Coming to Springfield for the Annual Meeting? • City guide and schedule, page 3

Volume 107, No. 18 NOVEMBER 04, 2013

IB Insider Sallateeska upgrades under way Improvements include Lottie Moon larger dining hall prayer calendar By Meredith Flynn pages 7-8 Pinckneyville | Lake Sallateeska is under construction. In a few months, the dining hall expansion will be Q&A: IBSA considers complete, as will a new camp store leadership center page 6 and game room. And camp manager Philip Hall and his staff, assisted by volunteers, will start work on their next project: putting a new front on God’s the chapel. But even during the renovations, mysterious it’s life as usual at the camp. Lake ways page 11 Sallateeska is fully functioning as IBSA’s camp in southern Illinois, going “100 miles an hour,” Hall said. “We’ve got to finish [the projects] and keep everything step-by-step and Sound Off: stage-by-stage, so our ongoing camp Rules to post by page 4 use can keep going and not be hin- dered.” Lake Sallateeska hosted 5,256 peo- ple in 2012, an increase over the pre- Fresh Ideas vious year. But some of its facilities for being thankful needed to be updated, repaired or ex- page 10 panded. The camp staff and Hall, who owned a construction business before coming to Sallateeska, have partnered with Campers on Mission and Illinois Changers over the past Follow us several months to paint, frame build- Get IBSA news and updates ings, and put on new roofs. throughout the week: Campers on Mission made their BAPTIST BUILDERS – A group of Illinois Changers lifts what will soon be a wall in Lake Salla- annual fall work trip to Sallateeska, facebook.com/IllinoisBaptist teeska's larger dining hall. The students and their leaders partnered Oct. 18-20 with camp manager Philip Hall and his staff to make progress on the expansion. Photo by Mark Emerson Continued on page 6 twitter.com/IllinoisBaptist vimeo.com/IBSA www.IBSA.org Debaters rally in Lincoln’s shadow IBSA Annual Meeting By Lisa Sergent Sign up for the weekly eConnection Messengers to vote at www.IBSA.org/Communications. Springfield | Voices for and against same-sex marriage in on marriage resolution Illinois gathered for separate Springfield | Cultural issues, including rallies at the Capitol in late the much-debated same-sex marriage October, as legislators re- legislation pending in Illinois, will be turned for their veto session. before messengers to the IBSA An- The rallies shared some nual Meeting in Springfield. The Res- Peoria, Illinois Permit No. 325 similarities. olutions and Christian Life Committee U.S. POSTAGE PAID U.S. POSTAGE Nonprofit Organization At the “March on Spring- plans to present resolutions on mar- field for Marriage Equality,” riage, human exploitation and gaming advocates for same-sex mar- expansion, as well as a resolution rec- riage gathered Oct. 22 in the SIGN-ING UP – Traditional marriage advocates gather for ognizing the 125th anniversary of shadow of the Abraham Lin- an Oct. 23 rally sponsored by the Illinois Family Institute. Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU). coln statue on the Capitol’s Wes Hahn, chairman of the com- grounds. The following day, advo- support of many elected leaders. U.S. mittee and pastor of Shiloh Baptist in cates for traditional marriage stood in Senator Dick Durbin, Gov. Pat Bridgeport, believes the resolutions the same shadow to participate in the Quinn, Lt. Gov. Shelia Simon, Attor- presented and passed by messengers Illinois Family Institute’s “Defend ney General Lisa Madigan, Comp- give a stronger voice to their beliefs as Marriage Lobby Day.” troller Judy Baar Topinka and Sec. of Baptists. “In general, resolutions, even Speakers on both sides of the issue State Jessie White all spoke in sup- though they are non-binding, they claimed the support of Lincoln for port of SB10, the “Religious Freedom give us as Southern Baptists and Illi- their present-day cause, and their ral- and Marriage Fairness Act.” nois Baptists the important opportu- lies were similar in size with 3,000 to Wednesday’s rally didn’t quite have nity to honor Christ and speak to the 4,000 participants each. But the sim- the political clout of Tuesday’s, but it good and ill in our culture. ilarities ended there. did feature State Sen. Jim Oberweis The March on Springfield had the Continued on page 2 Continued on page 2 2 NEWS IBSA.org ILLINOIS BAPTIST

The BIG Picture Rallies at the Capitol the BRIEFING News updates every Tuesday at www.ib2news.org. GuideStone sues over mandate GuideStone Financial Resources has joined a long list of organizations suing the federal government over the abortion/contraceptive mandate in President Obama’s healthcare re- form package. The mandate requires em- ployers to cover abortion-inducing drugs in their employee health care plans. “We reluctantly take this step because we are committed to protecting the un- born and preserving the religious freedom that is guar- anteed under the laws of this nation,” said GuideStone President O.S. Hawkins (above).

Task force addresses baptism decline A group of leaders assembled by the North American Mission Board will meet over the next few months to discuss the decline in baptisms across the Southern Baptist Conven- tion. “Our baptismal trends are all headed in the wrong direction,” BACK IN SESSION – While Illinois legislators met inside for their fall veto session, advocates of traditional marriage prayed that NAMB’s vice president for evangelism, Al Gilbert, lawmakers won’t vote to legalize same-sex marriage. Photo by Meredith Flynn told Baptist Press. Southern Baptist churches baptized fewer than 315,000 people last year, the first time bap- Continued from page 1 tisms dropped below that number since 1948. (R-Sugar Grove) and two gu- Word we are to love everybody. Another Illinois Baptist, The group of 15 pastors and leaders from Southern bernatorial candidates - Mark You teach us to love even our Larry Trotter, pastor of Sweet Baptist entities hopes to finish their work next May. Dillard and Bill Brady, both Re- enemies if we have any. We Holy Spirit Baptist in Chicago, publican State Senators. Pastors don’t hate folk.” spoke later when the rally from several Christian denomi- He also asked God to bless moved inside the rotunda. Graham wants to leave them with truth nations also were present. and touch the hearts of the state The fall veto session is just More than 25,000 churches have signed up to take part Two Illinois Southern Baptist representatives. two weeks long. While many in Billy Graham’s My Hope America, believed to be the pastors spoke during the morn- Henderson prayed for God’s supporters of SB10 are urging evangelist’s last public ing’s prayer rally – Danny Hol- Word to be upheld. “…Help it, representatives to vote on the sermon. My Hope asks liday from Victory Baptist in Lord, to be hidden deep within bill during the session, it is not Christians to invite non- Alton, and Mike Henderson our hearts and within our souls. expected to be called for a vote believers into their homes from First Baptist, Springfield. Help us to stand for it no matter this year. and churches to watch Holliday prayed for under- what resistance may try to Same-sex marriage is legal in Graham, 95, preach a message that will be broadcast standing. “Lord God, we are come up against us, because we 14 U.S. states and the District Nov. 7-10 on various outlets. A billboard promoting Fox not here because we are against know, Lord, that You’ve al- of Columbia. News’ broadcast of the event went up in Times Square in people. You teach us in Your ready won the battle.” mid-October, featuring Graham’s face and a quote: “With all my heart, I want to leave you with truth.” Meeting resolutions focus on culture issues Mohler bridges divide at BYU Continued from page 1 Christians and Mormons “inhabit separate and irrecon- “We are trying to be the salt trafficking and pornography, Kicklighter will interview Illi- cilable theological worlds,” Al Mohler told an audi- and light in a dying culture and which has been a major focus nois church planters. NAMB ence at Brigham Young University. But the Southern if we don’t raise the light, who of WMU in recent years. It President Kevin Ezell was pre- Seminary president added the two groups should work will?” touches on six areas: bullying, viously advertised to appear but together to address threats to religious liberty, Baptist The issue of same-sex mar- pornography, labor trafficking, had to cancel due to a schedul- Press reports. riage has been debated across sex trafficking, media exploita- ing conflict. “...We are living in the shadow of a the nation and in Illinois, where tion of families and children, The Hilton Springfield is lo- great moral revolution that we commonly the Senate passed a bill legaliz- and the exploitation of natural cated at 700 E. Adams Street. believe will have grave and devas- ing such marriages earlier this resources for personal gain. The meeting begins at 1:30 tating human consequences,” Mohler year and the House is being The resolutions are available p.m. Wednesday and will con- said in his lecture, part of the Mor- urged to follow. In response, the online at www.IBSA.org/ clude at 11:30 a.m. Thursday. mon university’s “Faith, Family and committee will present The meeting2013. Messengers may Online pre-registration closes Society” series. Christians and Mormons must together Resolution on the Preservation submit proposed resolutions to Nov. 4 at 4:30 p.m., but mes- “push back against this age as hard as it is pressing of Biblical Marriage and Affir- Hahn at pastorwjh1961@ sengers may register in person against us,” Mohler said. mation of Religious Liberty of hotmail.com or to IBSA at with a signed messenger card. Illinois Churches and Faith- [email protected]. Churches may e-mail Carole Life is complicated, most say based Organizations. [email protected] or call (217) The measure calls on ‘’all 391-3113 to request blank mes- Two-thirds of all adults say life is getting more courts, legislators, and elected Meeting details senger cards or for registration complicated, and 71% of evangelicals agree. officials to affirm the religious IBSA Executive Director assistance. The findings by Barna may indicate evan- liberty of local congregations Nate Adams and several guests Childcare will be provided by gelicals and Catholics – 71% of whom also and faith-based organizations to will explore the “Mission Illi- IBSA Disaster Relief childcare agreed – are recognizing “a growing dispar- operate in accordance with their nois” theme throughout the volunteers during Pastors’ Con- ity between the rhythms and values of their theological principles” which meeting, and especially during ference and Annual Meeting faith and the demands of a rapidly changing are guaranteed by the U.S. Con- the Wednesday night session. sessions. To pre-register, call culture,” the researchers analyzed. stitution’s First Amendment. Gary Frost, the North Ameri- (217) 391-3111. Another resolution, The Res- can Mission Board’s Midwest For additional IBSA Annual – Baptist Press, BillyGraham.org, Barna.org olution Regarding Human Ex- VP, will issue the evening’s Meeting information, visit ploitation, addresses human challenge, and IBSA’s Van www.IBSA.org/meeting2013. mission illinois 3 ILLINOIS BAPTIST November 04, 2013

2013 IBSA Annual Meeting Schedule See Capital City Wednesday, November 13 Downtown Springfield, Ill., will play host to this year’s Call to Order and Opening Prayer 1:30 Led by Mike Harland, IBSA Annual Meeting and Pastors’ Conference, Worship through Music director of LifeWay marking the first time since 2007 that messengers and visitors have gathered in the heart of the city’s Mission Illinois Theme Interpretation: Churches Worship 1:40 historic area. Use this page as a guide to the Annual IBSA Committee Reports Meeting, and a tip sheet for what to do, see, and eat Nate Adams 1:50 when you’re not in session. Election of President and Recording Secretary Leadership 2:20 Watch for three theme development will IBSA Board of Directors interpretations during the meeting: 2:30 1. Churches, 2. Together, and Land of Lincoln be one highlight Worship through Music of Adams’ report; 2:45 3. Advancing the Gospel. Springfield is home to Abraham for a preview, Baptist Children’s Home & Family Services Lincoln’s family home, law office see page 4. 2:55 and tomb, along with the highly Ministers’ Relief Offering This annual offering assists pastors 3:10 facing unexpected transitions. informative Presidential Library Miscellaneous Business & Museum. Messengers to the 3:15 Annual Meeting receive admis- Baptist Foundation of Illinois Listen for updates on BFI’s bond program, sion for a discounted price 3:20 of $7 when they show their Worship through Music estate planning assistance, and the new 3:35 Life Stewardship Navigator tool. name badge at the museum, located at 212 N. 6th St. President’s Message We recommend it: The museum tells the story of 3:45 Lincoln’s presidency through innovative exhibits that are Doug Devore Benediction 4:30 Doug Morrow kid-friendly too, although the lurking wax figure of John “Families Worth Wilkes Booth is scary no matter how old you are. Fighting For” is Featuring Les, Chris and the theme of Wednesday Evening Session Brent Snyder, also known BCHFS’ report, Opening Celebration as Sons of the Father. Under the (red) dome and their ministry 6:45 The trio of musical Take a quick walk through or around Illinois’ Old Call to Order and Opening Prayer in 2014. 7:00 evangelists from West State Capitol near 6th and Washington Streets. Mission Illinois Theme Interpretation: Together Frankfort, Ill., has been ministering across 7:05 the country since 1989. Worship through Music Architectural digest 7:15 He’s definitely our biggest local celebrity, but Recognition of New IBSA Churches 7:20 Springfield boasts non-Lincoln attractions too. Mission Illinois Check out the Dana-Thomas House, designed by 7:30 Highlighting church planting, the evening Frank Lloyd Wright, at 301 E. Lawrence Ave. Benediction session will feature interviews with Illinois 8:45 planters and a charge from Gary Frost, the 8:45 Reception North American’s Mission Board’s Midwest Good eats Jonathan Peters vice president. Horseshoe: A Springfield delicacy. will preach on It’s a piece of toast topped with “God calls for the Thursday, November 14 French fries and the meat of your Call to Order and Opening Prayer question” out of 8:30 choice, then drowned in cheese sauce. The the book of Worship through Music secret’s in the cheese; every place has their own secret Jonah. “I’ll preach 8:35 recipe. Even the local Steak ‘n Shake has a version. the whole book – Mission Illinois Theme Interpretation: Advancing the Gospel The committee will present resolu- 8:45 tions on same-sex marriage, backwards,” he Election of Vice President and Assistant Recording Secretary Now that’s a pancake says. 8:55 human exploitation, gaming, and Resolutions and Christian Life Committee in appreciation of Woman’s In a Quonset hut at 700 9:05 Missionary Union. For more, North Street, Charlie Miscellaneous Business see page 1. Parker’s serves diner 9:20 food – including plate- Audit Recommendation IBSA will host a 9:30 sized pancakes – from dessert recep- Worship through Music Reports from NAMB, the SBC Executive Committee, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. tion following the 9:35 LifeWay, GuideStone, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Cooperative Program Partner Reports Wednesday 9:40 Commission, Illinois WMU, and the International evening session. Special Recognitions Mission Board, co-presented by former IBSA church Don’t miss this 10:30 planting strategist James Herron. Puppy love Worship through Music chance to meet 10:35 Get your kicks at the Cozy Dog Illinois church Annual Sermon Drive-In on historic Route 66. Be- planters. 10:45 lieved by some to be where the Benediction 11:30 modern-day hotdog on a stick got Tim Lewis, pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in Troy, Ill. its start, the first Cozy Dogs were sold in Springfield in 1946.

Also meeting in Springfield IBSA Pastors’ Conference | Nov. 12-13 Young leaders will gather at Gallina’s Pizza The Pastor as Servant Leader • Acts 20:28 (432 East Monroe Street) following the IBSA reception Tuesday evening. IBSA’s Tim Sadler will Tuesday, November 12 Wednesday, November 13 join Chad Williams, minister to youth at Tabernacle Baptist in Decatur, and Steven Helfrich, planter of Kelley 12:50 General Session 8:50 General Session Strother The Bridge Church in Godfrey, to present short talks Chuck Kelley Leading through Disaster Election of Officers on leadership development, followed by a Q&A. Bobby Boyles Leading toward Growth Bivocational Pastor of the Year Award Micah Fries Leading in the Current Eric Mason Leading Men to Lead Pastor’s wife Lynda Locke will Cultural Context Jay Strother Leading through Uncertainty share her testimony at the Minis- Jay Strother Leading Your Family 10:15 Panel Discussions ters’ Wives’ Conference and 3:30 Panel Discussions Panel 1: How can I lead my church Luncheon at the IBSA Building. Panel 1: How do I lead my church to help start churches? Begins at 9 a.m. Wednesday. Boyles to engage the culture? Panel 2: What are the biggest challenges Panel 2: How do I lead my church facing the church today? Mason Directors of Missions and other invited associa- through transition? 11:15 Worship and Offering tional leaders will hold their annual breakfast Thurs- 4:45 Adjourn for dinner break 11:25 Chuck Kelley Leading the Next Generation day at 7 a.m. at the Hilton. Judson University 12:00 Time of Commitment and Prayer President Gene Crume will share a brief devotion. 6:50 General Session Eric Mason Biblical Leadership Music in each session will be led by Church planters, their spouses, and sponsoring Jerry Cain Leaders Calling Out the Called JourneyWorship. Attenders also will churches also will breakfast at the Hilton Thursday Bobby Boyles Leading Something New have opportunities to give to the annual morning, beginning at 7 a.m. RSVP by November 6 Fries *IBSA Reception to follow Pastors’ Conference offering. Cain to [email protected]. 4 EDITORIAL IBSA.org ILLINOIS BAPTIST Nate Adams I want you to know pportunities for our entire Illinois Baptist fam- evening, and you will also meet Dr. Gene Crume, sponses were relatively few, but were favorable to- ily of churches to be together at once are all too Judson University’s new president, and hear about ward the idea by about a two-to-one margin. Orare. But the IBSA Annual Meeting each November an exciting new church planting partnership we are The cautionary and even negative responses were is one of those precious opportunities. This year the working on together in Chicagoland. just as helpful as the supportive and enthusiastic meeting returns to the downtown Springfield Hilton I want you to know that our dedicated staff con- ones, however. They helped lead me to recommend for the first time since our 100th anniversary meeting tinues to crisscross the state helping churches, and to the IBSA Board that we not make an offer on the in 2007. I hope to see you there November 13-14, or that through September they have already delivered property unless or until we had the cash in hand to perhaps earlier at the Pastors’ Conference or one of 17,000 trainings in strategic ministry and mission acquire it, even though that probably meant missing the other related gatherings. skills to IBSA church leaders and workers. Baptisms the opportunity. And they helped me discover some But in case you can’t come, let me preview some in IBSA churches were up over 2% last year, and the concerns about developing our camp properties that highlights of the information that I plan to share dur- continued momentum of evangelism strategies like I felt could be addressed in time. ing that meeting. “Choose2” give us hope of another increase when all To my surprise, the potential leadership center I want you to know that Illinois Baptists are going the 2013 Annual Church Profiles are tabulated. property we looked at last year is still available, now into their Acts 1:8 mission fields in dramatically in- Finally, in case you can’t come to the Annual at a further reduced price. That doesn’t necessarily creased numbers. After several years of our churches Meeting, I want you to know that the IBSA Board is mean we should acquire it. In fact, I’ve been praying reporting around 20,000 missions volunteers, last exploring the option of acquiring a new property in that someone else would, if it’s not God’s best for year churches reported more than 27,000 volunteers, Springfield, a retreat-like facility devoted to leader- IBSA churches. But the IBSA Board and I believe a 34% increase! And there is no indication of that ship development and pastoral renewal. You can read it’s in our best interest to at least explore the option rate slowing down this year. more about that possibility in this issue of the Illi- again, because leadership development and renewal I want you to know that 28 new churches nois Baptist, and there will be additional informa- among pastors and church leaders is such a strategic were planted across our state last year, and tion on www.IBSA.org. need, and we think this property might play a role in through August of this year at least 19 more Last year when the IBSA Board was exploring meeting that need. have been planted. During our Wednesday this possibility, I invited feedback, both positive So please let me hear from you again, certainly if night worship session at the Annual Meet- and cautionary, from IBSA churches. The re- you support the idea, because often we leave posi- ing we will be hearing from seven of those tive feedback unexpressed. But if you have cautions creative and hard-working planters, and about the idea, please patiently express them as well. you will be able to meet them and Either way, I want you to know I’m listening. And I others in person during a dessert re- Here are some previews of hope to see you soon. ception following the session. Nate Adams is executive director of the Illinois Dr. Gary Frost of the North my report to the IBSA Baptist State Association. Respond to his column at American Mission Board will Annual Meeting. [email protected]. bring a challenging message that

Reporter’s Notebook SOUND OFF

ray through the news What message are we sending? On political posts More than a decade ago, in a Uni- Media, and More Important Things,” PrayP for the requests below and pass them versity of Illinois graduate school Stetzer writes, “You can’t blurt at a “Constantly posting your opinions along to your pastor or prayer leader to use class, I was asked by classmates why people and reach a people at the same on political issues to a variety of social as a guide for weekly prayer meeting, Sunday “Southern Baptists hate gay people.” time. This is true no matter how sat- media outlets creates a barrier you School classes or fellowship groups: The semester had just begun and isfying it feels to add your voice to may have not considered, particularly when your friends and family read – Camp outreach, page 6 our professor had asked each of us to the political rants on social media.” introduce ourselves and tell the class His post, and the scene at the rally, them,” blogs Ed Stetzer. “When you – Remember the Week of Prayer where we worked. When I said I made me think about how we as don’t have to look at someone’s face for International Mission, pages 7-8 worked for the Illinois Baptist State Christians who are Southern Baptists while sharing your thoughts, you won’t Association, the questions came are perceived by the world. We have notice the wall that is being built be- Prayer prompts are provided by Phil quickly. I explained we didn’t hate given the world the impression that tween them and you. Miglioratti, IBSA’s prayer consultant. Contact him at [email protected]. gay people, just as we didn’t hate we hate homosexuals, and the way “Yes, I am fully aware you have a people for overeating or committing we present our message is often the right to your opinion, and the First other sins. It’s their behavior we can’t reason we’re misunderstood. Amendment to the U.S. Constitution condone, not them. There is wisdom in the old saying, ensures your freedom to state that I remembered that conversation “You can catch more flies with honey opinion. However, I am saying that it while covering the “Defend Marriage than with vinegar,” but the Bible may be an appropriate missional deci- The ILLINOIS BAPTIST Staff Rally” organized by the Illinois Fam- gives even better advice: “But speak- sion to voluntarily restrict your own ily Institute last month. One of the ing the truth in love, let us grow in freedom to constantly blurt about poli- Managing Editor • Meredith Flynn first things I noticed when I arrived every way into Him who is the head tics in order to reach your neighbor Contributing Editor • Lisa Sergent at the rally was a man carrying a – Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15, HCSB) who holds a different view. Graphic Artist • Kris Kell large cross with the words, “God Ab- Paul is talking to the church at Editorial Consultant • Eric Reed “Now, there are times to speak up, hors Civil Unions,” written across it. Ephesus about how to treat one an- particularly when issues of justice are I immediately knew what image other, but we’d be wise to apply his would appear in all the media cover- counsel to how we speak to people involved, but an endless stream of For questions about subscriptions, articles, or upcoming calling people fools or liars – people events, contact the Illinois Baptist at (217) 391-3110 or age of the event. It definitely made who come down on the opposite side [email protected]. for an attention-grabbing photo. of certain issues, like same-sex mar- whom your neighbor voted for – just I watched the man, who I later riage. We’re called to stand firm in does not make sense for the Chris- The Illinois Baptist is seeking news from IBSA churches. tian. Unless, of course, you just want E-mail us at [email protected] to tell us about learned is a pastor in another denom- God’s Word, while showing people anniversaries, special events and new ministry staff. ination, waiting for him to turn the Christ’s love and redemption as well. to preach to the choir and not reach cross around so I could read what As Christians, we can speak the truth the unchurched. The end result is an- POSTMASTER: The Illinois Baptist is owned and was written on the other side. I soon in love because we are loved by God. other stumbling block for those we are published biweekly, Jan., March, May, July-Sept., saw the words, “He Loves Repen- I did watch the coverage of the trying to reach.” Nov.; monthly in Feb., April, June, Oct. and Dec., tance,” a less jarring message for the rally on several different television by the Illinois Baptist State Association, 3085 secular culture that is most media’s channels and read the online news Ed Stetzer is Stevenson Drive, Springfield, Illinois audience. coverage. The cross did make an ap- president of LifeWay 62703-4440. Subscriptions are free to Illinois Baptists. Subscribe online It reminded me of blog post I had pearance in most, but the words “He Research. at IBSA.org. recently read by LifeWay Research’s Loves Repentance” were nowhere to Ed Stetzer (see column at right). In be seen. the post, titled “Politics, Social – LMS – Excerpted from EdStetzer.com OPINION 5 ILLINOIS BAPTIST November 04, 2013

Voices Does your church need a diet? By Thom Rainer Most churches – more than eight out multiple days of the week. Family of ten – are busy. Too busy. These members rarely have time together. churches need to slim down their 5. Activity-focused churches can plethora of programs, activities, and cause member burnout. When a ministries. They need to go a busyness member burns out, he or she then drops diet. out. Unfortunately, many church leaders 6. It is difficult for a church to do a equate activities with godliness or min- few things well when it does too istry fruitfulness. For certain, churches many things. Quantity thus replaces must have some clear plan of disciple- quality, and the most vital ministries ship for their members. Sadly, some of suffer. the busiest churches actually diminish 7. Busy churches often lack vision discipleship fruitfulness. And ceasing clarity. Because these churches are certain activities in the church can be going in so many directions, members extremely hard. You can run into sacred are confused about the priorities and vi- cows and favored ministries. Still, most sion of the church. “Every worship service has a different personality... churches should pursue a busyness diet Try this exercise. List every ministry, for at least seven reasons. program, or class that your church of- Sadly...this Sunday...it’s Eddie.” 1. Excessive activities can actually fers in a year. If the list is exceedingly preclude members from growing long, see if just a few can be eliminated spiritually. I actually interviewed one without much pain. Then, before you church member who said he didn’t add anything else to the activities of A slice of life have time to read his Bible. He was your church, make a commitment to π Just after President Obama signed a bill to end the government worn out almost every day from church eliminate two existing activities. activities. Admittedly, busyness diets are not al- shutdown, The Washington Post and ABC News asked Americans: 2. A church that is too busy rarely ways easy or pleasant. But they can How satisfied are you with the way this evaluates the effectiveness of its ac- make the difference between a busy tivities. Leaders often erroneously pre- church and a fruitful church. country’s political system is working? sume that the busyness is a sign of fruitfulness. This article was 1% Very dissatisfied 3. Activity-focused churches are originally published at 2% often inwardly focused. Those min- www.ThomRainer.com Mostly dissatisfied istries are typically for the members on Oct. 14, 2013. Thom 21% and are rarely evangelistic or commu- S. Rainer serves as 40% Mostly satisfied nity focused. president and CEO 4. A busy church can hurt families. of LifeWay Christian Very satisfied Many churches have different activities Resources. 35% for children, students, and adults on No opinion

– WashingtonPost.com, Oct. 2013 Table Talk: Theology, ministry, and things that matter How God used fasting in my life and my church By Michael Allen before.” I felt like God wanted me to I had a greater expectation of God around me. I tended to listen more do a 40-day fast and trust Him with answering my prayers, and a greater carefully to situations that came to Editor’s note: Check with your the results. I told my congregation so closeness and communion with Him. my attention, whether it was dealing doctor before beginning any kind of they could fast and pray along with I saw Him work in our church too. with my children, my wife, our ex- fast. me. A few days after I started the fast, tended family, or issues that came up Forty days without food sounds ex- Around that same time, the nation- Uptown received an anonymous do- in the church. traordinary to most of us. Who can wide crime statistics were released, nation that put us over the halfway There was a sense of incredible live without food for that long? You and Chicago was named the “murder mark in our capital campaign. peace and objectivity to listen, to an- might hurt yourself; you might even capital of the U.S.” after a particu- When new crime statistics were re- alyze, to empathize, and to respond die. larly violent year. Our city became leased early in the year, we rejoiced with wise counsel or with whatever But after 40 days without food, I’m another focus of the fast, and some that gun crime was down 90% in our was appropriate for the moment. sure the discipline of fasting is part sister churches in our neighborhood community, and had decreased all There wasn’t the usual anxiety or ex- of God’s design for those who know joined in. over the city. The numbers rose in the haustion that sometimes comes from Him. And it’s necessary if we’re On January 2, 2013, I stepped out summer, as they often do, and you dealing with those things. I felt like I going to see revival in our churches, to do something I’d never done. may have read recently about a drive- was responding in the Spirit and not our state, our country, and our world. I engaged in a complete food fast, by shooting near our church steps. A in the flesh. Last fall, I sensed God moving me drinking only liquids – water, juices, few weeks after the Aug. 19 shoot- Fasting isn’t a magic formula to fix toward fasting. Our church was in the coffee and tea. In the evening, I ing, there was another incidence of whatever’s ailing you, your church or middle of a capital campaign – Proj- heated up a bowl of V8 and drank it violence a block away. Both were too your city. It doesn’t ensure financial ect Elevate – to make the building ac- like soup. After day four or five, the close to home. favor or less violence or personal cessible for the 3,000 wheelchair- light-headedness went away, I But our church has responded. happiness. But it does create more bound people in our immediate vicin- stopped feeling the hunger pangs, So far in 2013, we have received time margin for you to pray and seek ity. We had a clear vision: Enabling and I was really able to focus. more people in membership and bap- God, for who He is and what He the disabled to see and hear Jesus at What I found is that your body ac- tized more than we have in any of the would have you do. And He’s faithful Uptown Baptist Church. But we only tually feels better when you’re fast- eight years I’ve been pastor at Up- to provide. had about 20% of what we needed to ing, at least after those initial few town. We’re seeing God add to the add an elevator to the building, and I days. Your mind is clearer and alert, church in greater numbers than Michael Allen is was very discouraged. and you’re calmer. My prayer habits we’ve ever seen before. pastor of Uptown But I began to sense God saying, changed too. My normal mode of Throughout the fast, I found my- Baptist Church in “Michael, if you want something prayer is to pray silently, but during self personally renewed as well. I no- Chicago. you’ve never had before, you’ve got the fast, I felt the Lord prompting me ticed I had a hyper-sensitivity to the to do something you’ve never done to pray out loud. Throughout the fast, Word of God and the work of God 6 IN FOCUS IBSA.org ILLINOIS BAPTIST

Camp improvement projects all done by staff, volunteers Continued from page 1 helping Hall frame the new camp store The IBSA Board in September ap- and game room. Illinois Changers proved the formation of an ad hoc brought 50 students and leaders to the committee to study the role of IBSA’s camp in October, raising walls that properties in the organization’s leader- will enlarge the dining hall and almost ship development goal. The commit- double its capacity. Hall said the camp tee is exploring the possibility of a currently can seat 120 for meals; the leadership center near the IBSA Build- expansion will allow them to seat 220. ing in Springfield (see Q&A below), “By increasing the size of the dining as well as how Lake Sallateeska and hall, we can actually feed as many Streator Baptist Camps can be used to people as we can sleep,” said IBSA’s provide training for leaders. Melissa Phillips, who, as leader of the Scott Slone, associate pastor of First business team, supervises camp oper- Baptist in Elkville, is working with ations from Springfield. The larger IBSA’s missions team to develop fo- dining space will alleviate the need to cused training opportunities to be of- feed groups in shifts. fered at Lake Sallateeska. “Making this kind of investment at The camp also continues to offer Lake Sallateeska is a strategic im- missions training and education, said provement that is necessary,” Phillips Mark Emerson. “It is a missions said about the expansion. training center,” said the leader of IBSA’s missions team. “Children, stu- dents and adults can come and not only learn about missions, but also ex- perience hands-on missions.” And for ray through the news those who grew up going to camp at WORK ZONE – From the ground up, Philip Hall and his staff have worked with volunteer groups Lake Sallateeska, time at the camp to expand Lake Sallateeska’s dining hall. Hall expects the project to be completed by next spring. P– Pray for the those who have been now lets them reflect on how they’ve discipled at Lake Sallateeska over the seen God work there. place in the middle of the auditorium. been moved to greater faithfulness at years, that their faith would be renewed Emerson recalled a moment at last He told Emerson at that spot, he had the camp. The walls going up now en- into ministry for the Lord. year’s Father/Son Camp at Salla- given his heart to Jesus years ago. sure many more will be so moved in teeska, when a dad walked over to a He represents thousands who have the future.

IBSA Board considers Springfield property for leadership center Editor’s note: During its September 10 meeting, Q: What is especially unique or attractive about this property? Q: Are there reasons to consider not acquiring a new facility? the IBSA Board authorized Executive Director Nate A: A: Adams to work with a Board ad hoc committee to ex- I think it’s a combination of the retreat-like set- While we anticipate having the funds on hand by plore the potential acquisition of property in or near ting, the quality meeting and sleeping accommoda- the end of the year to consider the acquisition with- Springfield that could be used as a leadership devel- tions, the recently reduced price that wouldn’t out borrowing, the Board needs to carefully evaluate opment facility. Adams provided these “frequently require borrowing, and especially the nearby loca- whether a leadership development center is the high- asked questions” and answers about a possible lead- tion that would enable our IBSA staff to serve pastors est priority for those funds. They also need to evalu- ership center in Springfield: and churches there regularly. It’s a large, 9,000 ate whether we have the plans and capacity to square foot home on 30 acres that include a three- operate a center like this effectively, and how much acre stocked pond, beautiful gardens and landscap- IBSA churches would value it. ing, and wooded areas. With modest renovation, it could offer six or seven private bedrooms, and of Q: How will you and the IBSA Board go about seeking guid- course sleep two to four times that number when ac- ance for this decision? commodating couples, or men’s or women’s groups. A: Of course we are praying. In fact, I have been ask- A beautiful large meeting room overlooks the pond, ing God about this property regularly for almost two and there are multiple sitting areas for small groups. years, as I drive by it on my way to the office. In ad- In fact, groups as large as 40 or 50 could meet in- dition, the Board ad hoc committee has created a 2- doors there during the day, with additional overnight page outline of due diligence factors to be included accommodations at nearby hotels. in our report to the full Board. These include an ap- Q: What would acquiring this property mean for further de- praisal, inspections, an operating plan, a ministry velopment of IBSA’s camps? plan, potential donor interest, relationship to other A: IBSA properties, etc. At the upcoming IBSA Annual Q: The IBSA Board asked the ad hoc committee and Meeting, we will have a table in the exhibit area with The Board discussed this subject last year. What led them me to explore this new property as part of a comple- information about the opportunity, and where people to further explore this potential acquisition? mentary strategy that includes the current IBSA can ask questions and give input. Of course the Building and the Lake Sallateeska and Streator Bap- A: For some time now, the Strategic Planning Com- Board and I welcome input by e-mail, letter, or phone tist Camp properties. IBSA’s recent investment of at any time. mittee of the IBSA Board has been discussing the more than $120,000 in Lake Sallateeska’s dining hall need for a more intentional leadership development expansion, and in other core building improvements, Q: What are the next steps? strategy for pastors and church leaders, one that is demonstrates the commitment to that camp ministry. A: spiritual and relational, and designed to go beyond The ad hoc committee will continue its work under The challenge with considering capital improve- 2013 chairman Duncan Locke (Lincoln Ave., Jack- traditional church program training. Pastor stress and ments at Streator is that only 30 to 40 of our IBSA burnout were also concerns. sonville) and 2014 chairman Chip Faulkner (FBC, churches are currently using it each year. Physical Bethalto), probably into early next year. The prop- During those ongoing strategy discussions, a improvements to the camps have to be considered in unique property (photo above) became available that erty has other interested buyers, and it’s been my light of their usage by churches, and weighed against is only a mile and a half from the IBSA Building, prayer that if this is not God’s best for IBSA churches close enough for our staff to be regularly available other needs that might increase that usage, such as that it will sell to someone else, and that if it is in His to it. We began discussing whether that retreat-like promotion or program development. plans for us that He will preserve it and provide it in setting could fit the needed leadership development That being said, a potential leadership center in His timing. The ad hoc committee plans to bring a strategy, and also provide a much-needed solace for Springfield would not diminish IBSA’s commitment recommendation to the full Board no later than its dozens if not hundreds of pastors each year. The tim- to its camps. Each of these properties would be used March 4 meeting, but it could be earlier. ing and financing didn’t seem right last year, but the in different ways for different purposes, and usually property is now available at a further reduced price, by different groups. Yet all would be beneficial to Nate Adams may be reached at (217) 391-3108 and the Board decided it would be in the strategic in- IBSA churches. or [email protected]. terest of IBSA churches to look at it again. LOTTIE MOON ChRISTMAS OffERING AND WEEk Of PRAyER fOR INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS

Hey, we know them! Your gifts through the Lottie All in. Moon Offering help support Gena Wilson could have chosen an international missionaries easier place to live. But the Southern who once called Illinois home. Baptist missionary to Scotland moved into one of Glasgow’s roughest build- Before James Herron and his ings, even though it was reserved for >wife, Sonya, left Illinois to serve people living on the welfare system. in Uganda, he was an IBSA church “It’s an area that’s known for lower planting strategist. average life expectancy compared to James will share the rest of Britain and Western Eu- briefly about their rope,” Wilson says. “High teenage work and the pregnancy, a lot of addiction… It International Mis- would be a common thing out of a TIME WELL SPENT – Gena Wilson, a missionary to Scotland serving through the Southern sion Board during hundred people we bump into, proba- Baptist International Mission Board, ministers to school kids through school assemblies and re- the IBSA Annual bly less than two would have a per- lationship building. Meeting this month sonal relationship with Jesus.” (see page 3). There are easier places to live, but “The significance of the Lottie but now is not the time to re- Wilson wanted to steer clear of what Moon Offering for International Mis- trench….There has never been a she calls “drive-through ministry.” sions, promoted each year in partner- greater time for missions than this.” Michael and Wendi Young are “Jesus never did that,” she says. ship with Woman’s Missionary Southern Baptist missionaries are >also stateside right now, speaking Rather, He engaged the misfits, the Union, can only be understood in engaging 874 people groups with the and ministering all over Illinois be- people in society nobody liked. His light of eternity,” said IMB President Gospel, but 3,030 remain unreached fore they travel grace and love in their lives trans- Tom Elliff, after last year’s third- and unengaged. Those groups need back to Czech formed not just their circumstances, highest ever offering. Southern Bap- someone willing to do whatever it Republic next but the affections of their hearts, Wil- tists gave $149.3 million to the 2012 takes to reach them. month. In a re- son says. She’s on a mission to see the Lottie Moon Offering. But the goal Someone like Gena Wilson, who cent prayer up- same happen in Glasgow, to give all was $175 million, the same total IMB was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in date, the Youngs of herself so that her neighbors might is praying for this year. 2011. After aggressive chemotherapy celebrated the come to know Christ. in the U.S., she returned to Scotland, first baptisms at Wilson is one of the missionaries where she had many opportunities to a new church in profiled in this year’s Week of Prayer The Week of Prayer share her hope in Christ “with believ- Brno, their for International Missions, which co- ers and not-yet-believers.” country’s sec- incides with the annual Lottie Moon is December 1-8. “God’s goodness is not defined by ond largest city. Christmas Offering. One hundred per- my health,” she said. “And my hope is cent of the offering supports mission- not in the restoration of my body. But aries serving around the world In Central and Eastern Europe, “People ask, ‘Why not lower the now I see that my hope is only in >Russell and Ingrid Wood- through the Southern Baptist Interna- goal?’” Elliff told IMB trustees this Him, it’s in Christ, it’s in God.” tional Mission Board. bridge reach out to young peo- year. “The problem is not the goal; it’s Gina Wilson is facing a return of ple and college students with the The theme of the 2013 offering is not high enough. cancer. Read more about how to pray “Totally His.” The Week of Prayer message of Christ, and encourage “We need to reach that goal just as for her on page 8. And go to them to share the Gospel too. highlights eight missionaries or part- a testimony of our awareness of the www.IMB.org for videos about the nering churches who have given sac- lostness of the world,” he said. “I am missionaries featured during the Week rificially of themselves and their grateful for every coin that has come, of Prayer. resources to see the truth of Jesus for every person that has sacrificed, – From Baptist Press and IMB.org Originally from Martinsville, Ill., Christ spread across the globe. >D’Anna Shotts serves as librarian at the Baptist Theological Seminary in Kaduna, Nigeria. In a prayer newsletter over the summer, she praised God for Meet Lottie Moon her church, Name: Charlotte Digges Moon, born in 1840 in spurred Southern Baptists’ first Christ- which started Virginia. mas offering for international mis- 14 years ago sions; the annual offering was with 10 people Early years: Lottie rebelled early but dedicated officially named for her in 1918. her life to Christ at 18. In 1861, she became one and now in- of the first women in the South to receive a mas- Death: At age 72, Lottie died on a cludes thou- ter’s degree, and taught school in Kentucky, ship in Kobe, Japan, on Christmas sands meeting Georgia and Virginia. Eve 1912. Her health failing, she in 1,200 groups was traveling to America for medical across Nigeria. Calling: After her sister, Edmonia, was ap- treatment. pointed as a missionary to China, Lottie followed her there. She served 39 years, teaching in a Quotable: “How many there are … girls’ school and sharing the Gospel with women who imagine that because Jesus paid it > Jeff and Barbara Singerman and young ladies. all, the need pay nothing, forgetting that serve in an area of western Africa the prime object of their salvation was that where 77 people groups are unen- Lottie’s letters: Moon used the written word to they should follow in the footsteps of Jesus gaged with the Gospel. challenge Southern Baptists to go to China or Christ in bringing back a lost world to God.” give so that others could go. One of her letters – From “Who’s Lottie,” www.IMB.org 8 WEEK OF PRAYER FOR INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS • DECEMBER 1-8

Day 3 Madagascar Day 4 South Asia Day 2 Japan & Paraguay Located off Africa’s east coast, Mada- Day 1 Spain There was little in life to predict that Ce- gascar is home to 110,000 Deaf, less than Tim and Iracema Kunkel were new bri n Bol var* would one day become a Abraham Rios (above) of Seville, Spain, 1% Christian. There may be a “veneer of missionaries to Uruguay when doctors di- missionary in one of South Asia’s most is grateful for the work of Southern Baptists. Christianity,” says Matt Spann, who leads á í agnosed their son, Steven (above), with populated cities. He grew up on a farm Believers who were willing to be totally obe- IMB’s Madagascar team, “but, in fact, they autism nearly 20 years ago. high in South America’s Andes Mountains dient pointed him to the Savior. fear their ancestors more than they fear “Let’s just pack up and go home,” Tim re- where his parents and siblings still scratch First, an International World Changers God.” calls thinking. a living from the soil. team asked him to participate in a spiritual Warren Baptist Church in Augusta, But the Kunkels stayed, serving God with But that was before he met Sam survey on his college campus. Then, short- Georgia, hopes to change that. The their three children. And Steven made Cordell,* a Southern Baptist missionary term worker Yasmin Vila Limo followed up church has embraced the Deaf Malagasy amazing progress. He accepted Christ with a plan. In less than a decade, he and found that Abraham was seeking the of Madagascar and anticipates sending and, at age 15, felt called to Japan. Later, trained a cadre of Quichua Indian believ- truth. Next, missionary Martha Moore multiple teams to the island nation every the Kunkels transferred to Paraguay, ers to range the scattered mountain vil- stepped in to disciple him and get him in- year. Spann is helping them navigate cul- where many Japanese immigrants live. lages of their people, planting churches. volved in Connexxion, a student evangel- tural nuances and church-planting pitfalls, “A lot of what God’s had us doing on the And Cebri n was one of the best; he ism ministry. plus providing logistical support for in- missions field…[wasn’t] so much about us planted 26. Abraham became close friends with coming teams. á as missionaries,” says Iracema, a native When Sam announced he was leaving Christians and began attending a church “There was no doubt that this is where Brazilian. “It was about Steven. God was South America for Asia, Cebri n asked if plant. Friends celebrated his profession of God was leading us,” says Roger Hen- [putting the] puzzle pieces in place…so this he could go with him. faith and baptism in 2011. Today, he leads derson, the church’s missions pastor. á autistic child could grow up to be a mis- You have always told us to reach out the Seville Connexxion team and is part- “This is a testimony that God can use any- sionary.” beyond ourselves, he said. Sam agreed. nering with missionaries to reach Seville body when you are willing to follow His with the Gospel. many lost people in Japan leading.” Pray that through the Lottie will accept Christ through Steven’s Pray for Abraham to be bold Moon Christmas Offering, more Pray testimony. Ask God to lead Tim and and wise in a culture that does that Warren Baptist workers like Sam can be sent to train Iracema to key Paraguayan believers Pray not recognize a need for God. Church members will quickly learn cross-cultural leaders like Cebrián. to train and mobilize for missions. Pray for Martha, who now serves Malagasy sign and be effective as Pray for churches to be planted in in Germany, and the growth of His heart, hands and voice in South Asia. Connexxion in Western Europe. reaching the Deaf of Madagascar.

Day 6 Mexico Valley Baptist Church in Bakersfield, Ca., had prayed about taking the Gospel to an unreached people group. What they Day 7 Thailand Day 8 South Asia Day 5 Scotland didn’t realize was that one was just 20 Several years ago, 250 members of First Imagine being one of the few Southern Baptist Church Centerton, Arkansas, com- The Scotland tour bus doesn’t stop in miles away. Pastor Phil Neighbors contacted mis- Baptist missionary couples working mitted to pray for the Bedia, an unengaged, Gena’s neighborhood. The concrete among 2.5 million Burmese living in the unreached people group in South Asia. But buildings and dirty streets stand in stark sionary Chris Ammons about opportuni- ties in Mexico, and soon after, Ammons southern part of Thailand who do not after two visits, heavy persecution by Hindu contrast to the country’s rolling green hills know Jesus. village leaders halted missions work and and tall stone castles. visited a rural area near Oaxaca. There he made a stunning discovery – the local Scott and Alyssa Branding* know communication with the Bedia. The beauty isn’t too far from her flat, God is working and those who came for a The church continued to pray. It was all but missionary Gena Wilson (above) Tijaltepec Mixteco people had a large mi- grant population living just 20 miles from better life can receive it. They know be- they could do. chooses to live in an area of Glasgow she cause local leaders like Aung Kyaw* are When Southern Baptist personnel were describes as “urban-deprived.” She also Bakersfield. After much prayer, Valley Baptist com- on fire with the Gospel, ready to absorb placed near Bedia villages, a team from calls it home. This is the place where God the training the Brandings provide, ready Centerton returned. They learned God has asked her to live for 17 years. mitted to take responsibility for this peo- ple group, regularly sending volunteers to to be totally His. worked despite the silence across the For Gena, being totally His is about a “I love the opportunity to train the na- ocean. life yielded to God’s plans, not her own. southern Mexico and to the 700 Mixteco immigrants in central California. tionals, so they can train nationals, so they Tears fell as the missions team met the “God calls us as believers to get along- can impact people – because that 2.5 mil- first baptized Bedia believer, Sahaji side folks who don’t know Him…so that “When we ‘embraced’ this people group, that means they’re ours,” says Phil. lion people is such a big number!” Scott Bedia,* and attended worship at the very we show them Jesus, so that we can says. first Bedia church plant ... exactly five years show them the cross is enough.” “If they’re going to be reached, it’s going to be through us. And that’s a heavy burden, “The Gospel is going out, and when the after starting their journey. but a good burden. We’ve got to do this.” Gospel goes out, it will not return void.” Pray for Gena, who is facing a Pray Pray for Southern Baptist return of lymphoma and is currently Pray for missionaries who train workers, Centerton’s members, in the United States for treatment. and guide Southern Baptist and Bedia believers as they partner Pray for her teammates, TJ and churches in reaching unengaged, Pray God will continue to to take the gospel to all Bedia. raise up national leaders among Dena Odom, as they continue the unreached people groups. Pray * Names changed work Gena began in Glasgow. other churches will follow Valley the Burmese living in Thailand. Baptist’s example. – From IMB.org PEOPLE AND CHURCHES 9 ILLINOIS BAPTIST November 04, 2013

AROUND OUR STATE Walter retires after 18 years at Streator Streator | Larry Walter has seen a lot come where they have their needs hired, and he hopes to volunteer at the of changes at Streator Baptist Camp met.” camp in the future. He also wants to since he started as camp manager Besides the people, Walter says work more with Disaster Relief, IBSA Staff Notes more than 18 years ago. A man-made he’ll miss the great outdoors of the Campers on Mission, and other mis- lake and beach pavilion, a new dor- camp setting at Streator. “I love the sions projects. Walter is a member of Chris Wright has re- mitory and confer- rolling ground, I love the timber, I Erven Avenue Baptist Church in signed from his role as ence center, an love the outdoors. I love the inde- Streator. IBSA’s church planting expanded recre- pendence that IBSA has given me to He will be missed, says Melissa catalyst and zone con- ation program and develop new things and projects.” Phillips, IBSA’s associate executive sultant in northeastern facilities – all that One thing he probably won’t miss: director, business team. “I’ve had the Illinois, and will start a and more has been the long hours. As the on-site man- privilege to work with Larry during new season of ministry Nov. 16 as added to IBSA’s ager, it’s hard for Walter to ever get all his years with IBSA,” Phillips church planter/pastor of The Church camp in northern away from his camp responsibilities. says. “He has a heart for northern Illi- at DuPage. Wright’s church is a Illinois during his But even in retirement, he’s not done nois and all the churches and associ- campus of The Church at Battle- tenure. with Streator. He’ll stay on in an in- ations there. I know they will miss creek in Tulsa, Oklahoma, who Walter has announced his retire- terim capacity until a new manager is him as well.” committed last year to partner with ment Nov. 15, though he has mixed the Send Chicago initiative. feelings about leaving the job he “Our vision and prayer is for The loves. But he says he’s learned from Church at DuPage to become a cat- visitors to Streator that “it’s great to alyst for multiplication throughout retire and still have your health.” As a Chicagoland,” Wright told staff. retiree, Walter plans to spend time Van Kicklighter, who leads with his children and grandchildren, IBSA’s church planting team, said who live in Illinois and Missouri. Wright’s resignation will leave a When he started at Streator 18 years void on the team and in the IBSA ago, it was in a part-time role that family. “Having not been long re- could become full-time, contingent moved from being a church planter on growing camp enrollment. Streator himself, Chris was a great encour- did grow, and Walter built relation- ager and help to church planters in ships with the visitors who came for Chicagoland,” Kicklighter said. camps and retreats. He says the peo- “We will miss Chris’ day-to-day ple have been his favorite part of the work with IBSA but will continue job. to benefit from his ongoing involve- “Meeting so many tremendous peo- ment with church planting in ple, making friends with people who Chicagoland.” come back here year after year, peo- Wright and his wife, Lori, have ple that appreciate having a place to GROWING GROUP – IBSA’s Streator missions camp for kids had its largest-ever turnout in 2013. three children: Noah, Jonah and Hannah.

In Memory Churches surpass Mission Illinois Offering goals

Marjorie “Marge” in the Zone Church Goal Total Borum, who retired Bartonville Baptist Church $650 $726 from IBSA in 1988 after more than 17 years of Zone 1: Dale Davenport, zone consultant Blooming Grove Baptist Church, $1,200 $1,304 service, died Oct. 17. in Chicagoland, reports 115 people repre- McLeansboro She was 87. Borum • senting 15 churches attended a recent Concord Baptist Church, Pinckneyville $600 $1,357 worked in IBSA’s mailroom and Churches of Strength Super Saturday Sem- First Baptist Church, Le Roy $1,300 $1,500 inar at Uptown Baptist Church in Chicago. print shop, and was a long-time First Baptist Church, Martinsville $700 $1,187 member of Springfield Southern Baptist Church. She was preceded Zone 7: The members of Mt. Olive Baptist Nebo Baptist Church $350 $365 in death by her husband of 52 years, Church in West York celebrated their Henry, and a son, Jeffrey. She is sur- • church’s 130th anniversary in September. Send Mission Illinois Offering goals and totals to vived by two daughters, one son, Pastor Will Bynum accepted a plaque of [email protected]. and several grandchildren, great- appreciation from IBSA Executive Director and great-great grandchildren. Nate Adams (photo below). Ministry Positions Swansea Baptist Church is seeking a part-time music director to lead Relevant, useful resources for you and your congregational singing and direct church, delivered weekly to your inbox. To view the choir. For more information archived e-newsletters and to subscribe, scan contact the church office at (618) this QR code, or e-mail [email protected]. 235-4000, e-mail nhodge@wisper home.com, or e-mail the pastor at [email protected]. Zone 8: Pastor James Amos of The Res- Fourteen churches applied through the IBSA Credentials Committee Resources urrection in Granite City reports three for affiliation with the Illinois Baptist State Association in 2013. • teenagers recently made professions of faith For Sale: Forsyth Baptist is selling after attending the church’s new youth-only • Charis Community, Normal • Lighthouse of Truth, Itasca 31 pews, each padded and 12 feet Sunday School class. Amos emailed zone • Church of the Open Door, Springfield • Mosaic, Highland consultant Eddie Pullen: “We pray The Lord • Christ Church, LaPorte/ • Mt. Vernon Baptist, Chicago long. (217) 877-0302. enables us to get to know these teens better, and baptize them in the weeks ahead.” Michigan City, IN • Pilsen Community, Chicago For Sale: FBC Muddy is selling a • CrossHaven Church, Belleville • The Resurrection, Granite City 2004 Ford E-150 XL 12-passenger IBSA staff members serve as zone consult- • Diaspora Church, Palatine • Redeemer Church, Urbana van. 74,000+ miles, $7,500 or best ants working with associational leaders and • Emmanuel Baptist, Lemont • Soul Saving Missionary, Chicago offer. Contact Don Trail at (618) churches across Illinois. 841-2226. • Grace Fellowship, Amboy 10 FOR LEADERS IBSA.org ILLINOIS BAPTIST

2013 Dove Award winners Putting the “Thanks” in Thanksgiving Song of the Year “10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)” by Matt Red- No way! We’d never accidentally 4. Personal delivery. Near Thanks- 5. Post-it thanks. As holiday guests man; written by Matt Redman and Jonas Myrin forget the Thanksgiving turkey. We giving, give a mentor or respected arrive Thanksgiving Day, give each painstakingly prepare and beauti- Christian friend a small gift – home- person a pad of sticky notes and a Artist of the Year fully serve it. But, caught up with made pie, potted plant, etc. Say, marker. Challenge them to write spe- TobyMac food, family and Black Friday sales, “I’ve been thanking God for all His cific things for which they are thank- do we forget to offer sincere thanks blessings in my life. You’re one of ful to God. One-word descriptions New Artist of the Year to God? those blessings!” Philippians 1:3 are fine. The dining room walls will for KING & COUNTRY Here are seven ideas to add be plastered with thanks to God. Rock/Contemporary Album “thanks” to your Thanksgiving. Try Psalm 50:14 A Messenger (Colton Dixon) one. Before you carve the turkey. In the hustle of the 6. Surprisingly thankful. If a fam- Rap/Hip-Hop Album 1. Tweet thanks. During November, holiday, don’t lose ily member has an unusual need, Gravity (Lecrae) use Facebook or Twitter to post daily plan ahead for a surprise monetary thanks to God. Example: “Thanks- the main point. gift at Thanksgiving dinner. The Southern Gospel Album giving to God #4. Thanking God whole extended family contributes Canton Junction (Canton Junction) today for His peace in difficult any amount of cash they choose. Pure and Simple (Gaither Vocal Band) days!” Add a photo for extra oomph. Present it with a verbal prayer of 1 Chronicles 16:8 thanks to God for that family mem- Contemporary Gospel/Urban Album ber. 1 John 3:17 Grace (Tasha Cobbs) 2. Write ITFY notes. Use e-mail or stationery to write one short note 7. Table thanks. At our Thanksgiv- Instrumental Album every day from now until Thanks- ing table, each person tells one spe- Glory (Michael W. Smith) giving to tell someone “I’m Thank- cific reason they’re thankful to God ful For You” (ITFY). Be specific this year. The Thanksgiving meal Spanish Album about why you thank God for that conversation is lively, joyful and Global Project Espanol person. 1 Corinthians 1:4-5 God-honoring. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (Hillsong) Special Event Album 3. Visual reminders. Write or print Enjoy your turkey, as you give Passion: Let the Future Begin (Chris Tomlin, Scriptures from this article on note thanks to our holy God. That’s what Kristian Stanfill, Matt Redman, Brett Younker, cards. Put them in hard-to-ignore Thanksgiving’s all about. Kari Jobe, Crowder, Christy Nockels) places – on your mirror, computer screen, refrigerator, phone, steering ©2013 Diana Davis is an author, Christmas Album wheel. As you notice them, offer a columnist and minister’s wife. JOY (Steven Curtis Chapman) silent thanksgiving prayer. Contact her at floridianadavis@ Psalm 34:1 gmail.com. Praise/Worship Album Burning Lights (Chris Tomlin)

TrainingTraining OpportunitiesOpportunities

Nov. 12-13: IBSA Pastors’ Nov. 15-16: Hispanic WMU Celebra- Conference, Hilton Springfield, 700 tion, Oak Brook Hills Marriott E. Adams Street. Featuring Bobby Resort. Cost is $110 per person, Boyles, Jerry Cain, Micah Fries, includes conference fees, two meals, Chuck Kelley, Eric Mason and Jay and lodging for one night at the Strother. Begins 1 p.m. Tuesday, Marriott Resort. AnaDeMelendez@ Nov. 12. Free childcare will be gmail.com, (630) 712-3106. provided for each Pastors’ Confer- ence and Annual Meeting session. To Nov. 22-24: International pre-register, contact Kendra Jackson Student Conference, at (217) 391-3111. Springfield Southern Baptist. For more Nov. 13: Ministers’ Wives’ Conference information or to and Luncheon, IBSA Building, be- sign up as a host ginning at 9 a.m. Pastor’s wife Lynda home, contact Cathy Locke will share her testimony, and Waters at (217) 391- representatives from BCHFS will 3124 or [email protected]. share about their ministry. For more information call Abby Huff at (217) Dec. 27-28: Youth Encounter, Prairie 303-1452 or e-mail Capital Convention Center, Spring- [email protected]. field. Featuring Brian Burgess, 33Miles, Citizen Way, Loudmouth, Nov. 13-14: IBSA Annual Meeting, 321 Improv Hilton Springfield, 700 E. Adams and Bryan Street. Begins 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Drake. Cost is concludes 11:30 a.m. Thursday. The $40 if you reg- theme of the 2013 Annual Meeting is ister by Dec. 1, Mission Illinois: Churches Together $45 from Dec. Advancing the Gospel. Online pre- 2 through to registration closes Nov. 4 at 4:30 midnight Dec. p.m., but messengers may register in 26, and $50 at YE 2013 person at the annual meeting with a the door. All ticket prices include a signed messenger card. Churches Youth Encounter T-shirt. Go to may e-mail [email protected] www.IBSA.org/ilstudentz to register or call (217) 391-3113 to request or call (217) 391-3127. blank messenger cards or for registration assistance. CHRISTIAN LIFE 11 ILLINOIS BAPTIST November 04, 2013 ‘All things work together...’ How a broken vacuum cleaner changed a young preacher’s life By Julianne Kuykendall God often works during and through ential custodian rallied up several wedding day,” he said. our pain. Terry Mathis, director of “No” votes. When 12 church members The next night, Mathis’ father missions for the Union Baptist Asso- Faith in Real Life showed up for the annual call business walked down the aisle. “I got to lead ciation in extreme southern Illinois, re- meeting, seven members voted “No.” my Daddy to the Lord that night when cently shared his story of how God Mathis was gone. he was 62,” remembered Mathis. Ap- brought great joy out of great hurt. “That was the most hurtful point of parently, while his father was reclin- Mathis grew up in Benton, Ken- my life,” he recalled. He had baptized ing in his La-Z-Boy chair, God was tucky, not far from where he serves six out of the seven people who voted mightily working in his heart. now as a director of missions. His fa- “No,” plus he was grieving over his After that revival, Vanzora Baptist ther, Paul, worked as a concrete truck mother’s death. Church invited Mathis to be their pas- driver and cared for Mathis’ bedridden “I was ready to quit,” he admitted. tor, which he then felt led to do. He mother, Kittie. Suddenly without a job, he called his proudly watched his father walk into “He was a good man but didn’t Road Test father, who said, “Why don’t you church for every service and even know the Lord,” the younger Mathis Terry Mathis move here?” Though they were dis- serve church breakfasts and help out said of his dad. couraged, he and his wife held family during work days for four years. As a teenager, Terry went to church Two weeks before the annual call, devotions in his father’s living Then, at age 66, only four years after on a hit-or-miss basis. But when he Mathis’ wife was cleaning the parson- room while his father sat nearby his salvation, his father died from a married his wife, Linda, they attended age when her vacuum broke, so he in his recliner. When they ate, his massive heart attack. church faithfully at Mount Haven borrowed the church’s vacuum. father grew accustomed to Mathis “I was at peace though, because I Baptist Church. After a few months “When the phone rang, the custo- thanking God for the food. knew Daddy was in heaven,” said teaching Sunday school, he felt God dian asked me, ‘Where is my vacuum During those six months, Mathis. calling him to preach, and soon, he cleaner?’” Mathis recalled, adding three churches called Mathis to As he reflects on his years of min- was pastoring Corinth Baptist Church that her snappy comment caught be their pastor. One was a large istry in Kentucky and now Illinois, he in Grand Rivers, Kentucky. him off guard. As a very young, church – quite appealing for a says God had an equally purposeful After a positive year at the church, inexperienced pastor, he quickly struggling preacher. “Every time ministry for him in his father’s home. he accepted a call to pastor nearby retorted, “Well, first of all, it’s we prayed, we felt God’s lead- “Looking back on it, we realized Liberty Baptist Church in Lyon not your vacuum cleaner, it’s the ing to stay, so we obeyed even God moved us to a mission field in County, Kentucky – a rural congrega- church’s vacuum cleaner and, though it made no sense,” said Daddy’s living room and we learned a tion with 35-40 members. second of all, my wife is using it Mathis. great lesson that when things don’t “They had an ‘Annual Call’ where right now so you are going to Then, Vanzora Baptist Church make sense to us, they make perfect the church members voted every year have to wait.” invited Mathis to preach a re- sense to God,” Mathis said. if they wanted to keep you,” Mathis “I admit, I was young and stu- vival. On Wednesday night, “Suddenly, that broken vacuum explained. On the first anniversary, the pid,” Mathis said with a laugh. Mathis was shocked when his fa- cleaner wasn’t looking so bad.” annual call went smoothly. On the sec- Although he knew he made a ther walked in the church. “I Julianne Kuykendall is a freelance ond anniversary, however, there was mistake, he wasn’t prepared for had only seen my Daddy in writer in Canton, North Carolina. tension in the church, to say the least. what came next when the influ- church one time – on my

DAVE Financial advice Says from Dave Ramsey Potluck Blogger Brother’s bad deal Better car, better mileage? Q: My husband and I hired my brother as Q: Is it a good idea to sell your car in order Mrs. White’s Cabbage Au Gratin our real estate agent. He’s just starting out to get one that gets better gas mileage? in the business and working two jobs, but IBSA staffer Debbie Muller immediately thought of this recipe when we it’s been five or six months and he hasn’t asked about her favorites from her church’s cookbook. Evelyn White, wife A: Only if the other car is really cheap, of the late Rev. Kenneth White, is a member of Eastview Baptist Church helped us find a house. On top of this, we or cheaper than the one you’re selling. signed an exclusive buyer’s agreement with in Springfield, where her husband pastored in the 1970s. Try this new I think it’s funny when people run out spin on cabbage for family gatherings or holiday potlucks. him. We’re worried about the agreement, and upgrade on their $7,000 car to buy how he’ll react and our family’s reaction if a $30,000 Prius to save gas. Think we fire him. Do you have any advice? about it. That’s an extra expenditure of Ingredients $23,000 to save gas. Where are you Head of cabbage (2 lbs.) A: I think you’ve given him a fair planning on driving, to the moon? 1 tsp. salt chance. Under the circumstances, he Actually saving money is a much bet- 3 T. butter should be willing to release you from ter plan than some of the ideas people 3 T. flour the exclusive buyer’s contract. I know dream up in the name of saving money. c. evaporated milk he’s your brother, and that makes things When it comes to things like this, you ¾ c. water drained from cabbage kind of emotional. You might get some need to sit down and do the math. ¾1 c. grated cheddar cheese flak from the rest of your family, too. Crunch some hard, cold figures and see ½c. dry bread crumbs But guess what? It’s none of their busi- what happens. But if you spend $5,000 ½2 T. butter, melted ness. What are you supposed to do, stay more to save $50 it will take forever to in a bad deal just because you’re re- get back the money you’ve spent. lated? I don’t think so! Getting better gas mileage is a good To prepare: Cut cabbage and gently boil in salted water for 7 minutes. Drain, No, you and your husband need to sit thing, but I wouldn’t recommend saving cup of the liquid. Make a white sauce with the three tablespoons of down with your brother and let him spending any more than the value of the butter, flour,¾ evaporated milk, and liquid from the cabbage. Put the cabbage in know in a gentle way that things aren’t car you’re currently driving to make it a casserole dish, and pour the sauce over the cabbage. Layer with grated working. Ask to be released from the happen. Moving down in car but up in cheese. Then, mix bread crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them on top. exclusive buyer’s agreement, and wish mileage is a great plan. If you do that, Bake at 350° for 20 minutes. him the best with his new career. Make you’ll really start making headway with Recipe from “Favorite Recipes of Eastview Baptist Church.” Send your favorites sure to let him know you love and re- your money. spect him, but that the situation with his to [email protected]. multiple jobs, and the fact that you’ve For more advice from Dave made no progress in all this time, means Ramsey, go to www.IBSA.org. you need to go in another direction. @@ thethe CrossroadsCrossroads Where ministry meets real life

BOLO TheAmericans areMiddle not easily divided overall pollsters were surprised by who are pro-choice and anti-gun. Be on the lookout into red and blue, as on the politi- how many common beliefs they (Modern Family’s Clare Dunphy is cal map. It turns out there’s a share. The new middle is proudly the example.) ...... whole lot of purple out there, ac- patriotic (66%), believes America And there are “Pick-up Pop- compiled by Eric Reed cording to a new survey by NBC is still the best nation (54%), but ulists,” white low-income voters News and Esquire magazine. says we should end foreign aid who say the economy is unfair and In fact, 51% of adults are in the when needs are so great at home Washington is wasteful. (Think Mobile Redesign center, bordered by 21% on the far (81%). Duck Dynasty, analysts say.) left and 28% on the far right. While fiscally conservative, they The pollsters set up an online of all web searches “Just because Washington is po- lean liberal on social issues, including survey (available at www.NBC in 2014 will be done larized doesn’t mean America is,” gay marriage (64% favor) and abor- News.com) so you can see how Half on mobile devices, says Robert Blizzard, lead pollster tion (63% approve first trimester your opinions measure up. Just experts predict. So, how does your for Mitt Romney in 2012. He was terminations for any reason). know that if you check “Baptist,” ministry website look on Smartphones one of the creators of the survey. Particularly strong in the Mid- “pray daily,” and “I went to church and iPads? There are four distinct subsets in west are “Mini-van Moderates,” last Sunday,” the survey is not likely Now is the time to budget for a mobile- the newly identified center, but mostly white, suburbanite women to say you’re in “the middle.” friendly redesign, if you haven’t already – Eric Reed, with info from NBC News done so. It means streamlining your message and trimming the options. Less is more, on your cell- phone. Also, consider placing your street address and service times up top, if you want guests to find BALANCED? - As the country teeters back from economic woes and political stalemates, more them easily. Americans find themselves in the middle of competing ideologies.

Who knew?

29.8 Million people are modern-day slaves, GetThe church chick-inspired can learn some valuable, bibli- meaning they are controlled by another person, cal lessons from Chick-Fil-A, says blogger enforced by violence and intimidation. David Mathis. Like joyfully going the extra This form of slavery exists in 162 countries, mile, cultivating trust among leadership, and including the U.S., ranked 134th. sticking close to a central purpose. And keep- India leads with nearly 14-million slaves, ing the bathrooms clean, of course. followed by China and Pakistan. “Sadly, some local churches drift into the mindset that the cleanliness of the facilities and the care of the grounds “You may choose to look the other way, but you aren’t important – after all, the church’s can never say again that you did not know.” real business is spiritual,” Mathis writes. “But such is a failure to demonstrate Christian love and kindness. It’s a – 18th century abolitionist William Wilberforce in “Real Christianity” missed opportunity to consider others more significant than ourselves and look to their interests (Philippians 2:3-4) and serve.” – DesiringGod.org

POSTCARDS FROM THE EDGE mission illinois Clip and save in a prayer journal, tuck it in your Bible, or stick on the fridge. Pray for a new church Missionaries: Location: Des Plaines, and vicinity Brad and Jennifer Pittman Target: Multi-generation recent Muslim immigrants (with Austin, Ashley and and their U.S.-born children Brandon) Characteristics: Very diverse peoples, nationalities and cultures from Planting In: Davis Junction, just South Asia and the Middle East south of Rockford Prayer Needs: For first- and second-generation leaders and churches to partner with each Focusing On: Families moving other to meet the needs of recent immigrants. into the fastest growing area in the – From the IBSA Church Planting Team region Pray: God will continue to open doors and hearts to the planting Budget Goal: $5,250,000 team, and for the start of new Bible Received to date 10/25/13: $5,072,079 study groups COOPERATIVE PROGRAM Received to date in 2012: $5,042,221