Soul Caffeine Coffee House Coffee, community, missions, ministry

Schedules Pastors Conference and state convention annual meeting Contents

07Spiritual retreat Coastal camps in Baldwin and Mobile counties offer 14Pride & dignity beach getaways. A donations-only restaurant in Brewton 12 serves more than food. Coastal ministry Opportunities to share Christ and serve others 04 abound in the resorts, Coffee, community, campgrounds and RV missions, ministry parks dotting ’s Gulf Coast. Owners and employees at this Daphne coffee shop use tips to support missions, ministries and nonprofits in the area. 08Restaurants. Food. Beverages. Comprehensive list and select recommendations 15Pastors Conference of area restaurants. schedule A full day of music, messages, prayer and encouragement awaits those who attend this annual event.

2 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG FRUITFUL A special publication of The Alabama Baptist for the 2019 Alabama Baptist Pastors Conference and Alabama Baptist 16Explore the State Convention, November 11–13, Eastern Shore 2019, at Eastern 22Sights on the Shore Baptist New to ’s Eastern Shore Church, Daphne. Eastern Shore? See what’s nearby as you plan your Have you ever heard of a JENNIFER DAVIS RASH schedule and maybe even jubilee? This rare coastal EDITOR-IN-CHIEF your next visit. event is just one of the Cynthia Watts Janet Erwin Executive Executive Editor many wonders of Mobile 29‘A cheerful heart is Assistant Carrie B. Bay and its shoreline good medicine’ Debbie Campbell McWhorter communities. Director of Content Editor Communications Chonda Pierce has used Lauren C. Grim Bill Gilmore Creative Services her brand of clean, honest Director of Sales comedy to speak truth Jessica Ingram Melanie Production to audiences around the McKinney Manager Advertising world for more than 26 Manager Grace Thornton years. Special Pam Holt Assignments Sales Editor Representative

Susan Stevens Hannah Muñoz Sales Digital Editor Representative James Hammack Linda Harrison Digital Services Financial Manager Administrator Haley Piersol Deb Lowery Digital Services Financial Associate Assistant Sarah Gill Annette Brown Customer Guest Services Relations 26Diversity in the Richard Maddox Amy Hacker Computer Customer Mobile area Services Relations

A missionary couple who © The Alabama Baptist, Inc. 3310 Independence Drive served 37 years in Asia Birmingham, AL 35209 finds global outreach Phone: 205-870-4720 18 opportunities among Statewide phone: 800-803-5201 Alabama Baptist State Convention seafarers and international Website: www.thealabamabaptist.org students. Email: [email protected] schedule 30Unique gift giving or [email protected] ANNUAL TAB SUBSCRIPTION RATES This annual two-day event The holiday season can be Includes print, digital and full web access is more than a business busy and stressful. Maybe Group Rate per issue — $16.25 meeting. Discover who is this is the year to simplify (Need at least five in your group to playing, singing, praying, by being missions minded qualify) Individual — $24.95 per year with preaching and reporting. in your giving. 3-year plan

3 Soul Caffeine COFFEE HOUSE

4 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG Coffee, community, missions, ministry

Owners and employees at this Daphne coffee shop use tips to support missions, ministries and nonprofits in the area.

By Lanell Downs Smith hoping to show them how valued Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist they are, not just as customers but hat began as a as people,” said co-owner Mallory dream to combine Friese. coffee and commu- Funds collected in a tip jar are nity with missions donated to local ministries, mis- andW ministry became a reality in sions organizations and nonprofits 2015 when friends Eric and Mal- helping to build the local commu- lory Friese and Gabe and Lynne nity outside the store’s walls. Holloway opened Soul Caffeine Soul Caffeine owners didn’t be- Coffee House in Daphne. gin by asking for tips. Friese said Today the coffee house is a gath- they felt their customers already Soul Caffeine Coffee House owners ering place where coffee is served paid enough for their coffee. But Eric and Mallory Friese and Lynne with attention to the detail of the they soon discovered that people and Gabe Holloway opened the business in Daphne in 2015. drink and to the life of the cus- wanted to give. They decided to tomer. put out a tip jar agreeing to gather funds to support missions and min- “That’s one of my favorite things: Valued people istries, families and individuals. being able to work at a place where “[Soul Caffeine] has given us Since then the tip jar has blessed we actively love on people and our the chance to really get to know so the Daphne community, funding community,” said Angie Middle- many people and their stories, and contributions to a wide range of ton, the shop’s general manager. by extending them warm service local, regional and national orga- “Watching so many being affected and lovingly crafted drinks we are nizations and ministries. by the donations (and) tips of our customers is a blessing.” Tip jar funds have allowed Soul Caffeine to assist homeless and low- income families in the region with basic needs alongside partners like “... We are hoping to show them Eastern Shore Baptist Church and how valued they are, not just as the local Family Promise team. Everyone involved in the cof- customers but as people.” fee shop has been blessed through

MALLORY FRIESE CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 co-owner, Soul Caffeine Coffee House 5

SPIRITUAL RETREAT

Baldwin and Mobile Baptist associations minister through coastal camps and getaways.

CAMP BALDWIN

By Grace Thornton win, says they have their own little children’s groups, family camps, The Alabama Baptist sanctuary on Wolf Bay and people women’s retreats, marriage retreats he place Gil Johnson “can come and feel the differ- — you name it.” calls home has “some of ence.” They also run Estuary Life, a the best sunsets around.” “I love having guests come creation-based outdoor program, And he says you and through and have that opportunity for school and church field trips. Tyour church are welcome to come to retreat away from everything visit and see for yourselves. else going on out in the world,” he Coming to Christ Johnson, director of Camp Bald- said. “You can see the relief some Rick Ellison, director of mis- of them have just getting to fellow- sions for Baldwin Baptist Associa- ship, watch the sunrise and enjoy tion, said the camp is a great place a meal. There’s refreshment that for a spiritual retreat. happens here.” “We have all kinds of groups Nearly 9,000 guests come every who come from all kinds of places year to Camp Baldwin, a ministry to use the camp and we see a num- of Baldwin Baptist Association. ber of people come to Christ each The 66-acre camp is a rental facil- year through their camp experi- ity — they don’t do any program- ence,” he said. ming. But they can house your The association also has two church’s retreat and provide meals other places that host retreats near and activities like ziplining, minia- the coast. The Mission House in ture golf, water trampolines, swim- Orange Beach hosts groups who ming, canoes and kayaks, fishing, a come down to do missions projects gym and a challenge course. with Baldwin Association, and Ro- mar Beach Baptist Church hosts Variety of events groups in their retreat center right “Most every weekend we have on the beach. CAMP something going on here,” John- WHISPERING PINES son said. “We host youth and CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

7 Restaurants. Food. Beverages. DAPHNE Glazed Doughnuts RESTAURANT 2200 U.S. Highway 98, Suite 5A RECOMMENDATION 251-586-8180 Baumhower’s Victory Grille 6880 U.S. Highway 90, Suite F-1 Le Bouchon When family and friends 251-625-4695 1903C Main Street come to visit we take 251-340-2812 them to our favorite sea- Bombay & Co. food restaurant in Daphne 25935 Friendship Road, Unit C Manci’s Antique Club — Kravers! This casual 251-404-0913 1715 Main Street family-friendly restaurant 251-375-0543 Boudreaux’s Cajun Grill is easy on the wallet and 29249 U.S. Highway 98 Moe’s Southwest Grill the generous portions 251-621-1991 1539 U.S. Highway 98 mean you won’t go away 251-626-3334 hungry. My favorite is the Burger King tail-on fried shrimp basket 29295 U.S. Highway 98 CiCi’s Pizza with slaw and the friendly 251-230-8652 6882 Highway 90, Suite G-1 staff will let you substitute 251-621-6820 sides, so I choose the zesty Chicken Salad Chick corn-on-the-cob instead of 1802 U.S. Highway 98, Suite F Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen fries. My landlubber hus- 251-220-9921 1511 U.S. Highway 98 251-621-0005 band says the chicken fin- Chick-fil-A gers are amazing and the Something Sweet Bake Shop 1682 U.S. Highway 98 green beans are nearly as 1712 Main Street 251-621-3215 good as his momma’s. Our 251-621-2253 grandchildren love the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Soul Caffeine Coffee House crab claws. Choose your 6882 Highway 90, Suite G-2 2004 U.S. Highway 98, Suite B seafood fried, blackened or 251-210-2151 251-345-4156 grilled, or try one of their daily specials like shrimp Divine Empanadas Southwood Kitchen or mahi tacos. If you have 11101 County Road 64 1203 U.S. Highway 98, Suite 3D time, check out another 251-273-3321 251-626-6676 local favorite next door Foosackly’s Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe — Allegri Farm Market. 29181 U.S. Highway 98 1539 U.S. Highway 98, Suite 201 Kravers is located at the in- 251-375-1104 251-273-3337 tersection of County Road 64 and AL 181, at 25965 RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATION Highway 181 in Daphne. Café del Rio located on the area to get the best view and be sure KATHY DEAN Assistant VP for University Causeway is my go-to Tex-Mex restau- to try their jalapeño ranch dip and en- Communications, rant. With a breathtaking view of the chiladas! After eating, walk around University of Mobile Mobile skyline the waterfront outdoor area. Café del and Mobile Bay, Rio is located at 1175 Battleship Park- Café del Rio will way in Spanish Fort. stand out for its AMBER KELLEY food and view. Marketing Communications Make sure to sit Specialist at University of Mobile, in the sunroom UM class of 2019 9 RESTAURANT The Good Guys Food Truck The Bone and Barrel RECOMMENDATION 26992 State Highway 181 311 Fairhope Avenue 251-721-4979 251-990-0782

Tropical Smoothie Cafe El Mexicano of Fairhope 29740 Urgent Care Drive 195 Baldwin Square Shopping 251-626-1160 Center Highway 98 251-929-7827 Yinzers Brew & Grill 28850 U.S. Highway 98, Suite 200 The Fairhope Brewing 251-621-6990 Company 914 Nichols Avenue Zaxby’s 251-279-7517 29053 U.S. Highway 98 251-621-0400 The Fairhope Market 101 S. Greeno Road 251-929-8277 Walking into Meat Boss FAIRHOPE Fairhope Roasting in west Mobile feels like Another Broken Egg Company coming home for a fam- 300 Fairhope Avenue 759 Nichols Avenue ily dinner — if that fam- 251-210-6901 251-928-2606 ily dinner includes one of the best sandwiches in the Big Daddy’s Grill Frios Gourmet Pops 16542 Ferry Road 218 Fairhope Avenue Suite B state. Meat Boss has been 251-990-8555 251-605-7539 awarded best ribs and sauce in Mobile for back- BILL-E’S Gambino’s Italian Grill to-back years. They offer 19992 Highway 181 18 Laurel Avenue pork, chicken, brisket, ribs, 251-281-2663 251-990-0995 turkey and more and all of it is smoked to perfec- RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATION tion. With everything being Take a drive down Scenic 98 and be house district on Nichols Avenue. This made to order you are al- sure to stop in downtown Daphne at Instagram-worthy restaurant is called ways guaranteed to get ex- Cousin Vinny’s for authentic Italian the Warehouse Bakery. Go here actly what you want. From pies, homemade bread and homemade for a yummy brunch with chicken and burgers with eggs, bacon bread pudding. Their sister restaurant, waffles doused in sriracha butter and and Conecuh sausage to a Guido’s, is right next door and is Alabama cane syrup. Need a pick me plate of ribs with mac and open in the evening with a chalkboard up? Locally roasted cold-brew coffee cheese, Meat Boss has ex- menu boasting of entrées like roasted is always available. Make sure to get actly what you need. With duck, eggplant parmesan and shrimp yours with chocolate milk creamer and their smoker right outside and grits. Get your grub to go and en- don’t forget to purchase a homemade cooking 24/7 you can’t joy a sunset picnic in Daphne’s quaint pop tart for the road! help but be drawn down to bayside parks right down the street! If you’re trying to eat healthier, try 5401 Cottage Hill Road in Go a little farther south to one of the west Mobile to give it a try. the Farmer’s Market Bowl com- two single-tax colonies left in the U.S. posed of roasted sweet potatoes, Idyllic Fairhope is one of Alabama’s JONATHAN HARDING steamed veggies, shredded cheddar, Junior, integrated pride and joys. The streets here boast avocado and salsa. marketing of French Quarter-esque shops and de- communications, licious restaurants banking the streets. AMANDA PRITCHARD University of Mobile One of my favorites is a little fur- Graphic Designer, ther down the highway in the ware- University of Mobile 10 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG Guthrie’s of Fairhope Yak: The Kathmandu Kitchen RESTAURANT 51B N. Greeno Road 400 Eastern Shore Shopping RECOMMENDATION 251-990-2897 Center, Suite 13 251-990-6192 It’s All Greek To Me! On a street where every 108 N. Section Street, Bldg. C place offers its own unique Suite 2 SPANISH FORT spin on some of the best 251-265-3623 Beef O’Brady’s food in Alabama, Squid McSharry’s Irish Pub 6450 US Highway 90, Suite J Ink Eclectic Eats & Drinks 101 N. Bancroft Street 251-447-0660 stands out. As the new kid 251-990-5100 Felix’s Fish Camp on the block they’re not off Panini Pete’s 1530 Battleship Parkway to a slow start — they’ve 42 1/2 S. Section Street 251-626-6710 hit the ground running 251-929-0122 Fresh Healthy Cafe with amazing specialty 10184 Eastern Shore Boulevard burgers, Mobtown hot Rotolo’s of Fairhope Suite C chicken that tops any Nash- 100 Eastern Shore Shopping 251-444-7170 Center, Highway 98 ville hot chicken you’ll ever 251-990-4005 California Dreaming have, fried calamari, the 30500 Highway 181, Suite 700 best street cauliflower and Sage Lebanese Cuisine & Cafe 251-626-9942 an amazing atmosphere. 319 Fairhope Avenue Choose either the upstairs 251-517-7536 David’s Catfish House 10810 Highway 31 platform seating or the Sunset Pointe at Fly Creek 251-930-1252 sidewalk tables — both Marina offer a perfect place for you Ed’s Seafood Shed 831 N. Section Street and your friends! Located 251-990-7766 3382 Battleship Parkway 251-625-1947 at 102 Dauphin Street, Mobile, Squid Ink is sure to Suzie Q’s Rolled Ice Cream Half Shell Oyster House become a new favorite! 70 S. Section Street 30500 Highway 181 Suite 800 251-517-7249 251-206-8768 ANDREW FELTS Tamara’s Downtown Honeybun Donuts & Kolaches Digital Marketing & 104 N. Section Street 6729 Spanish Fort Boulevard Social Media Specialist at 251-929-2219 Suite H University of Mobile, 251-355-5190 UM Class of 2019 The Hope Farm 915 Nichols Avenue Original Oyster House 251-689-7990 3733 Battleship Parkway 334-626-2188 The Mill 85 N. Bancroft Street Ralph & Kacoo’s 251-644-5326 1595 Battleship Parkway 251-626-0045 Thyme on Section Smoothies N Things Spanish Fort 33 N. Section Street 30500 AL 181, Suite 702 251-990-5635 251-654-7121 Warehouse Bakery and Donuts Stix Restaurant 759 Nichols Avenue 10240 Eastern Shore Boulevard 251-928-7223 251-621-9088 Wok by d’Bay Trattoria Pizza & Italian 420 Fairhope Avenue 11611 U.S. Highway 31 251-270-7262 251-375-0076 11 As children arrive for a summer day camp hosted by Baldwin Baptist Association’s Gulf Area Resort Ministry, they are invited to play with sidewalk chalk to help them settle into the camp. During the camp the children hear Coastal Bible stories, play games and enjoy snacks. MINISTRY Opportunities to share Christ and serve others abound in the resorts, campgrounds and RV parks dotting Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

By Grace Thornton to deal with when they get back,” ministry,” Rush said, noting that The Alabama Baptist he said. especially during the winter snow- an Rush said someone Whatever it is they’re escaping bird season people will often stay told him once that ev- from, Rush likes to offer them a for months at a time. eryone at the beach little encouragement to take home “There are a lot of senior adults, was running away from with them. In his work as a park and health problems come up Dsomething. chaplain with Gulf Area Resort sometimes. We’ve been able to be Rush didn’t buy it at first. But the Ministry (GARM) of Baldwin Bap- there in a bigger way than just be- more he thought about it he said tist Association he conducts servic- tween closing and opening prayers he realized it was true. es at RV parks in the Gulf Shores of a service,” he said. “Sometimes they’re just getting area and spends a lot of time get- But the services are a part of his away from everything to relax and ting to know people. role that he loves too. Before he sometimes they’re trying to get “We have built friendships there and his wife, Kathy, moved to the away from a crisis they will have and gotten to do some pastoral area from Illinois he had served

12 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG more than 30 years in pastoral min- Dan Rush (right) demonstrates glass istry there. blowing, a skill that helps him earn a living while he does chaplaincy work For the past five years he’s been in RV parks on the Gulf Coast. shepherding the little flock that gathers every Sunday morning when he and Kathy bring food and Diehl said. “We have youth groups fresh brewed coffee to the RV park. that come into the area and serve. “We have a mini congregation [It’s] their missions trip for the sum- there,” said Rush, who also works mer. Around 90% of our volunteers as a glass blower at the Coastal Arts are coming in from outside the Center of Orange Beach. They also area.” hold Wednesday night services and Dauphin Island Baptist Church activities like movie nights. in Mobile Baptist Association also “It’s been fun,” he said. “I tell hosts many out-of-town youth people whether they’re there for groups who come to help with lo- a weekend or longer, we want to cal ministry. share something with you that “For more than 40 years we’ve hopefully will encourage you when been hosting youth groups in the you get back. And it’s not watered summer,” Pastor Chris Schansberg down — we preach the gospel. And said. there are always a few people who While there they stay at Dauphin say, ‘I really needed that.’” Serving at the beach Island Baptist’s Resort Ministry and Nate Diehl, GARM director, Around 600 to 700 students Conference Center, which can said resort and beach ministry on come each summer to help area host up to 200 guests at a time. the Gulf Coast gives him, Rush and churches with Vacation Bible “Those groups have done a lot of many others the chance to connect School and to participate in can- good through the years,” Schans- with people they might never have vassing and outreach. They also berg said. the opportunity to meet in other help area ministries with food dis- More information on GARM is settings. tribution and lead worship services at www.baldwinbaptist.org/gulf-ar- “Whether it’s students on work- at rehab centers. ea-resort-ministries. related, internship-type things or whether it be vacationers coming from all over the place, we have A youth group leads a poolside worship service for guests staying in a Gulf Coast-area RV park as part of the opportunity of planting a seed Baldwin Baptist Association’s Gulf Area Resort Ministry. that’s going to go far beyond Bald- win County,” Diehl said. “That’s definitely an exciting aspect of this type of ministry.” In the winter months ministry in the parks like what Rush does is a big focus for GARM. In the other seasons ministry on the coast in- volves a lot of volunteers and differ- ent types of outreach. One example is how at the recent Shrimp Festi- val teams came in and helped with snacks and games for children and used creative ways to engage peo- ple with the gospel. “There’s a lot of opportunity and open doors for people to serve,”

13 14 |THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG Lisa Thomas-McMillanserves hunger- TheAlabamaBaptist Correspondent, By MarthaSimmons ing atall. scrawled thank you note ... or noth can either dropinmoney, ahand- screened-off sectionwherepatrons tothewallina box isattached donations Themetal restaurant. their mealandthosewhocannot. money intothedonationsboxfor patrons whocanaffordtodrop time distinguishing betweenthe Pride anddignity. of thisdonations-onlyrestaurant: two itemsarealwaysonthemenu es fromonedaytothenext—but satisfying Southernfarethatchang At thisdonations-onlyrestaurant inBrewton, hungrycustomers from A satisfying Southern faresatisfying Southern to customers The menunoprices, contains There’s nocashregisterinthe That’s whyyou’llhaveahard PRIDE &DIGNITY all walksoflifegetmore thanjustahome-cooked meal. at Drexell andHoneybee’s. see plentyofsoul- in Brewtonyou’ll ell andHoneybee’s food lineatDrex long thecafeteria-style - - -

begins tofillwellbefore thered morning. “Icome allthetime.” lar patronwaitinginline one recent for. of localfolksthinkthefoodistodie Lee StreetinBrewton,butplenty ell andHoneybee’s, locatedon109 will die before theygivethatup.” and dignity,” shesays.“Alotoffolks proprietor LisaThomas-McMillan. meals. “Nostringsattached,” says teer requirements forreceiving free suggested donationsandnovolun restaurant inBrewton servesabout100peoplefrom allwalksoflifeeachday. meal toanyonewhocomesDrexell andHoneybee’s. Theirdonations-only The parkinglotacrossthe street “Best foodintown!” saidaregu There’s no needforthatatDrex “It’s allabout twowords:Pride Four dayseachweekLisaThomas-McMillanandFreddie McMillanservea - - - journey eight years agowhenshe Inc. —tosupportafoodbank. a nonprofit —Carlisa, by starting and foodboxestoshut-insthen per daydeliveringhotbreakfasts area —firstbytraveling100 miles feeding the hungryintheBrewton of Thomas-McMillan’s decadesof all walksoflife. feeds some 100peopledaily from through Friday, the restaurant Open 11a.m.to1p.m.Tuesday neon opensignisswitchedon. Lisa gainedapartner in her istheculmination The restaurant CONTINUED ONPAGE 21

Evening Afternoon Morning Pastors Conference Monday, November 11, 2019 Eastern Shore Baptist Church, Daphne

schedule 9:00 Worship 9:10 Welcome — Dr. Stuart Davidson, president, Alabama Baptist Pastors Conference; pastor, Eastern Shore Baptist Church, Daphne 9:18 Prayer — Dr. Clint Landry, pastor, First Baptist Church, Foley 9:20 Worship and Solo 9:30 Message — Partners Through the Cross — Rev. Terrence Jones, pastor, Strong Tower at Washington Park, Montgomery 10:10 Worship 10:25 Message — Provision Through the Cross — Dr. Dana Watson, COO for South Alabama,

Morning Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries

Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries 11:0511:25 SpecialMessage Presentation — Perfection — on Dr. the Chip Cross Colee, — Dr. chief Robert administrative Mullins, pastor, of�icer, Crossroads Community Church, Elmore 12:00 Prayer and Dismissal — Rev. Chris Bell, pastor, 3Circle Church, Fairhope

1:30 Worship

1:45 Prayer — Dr. Blake Kersey, pastor, First Baptist Church, Decatur 1:351:47 Welcome/ElectionSpecial Presentation of — Of�icers Mrs. Jennifer — Dr. Stuart Davis Davidson Rash, president and editor-in-chief, The Alabama Baptist 1:55 Message — Peace Through the Cross — Dr. Rick Lance, executive director, Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions 2:30 Worship 2:45 Special Presentation — Mr. Rod Marshall, president/CEO, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries 2:48 Solo Afternoon 2:50 Message — Picking Up Your Cross — Dr. Jay Wolf, pastor, First Baptist Church, Montgomery 3:30 Special Presentation — LOGOS 3:45 Worship 3:50 Message — Preach the Cross — Dr. Steve Gaines, pastor, Bellevue Baptist Church, Cordova, Tenn. 4:30 Prayer and Dismissal — Rev. Richard Richie, pastor, Blue Springs Baptist Church, Somerville

6:30 Pre-Service Music 6:35 Special Presentation — Video 6:40 Welcome and Prayer — Dr. Stuart Davidson 6:45 Worship 7:00 Message — Praising God For the Cross — Dr. Johnny Hunt, senior vice president, evangelism and leadership, North American Mission Board 7:40 Worship 7:50 Special Offering for Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries Evening 7:55 Special Music — Joint choir from Eastern Shore Baptist Church and FBC Fairhope 8:05 Message — The Power of the Cross — Dr. Fred Luter, pastor, Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, New Orleans, La. 8:45 Closing Prayer — Rev. Nathan Daniels, pastor, Bethany Baptist Church, Andalusia

15 DOWNTOWN DAPHNE

16 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG DOWNTOWN FAIRHOPE

17 Alabama Baptist

November 12–13, 2019 schedule Eastern Shore Baptist Church, Daphne TUESDAY MORNING PIANIST...... Frank Jones WORSHIP LEADER...... Keith Hibbs 8:30 Pre-session Music...... Alabama Singing Men/Women 8:35 Prayer...... Clint Landry 8:40 Call to Order...... Tim Cox GREETINGS Baldwin Baptist Association...... Rick Ellison Eastern Shore Baptist Church, Daphne...... Stuart Davidson Congregational Music...... Keith Hibbs 8:50 Enrollment of Messengers...... Billie Davis 8:55 Committee on Order of Business...... Rob Jackson 9:00 Committee Appointments...... Tim Cox 9:05 Memorial Service...... Allan Murphy ...... Herman Pair 9:20 Introduction of Resolutions...... Craig Carlisle 9:15 9:25 AlabamaSpecial Music Baptist...... Ministers Benefit Society Alabama Singing Men/Women 9:30 FRUITFUL — ABIDING IN CHRIST...... Annel Robayna COMMITTEE REPORTS, Part 1 9:55 Committee on Committees...... Greg Corbin 10:05 Committee on Boards and Commissions...... Stuart Davidson RECOGNITIONS 10:15 Recognition of Former Convention Presidents...... Rick Lance 10:25 Recognition of New Pastors and New Church Staff Members...... Bobby DuBois 10:30 Cooperative Program Recognitions...... Rick Lance FRUITFUL IN MINISTRY 10:40 The Alabama Baptist, Jennifer Davis Rash; Alabama Baptist Historical Commission, Lonette Berg; The Baptist Foundation of Alabama, Barry Bledsoe; Alabama Citizens Action Program, Joe Godfrey; Christian Life Commission, Michael Brooks 11:10 Miscellaneous Business, Part 1 11:15 Presentation of Convention President...... Rick Lance 11:20 Special Music...... Mike May 11:25 President’s Address...... Tim Cox 11:55 Benediction ...... Paul Matthews

TUESDAY AFTERNOON PIANIST...... Keith Hibbs WORSHIP LEADER...... Frank Jones WORSHIP 1:30 Congregational Music...... Frank Jones 1:40 Prayer...... Eric Hankins

18 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG State Convention FRUITFUL IN MINISTRY REPORT OF STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS 1:45 Report of Executive Director...... Rick Lance 2:05 State Board of Missions Recommendations and Convention Recognitions 2:45 FRUITFUL — BEARING FRUIT FOR CHRIST...... Jarman Leatherwood FRUITFUL IN MINISTRY 3:10 Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries, Rod Marshall; Shocco Springs Baptist Conference Center, Russell Klinner; Alabama Baptist Retirement Centers, Ray Burdeshaw; Alabama Woman’s Missionary Union, Candace McIntosh 3:40 Miscellaneous Business, Part 2 COMMITTEE REPORTS, Part 2 3:45 Resolutions Committee...... Craig Carlisle 4:00 Committee on Time, Place and Preacher...... Nic Seaborn 4:05 Audit and Insurance...... Bobby DuBois 4:10 Benediction...... Kerry Mitchell TUESDAY EVENING 6:40 Pre-session Music...... Frank Jones 6:50 Missions Recognitions...... Rick Lance 6:55 Church Planting Recognitions...... Rick Barnhart 7:00 Scripture and Prayer...... James Jones Music Worship ...... Voices of Mobile Introduction of Speaker...... Rick Lance 7:30 Message...... Jason Allen 8:15 Benediction...... Mike Flowers WEDNESDAY MORNING PIANIST...... Frank Jones WORSHIP LEADER...... Steve Bowersox WORSHIP 8:30 Congregational Music...... Steve Bowersox 8:35 Prayer...... Robert Knowles 8:40 FRUITFUL — UPON CHRIST......

9:15 Previously Scheduled Business Ben Stubblefield 9:459:05 ElectionResolutions of Officers, Committee Part Report 1 ...... Craig Carlisle FRUITFUL IN MINISTRY 10:00 Samford University, Andrew Westmoreland; University of Mobile, Lonnie Burnett; Judson College, Mark Tew; Education Commission, Bobby Hopper; Board of Aid to Students in Church-Related Vocations, Randy Johnson

10:40 Congregational Music...... Steve Bowersox 10:3010:45 ElectionIntroduction of Officers, of Convention Part 2 Preacher and Alternate Preacher...... Tim Cox Special Music...... Keith Pate Scripture...... Jeff Meyers 10:55 Convention Sermon...... Rick Marshall ...... Rick Lance 11:30 Benediction — Adjournment...... Chip Starnes 11:25 Introduction of Convention Officers 19 Soul Caffeine Coffee House Soul Caffeine’s recent Latte Art helping homeless women and fam- Throwdown helped the shop bring ilies become self-sufficient. Soul CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 awareness to human trafficking Caffeine has provided items like and raised additional funds for the dishes, bedding, small appliances personal involvement with several cause, Friese said. and towels, completely funding of the outreach projects funded by Following Hurricane Michael one apartment once a year. The tips, Friese said. in 2018 many storm victims sought coffee shop’s staff works with the One of their most touching proj- refuge in Daphne, Friese said. center, shopping for supplies and ects involved their work with Eye helping to set up apartments. Heart World, an organization that Providing aid Friese said the Soul Caffeine combats human trafficking, she The coffee house partnered with said. Coffee house tips were used V60 Community Church, which team is like family, working togeth- to purchase airline tickets for the got its start at Soul Caffeine, and a er to support each other, and they parents of a young trafficking vic- local Target store to fill the store’s strive to extend the same sense of tim, allowing the victim’s parents coffee truck with supplies. value and worth to each other that to fly to their daughter’s location Store employees and church they offer to customers. and bring her home. volunteers then distributed the Middleton added that hearing supplies — and free coffee and hot customer’s stories and offering chocolate — at the Robertsdale them a safe place to open up has Coliseum. deepened her relationship with Soul Caffeine also has partnered Jesus and shown her how much with Dumas Wesley Community people really need Him. Center to stock apartments at the “It gives me the opportunity to Sybil H. Smith Family Village, pray for them, love on them and a nonprofit housing community see a bigger picture.”

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WHO DO WE REACH? • Key consumer groups, business owners and church leadership (including more than 3,200 Baptist churches in Alabama) • Close to 150,000 readers • More than 55,000 paid subscribers • 48.9% of readers have purchased a subscription for 15 or more years

WHO ARE OUR READERS? • 53% are female • 43% have incomes • 37% are ages 40–59 • 47% are male of $80,000 or more • 30% are ages 60–69 • 94% are homeowners • 22% are ages 20–39 • 11% are ages 70+ Camps Pride & Dignity

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 A little farther up the road married Freddie McMillan, a re- in Citronelle, Mobile Baptist tired U.S. marine who knows his Association’s Camp Whisper- way around the kitchen. ing Pines also offers a place “I always cared about people,” for church groups to get away. he said. “I saw what she was doing They offer outdoor activities and I thought, ‘That’s where I’m like ziplining, kayaking, a ropes supposed to be.’” course and paintball as well Between Lisa, who spent most and sides like greens, mac and as facilities like a gazebo and a of her early years working in and cheese and black-eyed peas. Each large outdoor chapel. around restaurants, and Freddie, plate is loaded with an entrée, two If needed they also can provide whose grandmother taught him to sides, a cornbread fritter and dessert programming through camps cook, Drexell and Honeybee’s be- and customers receive a bottle of like their Veritas Students and gan to take shape. water to drink. Momentum Kids Camp, which “We started talking about hav- are “fast-paced, non-stop fun” ing a nice place that people could Especially grateful with a strong emphasis on faith come in, sit down and eat a hot On this day the tables are filled and community. meal,” Lisa says. The dream came with silver-haired retirees, business Thomas Wright, executive di- true when the couple bought the professionals, blue-collar workers, rector of missions for Mobile As- brick building, paid off the note as high school basketball players and sociation, said there will always they renovated it and opened Drex- an assortment of other men, wom- be a need for people to get away ell and Honeybee’s in 2018. en and children. from distractions to hear the Lisa dreamed up the name of the Many of the customers know Holy Spirit speak. restaurant about 30 years ago, she each other and enjoy chatting over said. She thought it would be a nice their meal. Some patrons look worn Evangelistic ministry name for an ice cream shop. and appear to be especially grateful “Camp Whispering Pines, our Since then the couple starts early for a good, hot meal. associational camp, continues in the morning and works shoulder- Although the attractively deco- to provide effective evangelistic to-shoulder in the small, efficient rated restaurant looks and operates ministry to every age group,” he kitchen. “Freddie’s a good cook,” much as any family-owned com- said. “In 2019 we had over 200 Lisa says proudly as she helps pre- mercial enterprise would, it doesn’t decisions including salvation, pare the dishes and move trays of turn a profit, Lisa said. repentance or call to ministry or food from the stove to the glass- “Nobody gets paid,” she said. In missions.” enclosed serving line out front. fact Lisa said she and her husband In recent years the camp has A volunteer shows up just before devote half of their retirement in- added a hotel option to their opening to help serve their guests. come to keeping the restaurant go- dorm space and made a lot of ing. The small church they attend upgrades and repairs. Gathering spot — Zion Fountain AME Church “We will continue to use Within 15 minutes of the restau- — and the Greater Brewton Lion’s that marvelous facility with the rant opening, the tables begin to Club regularly contribute to its lake, ropes course, game room, fill and it’s apparent that Drexell operation. And, of course, some paint ball and climbing wall to and Honeybee’s is more than just a regular income comes from the introduce campers to the still lunch place. It’s a community gath- donations box, though not nearly small voice of the Creator God,” ering spot for young and old, rich enough to cover the daily cost. Wright said. and poor, spry and disabled. As for the future, it’s up to God, For more information on the Patrons choose from entrées such Lisa said. camps visit campbaldwin.org or as turkey and dressing, meatball- “If anything is going bad, I know campwhisperingpines.com. stuffed peppers, ribs or spaghetti, God is going to handle it for me.”

21 Sights on the EASTERN SHORE Have you ever heard of a jubilee? This rare coastal event is just one of the many wonders of Mobile Bay and its shoreline communities.

By Martha Simmons rivers in upscale, down-home or buckets, hampers and sacks to sim- Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist fish-camp settings. ply scoop them up. The only other haded by moss-draped live And no wonder since Mobile place in the world jubilees occur is oaks and bordered by the Bay is one of only two places in the in Japan’s Tokyo Bay. glittering Mobile Bay, Ala- bama’s Eastern Shore offers world that offers up a “jubilee,” in The famous jubilee is just one of Sresidents and visitors a year-round which crab, shrimp, flounder and the natural wonders of the Eastern taste of the good life. other sea creatures suddenly ap- Shore. There is much to see and do Seafood is a specialty in many lo- pear near the shoreline offering here and not surprisingly many at- cal restaurants, some of which offer themselves up to jubilant residents tractions are inextricably linked to waterside dining along the bay and wading out in shallow waters with the water. Here’s a sampling starting

GRAND HOTEL at the north end of the shore and MALBIS traveling south. MEMORIAL CHURCH DAPHNE Retail shopping and restaurants abound in this busy, fast-growing city which is Baldwin County’s larg- est. Take Main Street or Scenic 98 to see the older and more historic sights and residential areas. Gator Alley Boardwalk — Smack dab in the middle of a busy shop- ping and hotel area on Main Street is a half-mile boardwalk over a creek where alligators and other wildlife hang out, plus a butterfly garden. Free admission, wheelchair acces- sible and open dawn to dusk. Jubilee Festival of Arts — Now in its 31st year this juried art show and two-day festival takes place in Olde Towne Daphne the last weekend in September. The show features more than 100 local and regional artist booths, a makers’ market, kids’ art activities, entertainment and food, drawing more than 30,000 attend- ees. Mobile Bay is one of only MALBIS two places in the world that Malbis Memorial Church — offers up a “jubilee” (left), Formally known as the Sacred in which crab, shrimp, Patriarchal and Stavropegial Mon- astery of the Presentation of The- flounder and other sea otokos, this historic structure is creatures suddenly appear one of only a half-dozen Greek Orthodox churches in Alabama. near the shoreline. The privately owned church is run by a foundation and located just down the road from the Eastern Shore Shopping Center. Visitors enjoy its Byzantine Revival Archi- tecture and its many mosaics and beautiful paintings. Open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission but donations are accepted. POINT CLEAR Grand Hotel — Originally built in 1847 the Grand Hotel started with just 40 rooms overlooking Mobile Bay. During the ensuing AMERICAN ALLIGATOR 23 ALABAMA VETERANS CEMETERY years the facility served as a military hospital and an Air Force training facility. Now much grander — with 405 guest rooms, nine res- taurants, a spa and an award-winning golf resort, the Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa still celebrates its history with a military pro- cession and cannon firing every afternoon. www.grand1847.com SPANISH FORT Blakeley Park — The site of the last major battle of the Civil War, Blakeley State Park now offers more peaceful diversions includ- ing self-guided tours of the historic site, camp- ing, Delta boat tours and a variety of events throughout the year such as ghost storytelling, Fairhope is always reenactments and bluegrass music. Open daily 8 a.m. to dusk, the park is located on Highway picture-perfect, 225 just north of Spanish Fort. Admission is $4 its walkable streets for adults, $3 for children ages 6–12 and kids adorned with under 6 are admitted free. Leashed pets are welcome. www.blakeleypark.com. lavish plantings Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cem- of colorful flowers. etery — On your way to or from Blakeley Park stop in to pay your respects at the 120-acre cemetery that has been the final resting place for local veterans since 2013. FAIRHOPE Downtown Fairhope — Renowned for its vi- brant arts community Fairhope is always in pic- DOWNTOWN FAIRHOPE ture-perfect form, its walkable streets adorned with lavish plantings of colorful flowers. Quaint shops, restaurants and cottages harkening back to the best of Southern coastal traditions line the streets. Take in the town at night during the First Friday Art Walk where you can enjoy live music and duck into shops staying open a little later for the monthly 6–8 p.m. event. There’s always something going on in the area — for instance, a Veterans Day Sunset Prayer Service at 4:45 p.m. Nov. 11 at Henry George Park. Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park — Whether you want to admire the rose garden, picnic by the bay, walk your dog or just sit on a bench and watch people and wildlife, the pier offers a bayfront “town square” feeling. Fishing is permitted from the quarter-mile-long pier which features a restaurant and views of bob- bing sailboats. Take a walk on the high bluffs 5 RIVERS DELTA RESOURCE CENTER overlooking the pier to enjoy the stunning sun- set views facing westward toward Mobile. 24 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG THE CAUSEWAY

Annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival — More is $15 for adults and children 12 and older and $6 than 230 exhibitors from all over the United States for children ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under and bring their work to this juried show held the third active duty military are admitted free and children weekend in March in downtown Fairhope. This three- of active duty military receive a $5 discount. The day event draws 250,000 visitors each year and is rated park is open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. October through one of the best in the state and the region. The Eastern March (and until 6 p.m. April through September). Shore Art Center, which sponsors the annual outdoor www.ussalabama.com event, is open year-round, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday For more information on Eastern Shore sights visit through Saturday, and admission is free. www.eschamber.com. THE CAUSEWAY Battleship Parkway — Known locally as the Cause- way, Battleship Parkway was the only link between Mobile and the Eastern Shore before the interstate highways were built. Now it serves as a more laid-back drive dotted by seafood restaurants and nature centers. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center — Situated on the Delta where the Mobile, Spanish, Tensaw, Apalachee and Blakeley rivers ow into the Mobile Bay, 5 Riv- ers offers wildlife and other exhibits, a learning center, theater, gift shop and lovely views of the Delta, also known as “America’s Amazon.” Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with free admission. Boat tours, kayak rentals, ca- noe trips and  eld trips may be arranged there. — Directly across from 5 Rivers this scenic 1,327-acre park is a great place for a picnic, camping, a nature walk or  shing. It’s open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (or dark). Admission is $2 per person. Battleship Park — Since it opened in 1965 the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park has received 15 million visitors. Located at the west end of the Advance tickets available Causeway the park offers tours of the retired battle- online and at the Gardens. ship USS Alabama, the submarine USS Drum, the Air- NOVEMBER 29 – DECEMBER 31 craft Pavilion and displays of military boats, planes, 5 – 9 PM 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd tanks, artillery and memorials. General admission Theodore, AL Closed Christmas and New Year’s Days 251.973.2217 • bellingrath.org

19_Bellingrath_AlabamaBaptist_Convention_Guide_4.125x5 LG.indd 1 10/22/19 3:18 PM “We’re excited about the work the Lord has us in.” DIVERSITY GERALD BURCH director of international ministries Mobile Baptist Association

26 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG DIVERSITY in the Mobile area

A missionary couple who served 37 years in Asia finds global outreach opportunities among seafarers and international students.

By Grace Thornton But it’s still a “sharp learning The Alabama Baptist curve,” he said. “I’ve never done he small strip of Alabama seamen’s ministry.” that touches the Gulf of Burch is surrounded by people Mexico is like a gateway who have though — Mobile Asso- to the world, according ciation isn’t new to ship outreach. Tto Gerald Burch. Every year more Their Seafarer’s Ministry has been than 500 ships pull up to it and drop functioning since 1970 when they anchor for a day or so. first opened the International Min- It’s an open door to a lot of diver- istries Center. sity — and it’s a door that’s only get- The center offers internet access, ting bigger. In September, Alabama phone cards, fellowship, food, recre- lawmakers approved a project to ation and other services to seafarers. make the ’s shipping It also provides free Bibles and is channel deeper and wider — some- staffed by volunteer chaplains who thing that will allow for more and occasionally are invited aboard the bigger ships. ships to lead Bible studies. To Burch, who serves as director of international ministries for Mo- Volunteer chaplains bile Baptist Association, that sounds “It used to be that the ships would like a massive opportunity. come in for three to five days, but “We’re excited about the work the sometimes now they only stay a Lord has us in,” said Burch, who be- day,” Burch said. “So we’re looking gan serving in this position in early for more volunteer chaplains to help October. us be able to reach out to more.” Before starting his work in Mo- Thomas Wright, executive direc- Top: Walkers from Lafitte Baptist bile he and his wife, Brenda, served tor of missions for Mobile Associa- Church, Saraland, participate in for 37 years as International Mission tion, said with all these opportuni- Mobile Baptist Association’s annual Walk For Bibles and International Board missionaries in Asia so he ties to reach internationals, it’s never Ministries. Bottom: Phi Vo, pastor said he knows how to relate to inter- been easier for Christians to be obe- of the New Life International nationals. dient to Acts 1:8. He believes one Vietnamese Church, leads in prayer.

27 reason God brought the nations to Mobile’s doorstep is to stretch churches and individuals outside of their normal comforts and conveniences. “Every believer in every church now has an op- portunity to share Christ across cultures,” he said. “Each congregation can engage members to step out of their comfort zone to make an eternal difference.” Wright said 73 language-culture groups make their home in Mobile County and more than 100 language groups are studying on the city’s university campuses. Finding ways to reach out “Thankfully many believers here are asking how to Paula Padilla (right) teaches an advanced English class communicate across cultures,” he said. “They find during Reading Club at the International Language School. the New Testament demonstrates many ways to build a bridge to the lost so they can hear about Jesus. The Vietnamese churches now and hopes to start more outreach begins with making a new friend.” among different language groups. That can sometimes be difficult in tight-knit com- “We are starting churches and Bible studies so ev- munities, but Mobile Baptists are trying to find ways ery person can hear, understand and respond to bibli- to reach out. They have an International Language cal truth,” Wright said. “Each of these opportunities School to teach English skills to internationals, and is more effective when churches make the effort to local Baptist Campus Ministries are working to reach work together.” international students with the gospel. Kristy Kennedy, an associate in the office of asso- Mobile Association also has Korean, Laotian and ciational missions and church planting for the Ala- bama Baptist State Board of Missions, said Mobile has a lot of opportunities and noted that English as a Second Language ministry is thriving there. The world is coming to Alabama “Mobile is slightly more diverse (than the rest of Alabama) due to the number of refugees who move there and because it is a port city,” she said. “That provides many wonderful opportunities for ministry.” But the whole state has international ministry pos- sibilities, Kennedy said. “Alabama is ever growing due to our universities. Many internationals come here to obtain an educa- tion. We as Alabama Baptists should take advantage of our opportunities to share the good news with the many visitors to our state who have never heard.”

“The outreach begins with making a new friend.” THOMAS WRIGHT executive director of missions Mobile Baptist Association ‘A cheerful heart is good medicine’ Chonda Pierce has used her brand of clean, honest comedy to speak truth to audiences around the world for more than 26 years.

By Tracy Riggs ed female comic in history, Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist Pierce first got stage experi- f comedian Chonda ence impersonating Minnie Pierce had a motto it Pearl at Opryland USA. might be “Trust God Invitations to churches to and keep laughing.” tell her stories and make peo- Calling herself “prac- ple laugh followed. Itically a doctor” because “I wanted to use comedy as Proverbs 17:22 says “a cheer- a vehicle to speak truth,” she ful heart is good medicine,” said. “It’s gotten bigger than I Pierce has been “treating” ever dreamed it would.” audiences for more than 26 years through her stand-up ‘Trust God more’ comedy and related books, If she could go back in time videos and albums. to the early days of her career Pierce recently spoke to Pierce said she would tell TAB News’ host Jennifer Da- herself, “Trust God. Just trust vis Rash and co-host Debbie God more. Campbell about the chal- “The times that I’ve gotten lenges she’s faced along the the idea that I could handle way and how laughter and the something on my own or Lord have gotten her through. CHONDA PIERCE straighten something out it’s been a mess. The times I’ve ‘Beautiful release’ ... trusted God to work things “[Laughter] is absolutely this beautiful release of out have always worked. endorphins on a physical standpoint,” Pierce said. “So the biggest thing I would say to that girl who “The other thing is, why not laugh? There’s plenty started out in comedy is, ‘Trust God. He’s really got to cry about.” this.’ ” Pierce has seen her share of difficult times. “I always feel like I’m going through something,” “The outreach begins she said. “Since I’m as ordinary as they come then that means somebody else is probably walking down To hear the full chat with Chonda Pierce with making a new friend.” the same path. So maybe the good, the bad and the and other conversations from the world of faith- ugly of who I am can save them a few steps or guide based news, subscribe to the TAB News podcast THOMAS WRIGHT them a little bit.” at Apple podcasts or your favorite podcasting executive director of missions The Recording Industry of America’s most award- app or go to www.tabonline.org/podcasts. Mobile Baptist Association 29 UNIQUE GIFT GIVING

The holiday season can be busy and stressful. Maybe this is the year to simplify by being missions minded in your giving.

By Janet Erwin with portions of the Bible story. Monte shared the story The Alabama Baptist behind “Silent Night” and Trey sang the song in Ger- hristmas is a great time to be missions mind- man. ed in one’s giving — both in time and gifts. If your family has time to give consider Sweet way to share the Christmas story blessing others in some way. A few years ago I read “The Legend of the Candy Cane” and then Cmy mother was spending her first Christmas in an as- helped residents craft candy canes out of pipe cleaners sisted living facility almost a two-hour drive from my and beads. We assisted those who couldn’t see well or home. Our family decided to take Christmas to her whose hands were too arthritic to work with the pieces. and the other residents of the facility. Then we distributed store-bought candy canes as a I prearranged with the facility director to present a treat. We encouraged the men and women to share program for the residents. My husband, Monte, led us one of their candy cane treats with another resident in Christmas carols accompanied by my son, Trey, on who didn’t attend and to tell that person the Christmas guitar. My younger son, Trent, interspersed the songs story using their sweet gift.

30 | THEALABAMABAPTIST.ORG one was matched with a gift. If you choose to purchase gifts with a missions purpose consider following these steps after making your selections: 1. Download and complete the BGR gift catalog or- der form and send your payment. 2. Cut out the descriptions of the gifts you selected and glue each onto a separate index card. 3. On the other side of the index card, write the rea- son for the gift choice. On my granddaughter’s card I wrote: Meredith, I chose this gift of baby formula with you in mind. I know your mommy and daddy feed you well each day, but some children in our world go hun- gry. This gift will help another baby like you survive. 4. Designate a special stocking or gift box to store While our family’s Christmas Day was different that the cards in prior to opening. year God used us to bring a Christmas experience that 5. Select a family member (consider a child old focused on Jesus to these dear people. Perhaps your enough to read) to pull out the cards one by one and family or small group could engage in something simi- distribute them to the recipients. lar this Christmas. 6. Listen as each person reads aloud about his or her gift and the reason behind it. Gifts with a missions purpose 7. Pray for the global recipients of these gifts. Or maybe your time is limited but you still have lots Begin with Christmas gifts and then expand your of gifts to purchase for your family, coworkers or small missions catalog gift-giving to birthdays, other holi- groups. Consider giving gifts with a missions purpose. days, Vacation Bible School offerings or missions proj- That’s what I did last year for family stocking stuffers. I ects for small groups. requested a gift catalog from Baptist Global Response (BGR) and began planning. (Catalogs are available at gobgr.org/gift-catalog or by calling 866-974-5623.) As I turned the pages packed with photos and stories showing ways my gifts could meet global needs and introduce people to Jesus, I began to match projects and items with family members. For my 9-month-old granddaughter I chose infant formula. I selected a blanket for refugee relief as a re- minder of the time my husband assisted in blanket dis- tribution to refugees in Albania. My younger son has a heart for rescuing people from human trafficking and I discovered I could connect with his passion by pro- viding a safe place for a day. I continued until every-

PHOTO CREDITS: Front cover downtown Daphne photo by Denise Curtis, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. Pages 4–5: courtesy of Mallory Fri- ese. Page 7: top photo courtesy of Camp Baldwin; bottom photo courtesy of Camp Whispering Pines. Page 8: Unsplash.com. Pages 9–11: Facebook. Page 12: courtesy of GARM. Page 13: top right photo courtesy of Dan Rush; bottom right photo courtesy of GARM. Page 14: photos by Martha Sim- mons. Pages 16–17: photo by Denise Curtis, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. Page 20: courtesy of Mallory Friese. Page 21: Martha Simmons. Page 22: photo by Denise Curtis, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. Page 23: top and bottom photos, photo by Denise Curtis, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce; center photo, Creative Commons. Pages 24–25: photo by Denise Curtis, Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. Pages 26– 27: courtesy of Gerald Burch. Page 28: Kim Wilson. Page 29: courtesy of Chonda Pierce. Page 30: Essem Creatives. Page 31: images courtesy of Baptist Global Relief (BGR). SPECIAL OFFER Alabama Baptist Christmas Gifts: $9.95 each (You save: $20.00 – 67%)

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