volunteers 2,652 Ryan is a Strategic Focus City in an area. NAMB wants to BCM/D executive director to those prayers. Prayer is Planning Coordinator. make sure the relationship is David Lee said. the key for us right now,” Las Vegas – 2001 Ryan said NAMB is look- complimentary, not confronta- The whole process takes David Lee said. “I trust that all Professions of Faith 4,277 ing for “deeply committed tional.” six years. When it is over, Maryland/Delaware Baptists Church Plants 25 leaders and a city desperate “We want to help the indi- NAMB begins a follow-up will join in a major prayer Volunteers 3,270 for the holiness of God.” viduals and churches be all program and gradually pulls effort as we seek God’s will in Boston – 2001 They’re also looking at the that they can be. We want to out, hopefully leaving more partnering with the Baltimore Professions of Faith 2,200 relationship individuals and see that churches are looking churches, more leaders and a Association in reaching Church Plants 23 churches have with each other for ways to be partners with continuing momentum. Baltimore with the gospel of Volunteers 3,200 – pastor to pastor, church to one another, and look for ways SFC has already Jesus Christ.” church, association to associa- to partner with other Southern completed projects in Chicago, The cost for the Blackaby Phoenix – 2000 tion and a relationship with Baptists on a national scope Phoenix, Boston, Las Vegas, conference is $10. It is open Professions of Faith 11,200 the state convention. and with other evangelicals. Seattle and Philadelphia with for registrants only. Register Church Plants 38 Critical mass is important, “That’s one of our greatest tremendous success. In 2000, by calling the Baltimore Volunteers 12,000 meaning that the leadership is struggles. We talk more about 2001 and 2002 SFC has noted Association at (410) 882-0000 Chicago – 2000 in place and people are com- how we are different than over 37,545 professions of or online at www.namb.net/ Professions of Faith 13,100 mitted to implementing the about how we’re the same” faith in the six cities and 255 events and click “Baltimore Church Plants 92 SFC process. There also needs After the two years the verifiable new church plants. Blackaby Conference.” Volunteers 5,160 to be a development of strate- decision is made whether the Twenty-nine thousand Registrations will be gic readiness, identifying the city is ready or not. If selected, volunteers came to those cities accepted on an individual first strategic thinkers, the doers, those involved go through a to help. come, first serve basis. The last the promoters and planners. covenant process and NAMB “Youth groups, seniors, day for registration is May 12. Ryan stressed that NAMB helps accelerate the vision world changers - they come Another leadership conference doesn’t want to come in and to reach the whole city as from everywhere. If a city is is planned for this summer.

A spiritual leader is always moving God’s people on to God’s agenda. Therefore, it is vital that we know God’s agenda for our city and obey Him immediately, completely, and faithfully. As we meet together pray for His presence among us, in us, and through us – for His glory! With joy we join with you in your city for God’s eternal purposes there. May His mighty presence be known fully in the days and months and years ahead of us.

Sincerely, His servant and your friend,

Henry T. Blackaby, author of Experiencing God, has spent his life in ministry. He has served as a Music Director, Christian Education Director, and Senior Pastor in churches in California and Canada. In the early 90’s Henry Blackaby became a best-selling Christian author, committing the rest of his life to helping people know Henry T. Blackaby and experience God.

Richard Blackaby serves as President of the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary. Dr. Blackaby earned an MDIV and Ph.D. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the oldest child of Henry and Marilynn Blackaby and has co-authored several books with his father, including Experienceing God, Hearing God’s Voice, and Richard Blackaby Spiritual Leadership.

BL • April 2003 • 7 Local Christian writers share their faith through mystery writing

By Sharon Mager “We always wanted to write “Driving through the coun- wrong Judaism is and how Staff Writer fiction,” Janet said. They began try with a recorder is wonder- right Christianity is. He said trying their hand at it in 1992. ful,” Janet said. “We keep asking Christians need to learn care for COLUMBIA, Md. — Pippa “We got nowhere fast,” Ron questions – what if? What if? people, to respect their beliefs Hunnechurch, a British execu- said. What if?…” and love them to Jesus. That’s tive headhunter can’t seem to The couple went to a writ- Once they get the idea Ron what happened to him and Janet. keep herself out of the middle of ing conference in California and begins creating the model. Ron describes his conversion murder investigations. She just that was the beginning of their “It’s like a clay structure,” he experience as being “zapped” finished clearing herself of one success. They realized what they explained. “I build the wooden about seven years ago. At that mess and now she’s embroiled in were doing wrong. armature. She’ll pad it with clay, time, Janet recommitted her life another. Pippa is a fiery Brit who “We came home and threw then I’ll take it back and do the to Christ. Ron attributes his con- lives in Ryde, Md., a small town it all away and started from finishing work on it.” version and Janet’s commitment near the Magothy River, with scratch,” Janet said. “By the time it’s gone back to the slow, continual sharing by They showed the new manu- and forth, I don’t remember who Carolyn Curtis from their writ- script to fellow members of the did what line,” Janet said. er’s group. Curtis later moved to Annapolis Mystery Writer’s When asked about disagree- Georgia to work for the North group. One member, Carolyn ments, Janet said they don’t have American Mission Board where Curtis, told them they could many. she is editor of their flagship market the book as a Christian “If we’re going to argue, we magazine, “On Mission.” novel if they tweaked it a little. won’t get it done. It’s not about Curtis describes the Benreys The Benreys thought ego,” she said. as “delightful.” She enjoyed their Christian novels were dull and The couple pays close atten- friendship when she lived in preachy. tion to detail. Maryland and began sensing “In the middle of the book “It’s the little stuff that that they might be searching the pulpit rolls out, someone makes the book come alive,” spiritually. Through friendly starts preaching, then the pulpit Janet said. Details, Ron exchange Curtis found the goes back,” Ron said. explained, must be accurate to Benreys open to the Gospel. her budgie (parakeet). While she After doing further inves- keep the fictional dream alive in She depended upon the Holy solves mysteries, her gun-toting tigation, they found they were the readers’ minds. Spirit’s leading to find the right administrative assistant, Gloria, wrong. “A l mo st w it hout articulating approach. Because she found keeps telling her about Jesus and “Times have changed,” Ron them, we had been focusing on that the Benreys are well-educat- inviting her to Ryde Fellowship said. what our Catholic friends call the ed, well-traveled and deep think- Church. They did alter the book six venial sins. The stories are ers, she adjusted her approach, Of course, Pippa isn’t real. some and sold it to Broadman about ‘minor sins’ that get people which is one of the principles of And there is no Ryde, Md., & Holman, then followed up into bad trouble,” Ron said. being an “on mission” Christian. “Sharing our although several landmarks with another. The idea, Janet For instance, he pointed “We not only spent time faith with others, mentioned are real. Pippa is the explained, is to keep writing the out that in “Little White Lies” in the Bible, but I also referred not holding it in main character in Ron and Janet series. As people pick up newer small untruths that are found them to C.S. Lewis writings and keeping it to Benrey’s mystery books, “The books, they’ll want to read the out could ruin someone’s career and we would see each other on ourselves, is such Second Mile” and “Little White first ones. – and that eventually leads to a regular basis in the writer’s an important part of Lies,” published by Broadman & Ron said they work very murder to keep those lies buried. group. In between we would get the Christian walk.” Holman. hard not to be “preachy.” In “The Second Mile,” sev- together, and have long Saturday – Carolyn Curtis The couple lives in a com- It’s easy to see whom Pippa eral characters didn’t go the extra or Sunday afternoon conversa- fortable town home in Columbia, Hunnechurch resembles. Janet is distance and people are hurt as tions on the phone,” Curtis said. which they bought to be close to a spunky redheaded Brit with a a result. Suddenly the future is She also enjoyed her time sailing the Chesapeake Bay. Writing the gentle accent and strong laugh. threatened if the truth is found with them. Pippa novels is something they She loves to brew tea such as out. Pippa’s slow steady spiritual “When they made the con- do in their “spare time.” Their Russian Caravan and serve it in progressions is similar to the version they decided to join a full-time occupation is running china cups with real cream. The Benrey’s journey. church and I actually flew back their marketing/communications Benreys’ home looks like a place The spiritual element is nat- to Maryland and surprised them firm “Benrey & Benrey.” Pippa might like. It’s cozy with urally woven through the books. by being at their baptism. It just Ron was an established hundreds of books on the book- Her administrative assistant thrilled me. Sharing our faith with others, not holding it in non-fiction writer and published shelves, wallpaper, antiques and and others in the book gently and keeping it to ourselves, is hundreds of business and science lamps with flowery designs. nudge her to Jesus, although in such an important part of the articles and six books. He was She and Ron laugh together the beginning she sees them as easily and he winks when people kooks. Christian walk. ” also an executive speechwriter. The Benreys are growing in assume Janet writes all of the Ron Benrey had been Jewish. Janet calls herself a “Jan of all their faith and working on their British expressions. Janet admits Janet grew up in the Church trades.” She wrote a variety of next Pippa Hunnechurch mys- public relations and communica- that Ron actually does a lot of of England but would accom- tery. tions materials, was an execu- Pippa’s dialogue. pany him to the synagogue. “I am constantly astounded tive headhunter and started and The Benreys begin their Ron had plenty of experiences at where God is taking us,” Janet managed her own retail shop. writing by brainstorming. with Christians telling him how Benrey said. A call to the family altar is urged for So. Baptists

By Tom Elliff The Word of God, prayer In fact, the simple process of of resources for the weekly and a sense of family togeth- scheduling your own Family Family Night. or most families across erness are indispensable ele- Night can become an exercise This major emphasis on our nation (and through- ments for effectively facing in which your family can par- Family Night is a fresh call to Fout the Southern Baptist the exegencies of life. It is at ticipate together. Southern Baptists at a crucial Convention) the “Family the Family Altar that children The large single adult moment in history. It has the Altar” is considered a relic come to appreciate the faith population presents special potential for becoming a cata- of the past. While some hold of their parents, and parents challenges and opportunities lyst for spiritual awakening in firmly to the individual prac- come to understand and con- when thinking through your our nation, providing an atmo- Tom Elliff Pastor, First tice of a daily, personal “Quiet nect with the hearts of their approach to a Family Night. sphere in which God may be Southern Baptist Church, Del City, Oklahoma Chairman, Time,” many openly confess children. Families are urged to invite the pleased to send revival. It will The Southern Baptist Council that such a practice is attended For this reason, the SBC participation of singles. This demand creativity, diligence, on Family Life to only sporadically, or not at Council on Family Life urges would include senior adults faithfulness and sacrafice...but all. And the Family Altar, a every family to set aside one whose wisdom and maturity the rewards far outweigh The SBC Council on Family Life, in conjunction with the time when the entire family night every week as “Family would be a benediction on any of these costs. For many SBC Pastor’s Conference and gathers for Bible study, prayer Night,” a night of Bible study, your home AND younger sin- Southern Baptists this will be LifeWay Christian resources and a mutual expression prayer, establishing family gles who are away from their a new experience which will is hosting Southern Baptist’s first-ever Kingdom Family of love, understanding and goals, planning family mis- own families and can help you bring untold blessing to their Rally in Phoenix, Arizona, mission, has been virtually sion projects and developing a think “outside the box” when homes. But it is in the home June 16, prior to the annual replaced by a myriad of activi- sense of teamwork. This night considering how to fulfill the that God desires each of us meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention. ties and our all-consuming should be a fixed order of Great Commission. Couples to first hear His word, call on attachment to media. Far more business on the family sched- are challenged to include Him in prayer and focus our is said about the “family view- ule, chosen because it will not others as well in their own energies on the fulfillment of ing hour” on television than interefere with either worship weekly time of devotion, Bible our Lord’s Great Comission. the “family hour” of devotion. or other activities. It should be study and planning for Great This is an issue your Southern planned for in advance and Commission Projects. Many Every Southern Baptist is BL • April 2003 • 8 Baptist Council on Family Life approached with an attitude of our SBC entities have made urged to heed this fresh call to hopes to remedy. of openness and inclusiveness. available an incredible array the Family Altar. Truckers’ wives ministry explodes

By Sharon Mager Chandler made a commit- she shared her vision to reach comfort. She said for some Staff Writer ment to serve Christ in 1983 truckers’ wives and they truckers’ wives it’s a lot like after reading the book “Late began meeting at Chandler’s being single moms. They regu- JESSUP, Md. — Six mil- Great Planet Earth,” by Hal home for prayer, Bible study larly deal with anger, loneli- lion truckers travel the roads Lindsey. A few years later her and planning. Hopkins and ness, doubt and fear. throughout the United States husband, John, at that time a the GTM board of directors Some wives get upset on any given day. Many of truck driver for A&P stores, enthusiastically supported whenchurch members criticize “I was alone them are away from home recommitted his life to Christ. Chandler. They provided them because their husbands – isolated. I felt from two to six weeks at a The Chandlers decided to funds for the new ministry can’t attend regular church like no one cared,” time. The long hours take their get involved in a trucking and Hopkins gave her the services. Chandler said. toll on the drivers and on their ministry. Pat’s sister, Barbara addresses and phone numbers “One woman emailed me wives. Hughes, was to be the cata- for the wives. Chandler and and said she has the ‘I hate the Jessup resident Pat lyst. Hughes was riding her Kramer began sending cards trucking blues syndrome.’ She Chandler knows all about it. bicycle through Savage, Md. of encouragement, birthday just needed to vent,” Chandler She’s a trucker’s wife. When and heard Reggie Pelletier, greetings and small gift pack- said. her husband left for work, she then the chaplain of God’s ages. They helped families in Venting is something didn’t see him sometimes for Trucking Ministry (GTM) in need with food, clothing and Chandler is used to. She said two weeks. Jessup, speaking at an outdoor other resources. Chandler’s that by talking to her, the “I was alone – isolated. service. Hughes approached daughter, Lisa, also meets wives are able to relieve their I felt like no one cared,” Pelletier and told him, “One with her mother and Kramer frustrations and keep a check Chandler said. day my sister and her husband each month. Pat said her on the anxiety and be less But when she received will be working with you.” daughter’s involvement gives volatile. Some of the women Jesus, Chandler stopped The Chandlers began a unique perspective to the are having serious marital bemoaning the trials and helping with the ministry by needs as a trucker’s daughter. troubles and Chandler uses all started a ministry. Truckers’ leading Bible studies and Pat Pat gets up at 5 a.m. her resources to get them to Wives Association ministers became a board member. They to pray then heads for the stay with their husbands. John to wives, mothers, daugh- work with Chaplain Charles computer to begin her daily and Pat have been married 38 ters and sisters of truckers “Hoppy” Hopkins, who suc- correspondence. After watch- years. throughout the United States ceeded Pelletier and now leads ing her grandchildren for a “I know the pitfalls,” and Canada. What started as God’s Trucking Ministry. few hours she goes back to Chandler said. a small letter writing cam- Hopkins works out of a trailer work. Through the e-mails, Pat encourages wives paign exploded when it went behind the Baltimore South she began correspondence to ride with their husbands hi-tech. Last month Chandler Travel Center, a one-stop shop with trucker’s wife, Nancy whenever possible. answered 1,040 emails encour- for truckers. He lives in the Wickersheim, in Bowler, Wis. “It’s good for the mar- aging and counseling other hotel there and is available 24/ Wickersheim volunteered to riage. She sees what he has to truckers’ wives. She has a 7 to minister to truckers. create a website for TWA. put up with.” website where wives, mothers, As Pat began to get to Now women through- Chandler said being mar- daughters and sisters of truck- know the truckers, she felt out the country and beyond ried to a trucker takes com- ers share their concerns, their God leading her to minister to share their concerns, prayer mitment to worshiping God, joys, parenting and household truckers’ wives. requests, praises and encour- to the marriage and to trust. tips and just a little bit of She shared her burden for agement through the website. everyday life wives at a truckers’ seminar Soon they’re going to start a For more info contact God’s “It’s not easy. It’s challeng- she attended in Hagerstown in secret sister program. Trucking Ministry, 410-799-0018 ing, but a worthwhile chal- 1995. Another GTM volunteer, Chandler fields email www.groups.yahoo.com/ lenge,” Chandler said. Linda Kramer told Chandler from many wives needing group/T-W-A/ Iraqi Christians brace for heightened persecution

ISTANBUL, Turkey (BP) Over the past few weeks, Wahhabi Islamic sect, the new have stopped wearing their — Iraqi Christians expect local church leaders report breed of Iraqi Islamists have habits, according to Compass, to be targeted by a grow- that anti-Christian rhetoric has been blamed for a number of and many report that strangers ing tide of Islamic militancy dominated Friday prayer ser- incidents and threats of vio- on the street have ordered them now being encouraged in the mons in Baghdad’s mosques. lence across Iraq in the past to remove their crosses. secularized Arab state, accord- “Muhammad said fight the year. ing to Compass, a news ser- infidels with everything you A Chaldean Catholic nun vice focusing on persecuted have,” Abu Bakr al-Sammerai murdered on Aug. 15 in her Christians and based in Santa declared at the Abdel Qadr al- convent in central Baghdad had Ana, Calif. Gaylani mosque on March 7, been executed in what local Numbering less than according to Compass. church sources had described 400,000, Iraq’s Christian com- Ignoring the government’s as “an Algerian-style Islamist munity has in recent months previous rules on religious killing,” Compass reported.

become the object of overt tolerance, other Muslim According to the medical Brant Sanderlin/NYT discrimination by Islamist preachers have urged their examiner, the 70-year-old nun elements, Compass reported. listeners to “fight the followers had been stripped naked and The attacks have ranged from of the devil,” openly labeling cruelly tortured for five hours verbal abuse and graffiti cam- Christians (known locally as before her throat was cut and paigns to stone-throwing and “Nazarenes”) as “infidels,” she was beheaded. even brutal assassinations. Compass reported. On March When Wahhabi Muslims Pfc. David Kurns is baptized by Task Force Chaplain Iraq’s Christian community, 13, Iraq’s leading Muslim built a mosque in 1998 directly Capt. Ron Cooper, left, and 1st Lt. Brian Case, right, in one of the oldest in the world, scholars issued a religious across the street from the Order the desert north of Kuwait City, Wednesday, March 12. has shrunk from 10 percent edict declaring that anyone of the Daughters of the Sacred Eight members of the 3rd Infantry Division were baptized in the desert on Wednesday. of the population 20 years who aided the U.S. and British Heart, the nuns said, graf- ago to about 1.5 percent of the forces would be “condemned fiti against the nuns started to From the Kurdish-con- country’s 24 million people. to hell.” appear on nearby walls, fol- trolled enclave of northern The majority of the Christians In mid-March a bishop lowed by rock-throwing and Iraq, a leading evangelical are Catholic or Orthodox, with of the largest Christian other difficulties. clergyman told Compass that several dozen evangelical con- denomination, the Chaldean In the northern city of he and his church members gregations located mostly in Catholic Church, told a New Mosul, known now as a expect potential attacks from larger urban areas. York Times reporter that he Wahhabi stronghold, local both Islamic militants as well Although Saddam Hussein had lodged an official objec- Christians also have reported as from secular anti-Western initially kept religion out of tion with Iraq’s Ministry growing harassment of their elements. Iraq’s political life, he began of Religious Affairs over clergy and church communi- In addition, he said, many to encourage devotion to the threat against the local ties. Some 15 Christians were Christians in northern Iraq’s Islam after the 1991 Gulf War, Christian community. wounded in September when cities are preparing to leave emblazoning the Muslim “You have some mullahs Islamist zealots stoned them their houses, renting a room slogan “God is great” on denouncing the Crusaders and coming out of church. Bishops or finding other lodging for the Iraq flag and claiming the infidels from the minaret, and leading Christian fami- their families in undisclosed descent from the family of the meaning us, as the Christians lies in the northern city have locations in the surrounding prophet Muhammad, Compass here,” Chaldean Bishop received letters telling them to villages. Although local believ- recounted. Four years ago Shlemon Warduni protested. convert to Islam, sometimes ers continue to meet for fellow- he launched a “faith cam- “The fanatics in Iraq are using with accompanying threats, ship in small groups and the paign” to promote a revival of it as an excuse to act against other times offering them cash schools remain open, they have Islam, building scores of new the Christians.” rewards. developed contingency plans to mosques and religious schools Dominated by zealots Local nuns have been sub- avoid attacks by strangers and BL • April 2003 • 9 across the country. linked to Saudi Arabia’s jected to such abuse that some post-war looting. Blacks endured horrible treatment during 100 years of segregation leading to SBC apology

By Karen L. Willoughby student protested. where a “negro Sergeant, who Species of Property.” “In South “She probably has had been discharged from Carolina in 1850, 57.6 percent of SALEM, Ore. (BP) — “You’re brothers,” the landlady said. the Army just three hours, the total population was slave.” a good boy,” the genteel 92- “I know you don’t understand. was taken off the bus and not Just as Pharoah in the year-old woman said with You didn’t live through that only seriously beaten but his Bible turned the whole of just a trace of weariness in time. We were all afraid for our eyes deliberately put out, and his government against the her voice as she smiled gently lives.” the Mayor of the town had growing Israelite “problem,” and patted her bus driver on There doesn’t seem to be bragged about committing this so the U.S. legal system was the hand. It was the end of a much historical evidence to outrage.” used in the 1800s. In 1857, long summer day her group support a white woman’s fear The sheriff was arrested the Supreme Court, in the “The resolution had spent touring Oregon’s of people of African descent, at the attorney general’s Dred Scott case, ruled that is not the first Willamette Valley farmlands. but J.H. Van Evrie, a physician, instruction and, within two Americans of African descent stance against The driver’s jaw twitched, postulated a reason for it in the months, brought to trial, where – whether slave or free – were racism adopted but he let the unintended 1865 book, “White Supremacy the sheriff admitted using not citizens and did not have by the SBC, the insult pass. He hadn’t heard and Negro Subordination.” excess force on the uniformed civil rights protected by the most recent being her speak earlier of moving “The negro, forced from vet that resulted in one eye U.S. Constitution. 1989, but it is the to the West from her native his normal condition [inferior being gouged out and the Abraham Lincoln was first to address North Carolina in the early to white] and into unnatural other too damaged to use. An elected president three years African Americans 1920s, but he didn’t need to. relation to the white man all-white jury deliberated 30 later. Over the following five specifically and the In his early 60s, the bus driver [equality], must relapse into minutes and found the sheriff months, 11 southern states left first to confront the was old enough to remember his African habits,” Van not guilty. the Union. The first shots of slavery issue in the when it was commonplace to Evrie wrote, at which time “Their history as a nation the Civil War rang out in April SBC’s history.” call even elderly men “boy” “civilization itself will utterly within a nation left most 1861 at Fort Sumter, S.C. – Baptist Press, – if they were of African perish, and the great heart of black people with both a deep Lincoln’s Emancipation June 21, 1995 descent. the continent be surrendered to sense of alienation from the Proclamation – announced Until the Civil Rights African savagism!” society of their birth and an after a major Union victory movement of the 1960s, and In other words, beyond intense longing for full and – freed only the slaves in those even more recently, it was protecting their womenfolk equal citizenship,” wrote states that did not surrender. commonly thought that people from what they saw as the Maurice Isserman and Michael None of the states surrendered. of African ancestry reached barely restrained sensuality of Kazin in “America Divided.” By default, then, all slaves in the extent of their intellectual men with an African ancestry, “They demanded equality those states were freed as of capabilities by the time they and seeking retribution for the under the law -- to be judged Jan. 1, 1863. were 12 to 15. Men were called unwarranted and ill-founded as individuals and not as Congress passed the “boy” and women, “Missy” – demands for equality that had members of a minority race.” 13th Amendment to the either to ridicule or to remind “caused” the Civil War and A few pages later, Constitution banning slavery. them of their once-subservient the South’s abject defeat, some Isserman and Kazin noted that The amendment became law in role and the needed to be whites felt the need to protect “most white southerners had December 1865, eight months cared for. the nation from their fears of always treated black people as after Lincoln’s assassination Michael Laney, now anarchy and destruction. their social inferiors and saw and the Confederate army’s associate professor of They did so from the 1860s no reason to change. ... When surrender. telecommunications and to the 1960s. They did so with greeting a white person, black Then came Reconstruction director of the Lee University’s a series of segregationist laws, southerners were expected and the Civil Rights Act communication & the arts racist social customs, and to avert their eyes. ... A large of 1866 which, that same department in Cleveland, burning crosses designed to number of fiercely guarded year, was underscored by Tenn., wanted to take the keep people of African descent prohibitions and exclusions the 14th Amendment to the “college prep” academic track feeling inferior, afraid and “in defined the Jim Crow order. Constitution prohibiting states in high school. His guidance their place.” Whites and blacks were not from depriving citizens of their counselor told him he couldn’t, Between 1918 and 1921, supposed to drink or dine rights. The 15th Amendment in that genetically he didn’t have “racial hatred had escalated together, in private homes or 1869 protected voting rights of the mental capacity for college. into open warfare between in restaurants. They did not all citizens. The year: 1974. American blacks and whites, attend the same schools or But even as lawmakers People of African descent but it was a war that Negroes churches or live in the same codified a social order that had also were thought to have just could never win,” wrote Tim neighborhoods. Public toilets radically changed seemingly a thin veneer of civilization, Madigan in a penetrating and drinking fountains were overnight, people struggled behind which was an series on racism that appeared restricted by race. And in to live in it. What was proper? “We know they unbridled jungle savagery that in the Fort Worth (Texas) Star- nearly every industry, there What was expeditious? What still exist in some knew neither right nor wrong, Telegram last October. “Whole were strict lines dividing was tolerable? places and with but only “I want. I take,” communities of blacks in ‘white’ jobs from ‘black’ ones.” “A f r ic a n Americans some people, but to according to a physician’s Chicago, East St. Louis, Mo., How did all this get enjoyed a period when they me the encouraging 1865 book that touted the Tulsa, Okla., and other places started? were allowed to vote, actively part of the story is supremacy of the white race. were overrun and occasionally First there was slavery - participate in the political that we are making Women were said to lose obliterated by marauding - more than 250 years of it; at process, acquire the land of progress, and that’s all interest in their offspring whites. least 14 generations of it. former owners, seek their own the good news.” once they were weaned, the “Ac r o s s t he South, As early as the 1660s, laws employment, and use public – Sid Smith, Florida book said, in the same way hundreds of blacks were were written that restricted accommodations,” according Baptist Convention that a bird shoves its offspring strung up – some in the Army the liberty of slaves. The 1776 to African American Odyssey’s director of African out of the nest and expects it uniforms they had worn Declaration of Independence website. “Opponents of this American ministries to learn on the way down how during World War I – for – that all men are created equal progress, however, soon rallied to fly. What might a woman crimes usually more imagined – apparently did not include against the former slaves’ be capable of, if she didn’t care than real,” Madigan continued. slaves because slavery was freedom.... more than that for her own “The worst atrocities tended legal in each of the 13 founding “The vote proved elusive child? to happen in the Deep South states. and civil rights began to During the early 1980s, a - 1,633 lynchings [between Slaves were considered vanish through court action,” young woman from Montana 1900 and 1921] – 1,258 of them property, valued in Article I of the website continues. lived off-campus while a against blacks.” the U.S. Constitution at three- “Lynching, racial violence, student at Oklahoma Baptist It was the lynching of fifths the worth of a citizen, and slavery’s twin children - University. She invited a veterans after World War II, for taxation purposes. The – peonage and sharecropping friend over to study for an and the blinding and crippling Constitution became the law of – arose as deadly quagmires exam. A scant minute after the of others, that galvanized the land in 1788. on the path to full citizenship. friend left, a knock was heard President Harry S. Truman Countless books have been After Reconstruction ended in on the door. in 1946 to establish a civil written on the innumerable 1877, the federal government It was the 75-year-old rights committee that laid the indignities heaped on people of virtually turned a deaf ear landlady, trembling with groundwork for Truman in African descent who lived and to the voice of the African fear. She’d been watching the 1948 to formally integrate the worked and suffered beatings American populace.” apartment the whole time military and the federal civil and family breakups at the The civil rights of people from behind her kitchen service. whims of their masters. But of African descent were curtain, she said. She made Michael Gardner, in worse times were coming. systematically removed her tenant promise to never “Harry Truman and Civil “[F]rom 1820 down to the through one court action after again bring a “Negro” person Rights: Moral Courage and time of the Civil War nearly another. on the property. Political Risks,” recounted one out of every two people African Americans were “You just never know that the president wrote to his in the Black Belt – Alabama, expected to “know their place” what they’ll do,” she said, her attorney general, Tom Clark, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana and not be “uppity.” BL • April 2003 • 10 voice shaking. in September 1946 to ask about – was slave,” wrote Leslie “But she’s just a girl,” the an incident in South Carolina Howard Owens in “This continued on page eleven Chapman urges Southern Baptists to re-dig wells that refreshed previous generations

“Our founding fathers dug thers, but that fire has not fallen this well of cooperation. They had in a long while, Chapman said, an opportunity to continue the following with the questions, old model of Baptist work that “Does [Jesus] see that we are too favored independence over inter- satisfied with our positions, too dependence,” he said. “But they satisfied with our piety? Are we knew that independence sacri- thirsty enough to pray, ‘O God, ficed efficiency and effectiveness work a work in my heart greater on the altar of suspicious anxiety than I have ever experienced’?” over the centralization of power.” Chapman recalled the apostle The result of such coopera- Paul’s desire to be rid of his thorn tion has been unparalleled ad- in the flesh and then facing the vance around the globe as South- reality that it may be there for ern Baptists harnessed into one the rest of his life, proclaiming, “The vision, the great sacred effort their service to “For when I am weak, then am I pursuit has been the King, Chapman said. strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). named Empowering Within Southern Baptists’ “When we are filled with Kingdom Growth, heritage is also the deep well pride, we shall go only as far as and the task force named “personal commitment,” our strength can take us. When has begun to call

Photo by BP as Southern Baptists are known we are filled with envy or greed upon all Southern for believing the individual must or prestige, or the power of posi- Baptists ‘to renew respond to God personally, Chap- tion, we shall go only as far as our their passion for man noted. strength can take us,” Chapman the Lord Jesus and NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)- lic” on the founding of the SBC, In explaining why personal said. “When we are filled with the reign of His -Referencing Genesis 26:18 and said, “Our objects ... are the exten- commitment is important to jealousy, or hate, or bitterness, Kingdom in their Isaac’s endeavor to dig again the sion of the Messiah’s Kingdom, Empowering Kingdom Growth, we shall go only as far as our hearts, families and wells dug in the desert in the days and the glory of our God.” Chapman quoted James Sullivan, strength can take us. When we churches.’” of his father, Abraham, Southern Instead of reinventing the former president of the Southern are filled with ambition, or with – Morris Chapman Baptist Convention Executive Southern Baptist Convention, its Baptist Convention and former self, we shall go only as far as our Committee President Morris H. churches or its people to make president of LifeWay Christian strength can take us. Only when Chapman challenged Southern them receptive to Empowering Resources. we are filled with God’s Spirit Baptists to return to their heritage Kingdom Growth, leaders need “Baptists believe that no one does He take our weakness and and rediscover what refreshed the to be reminded of their heritage who does not personally know make us strong.” generations before them. and allow God to maximize the and follow Jesus Christ can prac- Empowering Kingdom “Southern Baptists are on a purpose and potential He created tice the bold challenges which Growth is not in and of itself a quest to find a refreshing, revo- in His people, Chapman said. Jesus set forth,” Sullivan said. revival or a spiritual awaken- lutionary experience with Jesus Identifying reasons why “Southern Baptists have ing, Chapman said. It in no way Christ,” Chapman said in his ad- Southern Baptists are unusually a long heritage, a deep well, implies Southern Baptists will dress to the Executive Committee suited for Empowering Kingdom of declaring the necessity of a empower themselves or others Feb. 17. “The vision, the pursuit Growth, Chapman said, “Our personal relationship with Jesus,” because only God can empower. has been named Empowering forefathers drank from the deep, Chapman said. “When you talk Therefore, Empowering Kingdom Kingdom Growth, and the task pure well named ‘sound theol- to them about renewing their Growth is not a program but a force has begun to call upon all ogy.’” passion for Jesus, they will recall process, he said. It’s a banner, a Southern Baptists to renew their “Our settled conviction about a time when they first prayed to theme, a vision that Southern Bap- passion for the Lord Jesus and the truth of the Scriptures leads receive Christ. They will remem- tists would come together to bring the reign of His Kingdom in their us to a settled conviction about ber other times of refreshing, glory to God. hearts, families and churches.” the preeminence of the Kingdom times of prayer, times of revival, “I am persuaded we are living Ingrained in Southern Bap- of God,” Chapman continued. mountaintop experiences, and the in our finest hour, a time of chal- tists’ spiritual DNA is a natu- “Our forefathers were driven to movement of the Spirit in their lenge, a time for courage and vi- ral inclination to embrace and Kingdom principles and Kingdom churches. Sunday after Sunday sion and deepened commitment,” emphasize the Kingdom of God in pursuits because they are clearly in the pulpits of our churches, Chapman said in closing. “A time theology, ecclesiology, history and mandated in the Bible.” our pastors are calling people not to re-dig the ancient wells of our experience, he said. A second reason why South- only to believe in God, but also to fathers! We need to ask the Lord Chapman quoted W.B. ern Baptist are suited for EKG is walk with Him. It is our heritage. for the grace and grit to re-dig the Johnson, the first president of that within their heritage there is It is our hope.” wells our fathers have dug before the Southern Baptist Convention, a deep, life-sustaining well named God poured out His power us and refresh us by thy Spirit who, in his “Address to the Pub- “cooperation,” Chapman said. on Southern Baptists’ forefa- until thy Kingdom comes.” Blacks endured horrible treatment during 100 years of segregation... continued from page ten Separate water fountains, Plessey v. Ferguson decision to people of African descent the SBC’s history.” restaurants, hotels, significantly regarding separate rail car today, said James Coffee, More than the apology, lower wages, ridicule and accommodations. a Southern Baptist pastor it was the response of the disrespect were the norm. Eye The Supreme Court took in Santa Rosa, Calif., who messengers at the SBC the contact could trigger a beating, that a step further with their keeps his congregation and following year to a report rape or worse. 1899 decision that affirmed his community focused on on the arson burnings of “A c e nt u r y of s yst e - Anglo-only schools without reconciliation of blacks and numerous black churches that matic racial exclusion requiring comparable schools whites. To blacks, inherent in got the attention of African and discrimination, and for African Americans. the concept of “separate” is American congregations across disfranchisement in the South, Regardless of society’s “you’re not good enough to be the nation. followed nearly 250 years of restrictions, care and concern included,” he explained. “There was a spontaneous slavery,” wrote Michael Keith for African Americans was The us/them way of response from the convention Honey in “African-American expressed repeatedly in whites relating to blacks came floor that netted more Workers Remember,” resolutions and reports during to a head in 1995 at the 150th than $700,000 for the arson published in 1999. various SBC annual meetings. anniversary celebration of the fund,” said Sid Smith, the The “system” also “In my travels over the Southern Baptist Convention’s Florida Baptist Convention’s relegated African Americans Southern Baptist Convention I founding. Two years in the director of African American to “their own” churches, have talked with many leaders, development, a formal apology ministries. “It represents a some of which became Caucasian and Negro, and all was made by the SBC to genuine outpouring of concern prominent, including Dexter agree that the best way for us African Americans for the and care. Avenue Baptist Church in to help the Negroes is for us denomination “condoning “I think we’re moving in Montgomery, Ala., from which to help train their leaders who and/or perpetuating the right direction and that, to Martin Luther King Jr. rose to can do far more with their individual and systemic racism me, is the valuable thing that national prominence during own people than we can do in our lifetime.” we need to capture, recognize the 1950s and ‘60s. for them,” wrote Guy Bellamy Baptist Press, in a June and share with people rather The us/them separation in 1951 in his Report on Negro 21, 1995, article, noted, “The than the problems of racism,” of the races was not only Work, which was part of the resolution is not the first Smith said. “We know they convenient and comfortable then-Home Mission Board’s stance against racism adopted still exist in some places and – for some whites, anyway report to the annual meeting by the SBC, the most recent with some people, but to me – it was the law. In 1896 of the Southern Baptist being 1989, but it is the first the encouraging part of the the U.S. Supreme Court Convention. to address African Americans story is that we are making legitimized the principle of “Their own people” is a specifically and the first to progress, and that’s the good “separate but equal” with its particularly repugnant phrase confront the slavery issue in news.” BL • April 2003 • 11 BEGIN A RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD Raven’s punter Matt Stover aims toward

GOD’S INITIATIVE: God sent his son, Jesus, to heavenly goal die on the cross, paying the penalty for your sins, and gain the whole world and lose me…all beat up, and say ‘Stov,’ promised “everyone who believes in him will not his own soul?” this coach is killing me. I perish but have eternal life.” “I had the whole world but need some encouragement’. John 3:16 didn’t have my soul covered. I’m a big encourager. When This game of mine, which I’m down I encourage people OUR RESPONSE: ADMIT…that you need to should have brought me hap- the most. be rightly related to God. Un- piness, didn’t. It dropped me “Playing football is a very derstand that you are sinner. on my head. God gave me an insecure career. There is no Pride keeps us from doing opportunity to discover my guaranteed contract. You can some of the most important true purpose – to be loved by be cut at any time. The aver- things in life. Without God’s intervention, your sin will Him and love Him in return age time for a football player ultimately lead to death and and accept Him as Lord and is 3 years, 3 games. At 35 I’m eternal separation from God. Savior. And I did that.” the oldest guy. The average “No one is good –- not even Stover said as his relation- age is 26.” one. No one has real understanding; no one is ship grew. God began chisel- He knows God blessed seeking God.” Romans 3:10 ing him – “big chunks real him with the gift of admin- “For all have sinned; all fall fast.” istration. Stover works with short of God’s glorious “I grew quickly,” he said, team ministry and outreach. standard.” Romans 3:23 but still wasn’t willing to let Stover and other Christians REPENT…from your sin go of football. In Sept. of 1992 on the team work together and turn to God accepting by Stover got injured. He kicked to host a large outreach each faith His gift of salvation. the ball and lay afterwards in year at Ravens stadium. They “Now turn from your sins severe pain. On the ground he pay for about 3,500 people, and turn to God, so you can Ravens Photographer Phil Hoffman be cleansed of your sins.” felt God saying, “I can take mostly from the inner city of Acts 3:19 this from you anytime. Are Baltimore, to meet and shake “For the wages of sin is you willing to give it up?” hands with some of the play- death, but the free gift of God “I surrendered and said, ers and hear some of them is eternal life through Jesus ‘Lord, it’s yours,’” Stover give their personal testimo- Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 responded. nies. After rehabilitation he went During the football season BELIEVE…that God’s son, on to become one of the most a group averaging anywhere Jesus Christ, makes it accurate kickers in NFL his- from eight to 15 Christians possible for you to have a By Sharon Mager, have a personal relationship tory in 1994 amd remains on on the Ravens team meet for relationship with God. Staff Writer with Him. He pictured Jesus the top ten list of NFL kickers. Bible study on Wednesday “For God was in Christ, and Bob Simpson, Editor behind a door. When needs reconciling the world to Stover also held the record in nights. About 40 people attend arose he opened the door; oth- himself…” 2 Corinthians 5:19 2001 for the most consecutive Saturday night chapel. The COLUMBIA, Md.— erwise it stayed shut. “This is real love. It is not games with field goals. Ravens have a chaplain, Rod that we loved God, but that Baltimore Ravens punter He began his love affair God was also working on Hairston, who is allowed in he loved us and sent his son Matt Stover is one of the most with football while in first as a sacrifi ce to take away Stover’s relationships. the locker room and travels accurate place kickers in the grade. Stover was a punt-pass our sins.” “Life was about Matt,” he with the team. Not all coaches National Football League. In and kick champion when he 1 John 4:10 said. God changed that and allow that privilege. Hairston’s the 2000 sea- was eleven. He began restoring relationships arrival, Stover said, was the CONFESS…your sin to God. son, he hit 81 played punter, in Stover’s life, drawing him result of a strong commit- If you want to make this percent of his kicker and wide choice now, you can express and his wife Debbie closer. ment of prayer in 1999 – a year that desire to God in a prayer 293 regular- receiver in high

Ravens Photographer Phil Hoffman Stover began to reach out and before the team won the Super season field school but began similar to this one: love those around him like he Bowl. “Dear God, I know I am a goal attempts specializing in had never done before. “Brian Billick is a good sinner. I believe Jesus shed and had up kicking. He went his blood, died and rose God produced more mira- coach with regard to religious to that time to Louisiana again to take the punishment cles in Stover’s life by blessing freedom,” Stover said. missed only Tech on a full for my sin. I accept your offer him and Debbie with two chil- Stover and his family wor- of forgiveness and eternal three extra football schol- dren – a daughter, Jenna, born ship and are actively involved life. I thank you for what you points in 11 arship and his on April 26, 1995 and exactly at Grace Fellowship Church have done for me, and I give NFL seasons. dream came true you my life from this day one year later his son Jacob. in Timonium. He is still a During the in 1990 when forward.” He and Debbie are expecting member of his hometown Raven’s Super Bowl year, they the New York Giants drafted their third child next month. church, First Baptist Church, EXPRESS…your faith went through Week Five to him. In 1991 he signed with Debbie Stover grew up in Georgetown, Texas. publically. Share it with a Week Nine when they didn’t the Cleveland Browns. The Christian friend or a pastor. in Dallas and score a touchdown for 21 Browns relocated to Baltimore You will want to become attended First quarters. During that time, and became the Ravens in involved in a local church Baptist Church, where you can grow in your Stover had a five field goal 1996. Dallas, under knowledge of Christ. If you game and a four field goal By the second year with the the pastorate of choose a Baptist church, you game to help the Ravens to Browns, Stover thought he had will be encouraged to be W.A. Criswell. victory. The Ravens played it all. baptized as a public She came to excellent defense and held the “…the ball field, the finan- expression of your faith. know the Lord “If you confess with your opponents points to a mini- cial success – hey this was it!” when she was mouth that Jesus is Lord mum. Stover scored 49 straight he said. and believe in your heart 11. points on 16 field goals and an As a young man, Stover that God raised him from “She is a extra point. He was awarded identified manly success with the dead, you will be saved. huge influence Anyone who believes in him Pro Football Weekly’s “Golden the two “B’s” – the Billfold in my life. She will not be disappointed.” Toe Trophy” for this accom- and the Ball field. showed me Romans 10:9; 11 plishment. “Through those things I that it doesn’t Stover points towards heav- was trying to find happiness DEDICATE…yourself as matter how en when he scores a field goal and fulfillment in life and a fully devoted follower of good you are, if Jesus Christ. Receiving God’s for his team. He gives God the they all left me empty,” Stover you don’t have gift of forgiveness through glory for the victory. Stover said. Christ will set your life in an your sin taken also points to heaven when he In 1991 while playing opposite of the one you’ve care of.” misses. He still gives God the against the Houston Oilers, been going. Now you are Stover following God. glory. Stover missed a 19-yard field

knows he has Ravens Photographer Phil Hoffman “Jesus said to all of them, ‘If “Through my career I goal. He went down on one to be a role people want to follow me, have to first and foremost knee and said, “God help they must give up the things model on and honor Him,” Stover said. “It’s me.” The reverence he found they want. They must be off the field. He not about me it’s about Him. in himself surprised him. It willing to give up their lives knows people daily to When I point up I’m giving made him aware that he knew watch how follow me.’” Luke 9:23 thanks – not only when I get a he was accountable to God. he responds field goal but also when I miss Stover attended a pro-ath- Scripture from the to others and one. It’s life’s trials that make lete conference in California New Living Translation how he walks. you grow the most, not the in February 1992. The speaker He wants to good times.” talked about the god of foot- “I can look back and say show by example that being It’s an opportunity Stover ball. He referenced Mark 8:35, being a professional athlete a Christian isn’t a “fuddy- knows he has and he uses it. 36 – “For whosoever will save has been such a blessing to duddy” lifestyle, but is vibrant Rather than worship the god his life shall lose it; but who- me, and hopefully I have used and fun. of football, Stover surrendered soever shall lose his life for the platform given to me to “The guys will cuss around football to God. my sake and the Gospels, the bless others. God will hold you and say ‘excuse my lan- Stover learned about same shall save it. For what me responsible for how I’ve BL • April 2003 • 12 guage.’ They’ll sit next to Jesus as a child, but didn’t shall it profit a man if he shall handled myself.” Arundel Association benefits from the Phoenix Strategic Focus Cities initiative

By Iris White (NAMB) to assist associations to the churches through an with youth and young adult Associate Editor in strategy development. application process. ministries at Colonial Church Agee began working The 30 churches in ABA in Randallstown. In 1996, MILLERSVILLE, Md. — with NAMB when he was range from country to urban. they moved to New Orleans John Brittain never dreamed approached about planting a There are established churches so Brittain could attend New that he and his wife, Kelly, flagship church in Anthem, such as Eastport Church, Orleans Baptist Theological would return to Maryland Arizona, a planned communi- which is the oldest in the asso- Seminary where he received to serve, but he has been ty outside of Phoenix. In order ciation, and Heritage Church, his Masters in Christian here since Feb. 2002 serving to plant a flagship church, a which is celebrating their Education. While studying at as director of missions for Mega church had to be will- Arundel Baptist Association ing to sponsor the new church (ABA). and to invest $250,000, which Since returning to is matched by NAMB. Since Maryland, Brittain has there was no sponsoring Mega developed a love for church church, the association pro- planting primarily through vided the necessary funding. working with David Jackson, This drive to plant new BCM/D consultant for church churches in Phoenix is a planting. Jackson invited him result of Phoenix’s Strategic to assist in assessing poten- Focus Cities (SFC) initiative. tial church planters. It was According to Agee, “SFC then that Brittain began to see kicked us up a decade.” the vision and need to plant SFC allowed them to churches. resource and fund churches “I struggle to maintain in ways they’d only dreamed a balance between church about. Since then, 56 new planting [new churches] churches have been planted and church health [existing and baptisms in area churches churches],” Brittain said. have increased dramatically. Gayle Farnsworth works closely with John Brittain at the His predecessor at ABA, Agee believes that the benefits Arundel Association in Millersville. Wayne Harris, who now of SFC are still being felt in serves with BCM/D as consul- Phoenix. 100th anniversary this May. New Orleans, Brittain worked tant for church revitalization, The BCM/D has the There are also two new church with Randy Millwood, BCM/D emphasized church health and potential to reap similar ben- plants in process. Junction 111 consultant for young church revitalization while serving in efits since NAMB is consider- launched in the fall of 2002 development, who was also the association. ing Baltimore as a Strategic with Crossroads as the parent his mentor in the Institute for One of Brittain’s goals Focus City in 2007. church and Journey Fellowship Church Health. is to develop a new strategy “Bill [Agee] has awe- in Crofton will be launching Brittain is currently for ABA. Brittain and a cross some views on how asso- in the fall of 2003 with Severn a PhD student at New section of ABA pastors are ciational work should be Church as the parent church. Orleans,writing his dis- developing a strategic plan done,” Brittain said. Agee’s Three or four potential church sertation, an ethnography under the direction of Bill philosophy is that the pri- planters are currently going centering on multi-ethnic Agee. Agee is director of mis- mary purpose of an asso- through the assessment pro- church health. Faith Christian sions for Central Association ciation should be to resource cess. Fellowship Church, Baltimore, in Phoenix, Arizona, and churches. Central Association Brittain and his wife, which has been intentionally a consultant for the North in Phoenix is giving 87% of Kelly, lived in Maryland from multi-ethnic for over 20 years, American Mission Board the undesignated money back 1990-1995 where they worked is his model. Walk in the wind... the Easter I cherish By Pawnee Camp it was, the service was out of some of the most worshipful will forever remain treasured the ordinary. (After all, Jesus’ moments in my life were had snapshots of my oh so fortu- he frosty dew lay thick resurrection was out of the at the beginning of God’s day nate childhood and the hap- on the grass so that, ordinary, wasn’t it? Thank – as He once more showed piness of my family life. But it Tlooking back, you could God). One year, we celebrated Himself faithful to renewal of is the message of my Savior’s just barely see in the low light Easter in a cemetery. What a the day. death and resurrection that from heaven the wide swath glorious memory I have of Oh what a gift my par- I was taught should be the our walking cut through the singing, “Low in the grave He ents gave me as they woke central theme of Easter. And it moisture. We parlayed greet- lay, Jesus, our Savior! Waiting me from my sleep each Easter is in the experience of sharing ings back and forth to each the coming day, Jesus, my morning and took me (some- sunrise, sensing its symbolism other as we each approached, Lord! Up from the grave He times with pink sponge curl- and promise with my parents lawn chair in hand, the arose!” and then slowly walk- ers still in my hair, tucked and sister and other of Jesus’ appointed spot. Placing them ing from the cemetery to the under a scarf) to sunrise followers, that I will always in makeshift rows, we sat and field beyond while our pas- service. They probably don’t place my first awareness of exchanged opinions on the tor read the Easter story from know how it has stayed as a the miracle of Easter. temperature and plans for the scripture. It wasn’t a story, it part of my faith all these years upcoming day. Observations was truth! And I was literally later. Yes, as a child, I looked regarding the beauty of our walking it! for Easter baskets hidden surroundings were apprecia- My childhood sunrise behind trees and under bush- tive. We settled into our seats. services were nothing short es in my yard. Yes, we dyed We waited. And then, in a of, if I may be biased, per- eggs and decorated them whisper of color, God began fect. Though I have many together as a fun family proj- to paint the sky just at the memories of the other parts of ect. Yes, we got a pretty new horizon before us. Hushed, our family Easter which are Easter dress each year. Yes, we watched as He slowly wonderful and will always we hung colorful plastic eggs added intensity to the color, be a part of how Easter day from the branches of the bush and breadth to the expanse of should be to me, the memory outside the kitchen window His canvas. Just as a hint of most precious is that of my to make our egg tree. Yes, I gold washed over the rim of parents taking me every year always had a chocolate bunny. the pine trees lining the hori- to Easter Sunrise Service. It is And these are things that zon, our pastor stepped before this permanent part of my us and said, “Sing.” And we spiritual upbringing that did. “All creatures of our God will forever be how I pic- and King, lift up your voice ture the women that went Greenridge Baptist Church and with us sing Alleluia!” A to Jesus’ grave early that Summer Kids Club song to God and no one else, Sunday morning. Except A day–camping adventure for children as we watched Him paint the that they were greeted not who have completed grades K–5 Dates and Times of Operation morning in lines of hope – a only by God’s magnificent June 23–August 22 reminder of the resurrection. sunrise, but by God’s vic- club, 8 am–5 pm The Easters I cherish torious Son’s rise! Now I soccer camp, ps,chess arts and crafts, Rate: $130 per week local field tri Before and after camp care contained a sunrise service have never been a morning swimming, and much more! available at an additional cost held at the break of day in person; ask anyone who visit www.greenridgechild.com for more info Bible-centered cur a country meadow or some knows me. However, as I sign language and riculum, guitar lesso Join us as we celebrate all that God has given to His children! BL • April 2003 • 13 other unique venue. Wherever look back over the years, ns Helping the children of divorce

Note: This is the first in- Across age groups, di- met with love, understanding nency” of the divorce; often stallment of a two-part series on vorce often forces children to and repeated explanations they hope that the separation helping kids deal with divorce. cope with life situations and over time. There exists a strong is temporary and they may This part sets out some of the emotions like anger, sadness, association between clear com- build an ultimately disap- basic problems and talks about shame and anxiety before they munication with children con- pointing fantasy about a re- how to help younger children. are ready. cerning divorce and children’s union of their parents. It may Next month, we’ll look at how to To begin understanding positive adjustment. seem cruel to not permit them help adolescents and teenagers. how to help kids through (and This article follows from a after) a divorce, one must rec- Mother’s Day is Mother’s Day Offering. Bob Gerstmyer presentation made by Baptist ognize what kids themselves Won’t you help us as we try BFCS Executive Director Family CareNow staff to a group understand. coming: Has your to double that number this of lay leaders involved in divorce For example, in a divorce church signed up? year. To be a part of this care ministry. situation: important effort, please If members of your church • Toddlers recognize that Is your church ready call Vickie Kent at (410) would like to receive a copy of one parent no longer lives at for Mother’s Day? Bap- 872-1050, extension 100. the curriculum presented or to home. tist Family extends warm She will send you posters arrange a presentation, please • Elementary school thanks to the churches that to hang in your church, as call Vickie Kent at (410) 872- children begin to understand have signed on so far, and well as love offering enve- For more information 1050, extension 100. that divorce means their lopes. about BFCS, or to ask hopes that your church parents will no longer be mar- is among them. If not, Baptist Family cannot questions or comment By Amy Patrick ried and that their parents no continue the work that the on articles on this page, please consider supporting CareNow Program Manager longer love each other. the families and kids in BCM/D created it for--the please call BFCS • Older kids and ado- protection and growth of Public Relations Maryland and Delaware by Divorce affects more lescents may have difficulty joining churches across the families and kids--without Associate, Tim Durkin children in our communities accepting the changes that the continued support of (410) 872-1050 ext. 143 convention in taking an of- than ever before. Never in the divorce brings to their family fering on Mother’s Day to BCM/D congregations. history of this country has and may blame themselves. benefit Baptist Family. Please give kids and there existed such a casual at- By adapting an age-appro- Baptist Family and Last year, more than families a new start. Please titude toward the institution priate strategy to helping kids Children’s Services 75 churches signed up give to the Mother’s Day of marriage. Our churches dealing with divorce, church 7175 Columbia to support the Inaugural Offering for Baptist Family! Gateway Dr., Suite F and communities are paying and community members have Columbia, MD 21046 the price as more families a better chance of healing the Phone: break up, putting stresses on child and preventing the long- (410) 872-1050 pastoral services and social term damage that divorce can Elementary school chil- this comforting dream, but (800) 621-8834 networks. cause. dren (5-8 years old) also more harmful is the fact that Fax: Children are the innocent Let us take a more in- regress and seem to take re- the dream will (most likely) (410) 872-1047 victims of divorce. If parents depth look at the age groups sponsibility for the marriage’s never come true. E-mail: and community members outlined above, and discuss breakup. They may also single By affirming and inform- baptistfamily@ do not pay special attention some strategies for working out one parent to blame for the ing the child “early and often,” baptistfamily.org to the needs of children of with these kids. breakup and become aggres- and by emphasizing the role Online: divorce, kids may encoun- Toddlers (which we’ll sive toward that parent. of both parents in the contin- www.baptistfamily.org ter a variety of difficulties define as 2-4 years old) will For the child’s long-term ued development of their kids, throughout their lives. Di- often show signs of regressing mental health, it is important parents will take the right Would you like to be on vorce may hinder children’s back to infant behavior. They to be active in building an steps toward helping their our e-mail list? spiritual, social, emotional become more dependant, pas- ongoing relationship with both children through the trauma Send a message to: parents. of divorce. baptistfamily@ and intellectual development, sive and babylike. baptistfamily.org particularly in the areas of These actions mask a fear Be cautious when a young Next month: a look at how to self-esteem and self-control. and confusion that must be child asks about the “perma- help older kids and adolescents.

Come visit our new website! THE FAMILY CIRCUS ® by Bil Keane

Baptist Family is proud to report the posting of its new website. The website brings up-to-date information and news to websurfers interested in Christian family resources. Users can email our agency to receive information on all of our resources and to talk with one of our expert case workers. Visitors will fi nd Baptist Family’s new agency video available for viewing, as well as links to pages describing the agency’s long history and vision for the future of family ministry in Maryland, Delaware and beyond. Baptist Family is also building a page of links to online family resources and BCM/D churches. If you would like your church represented at our website, send an email to [email protected] pointing us to your church’s page. We’ll have it online almost instantly. Our web site is still growing, so check in often to see new developments. We also appreciate any feedback you might have: email [email protected] with your suggestions. Reprinted in BaptistLIFE with special permission of Bil Keane. Bring an international perspective to your ministry

The U.S. State Depart- and lay leaders would benefi t Approaches to Therapy,” pre- offer 6.5 hours of Continuing ment reports: The foreign-born from an increased under- sented by Deborah Haskins, Education credit for attending population of the United States standing of how to approach Ph.D. this training. numbered 31.1 million in 2000, second- and third-generation This training will take Dr. Haskins is the Direc- according to Census 2000 citizens who still use (and, place at Baptist Family’s offi ces tor of Master’s Education for results. This represents a 57 in fact, cherish) their specifi c in Columbia on May 21 from the Psychology Department at percent increase over 1990 and cultural practices and expecta- 9 am until 5 pm. Mention that Loyola College in Maryland. the continuation of an upward tions. you read about it in Bap- Her specialties include Cross- trend that began in the 1970s. To help you learn more tistLIFE, and you will receive and Multi-Cultural Issues As a percentage, foreign-born about how to effectively the special discount rate of $50 in Personality, Therapy and individuals make up 11.1% of minister to people approach- for the day, which includes Supervision. the total U.S. population. ing problems from different lunch and free parking. To register, call Vickie BL • April 2003 • 14 Beyond simply the foreign- cultural standpoints, Baptist If you are a Baptist Social Kent at (410) 872-1050, exten- born population, ministers Family offers “Multicultural Worker or Therapist, we can sion 100. Employment MUSIC DIRECTOR — Kens- DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS/ NAMB and be willing to spend ington Baptist Church is seeking CHURCH STARTER STRAT- 50% of his time in the area of VOLUNTEER NEEDED a paid part-time Music Director. EGIES — Keystone Baptist church planting. — Volunteer needed to help Please send resumes or inqui- Association, located in York If you have interest in join- manage email for my online ries to Music Director Search County, PA and surround- ing our Kingdom team please childrens prayer ministry at Committee, Kensington Baptist ing counties, is seeking an send appropriate information www.kidsneedprayer.net. Call Church, 10100 Connecticut Av- Associational Director of to [email protected] (we would To Place and Ad Jim Dove at (301) 831-9507 if enue, Kensington, MD 20895 or Missions/Church Starter prefer electronic submissions) you can help. And, please pray respond via www.kensingtonba Strategist. or Steve Belden, 2641 Chronis- MAIL, E-MAIL, OR FAX for “Grampa’s” kids. Contact ptistchurch.org. Experience with We see our next DOM as ter Farm Rd, York, PA 17402. YOUR AD – Deadlines Jim Dove, 3723 Blueberry Drive, various worship styles including an individual who is a semi- (717) 747-9994. Resumes will be are the last Friday of Monrovia, MD 21770 – Mt. Airy contemporary required. nary graduate with a back- accepted from February 1, 2003 each month for the Church ground in missions, some through March 31, 2003. following month’s PART-TIME MINISTER OF experience in church planting issue. Classified ad- CHURCH MUSICIAN MUSIC — Clinton Baptist and experience in associa- Miscellaneous vertising is 75 cents PIANIST/ORGANIST — Must Church in Clinton, Md. is seek- tional missions. per word ($18.00 have good sight-readng skills, ing a part-time Minister of Because of our unique RETREAT TO THE OCEAN minimum) for BCM/D play-by-ear, able to play hymns Music. For more information, relationship with the North — The Baptist Retreat Center in churches and church and contemporary music. please call the church office American Mission Board of Ocean City is available for Fall/ members; 85 cents per Services required for Sunday at (301) 868-1177 or submit the Southern Baptist Conven- Spring Retreats. We can accom- word ($20.00 mini- morning Worship, Wednesday your resume to Clinton Baptist tion, our Director of Missions modate groups as large as 65. For mum) for non-profit night prayer, weekly chior Church, 8701 Woodyard Road, needs to be willing and able more info. Call (410) 289-6573 or organizations; and 95 rehearsals, and special services. Clinton, MD 20735. to be appointed through check httwww.OCBaptist.org. cents per word ($25.00 Paid Position. Ccontact Mrs. minimum) for com- Anna Miley at 301-735-6111 mercial organizations. or send resume to 1st Baptist You are cordially invited to the Word count does not Church of Suitland, 5400 Silver include words with Hill Road, Forestville, MD two letters or less. 20747 Fax 301 735 0307, E-mail Spot color is available [email protected]. Legacy of Faith for an additional $10 per ad. Contact us for MINISTER OF CHILDREN display ad pricing. — Lake Ridge Baptist Church Benefi t Concert seeks a part-time Minister of Children. Appropriate educa- tion & experience. Responsible featuring for children’s ministries rang- the Legacy of Faith: the Musical ing from birth through grade Composed and conducted by Joseph M. Martin 5. Send resumes to Chairman Presented by the BCM/D Festival Choir of Personnel Committee, Lake Ridge Baptist Church, 12450 Clipper Dr., Woodbridge, VA Saturday, June 28, 2003 22192, or FAX to (703) 491-7219. 7:00–9:00 PM For more information call (703) at the 494-8413. Maryland Hall for the ACCOMPANIST NEEDED Creative Arts — Olney Baptist Church. Part- Annapolis, Maryland time paid position. For more information call church office at (301) 774-5433 or send resumes Tickets available with donation to Olney Baptist Church, 17525 Georgia Avenue, P.O. Box 325, Olney, MD 20830-0325 “Basic Training for a Man’s Heart”

May 2-3, 2003 Burtonsville Baptist Church May 16-17, 2003 Ogletown Baptist Church Friday 7 pm–Saturday 4 pm

Cost: Free (Love offering will be collected for FREE Campus Crusade for Christ) s Men’ Deadline for Registration: April 24 Breakfast and lunch on Saturday included Retreat! Hotel accommodations available, contact Jim McBride, Jr. at (800) 466-5290 x253

A special presentation for Easter on ABC Sunday, April 20, 2003

Take a rare glimpse into the personal lives of astronauts featuring, Rick Husband, Charles Duke, Joseph Tanner, Jerry Ross and Nancy Currie. Also, Gene Thomas, launch director of Challenger, relates how his faith helped him deal with that tragedy and Alexander McCool of the Marshall Space Flight Center, talks about how faith in God is a top priority in his life.

“He sits enthroned about the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers” (Joshua 1:9)

Produced by the Southern Baptist Broadcast Communications Group For information call (800) 777.1127 BL • April 2003 • 15 Only $12 per month

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The BaptistLIFE BackPage Program can save you in many ways... save money, save time and energy and save trees! Call Cindy Harper at 800.466.5290 ext. 0 or email her at [email protected] and sign up today!