No slowing Baptist down for Children’s Homes Wiltshire in launches foster retirement care ministry page 4 page 8 Page 7

APRIL 6, 2019 • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists • VOLUME 185 NO. 7 • BRnow.org Seth Brown to lead SBC EC Biblical Recorder identifies BR staff he Biblical Recorder’s board of directors has FLOYD elected Seth Brown to lead the news journal T following the retirement of current editor- president, Allan Blume. Brown is currently the as presidential organization’s content editor. Gerald Hodges, chairman of the search committee, candidate presented Brown as the committee’s candidate in the board’s semi-annual meeting March 25. By SETH BROWN | BR Content Editor “Early in our conversations with Seth we were very impressed with his passion for the ministry of the Bibli- cal Recorder, his perspective of the current landscape of Baptist journalism, as well as his I believe his appointment wisdom and insights concerning changes and innovations that are “ will prove to be a needed for the Biblical Recorder to move ahead,” Hodges said. pivotal moment ... The search committee also ex- – Ronnie Parrott ” pressed appreciation for Brown’s spiritual maturity, according to Hodges. he search committee of the Southern Baptist Con- Adron Robinson of Illinois, secretary Carol Yarber of “There was a clear consensus T vention’s Executive Committee (EC) announced Texas, Joe Knott of North Carolina, Stephen Rummage within our committee that Seth March 31 that Ronnie Floyd is their preferred candidate of Oklahoma, Rolland Slade of California and Mike SETH BROWN is the man to take the helm as the for president of the organization. Stone of Georgia. leader of the Biblical Recorder. He Floyd also made the announcement in a sermon at The EC was scheduled to vote on his nomination for has a passion to see the Recorder not just survive, but Cross Church in northwest Arkansas, where he has April 2, following a year-long search for a new president thrive in the mission and ministry it has provided since served as pastor for more than three decades. He will in the wake of previous executive Frank Page’s resigna- 1833.” resign from Cross Church April 7, pending an affi rmative tion. (Visit BRnow.org for the latest information.) D. Au- Brown, 33, and his wife, Lauren, are natives of Mis- vote of the EC. gust “Augie” Boto has served as the interim president. sissippi. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in religion “The thought of parting from you has been gut- Ronnie Parrott, pastor of Christ Community Church from William Carey University in Hattiesburg, Miss., wrenching,” Floyd told Cross Church. “The sense of in Huntersville, N.C. and former executive leader at and a master of arts in Christian studies from South- loss is undeniable, but the sense of calling at this point is Cross Church, said he affi rmed Floyd’s nomination with eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS) in Wake greater.” “great joy.” Forest. Brown also serves on the pastoral leadership The EC search committee is chaired by Steve Swof- “I have personally witnessed both Dr. Floyd’s public team at Imago Dei Church in Raleigh. ford, pastor of First Baptist Church in Rockwall, Texas. and private life and ministry,” Parrott said. “Dr. Floyd See Brown page 12 The seven-member committee also included vice chair See Floyd page 10 WHAT’S INSIDE NAMB fi nds more churches close in urban areas K. Allan Blume: Time is in His hand ...... 2 By LIZ TABLAZON | BR Staff Writer Many older metropolitan churches typically have Milton Hollifi eld: ‘Gospel Above All’ buildings that were too large for the members that re- to highlight SBC annual meeting ...... 3 recent analysis by the North American Mission mained. Column: Raising awareness A Board (NAMB) revealed almost 75 percent of Sanctuaries that once sat hundreds of congregants about the opioid epidemic ...... 3 Southern Baptist churches that closed between 2016 cost too much to maintain utilities, insurance and up- Executive Committee addresses sexual abuse issues .. 5 and 2017 were in metropolitan areas with populations of keep, Clifton said. BSC sponsoring public forums to evaluate strategy ...... 6 more than 50,000. They were also likely located in areas with constant Clint Darst appointed as 2020 N.C. Pastors’ Conf. VP .... 9 “We’re closing churches where people live,” said turnover. If a church loses connection with its neighbor- SBC Women’s Leadership Mark Clifton, NAMB senior director for church replant- hood, it has to intentionally refresh its outreach, he said. Network to offer training, support...... 9 ing, in a Facebook video March 11. See NAMB page 3 2 Opinion APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Time is in His hand

ime is a tool God created in lay leaders. The time for a change is now. ern Baptist missions and the Cooperative value of their ministry to Baptist church- order to operate the temporal Leaders are like the stages of a rocket. Program. He is on top of happenings in es and leaders. They need your prayers. T world according to His purpose. At a specific time, each stage burns with Southern Baptist life and has earned the I believe strongly in the future of There is no such thing as “time” in the the energy needed to thrust the payload respect of many Baptist leaders. Baptist journalism in North Carolina also, realm of eternity. However, as long as we to new heights, then it is jettisoned so When we posted news on the Biblical and I call on my fellow N.C. Baptists to live on this earth, time is a limitation all the next rocket can do its job. The pay- Recorder’s website that Seth Brown is the fully support the Recorder. of creation is obligated to observe. We load is still the same. new leader of this news journal, many There is another very important part submit to its boundaries every moment Considering every part of the Re- Baptists commented on Twitter about the of my personal life that I weighed when of every day. corder’s work, I believed it was time step announcement. considering God’s timing for my retire- The Bible has countless ref- down as editor and ask our Danny Akin, president of Southeastern ment. erences to time. Every battle, board of directors to bring Seminary tweeted, “Congratulations Seven years ago, my wife, Pam, was every leader, every prophet, new leadership to the BR. So, @dsethbrown. This is a great thing for diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. It every event is couched in last October I announced my NC Baptist(s). You have our love, support was shocking news to us. She immedi- the context of specific times, retirement, effective May 31, & prayers.” ately began chemotherapy treatment – because time is important. 2019. Other tweets said, “What a great something that continues today. When it is gone, time is never Timing is important. Believ- move! @dsethbrown is an outstanding We have walked this challenging road recovered, never relived. We ers serve according to God’s reporter that will continue the incredible with many prayer partners and an out- say time has “expired.” time and purpose. I believe @biblicalrecord legacy.” standing medical team at the University The psalmist said, “But as for this is His infinite plan. “Incredibly stoked to hear about of North Carolina Lineberger Compre- me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, Seth Brown, content editor @dsethbrown!! Great news for NC Bap- hensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill. We ‘You are my God.’ My times are in K. ALLAN BLUME of the Recorder for the last four tists and @biblicalrecord.” are thankful for each one who has prayed Your hand ...” Psalm 31:14-15b, Editor years, was recently elected by “This is great news! @dsethbrown for Pam. Please continue to pray! NKJV. the Biblical Recorder’s board of has demonstrated he is one of the best As I weighed my options for retire- Time imposes many changes on us, directors to be the next “rocket stage” religion reporters in the country. Follow- ment last year, the desire to spend more whether we like it or not. It’s part of our for this 186-year-old ministry. ing the great leadership of @kablume, time with my wife was a tipping point in all knowing, all powerful God’s plan to I fully support the board’s action and I’m confident that the BR’s best days are the decision. work through cycles of change. Seth’s pending leadership of this organi- ahead!” We look forward to spending more Last year I began reflecting on God’s zation. “A huge congratulations to @dseth- time together, doing things we enjoy – in purpose for the mission of the Biblical Seth is an ordained Southern Baptist brown on his election as editor of spite of the jokes we heard about retire- Recorder (BR) from a different perspective. minister and a founding team member @biblicalrecord. Seth is one of the most ment. One pastor reminded me that a I realized it was time for the BR to of Imago Dei Church in Raleigh. Grow- talented young leaders within the SBC. wife sees retirement as having twice as evaluate the ways we serve North Caro- ing up in Mississippi, he inherited a Such a great move!!” much husband with half as much money! lina Baptists and consider a new course strong background in traditional Baptist “Congratulations to @dsethbrown, Of course, I am not leaving God’s call to take the organization to the next level. churches in Mississippi. one of the sharpest minds in religious on my life. I will be continuing in places Either I must take those steps and retire Working on the Recorder’s staff for half journalism in America today. If you don’t of ministry where God opens doors. It is in a year or two, or new leadership would of my tenure as editor, Seth has gained a know Seth, you should follow him. The an honor to serve you and to be a part- need to be identified and allow that healthy understanding of North Carolina NC Biblical Recorder has become the top ner with you for the proclamation of the leader to provide visionary leadership to Baptist life. Baptist paper of late. So glad to see him gospel from a biblical, Acts 1:8 perspec- better serve our churches, ministers and He has a strong commitment to South- lead this publication. Just great news.” tive – beginning here in our “Jerusalem, I want to ask you to pray for Seth and Judea, Samaria” and extending to the ends Cooperative Program: the entire BR staff. They believe in the of the earth. Together in God’s mission

advance the mission. The apostle Paul By J.D. GREEAR | Baptist Press (ISSN 0279-8182) Volume 185 No. 7 mentioned giving – from one church to News Journal of the Baptist State Convention (919) 847-2127 lot can be lost in a single genera- another – in several of his letters (Ro- of North Carolina Fax (919) 467-6180 A tion. The writers of scripture often mans 15:26; 1 Corinthians 16:1; 2 Corinthi- Founded 1833 by Thomas Meredith now.org ans 8-9; cf. Acts 11:27-30). Interestingly, warned the leaders of Israel that unless K. Allan Blume, Editor/President Board of Directors: Nate Jones, chair; Tony Honey- they rehearsed the works of God to their when Paul mentions the gift given by the [email protected] cutt, vice chair; Meredith Snoddy, secretary; David Clary, children and grandchildren, a generation Macedonian Christians in Romans 15, he Seth Brown, Content Editor treasurer; Kevin Atchley; Kelly Bullard; Frankie Gordon; would arise that “knew not the Lord or his calls it koinonia – literally, “fellowship.” (919) 459-5697; [email protected] Lisa Harris; Chris Hefner, Lesley Hildreth, Todd Houston; Cindy D. Jennings; Dan Meyer; Frank Norwood; Jim ways” (Judges 2:10). Bible scholar Chad Brand goes so far as to Dianna L. Cagle, Production Editor Pennington Jr.; Donna Robinson; Donnie Seagle; Marilyn Southern Baptists have a lot to pass say that financial sharing for the sake of (919) 459-5698; [email protected] Thurman; Larry Whichard; and Bartley Wooten on to the next generation, and one of the the mission is the key element of fellow- Alison McKinney Liz Tablazon Subscriptions • Individual subscriptions, $15.99 (one year); $27.99 (two most important principles is the concept ship for churches in the New Testament. Business and Circulation Manager Advertising Manager (919) 459-5693 years); $39.99 (three years) • Bulk Plan, $11.50 • Club Plan, $13.50 and practice of cooperative mission, a The church I pastor, The Summit (919) 459-5691 [email protected] • Family Plan, $12.50 • Single copies, $.60 cents each strategy that has yielded one of the great- Church, has “fellowshipped” with the [email protected] Payable in advance. N.C. sales tax is included. est gospel impact movements in history. SBC since our birth, and it is a partner- Dee Dee Vogt Carly Conley Digital rates: $5.99 (one year); $10.99 (two years); $15.99 Cooperation between churches for ship that has greatly enriched our church. Editorial Aide Graphic Designer (three years). the sake of mission is what drives the The SBC enables and equips us to send Publication Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). Of our people out in ways that we simply Published biweekly on Saturdays with the exception of no issue at the end of December, by the Biblical course, Baptists didn’t invent the idea of could not do alone. We currently have Recorder, 205 Convention Drive, Cary, NC 27511, as authorized by the Baptist State Convention in annual missional cooperation. more than 200 people serving overseas, session at Winston-Salem, November 21-23, 1939. Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC 27676. All throughout the New Testament, most of whom are with the International Postmaster we see churches partnering together to See Coperative page 10 Send address changes to Biblical Recorder Inc., P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512-1185. APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Opinion/News 3 Raising awareness about the opioid epidemic

By BOB JORDAN | Guest Column thus its effect on the body can be more unpredictable.” The same article quoted Tim Pifer, the director of he Christian Life & Public Affairs (CLPA) Spe- the New Hampshire State Police Forensic Laboratory, cial Committee of the Baptist State Convention as saying because heroin and fentanyl look identical, ‘Gospel Above All’ T of North Carolina is focusing on the opioid and with drugs purchased on the street, “you don’t epidemic this year. know what you’re taking. You’re injecting yourself with to highlight SBC I was shocked to discover that the greatest rise in a loaded gun.” death in recent years is with a synthetic opioid analge- Citing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention annual meeting sic called fentanyl. data on overdose death rates from 1999 to 2017 in the According the National Institute on Drug Abuse, United States, the National Institute on Drug Abuse he 2019 Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) an- fentanyl is “similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times reported that “among the more than 70,200 drug over- nual meeting is quickly approaching, and I hope more potent.” Fentanyl is both a prescription medi- dose deaths estimated in 2017, the sharpest increase T to see many North Carolina Baptists at the meet- cation as well as a black-market drug produced in occurred among deaths related to fentanyl and fentanyl ing and SBC Pastors’ Conference in Birmingham, Ala., this clandestine labs. analogs (other synthetic narcotics) with more than June. This drug can have the following street names: 28,400 overdose deaths.” It makes me proud to think that a North Carolina Bap- Apache, China Girl, China White, Dance Fever, Friend, North Carolina has experienced a similar dramatic tist will be presiding over this year’s SBC annual meeting. Goodfella, Jackpot, Murder 8, TNT and Tango & Cash. rise in death from synthetic opioid drugs (mainly fen- I have much admiration and respect for our SBC President The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that it tanyl). J.D. Greear, and I am thankful for is sold illegally “as a powder; spiked on blotter paper; Moreover, even an extremely small dose of fentanyl how God has used him as pastor of mixed with or substituted for heroin; or as tablets that can be fatal. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement The Summit Church in the Raleigh- mimic other less potent opioids.” Agency (DEA), a lethal dose of fentanyl for most people Durham area. In an article titled, “Why fentanyl is deadlier than is about 2 milligrams. That’s the size of just a few I’m also thankful for how J.D. has heroin, in a single photo,” author Allison Bond noted, grains of salt. led our Southern Baptist Convention “Drug users generally don’t know when their heroin is The most compelling reason for the rise of fentanyl is in recent days in light of the sexual laced fentanyl, so when they inject their usual quantity cost. It is much cheaper than illegally gained prescrip- abuse cases that have been brought of heroin, they inadvertently take a deadly dose of the tion opioids as well as naturally produced opioids. to light. J.D. has done the right thing substance. In addition, while dealers try to include fen- There are numerous international and national clandes- in taking the stand that he has in tanyl to improve potency, their measuring equipment tine labs producing this synthetic drug. MILTON A. working to put some things in place usually isn’t fine-tuned enough to ensure they stay be- Again, remember that awareness brings knowledge, HOLLIFIELD JR. to prevent abuse from happening low the levels that could cause users to overdose. Plus, and knowledge brings solutions. BSC executive while appropriately ministering to the fentanyl sold on the street is almost always made in (EDITOR’S NOTE – Robert Jordan is chair of the Christian director-treasurer and caring for abuse victims. a clandestine lab; Life & Public Affairs Special Committee of the Baptist State Working to combat sexual abuse “[I]t is less pure that the pharmaceutical version and Convention of North Carolina.) and care for victims will be addressed at this year’s SBC annual meeting and is in keeping with the meeting’s theme of “Gospel Above All.” As J.D. told the SBC Execu- NAMB Continued from page 1 tive Committee in February at a meeting where I was in attendance, “We serve a God who laid down His life to According to Clark Logan, chief research officer for still has a role to play in the life of that community,” protect the vulnerable. How dare we proclaim that gospel NAMB, 25 percent of 855 churches removed from the Clifton said in the video. “The building in that small with our mouths and then turn a blind eye when the vul- Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Executive Commit- town or open country is usually not very big, almost nerable in our midst cry out for help?” tee’s directory were more than 50 years old. always paid for, easy to maintain … A little church in a Under the “Gospel Above All” banner, J.D. has also Of the 855, 62.3 percent were from southern state rural area can be very tenacious.” challenged everyone in our convention to a renewed em- conventions; 6.3 percent were in the Northeast; 17.8 per- Logan told the Biblical Recorder there were no specific phasis on personal evangelism through the “Who’s Your cent in the Midwest; and almost 13 percent in the West. reasons provided for churches closing from 2016 to One?” initiative. This is one of the strongest emphases Three churches did not indicate location. 2017, but NAMB worked with associational missionar- on personal evangelism our convention has seen in some About 14 percent of churches that closed were in ies to find information for half of the congregations time. I hope every member of every church in our state towns of 10,000-50,000 people that were also changing removed between 2015 and 2016. Of those 793 total will commit to praying for and being intentional about demographically, but not as rapidly as urban settings. churches, 25 percent permanently closed; another 25 sharing the gospel with that one individual you know who Only 11.7 percent of churches that closed were in percent were removed for reasons such as leaving the is far from God. rural areas with populations of less than 10,000. Clifton SBC, merging with another church or correcting errors My “one” is a woman who works at the dry cleaning described these churches as still having “social valid- in the database. business that I frequent. Although she is from another ity.” Logan said he expects this to change, since a reason ethnic and religious background, the Lord has opened up “The town can even really be depopulating and the code is now required for a churches’ SBC identification opportunities for us to have gospel conversations as I see church have 12-14 people in gathered worship, and it number to be removed. her on a regular basis. Who’s your one? Is it a friend, a family member, a coworker or neighbor? No matter who it is, God can use you to reach them. In addition to the SBC annual meeting and pastors’ conference, I encourage you to pray for the various evangelistic outreach events in the host city as part of the North American Mission Board’s “Crossover” initiative. I’m looking forward to seeing colleagues, missionaries and friends from North America and other countries in Birmingham, and I hope to see many of you there. “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” – 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NKJV). 4 APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists No slowing down for Wiltshire in retirement Wiltshire, is currently affiliated with By DIANNA L. CAGLE | BR Production Editor Kirby Woods Baptist Church in Mem- f Donnie Wiltshire’s current plans phis. succeed, his retirement might be as When he was called to the BSC as Ibusy as his time at the Baptist State special ministries consultant, Wiltshire Convention of North Carolina (BSC) as knew his predecessor, Neal Peyton, and the special ministries consultant. had worked with Peyton and Jerry Pot- “Donnie Wiltshire has been a valuable ter, another BSC Deaf worker who had member of the Baptist State Convention begun BSC Deaf ministry in 1952, before of North Carolina’s staff for 20 years,” coming to N.C. said Milton A. Hollifield Jr., BSC execu- “The good things that my predeces- tive director-treasurer, in an email to the sor started, we were able to continue,” Biblical Recorder. “In ministering to indi- Wiltshire said in an interview with the viduals with special needs and other de- Recorder. “We were also able to grow velopmental disabilities, Donnie served many areas.” a segment of our population that is often He discussed expanding ministries overlooked and neglected. His love and in all the areas of his job, in addition to increasing attendance at the Happiness compassion for those individuals reflects Donnie Wiltshire, left, shares a moment with his wife Irma at his Baptist State Convention of North Caro- the heart of our Savior. Donnie’s presence Retreat. Happiness Retreats offer five lina retirement party in March. (BSC photo by Eric Stishan) will be missed all across our state and Christian camps for people with develop- beyond, and we wish him and his wife, mental disabilities during the summer. Students earn credits toward a college Wiltshire has agreed to edit Deaf Irma, well as they return to the Lone Star “We’ve been able to greatly expand degree, either through Gardner-Webb Sunday School curriculum for LifeWay State for the next chapter of their lives English as a Second Language (ESL) University in Boiling Springs, N.C., Christian Resources in retirement, and and ministry.” ministries,” he said. “We know over the or Brewton Parker College in Mount he also plans to continue his involvement Wiltshire’s role at the BSC, which last 20 years, from statistics that we have Vernon, Ga. Approximately 150 students with Deaf ministries in Texas. began in June 1999, consists of working gathered, more than 35,000 students that have taken courses over the past 20 years, “I have no doubt … that I will be pretty with the Deaf, blind, special needs and have been in literacy missions ministries Wiltshire said. actively involved in various ways,” he literacy missions ministries. He plans and more than 12,000 tutors.” Wiltshire and his wife Irma cur- said. to retire April 5 to his family’s home in Wiltshire’s office keeps a list of rently live in Cary, N.C. They have three “It is my great desire that North Caro- Kirbyville, Texas. churches and ministries that offer ESL children and seven grandchildren. The lina will continue this legacy they have of Born in Oklahoma, Wiltshire spent and other classes. They check in with Wiltshires plan to travel to Southeast caring for people who have special needs much of his childhood and early adult each ministry annually to keep atten- Asia beginning April 13 to visit family for of various kinds and that we won’t lose life in Texas, receiving an undergradu- dance and other records up-to-date. He several weeks. these ministries.” ate degree in New Testament Greek from said there are more than 60 N.C. Baptist Howard Payne College (now university) churches that offer ministries in this area. in Brownwood, Texas, and a master of di- “In Deaf ministry, we have grown vinity degree from Southwestern Baptist stronger in many ways, but the Deaf com- Theological Seminary (SWBTS) in Fort munity is experiencing great change,” he Worth, Texas. said. “Part of that change is a seculariza- At the time, Wiltshire had completed tion that has made it harder to win Deaf his entrance exams and been accepted in people for Christ, but we’re still doing SWBTS doctoral program, but was asked so.” to lead a new Deaf church plant in New There have been other changes in the Orleans. Deaf community, Wiltshire noted. He Wiltshire, now 66 years old, said his mentioned the residential Deaf school’s desire to learn American Sign Language dwindling population. He said cochlear (ASL) began when he wanted to talk to a implants, improved prenatal care and beautiful, Deaf girl he met as a teenager. other factors have contributed to the While they never had a dating relation- diminished size of the Deaf community. ship, he said the desire to take classes in “The next generation of Deaf people ASL led to God’s call to minister to the coming along is very difficult to reach,” Deaf. he said. “One of the real high points of After spending a few years starting all these years has been the Tri-State Deaf what is now known as the Canal Bou- School of Theology, which [is] a train- levard Baptist Deaf Church, he enrolled ing program started by my predecessors, at New Orleans Baptist Theological but we have Deaf men and women from Seminary and finished with a doctor of Georgia, South Carolina and North Caro- theology degree in church history. He lina who participate in college-level train- continued to serve the church for almost ing by teachers who can teach in ASL.” 12 years. He was eventually called to work with Deaf members of First Baptist Church (FBC) in Memphis, Tenn., where he served for nearly a decade. Wiltshire also served senior adults at FBC and led the church as interim acting pastor for nine months. The Deaf ministry, formerly led by APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 5 Executive Committee addresses sexual abuse issues with state conventions that are working out of one’s geographic region or moving of resources available to help pastors, By CHAD AUSTIN | BSC Communications with churches in their particular conven- out of state. churches and ministry leaders address he Baptist State Convention of tions,” said Milton A. Hollifield Jr., BSC State convention legal counsel John the issue of sexual abuse. The BSC is also North Carolina’s (BSC) Execu- executive director-treasurer. “Our efforts Small recommended that the EC refer working with other state conventions to T tive Committee (EC) took action are to educate churches and try to help the matter to the Articles and Bylaws help them develop their own resources. on two separate measures aimed at help- them know how to prevent things like Committee since the articles and bylaws Davis said convention leaders are ing N.C. Baptist churches prevent sexual this from happening, help them know address how individuals are selected for calling on pastors and ministry leaders abuse and care for abuse survivors dur- what they need to do when it is discov- various leadership roles with the conven- to take a three-pronged approach when ing a regularly scheduled meeting held ered and help them know how to deal tion and how they can be removed. Small dealing with cases of sexual abuse that March 22 at Caraway Conference Center with the situation. also recommended that any proposed includes recognition, reporting and near Asheboro. “A key thing is we cannot forget the bylaw amendment or policy not only responding. The EC endorsed a “Statement of Prin- victims.” address board members, but also other “We want them to recognize when ciples on Abuse” that was one of several leadership positions such as convention sexual abuse has taken place, make sure calls to action made by Southern Baptist Morality motion officers, committee members and others. that it is reported accurately, correctly Convention (SBC) President J.D. Greear In addition to endorsing the Statement “If we’re going to tackle this issue, and in a timely fashion, and respond in when he addressed the SBC Executive of Principles, the BSC EC voted to have my recommendation is to look at it from a way that ensures that abuse does not Committee Feb. 18 in the aftermath of the state convention’s Articles and By- all of these different areas and do what’s continue, and victims and survivors are a three-part investigative report by the laws Committee draft a proposed amend- appropriate in all of those areas,” Small ministered to in a Christ-honoring way,” Houston Chronicle on sexual abuse cases ment to the BSC’s articles and bylaws, said. Davis said. across the SBC. as well as an accompanying policy that In referring the matter to the Articles The statement outlines three over- would allow for the removal of individu- and Bylaws Committee, the EC requested Other business arching principles to help “churches and als serving in leadership positions with that a report and recommendation be In other business, the Executive Com- ministries in our states to become safe the state convention for a moral failure. sent back to them by the summer for mittee: for survivors and safe from abuse.” The In January, the BSC’s Board of Di- consideration with the goal of having a • Authorized the transfer of $250,000 principles are: rectors approved a motion to have the final proposal presented to the BSC’s full from state convention reserve funds to • To educate affiliated churches and Executive Committee develop a policy by Board of Directors in September during the N.C. Baptist scholarship fund that is ministries to understand abuse. which board members could be removed the board’s regularly scheduled meet- administered by the N.C. Baptist founda- • To equip churches and ministries to on moral grounds. Currently the bylaws ing. Any measure adopted by the board tion. care for abuse survivors. define three circumstances in which a would then be presented to messengers • Approved the appointment of Heath • To support churches and ministries board member may be removed from attending the BSC’s annual meeting in Lloyd, pastor of Fairview Baptist Church to prepare to prevent abuse. service – failure to attend the minimum November for final consideration. in Reidsville, to the BSC’s Committee on “What J.D. is trying to do is work number of meetings required, moving Nominations to fill the unexpired term of Abuse-related Ben Curfman, a bivocational minister in resources available western North Carolina. Brian Davis, BSC associate executive director-treasurer, informed EC members Next meeting that the state convention has a variety The next scheduled meeting of the BSC EC is Thurs., April 11. The next scheduled meeting of the BSC Board of Directors is May 20-21.

Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal

for the latest Complete Renovations • Refinish Complete Renovations • Refinish New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries N.C. Baptist news www.kivetts.com www.kivetts.com and information KIVETT’S INC. KIVETT’S INC. The Largest Family Owned The Largest Family Owned Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US

1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC 1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC

Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal

Complete Renovations • Refinish Complete Renovations • Refinish New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries

www.kivetts.com www.kivetts.com KIVETT’S INC. KIVETT’S INC. The Largest Family Owned The Largest Family Owned Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US

1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC 1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC

Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal

Complete Renovations • Refinish Complete Renovations • Refinish New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries

www.kivetts.com www.kivetts.com KIVETT’S INC. KIVETT’S INC. The Largest Family Owned The Largest Family Owned Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US

1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC 1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC

Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal

Complete Renovations • Refinish Complete Renovations • Refinish New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries

www.kivetts.com www.kivetts.com KIVETT’S INC. KIVETT’S INC. The Largest Family Owned The Largest Family Owned Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US

1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC 1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC 6 APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists BSC sponsoring public forums to evaluate strategy BSC Communications Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 1104 Mil- phasis on pockets of lostness helped serving in the eight population centers ton Rd., Durham, NC 27712 members of your church identify the lost across the state where the top 100 most he Baptist State Convention of • Tues., April 23, 7-8:30 p.m. people living in your community? concentrated pockets of lostness are North Carolina (BSC) is spon- College Acres Baptist Church, 702 3. How has the BSC strategy helped located. T soring a series of public forums Eastwood Rd., Wilmington, NC 28403 members of your church share the gospel Those population centers are the Blue across the state for N.C. Baptists to pro- Wilkesboro Baptist Church, 300 West with people from different ethnic and Ridge, Coastal, Fayetteville, Greenville, vide feedback on the state convention’s Main St., Wilkesboro, NC 28697 cultural groups with the gospel? Metro Charlotte, Triad, Triangle and “impacting lostness through disciple- • Thurs., April 25, 7-8:30 p.m. 4. How has the BSC strategy emphasis Unifour regions. making” strategy as part of the conven- Berea Baptist Church, 2033 North R. on disciple-making helped members of If N.C. Baptists are unable to attend tion’s formal evaluation of the strategy. St., Elizabeth City, NC 27909 your church become more intentional in one of the scheduled public forums, they The public forums are open to all Pleasant Garden Baptist Church, 1415 fulfillment of the Great Commission? may send their responses to the ques- N.C. Baptists and will be moderated by Neelley Rd., Pleasant Garden, NC 27313 5. How has the BSC helped your tions to the convention at a special email trained facilitators who are not employ- • Mon., April 29, 7-8:30 p.m. congregation develop a disciple-making address designated for the strategy evalu- ees of the BSC. Hope Mills First Baptist Church, 4621 culture during the last five years? ation at [email protected]. Public forums have been confirmed Cameron Rd., Hope Mills, NC 28348 6. How has the BSC been effective A formal report based on data and for the following dates and locations, as • Tues., April 30, 7-8:30 p.m. in the fulfillment of its strategy titled, information collected from the strategy of press time. Additional forums will be Freedom Baptist Church, 987 US High- “Impacting Lostness through Disciple- evaluation will be made to the BSC’s added in eastern North Carolina in the way 1 N, Rockingham, NC 28379 making” in your area? Board of Directors this fall and to mes- near future. West Burnsville Baptist Church, 222 7. What do you suggest the BSC do to sengers attending the BSC’s annual meet- • Mon., April 8, 7-8:30 p.m. W Burnsville Church Rd., Burnsville, NC become more effective in the fulfillment ing in Greensboro, N.C. this November. West Chowan Association, 335 NC 28714 of its strategy titled, “Impacting Lostness The “impacting lostness through Hwy. 42 W., Ahoskie, NC 27910 “The public forums are not the tra- through Disciple-making”? disciple-making” strategy was approved • Tues., April 9, 7-8:30 p.m. ditional ‘listening sessions’ that many “The facilitators will not be answering by the BSC’s Board of Directors in 2013 Trinity Baptist Church, 730 W. Wilson folks are accustomed to attending,”said questions about the strategy, nor defend- and implementation began in January St., Tarboro, NC 27886 Brian Davis, BSC associate executive ing the strategy, but simply guiding the 2014. When approved in 2013, the Board Pitts Baptist Church, 140 Pitts School director-treasurer. “Rather, participants conversation in order that responses to of Directors instructed convention staff Rd. NW, Concord, NC 28027 are asked to come to the forums prepared these seven questions may be received,” to conduct a formal evaluation of the • Sat., April 13, 10-11:30 a.m. to provide feedback on seven specific Davis said. strategy after five years to determine its Truett Conference Center and Camp, questions.” The public forums are one of three effectiveness. 346 Truett Camp Rd., Hayesville, NC Following are the questions that will methods the convention is using to The complete strategy is available at 28904 be discussed during the forums: evaluate the strategy. The evaluation also ncbaptist.org/strategy. • Mon., April 15, 7-8:30 p.m. 1. How are the members of your includes surveys being sent to all pas- Questions about the strategy or the Woodlawn Baptist Church, 440 7th St. church sharing the gospel differently tors and associational mission strategists evaluation may be directed to Brian Davis Pl. SW, Conover, NC 28613 now compared to five years ago? across the state and personal interviews by email at [email protected] or by call- • Tues., April 16, 7-8:30 p.m. 2. How has the BSC’s strategy em- with associational mission strategists ing (800) 395-5102, ext. 5506. Marijuana legalization, hemp use advance in U.S. Child sex probe leads In 2018, according to the National Council of State to Ky. church worker’s arrest By DIANA CHANDLER | Baptist Press Legislatures (NCSL), 21 states considered bills to legal- Kentucky Today & Biblical Recorder egislation decriminalizing simple possession ize recreational marijuana use among adults. In Septem- of recreational marijuana in New Mexico is ber 2018, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana former Louisville church employee was arrested Lawaiting Gov. Michelle Grisham’s signature, days Islands, where 50,000 people reside, became the first A March 14 and accused of sending sexual photos after Florida lifted a ban on medical marijuana ciga- U.S. territory to legalize marijuana use and commercial and videos to an investigator in an undercover probe. rettes. sales through the legislative process, MedicalMarijua- Nicholas James Lynch, 33, who worked at Highview In related corporate news, CVS Pharmacy announced naInc.com reported. Medical marijuana is legal in 33 Baptist Church as a research assistant and curriculum it will begin selling health and beauty products contain- states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, Guam and the writer, was arrested following a month-long investi- ing cannabidiol oil (CBD) from the hemp plant, a close U.S. Virgin Islands, which legalized the product in Janu- gation, according to the Kentucky attorney general’s relative of marijuana legalized nationally in December ary, according to MedicalMarijuanaInc.com. office. 2018 that does not produce marijuana’s characteristic CVS announced March 20 it will begin selling prod- Through a social media app, Lynch sent a minor euphoria. ucts made with CBD from hemp at 800 of its pharmacies sexual images of himself and requested sexual images of New Mexico lawmakers approved a bill March 15 to in eight states, namely Alabama, California, Colorado, the minor. allow first-offense possession of a half-ounce of mari- Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland and Tennessee. He also said he discussed meeting the minor to juana with no criminal penalty, but allowing fines of Items will include creams, sprays and roll-ons mar- perform sex acts and livestreamed video of himself to up to $50 on a case-by-case basis. Possession of larger keted “as an alternative source of relief,” CVS told NBC detectives while he engaged in sexual contact, the at- amounts remains subject to jail time, but possession is News. According to the latest poll from Pew Research, torney general’s office said. only deemed a felony at eight ounces or more, according 62 percent of Americans said in 2018 that marijuana use Investigators determined some of Lynch’s illegal com- to the legislation, Senate Bill 323, posted at nmlegis.gov. should be legalized. Only 31 percent favored legalization munications occurred at the church and interviewed Grisham is expected sign the bill into law. in 2000, Pew said. him there where he admitted discussing sex and send- Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill March 18 Legalized marijuana for recreational and medical use ing images to a minor he met online. lifting a ban on smokable medical marijuana. Florida is advancing at the state level, even as marijuana remains In a statement from Aaron Harvie, the senior pastor voters approved medical marijuana use in 2016, but the illegal in federal law for all purposes. Generally, the U.S. at Highview, the church said it was “devastated” about state enacted a ban on smokable medical marijuana the government has not imposed the federal criminalization what has happened. following year. A circuit court judge said the ban was of marijuana on states. As of December 2018, recreation- “As far as we know from the limited information illegal in June 2018. al marijuana use was legal in Alaska, California, Colo- we’ve received, the accusations against Nick do not With the legislative advances, recreational marijuana rado, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New involve anyone else associated with Highview Baptist is legal in at least 11 states and Washington D.C. At least Hampshire, Oregon and Vermont, according to NCSL, Church, our school or any of our ministries.” 14 states have decriminalized its use. but new legislative initiatives are fluid. See Arrest page 13 APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 7 4 ways churches can serve adults with special needs

By AARON WILSON | Facts & Trends

teven Watson believes there’s a very practical reason many people don’t go to church – one Sthat has nothing to do with their beliefs. “If we pulled back the doors in our communities, I think we’d be shocked at how many people aren’t go- ing to church because there’s no place for their special needs loved ones to go,” he said. Attending church services can be difficult for indi- viduals with special needs and their caregivers. In 2017, the U.S. Census reported that 14.2 million people age 18 and older had difficulty doing errands alone, such as visiting a doctor’s office or shopping, due to a physical, mental, or emotional condition. It’s for this reason that Watson has dedicated the last 28 years of his life to teaching the Joy Class – a disciple- ship class for adults with special needs – at First Baptist Church in Asheboro, N.C. Founded in 1968, the Joy Class celebrated its golden anniversary this past year, making it the longest-stand- Founded in 1968, the Joy Class at First Baptist Church in Asheboro, N.C., celebrated its golden anniversary this past year, making it the ing special needs class in the Baptist State Convention of longest-standing special needs class in the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. (Photo by Tanner Marquis) North Carolina. An elementary physical education teacher, Watson 11 a.m. worship service. Joy Class members are then “We follow the flow of biblical history from Genesis says he’s never had any formal training in special needs picked up by their caregivers or are driven back to their to Revelation so adults with special needs can get a clear care. While he believes such training is valuable, he says homes by church volunteers. picture of how the books of the Bible work together and churches that are waiting on expert volunteers to appear Watson hopes other churches will be inspired to start why it was necessary for God to send Jesus to be our before starting a special needs ministry are missing out. their own ministries to serve people with special needs Savior,” McCrary said. “I’ve never had formal training in special needs stud- and their caregivers. LifeWay also offers an ongoing ies, and yet I’ve done this for 28 years.” he said. To that end, he offers the follow- “One of the main things I special needs curriculum for kids “You just get in there and do it. I never walk out of ing tips he’s learned from almost called Special Buddies and Vacation the Joy Class feeling like I gave more than I got.” three decades of special needs try to teach the class is that Bible School resources for individu- Typical Sunday mornings for the Joy Class begin with ministry. they can be leaders and that als with special needs. a van ministry that picks up individuals with special 1. Teach to empower. 3. Treat individuals with needs from their homes which includes group homes. The Joy Class makes a point of they can do for others.” special needs as essential to the Other members of the class are dropped off by families encouraging adults with special – Steven Watson church. who either attend First Baptist or go to other local needs to be actively involved in Individuals with special needs churches that don’t offer special needs ministries. serving others in the church and local community. should be seen as a vital part of the church instead of “We begin with a time of fellowship, just seeing Some of the classes’ activities include preparing back- merely a project of the church. how everyone is doing and catching up on the week,” to-school supplies for local students, packing shoeboxes As such, churches can glean from Watson’s practice Watson said. for Operation Christmas Child and offering goodie bags of providing a class specifically tailored for adults with He notes that in a special needs context, this time to college students who attend an annual leadership special needs while still letting them attend regular usually consists of more than just chitchat and pleasant- conference held in town. services. ries. The class also provides restaurant gift cards for This allows individuals with special needs to receive “If you ask me how I’m doing, I’ll say my life is fine military families and gives money to the church for van custom-tailored discipleship training in a small group and move on,” Watson said. upkeep. setting while also letting them participate in fellowship “But if you ask a person with special needs how “One of the main things I try to teach the class is that and corporate worship as members of the larger church they’re doing on a day they’re upset, you better be ready they can be leaders and that they can do for others,” body. to hear about it. That kind of honesty is what Christian- Watson said. “We even have a class member who assists with tak- ity is all about.” “Often times, individuals with special needs are ing up the offering in the worship service as an usher,” After fellowship, the class has a snack and moves into given things and helped. Watson said, “and our class participates each year in Bible study. For more than two decades, the Joy Class “We all like to be helped,” he says, “but we’re trying missions offerings including the Lottie Moon Christmas has used LifeWay’s Access curriculum for adults with to empower them to do, to lead, and to know how good Offering.” special needs. it feels to help others.” 4. Finally, don’t wait for the perfect time to start. “We love the practical stories the curriculum pro- 2. Lean on a special needs curriculum. For Watson, there’s nothing special about Christians vides our students – stories that are based off modern, Watson emphasizes the value of having a curriculum reaching out to individuals with special needs. Rather, real-life situations,” Watson says. “Our class members geared to teach individuals with special needs. he sees it as a simple outworking of the Great Commis- love learning how to bring the lesson home by drawing “What I really like about the curriculum we use is sion. examples from their own lives and from the teachers’ that it’s not overly scholarly given the audience it’s writ- “Our true calling is to go out into all of the world lives.” ten for,” Watson said, “but it’s scholarly enough that making disciples,” Watson said. “And there’s a special After a time of prayer, the class attends the church’s I – as a student of the Bible for 45 years – always learn needs community in every community. something each time I teach it.” “There’s never a perfect time to start a special needs ADVERTISE in the LifeWay has produced ongoing resources for adults ministry,” he said. with special needs since 1986 says Dwayne McCrary, “You just have to do it.” Biblical Recorder team leader for ongoing adult group resources. Ac- (EDITOR’S NOTE – Aaron Wilson is associate editor for cess, the curriculum Watson’s class uses, follows a five- Facts & Trends where this article first appeared. Used by (919) 459-5691 year plan through the Bible using a story-telling model. permission.) 8 APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Baptist Children’s Homes launches foster care ministry

By BLAKE RAGSDALE | BCH Communications

he number 16,796 garners attention quickly. It is the number of North Carolina children removed T from their families in 2018 and placed in the foster care system. In response to the growing need, Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina (BCH) has added family foster care to its continuum of services. This new ministry provides the training and vital support needed for a family to become a successful, licensed foster home. “It is an exciting step for us because we are part- nering with families who have felt God’s call to open their homes, and their hearts, to children desperate for hope,” says BCH president Michael C. Blackwell. BCH consistently receives referrals from statewide social services departments, the governmental agen- cies that intervene when it is no longer safe for a child or siblings to live with guardians. These children come to BCH where Christian, professionally-trained cottage parents care for them in family cottage homes. “There are times when our cottages are the perfect option for children, especially large sibling groups who would be separated otherwise,” says Keith Henry, BCH chief operating officer. “But there are also children who are best suited to live in one of our family foster care homes. Both options allow us to better serve more children – children who we would not have been able to care for previously.” BCH has trained 37 married couples and 36 children Providence Baptist Church in Harrisburg, N.C., held a time for foster families to dedicate themselves and the church to raise their foster are living in those licensed BCH family foster homes. A children in a Christian environment. Families were trained through the Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina. (Contributed photos) number of those families are members of North Carolina Baptist churches who have partnered with BCH and means of sharing the gospel with the children. “This Christian environment. The church pledged to sup- begun foster care ministries as part of their missions is a gospel opportunity as we show the children they port the families both practically and financially and to efforts. are valued. It is an applicable way the church can share be welcoming to the boys and girls coming into their “God is opening doors for BCH and North Carolina God’s love with them.” homes. Baptists to serve children and families together in a way The foster care ministry at Providence “Not everyone will be able to foster, but that no one else can,” Henry said. “BCH provides the Baptist, under the leadership of senior pastor we can all give a dollar,” Cashwell said. “So, training, licensing and consistent support while the John Cashwell, has blossomed through this we’ve set up a scholarship to help the fami- partnering church comes alongside their foster families same partnership. Staci Powell, who leads the lies with needs such as bedding and other to provide additional support and Christian commu- church’s foster care ministry alongside Cas- materials. What we are ultimately doing is an nity.” sandra Overcash, recalls feeling a “burden” extension of BCH’s mission of ‘sharing hope Two of those churches, Providence Baptist Church in for the church to be involved in foster care. ... changing lives’ by partnering together.” Harrisburg and Salem Baptist Church in Dobson, have “We started talking with John about this Henry closely monitors the increasing couples in their congregations who have come forward need in our community, and we began to needs and sees an overwhelmed state child and become foster families through BCH’s training and meet with other organizations to find out welfare system. licensing process. how to license families who want to foster,” JOHN CASHWELL “There’s not enough staff, resources and, “We saw such a large need in our community and Powell explained. “Not long after, John most of all, safe placement options for the knew the church could step up to meet it,” said David learned that BCH was doing foster care and offering children in the system. This is why our vision is to have Powell, senior pastor at Salem Baptist. training classes. It was perfect because of the trust our BCH family foster care staff members and church sup- Currently, seven children have been placed with fos- church has in BCH and how we are intimately involved port covering all 100 North Carolina counties to help ter families from Salem’s congre- with them.” children no matter where they are.” gation. Six of those children are Four families were licensed through initial trainings. For churches or individuals interested in fostering siblings – two siblings each living During a time of dedication and prayer, the families through Baptist Children’s Homes, call (800) 476-3669 with three families. pledged to raise the children placed in their care in a or visit bchfostercare.org. “Because this happens through the church, it creates a wonderful way for brothers and sisters to see Billy Graham papers could come to Charlotte one another and worship together Biblical Recorder emphasis is evangelism. The requested records include – they even celebrate birthdays sermon transcripts, personal correspondence, press together,” Powell explains. he Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) clippings, oral histories of the organization and other “There is also an opportunity for T has requested that Wheaton College in Whea- items. The move would consolidate the Billy Graham co-parenting between the families DAVID POWELL ton, Ill., transfer the papers of the late Billy Graham Library’s holdings of paper historical records, audio because of the sibling connection. and historic records of the BGEA to the Billy Graham and video recordings and digital materials. “College This is not something that is typically going to happen Library in Charlotte, N.C., according to press releases leaders are in communication with the BGEA regard- without the Lord’s hand.” March 28. Wheaton is home to the Billy Graham ing its planned consolidation,” a spokesperson for Powell sees the church’s role and commitment as a Center, a research and training center whose primary Wheaton said. APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 9 Clint Darst appointed as 2020 N.C. Pastors’ Conf. VP of 14 people but now averages 165 in Sun- By SETH BROWN | BR Content Editor day worship. onnie Parrott, pastor of Christ Darst described the church as multi- RCommunity Church in Huntersville, generational and multi-ethnic, reporting N.C., and president of the 2020 N.C. Pas- 16 baptisms since its founding. tors’ Conference, announced that he has “Clint’s leadership in pastoral minis- appointed Clint Darst, pastor of King’s try and his commitment to the great com- Cross Church in Greensboro, mission gives him the credibility to serve as vice president. Attendees of in this important role,” said SBC Women’s Leadership Network the 2018 N.C. Pastors’ Confer- Parrott. “I’m grateful for Clint ence voted to enable Parrott to and his willingness to serve to offer training, support appoint a vice president since our convention in this way.” no nominations were made for Alongside Parrott and Biblical Recorder ern Baptist Convention,” said Whitfield. Darst, Zack Williams will help the 2020 role. The steering committee includes lead the N.C. Pastors’ Confer- Parrott described Darst as a new initiative to promote Whitfield; Joy Allmond, managing editor ence as the secretary-treasurer “proven church planter” and a collaboration and provide of Facts & Trends at LifeWay Christian for 2019-2020. He was elected “young leader in our coopera- A resources for Southern Baptist Resources; Michelle “Missie” Branch, tive Baptist work.” in 2018 to serve a two-year leaders launched March 25 with a specific SEBTS assistant dean of students and term. Darst served as the lead CLINT DARST focus on training and supporting women director of graduate life; Donna Gaines, Chip Hannah, pastor of pastor of Freedom Church in in leadership. The SBC Women’s Leader- speaker, author and founder of ARIS- Peace Baptist Church in White- Lincolnton from 2013-17. Prior ship Network (WLN) developed as an E2Read; Elizabeth Graham, director of ville, is president of the 2019 N.C. Pas- to that, he was a church planting intern “outgrowth” of relationships formed events for the Ethics & Religious Liberty tors’ Conference and Jonathan Blaylock, and evangelism director at Imago Dei amid ongoing ministry in the Southern Commission (ERLC); Susie Hawkins, pastor of West Canton Baptist Church in Church in Raleigh and director for Cam- Baptist Convention (SBC), said Amy speaker, author and board member Canton, is vice president. pus Outreach in the Piedmont-Triad area. Whitfield, a member of the group’s for Baptist Global Response; Christine This year’s event will be held Nov. He and his wife, Rachel, have three steering committee. Hoover, author and ERLC trustee; Jacki 10-11 in conjunction with the Baptist State children. Freedom Church sent the The WLN hosts a blog, a podcast King, speaker and women’s ministry Convention of North Carolina’s annual Darsts and other families to start King’s called “At the Table,” a Facebook leader; Kathy Litton, director of planter meeting at the Koury Convention Center Cross in the summer of 2017. group and has an event scheduled spouse development for the North Ameri- in Greensboro. The church launched with a core team during the 2019 SBC annual meeting can Mission Board; Julie Masson, ERLC in Birmingham, Ala., to provide an marketing and social media manager; Ka- Roger Barnes is 2021 Pastors’ opportunity for women to connect with tie McCoy, assistant professor of theol- one another. In its first four days, the ogy in women’s studies at Southwestern Conference candidate Facebook group garnered more than 500 Baptist Theological Seminary; Lori Mc- members and thousands of interactions. Daniel, manager of church initiatives in Biblical Recorder Network of Baptist Churches, formerly Whitfield said the response has been mobilization at the International Mission called Wilmington Baptist Association. overwhelming. Board; Carol Pipes, director of corporate ameron McGill, pastor of The Lake Before coming to Moore’s Creek five “Women have always served and led communications at LifeWay; and Alicia CChurch in White Lake, plans to years ago, Barnes served as a minister of in our churches and their respective com- Wong, associate professor of women’s nominate Roger Barnes as president of music at Forest Hills church in Burgaw munities,” she told the Biblical Recorder. ministry at Gateway Seminary. the 2021 North Carolina Pastors’ Con- for 14 years. He and his wife of 31 years, “What we haven’t had is an easily acces- Litton said in a statement to the Re- ference at this November’s meeting in Wendy, are natives of Wilmington, N.C. sible place where women can learn and corder that women have always been Greensboro. They have two adult children grow from other practitioners.” “faithful leaders” in the SBC, but their In an email to the Biblical and a grandson. Whitfield is the director of market- engagement in church and denomina- Recorder, McGill said, “I am “Roger is a shining example ing and communications at Southeastern tional life is increasing. honored to nominate a bi-vo- of what a bi-vocational pastor Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS) in “Previously we have had no environ- cational pastor who stands on can accomplish, even in a com- Wake Forest, N.C. ment to network with each other across the Word, stands for his faith, munity where neighbors are A small group of women met during the domains in which we lead and serve,” and stands with our conven- separated by miles rather than the 2018 SBC annual meeting to discuss she said. “We want to change that. tion to be the strongest force feet and livestock outnumber “the need for women leaders to connect “We long to collaborate and learn in the history of this conven- people 10 to 1,” McGill said. with each other for mentoring, equipping from each other, to be mentored by a tion for reaching people with “He is leading his church to a and networking,” she said. A “virtual leader who is two generations above us the message of the gospel of renewed commitment to the mentoring cohort” emerged from that or to be challenged by innovative young the Lord Jesus Christ.” ROGER BARNES Great Commission, to making meeting, which consisted of monthly, thinkers and leaders. We have watched McGill, a former president disciples, and to reaching livestreamed teaching sessions led by our brothers connect and strengthen of the Baptist State Convention the nations from this rural crossroads various female leaders on a range of top- each other – we would benefit from the of North Carolina, noted that 35 percent church.” ics. “The benefits were instantly seen,” same. This network allows us to sharpen of the state’s Baptist churches are served Barnes is the first announced candi- said Whitfield, “and the desire to form a each in order that we all flourish for the by bi-vocational ministers. date for the Pastors’ Conference. larger network grew.” sake of the gospel.” Barnes is the pastor of Moore’s The meeting is scheduled for Nov. 10- The purpose is to organize a group of J.D. Greear, SBC president and pas- Creek Baptist Church in Currie. He also 11 at Koury Convention Center in Greens- women to support and help one another tor of The Summit Church in Raleigh- serves as the moderator of the Cape Fear boro. develop as leaders, she said, not gather a Durham, N.C., endorsed the WLN in a small circle of speakers and bloggers that statement on the network’s website. others “come and watch.” The inaugural WLN event is sched- “Our ultimate goal is to strengthen the uled June 11 at 8:30 p.m. in Birmingham, Visit engagement of women across the South- Ala. Visit sbcwomen.net . 10 News/Opinion APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists ‘Pray SBC’ on Facebook connects prayer leaders

and the church they represent and enter Phyllis Ingram, a prayer ministry Now the SBC LIFE article and a PDF of By ERIN ROACH | Baptist Press their church’s seven-digit SBC ID num- leader at First Baptist Montgomery and the War Room prayer plan are posted on rayer leaders across Southern ber, which is used by the church clerk a member of the SBC Executive Commit- the Pray SBC Facebook page. Baptist life have a new opportu- or pastor to submit an Annual Church tee, told Baptist Press that since the topic Schofield is hopeful about the eternal Pnity to connect through “Pray Profile. of sexual abuse gained traction in the implications of the Facebook group. SBC.” Launched March 18, Pray SBC is All group members are encouraged SBC early this year she has been “grieved “I’m excited about the possibilities of a Facebook group for members to share to introduce themselves, ask questions, and praying for repentance” among prayer leaders being encouraged, about expertise, ask questions and offer ideas share ideas and dive into discussions, churches and among their members. seeing the activity of God online – what to “foster a culture of Kingdom-focused Davenport said. “But now I see that another sin is He’s doing here, what He’s doing there prayer toward revival and spiritual awak- Chris Schofield, director of the prayer prayerlessness among the church,” In- – and how that might encourage them ening,” according to the group’s descrip- office at the Baptist State Convention of gram said. “... God is calling His people to adopt an approach or a method, or an tion. The “C” represents a Southern North Carolina, told BP that PrayerLink’s to repentance and prayer so He can bring idea might be shared that will encourage Baptist Community of churches praying goal with the Pray SBC Facebook group is revival and spiritual awakening. From the and will result in more and more people in concert with one another. to move the convention toward a culture SBC LIFE article, the prayer leaders and seeking the Lord,” Schofield said. The page will be maintained by SBC of prayer focused on Kingdom activity. pastors that have reached out to FBC for Aside from Facebook, more informa- PrayerLink, a network of prayer lead- “We need the Lord desperately in a copy of the prayer plan has been amaz- tion about prayer ministry in the conven- ers from Southern Baptist Convention revival and spiritual awakening, and this ing.” tion is available at sbcprayerlink.org. entities, state conventions, associations, group is very committed and devoted to ethnic fellowships and local churches. doing whatever it is we can to help fan “The idea for Pray SBC came about as those flames of God’s activity in calling Cooperative Continued from page 2 members of SBC and PrayerLink leader- His people to return to Him in godliness ship discussed the amazing platform and holiness and to seek Him with all Mission Board (IMB). That’s an enor- Offering for North American Missions, social media provides for mobilizing their heart,” said Schofield, who serves mous investment, and we are incredibly we are giving to a powerful and proven prayer,” said Ronda Davenport, prayer in a volunteer capacity as executive direc- grateful to stand with Southern Baptists method for supporting the Great Com- ministry coordinator at First Baptist tor of PrayerLink. in support of all IMB missionaries world- mission. Church in Woodstock, Ga., and a Pray Lorna Bius, a North American Mission wide. This is what the CP has always been SBC administrator. Board worker and PrayerLink leader who Closer to home, the North Ameri- about. “We want to make ideas, resources helped brainstorm the idea for Pray SBC, can Mission Board (NAMB) has been a One of the biggest challenges for the and personal connections with other described it as “an online gathering of crucial partner in all of our 43 domestic SBC in the next two decades will be in- prayer leaders available in a Facebook individuals in the SBC who desire to pray church plants. creasing the engagement of a new genera- community because it is an easy and and seek a movement of God across our Then there’s the world-class training tion of churches in our convention. effective avenue to reach many who nation and the world.” provided by our SBC seminaries, which All churches ought to be learning influence prayer,” Davenport told Baptist “The group focuses on prayer influ- has equipped a huge portion of our staff. more about cooperative missions and Press (BP). encers,” Bius said, “whether they are And I can’t ignore the personal debt I giving more to the Cooperative Program. Eight original members spent some staff or non-staff. Our hope is through owe to the SBC as a two-time seminary Because it is our denomination’s primary time populating the page before it interaction and awareness of resources, graduate and former IMB missionary. source of missions funding, we need to opened to new members. individual and corporate prayer will be I could go on – disaster relief, chil- put our money where our mouth is. If we Some of the topics already shared strengthened.” dren’s homes, community outreach, mis- care about reaching the nations, we need include the upcoming National Day of A main impetus for the development sion trip coordination, representation in to show it by equipping our Southern Prayer; resources available through “In of Pray SBC was an article published Washington, D.C., local and state church Baptist entities to keep sending to the All Things Pray,” an SBC prayer resource; in SBC LIFE last fall about the War planting partnerships, aid in work among nations. prayer movements that are springing up Room prayer ministry at First Baptist refugees and immigrant communities – (EDITOR’S NOTE: April 7 is Cooperative around the country; and recommended Church in Montgomery, Ala. all of that, and more, is made possible by Program Sunday in the Southern Baptist Con- books about prayer. The article mentioned that the church our cooperative giving. vention. J.D. Greear is the president of the SBC Church-recognized prayer leaders, uses a specific plan to lead people in When we give through the Coopera- and pastor of The Summit Church in the Ra- both lay leaders and staff, can join by praying through the Word, and the tive Program (CP) as well as the Lottie leigh-Durham, N.C., area. For information searching for Pray SBC on Facebook. church received numerous requests for a Moon Christmas Offering for Interna- about the Cooperative Program, go to sbc.net/ They will need to identify themselves copy of the plan. tional Missions and the Annie Armstrong cp.)

Floyd Continued from page 1

is a man who upholds personal integrity at all costs, nation, saying, “Ronnie Floyd’s passion for prayer and he is highly qualified and looks like the man God has provides visionary leadership at every turn, and lives spiritual awakening, combined with his strong support uniquely prepared for this job.” prayerfully dependent in every decision. for our cooperative mission, his tireless energy, and his Floyd is the author of more than 20 books, includ- “I believe his appointment will prove to be a pivotal demonstrated commitment to raising up the next gen- ing The Power of Prayer and Fasting, 10 Things Every Minister moment among future generations of Southern Baptists. eration make him a unique gift to the SBC at this hour of Needs to Know, Our Last Great Hope: Awakening the Great I’m excited for our cooperative present and future as transition.” Commission, and Living Fit: Make Your Life Count by Pursuing a convention of churches under Dr. Floyd’s excellent Knott, an attorney in Raleigh, N.C., told Baptist a Healthy You. leadership.” Press, “I join my fellow committee members in enthu- He was also the general editor of LifeWay’s Bible Floyd has a long history of SBC leadership, serving as siastically recommending Ronnie Floyd to serve as Studies for Life curriculum from 2013-17. the convention’s president for two terms (2014-16), the president of the Executive Committee. He loves the Floyd earned degrees from Howard Payne University SBC Pastors’ Conference president in 1997 and chairman SBC. His church is number three of [47,000] churches in in Brownwood, Texas, and Southwestern Baptist Theo- of the EC from 1995-97. He also led the Great Commis- [Cooperative Program] giving. logical Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. sion Resurgence Task Force in 2009-10 and participated “He has been chairman of the Executive Committee, He has been married to his wife, Jeana, for more in the Program and Structure Committee of the SBC in president of the Convention, and is a mature man in his than 40 years. They have two sons and seven grandchil- the mid-1990s. fifth decade of service. He is not uprooting and coming dren. Floyd is also current president of the National Day SBC President J.D. Greear, endorsed Floyd’s nomi- to the EC in order to go somewhere else. In my opinion, of Prayer. APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 11

NEWS BRIEFS 8-year-old refugee credits Tellers named for 2019 SBC include two from N.C. God for chess win (Baptist Press) Southern Baptist Convention President J.D. Greear has named tell- ers for the SBC 2019 annual meeting June 11-12 in Birmingham. By DIANA CHANDLER | Baptist Press “The Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting takes the efforts and selfl ess contributions of hundreds of volun- Christian Nigerian family seeking teers,” Greear said. “Each committee member plays a specifi c A religious asylum in the U.S. credits role in the success of the convention. The tellers committee God for their son’s New York statewide is no different. Their efforts to ensure our elections and votes chess victory and their new apartment are accurate and trustworthy are worthy of our honor. I want after two years of homelessness. to thank them for their service and the integrity they will Tanitoluwa “Tani” Adewumi won bring to the task at hand.” the New York State Primary Chess Stephanie Orr, member of First Baptist Church in Chipley, tournament in his age group and Third-grader Tani Adewumi and his family, seeking Fla., and board member of the Florida Baptist Children’s is preparing for the U.S. national religious asylum in the U.S., credit God for Tani’s championship in May. Tani only learned Home will serve as chairperson. Ray Carr, pastor of Baptist RAY CARR state chess championship and the family’s new Center Church in Clayton, N.C., has been appointed vice the game a year ago. apartment. (gofundme.com photo) chair. “He said with God all things are pos- One other person was nominated from N.C.: Marty Childers, missional strategist, sible for me and my family,” Tani’s father on the fl oor of a homeless shelter and Yates Baptist Association, Durham, N.C. Kayode Adewumi told News 4 New York. participates in his school’s chess club. Tani’s story has gone viral and drawn He’s won several local awards. Credentials Committee chair, vice chair named more than $200,000 through a GoFund- Kayode rents a car to drive for Uber (Baptist Press) Betsy Gomez of Irving, Texas, has been named to chair the Cre- Me page Tani’s chess coach established. and is certifi ed to sell real estate, and dentials Committee for the June 11-12 Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) annual Hearing of the family’s two-year stay in Tani’s mother Oluwatoyin Adewumi meeting in Birmingham, Ala., SBC President J.D. Greear announced March 25. a Manhattan homeless shelter, a donor has passed a home health aide course, Gomez is part of Aviva Nuestros Corazones, the Hispanic outreach of the Revive arranged for the family to move into an according to news reports. Immediately Our Hearts women’s ministry. Her husband Moises serves as the Spanish pastor at apartment. after an interview March 18 on NBC’s To- First Irving (Texas) Church. She is pursuing a master’s degree in women’s ministries “It’s a wonderful day, because God has day, the family moved into an apartment. through Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C. Originally made it happen,” Kayode told News 4. “The U.S. is a dream country,” Kayode from the Dominican Republic, she is the mother of two boys and is expecting her The Adewumis are seeking safety in told Kristof. “Thank God I live in the fi rst daughter. the U.S. from Boko Haram, an Islamic greatest city in the world, which is New Muche Ukegbu, lead pastor of The Brook Church in Miami, will serve as vice terrorist group that has killed an esti- York, New York.” chair. He is married to Diamone and has three children. mated 30,000 people, mostly Christians, Tani’s story has been told internation- The full Credentials Committee is set to be announced by Greear in the days since 2011 in Nigeria and surrounding ally since his championship, with stories ahead. states. Boko Haram, along with militant written from Africa, the United Kingdom Fulani herdsmen, are widely accused of and elsewhere posted on social media Timothy+Barnabas in 25th year for pastors, spouses attempted Christian genocide. platforms. (NAMB) “I heard pastors share stories about how they were close to hanging it “I don’t want to lose any loved ones,” Among those congratulating Tani up, and I just knew there had to be some way to inspire them to stay the course.” Kayode told New York Times columnist is Franklin Graham, president of Samari- That desire led Johnny Hunt to create what would become Timothy+Barnabas, Nicholas Kristof. tan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evange- two of the apostle Paul’s coworkers, with Timothy representing instruction and Tani and his family arrived in New listic Association. Barnabas encouragement. The Timothy+Barnabas Retreat is now in its 25th year of York in 2017. “I feel American,” Kristof “Congratulations to NY State chess ministering to pastors and their spouses. quoted Tani March 16, a week after the champion Tani Adewumi,” Graham “God provided the vision to use Timothy+Barnabas as a way to encourage and tournament. “I want to be the youngest tweeted March 20. “Pray for [Tani’s instruct pastors and their wives as they surrendered to God’s call to serve the local grandmaster.” family] as they’ve applied for religious church,” said Hunt, longtime pastor of First Baptist Church, Woodstock, Ga., who Tani has practiced chess the past year asylum.” now serves as the North American Mission Board’s (NAMB) senior vice president of evangelism and leadership. NAMB began partnering with Timothy+Barnabas six years ago, which allowed OPPORTUNITY CORNER the ministry to expand and offer scholarships to pastors who otherwise could not afford to attend. In 2018, Hunt placed Timothy+Barnabas with the North American North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry Mission Board in the hopes that the event would continue for many years to come. (NCBAM) is hosting a Senior Adult Cel- Two more Timothy+Barnabas Retreats remain in 2019 – one in Palm Springs, Ca- ebration May 6-7 at Pritchard Memorial lif., Sept. 3-5, and another in Branson, Mo., Sept. 18-20. Visit timothybarnabas.org. Baptist Church in Charlotte. On May 6, dinner and entertainment High winds damage Illinois Baptist building begin at 5:30 p.m. The celebration con- (Illinois Baptist State Association) No one was hurt, but the roof of the Illinois tinues May 7 at 9:30 a.m. with music, a Baptist State Association (IBSA) building in Springfi eld was in poor condition after keynote address and ministry highlights high winds blew part of it off March 14. from NCBAM. fering will be accepted May 7. Learn more A gust of wind blew a section of the building’s roof into its north parking area Registration for May 6 is $20; a love of- and register at ncbam.org/aaim. around 4:20 p.m. The part that blew off was the rubber membrane of the roof along with the underlying Styrofoam that serves as part of the drainage system. High winds continued to blow smaller pieces into the parking lot over the next few Submissions hours. The state association’s staff heard a loud popping sound just before the sec- The Biblical Recorder is pleased to publish staff changes, church news and tion of roof crashed into the parking lot. Nearly 50 people – IBSA staff and building events with a statewide interest. Please send information immediately tenants – were inside when the incident occurred. following an event, or for opportunity corner, send at least two months Firefi ghters evacuated the building, but the IBSA Building was open during regu- in advance. Include cost and contact information in your email or lar offi ce hours March 15. correspondence. Send to [email protected] or Biblical Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Full stories available online at BRnow.org. Cary, NC 27512. Call (919) 847-2127. 12 APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Former IMB missionary leader Steve Smith, 57, dies

By MARY JANE WELCH | Baptist Press T4T, short for “Training for Train- Brady shared a statement Smith had University in Waco, Texas, and his mas- ers,” integrates evangelism, discipleship, written to family and friends six months ter of divinity at Southwestern Baptist teve Smith, who fi lled key church planting and leadership develop- earlier as he struggled with the pain of Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. leadership roles in Asia with the ment and is now used around the world, his cancer: “After two hours of lying He received his master and doctorate SSouthern Baptist International including in the United States. awake, reading and praying, God sum- of theology from the University of South Mission Board (IMB), died March 13 after John Brady, IMB vice president for marized the truth as it relates to my life Africa. a long illness. He was 57. global engagement, said of Smith: “Steve in three phrases: During his university and seminary Smith and his wife Laura served with was a man who really wanted to delight • Amazing past (Ephesians 2:10) training, Smith sought out opportuni- IMB for 18 years, always focused on parts the Lord with his life. He actually valued • Blessed and purposeful present ties to learn ministry through a variety of the world where the gospel was little that more than personal success.” (Ephesians 1:3ff) of churches, including rural Vaughan known. He began his service in East “When we seek to delight the Lord, • Unimaginably good future (2 Corin- Baptist Church, where he was pastor, Asia and was later named to direct work we are truly successful,” Brady said. thians 4:17).” and Wedgwood Baptist Church in Fort among Southeast Asian peoples. He also “I’ve seen Steve take some pretty tough After offi cially retiring from IMB in Worth, where he taught Sunday School. served as a consultant on church-planting situations where he appeared to pay a bit 2016, Smith continued his commitment After seminary he and Laura moved to movements for other areas. of a price, but it was because he wanted to multiplying disciples, churches, lead- the inner city of Los Angeles for 10 years Smith was involved in a church- to delight God more than to appear suc- ers and movements as vice president of where they planted and pastored North planting movement in East Asia. He and cessful.” multiplication for East-West Ministries, University Park Church under the tute- colleague Ying Kai wrote T4T: A Disciple- During the time he has known Steve global movement catalyst for Beyond, and lage of Thom Wolf, then pastor of Church ship Re-Revolution. The book detailed the and Laura, Brady said, he has come to co-lead facilitator of the 24:14 Coalition. on Brady (now known as Mosaic). biblical principles behind church-plant- know them as godly people, “loving the Smith, born on Hamilton Air Force Besides T4T, Smith has written Spirit ing movements and a process developed Lord, loving getting to the lost and mak- Base in California, grew up in Lafayette, Walk: The Extraordinary Power of Acts for by Kai and his wife. ing quite a difference with their lives.” La., where his family was active in First Ordinary People and the No Place Left saga Baptist Church. The summer after his comprised of two novels, a missions senior year in high school when Smith thriller for people who would otherwise Brown Continued from page 1 was applying to serve with IMB, he wrote be uninterested in missions literature. that he realized God wanted him in full- Smith also wrote a regular column in Mis- Before joining the Recorder’s staff in source of information for its readers,” he time Christian ministry. “I surrendered sion Frontiers magazine. Smith is survived 2015, he was a writer and researcher for said in an email statement. all of myself,” Smith said. “From that by his wife Laura and three grown sons: Docent Research Group and owned a “During his tenure as editor, Allan point on I have desired to follow His will Cris, David and Josh; and two grandsons. graphic design business. Blume has raised the Recorder’s profi le wholeheartedly.” (EDITOR’S NOTE – Mary Jane Welch has “Southern Baptist news outlets are as a trusted news source through its Smith completed his undergraduate long written about missions and edited missions important,” Brown told the search com- quality printed edition while expand- degree in New Testament Greek at Baylor publications and websites.) mittee. “They play a vital role in South- ing its online presence. The Baptist State ern Baptist life by providing reliable Convention of North Carolina enjoys its information – something that is essential partnership with the Recorder, and we to our cooperative effort. We live in an look forward to continuing our work era of #FakeNews, and confi dence in together in advancing God’s Kingdom as media is low. In that context, the Biblical Seth Brown leads the publication into the Recorder has made trust a key value. We future,” said Hollifi eld. promote truth and clarity. Our goal is to Nate Jones, chairman of the Record- be a light shining in darkness.” er’s board of directors said, “I support In a statement to the Recorder, Danny the unanimous vote of the board to elect Akin, president of SEBTS said, “I believe Seth Brown as the next editor of the Bib- North Carolina has the fi nest state paper lical Recorder. I believe it is a great day in the Southern Baptist Convention. when we elect someone to take the Re- Under the leadership of Allan Blume, it corder to the next level.” has achieved a reputation for journalistic Todd Unzicker is a former sports excellence second to none. editor and journalist who now serves “With Allan’s retirement, I am excited in pastoral leadership at The Summit that the Biblical Recorder will now be led Church in Raleigh-Durham. by Seth Brown. What a superb choice! I “There has not been a more effective believe he will provide the same out- and honest investigative Baptist reporter standing leadership we have come to the last several years than Seth Brown,” expect in the BR. I see continued bright Unzicker said in an email to the Recorder. days on the horizon for North Carolina “In an age of ‘fake news’ and high levels Baptists under Seth’s direction.” of media distrust, Baptists can rest Milton A. Hollifi eld Jr., executive assured that Seth will present the full director-treasurer of the Baptist State truth. He has earned great respect from Convention of North Carolina said he val- his peers and approaches stories with ues the Recorder’s mission to keep “North pastoral care while diligently seeking Carolina Baptists and others informed the truth at all times. … it is hard to fi nd about missions and ministry endeavors a more trustworthy person than Seth taking place in North Carolina, across the Brown.” country and around the world.” At the October 2018 board of direc- “The Recorder is one of the oldest news tors’ meeting Blume announced his journals in Southern Baptist life, and it retirement effective May 31. Brown will continues to be a valuable and reliable assume the lead role June 1. APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 13

AROUND THE STATE Arrest Continued from page 6

Obituary Staff changes The church said it would be transpar- year, a spokesperson for the seminary DONALD WILLIS, 75, of Belwood, DARYL C. CORNETT was called to ent and share appropriate information told the Biblical Recorder. died March 22 after a battle with cancer. Aberdeen First Baptist Church as senior with its members. “In any situation where a student A graduate of Gardner Webb College pastor January 2019. He previously served “We are shocked by the nature of the is subject to criminal charges, or any (now university), he attended South- as senior pastor at First Baptist Church, accusations, but we also know that we serious moral charge, and/or their local eastern Seminary. He pastored several Hazard, Ky. (2008-2018). He has served live in a fallen and broken world and we church rescinds their affi rmation, that churches, Mt. Harmony Baptist Church, churches in both Kentucky and northern pray for Nick,” the statement said. “We student is withdrawn immediately until Connelly Springs, N.C.; Rock Springs Mississippi in a variety of roles for 30 a re cooperating fully as the investigation the matter is resolved,” SBTS said in a Baptist Church, Blacksburg, S.C.; Sha- years, including youth, recreation, educa- and legal process unfold.” statement to the Recorder. ron Baptist Church, Iron Station; United tion and pastor. He holds both the master Lynch is a former doctoral student (EDITOR’S NOTE – This article was fi rst Baptist Church, and Mt. Vernon Baptist of divinity and doctor of philosophy de- at The Southern Baptist Theological published at KentuckyToday.com and has Church, Vale, N.C. He also served as grees from Southern Seminary. Daryl also Seminary in Louisville, Ky. He was not been edited by Biblical Recorder staff. Used director of missions for South Mountain serves as a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force enrolled in any courses for this academic by permission.) Baptist Association (SMBA) and on the Reserve, holding the rank of m ajor. He board of directors for the Southern Bap- and his wife, Cindy, have two children. CHURCH NEWS tist Convention. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, ANDY HUGHES was called to First Ruth Stringfellow Willis; son, Phillip Baptist Church of Pilot Mountain in Feb. Willis of Kernersville; daughter, Cath- 2019. Andy is currently pursuing a doctor erine White of Belwood; brother, Roger of philosophy degree in humanities with Willis of Raleigh; sister, Mary Lee Jones a concentration in philosophy. He teaches of Belwood; and four grandchildren. an online ethics class as part of the Surry Memorials to: SMBA, 3639 NC-18, Vale, Community College program. Andy and NC 28168, or to Carolina Caring, 3975 his wife Tonya have been married 17 years Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658. and have three children. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE EASTER PEOPLE

uring Easter, we celebrate the res- Just like us, collegiate ministries urrection of our Lord. It’s about have ups and downs. I try hard to Dnew life – His and ours. Jesus follow Jesus every single day. I try was not crucifi ed, buried and raised to submit to His Lordship in my life, West Chowan Baptist Association to life so we can be better versions of surrendering more and more of my ourselves, but so we can be brand new brokenness to Him. And in my own Jo-Ann Mizelle, who served as the West Chowan Baptist Association administrative assistant for 32 creations! strength, I continue to fall short. years, was recognized March 24 during a reception at the association’s Mission Resource Center. People who work with college stu- But Jesus is the consistent One. He is Director of Missions Terry Stockman, left, presented Mizelle with a plaque celebrating her work. More than 175 people attended the service. “For her, this job has always been a calling and not just a job,” dents identify with that newness – that steadfast, never giving up and offering Stockman said. (Contributed photo) starting over – quite often. The tran- me new life every single day. sient nature of college students ensures In the same way, collegiate min- Woman’s Missionary Union of North Carolina things are always starting over. istries grow strong yet wrestle with When asked to do a devotional for the Woman’s Missionary Union of North Carolina (WMU-NC) Executive Most ministers correctly understand weaknesses. College students come, Board meeting earlier this year, Clara Huff, a member of First Baptist Church in Salisbury, was inspired they only have four years with college and they go. Even collegiate ministry to make a donation to the organization. students, but what about community leaders come and go. But just as Jesus “When I was in seminary, I needed some college students who are on a two-year is our constant – always making a way fi nancial help to pay the bill,” she said. She track? for us to start over – the local church wrote the WMU-NC (1959-’60) about her Jeff Humphries of Chalybeate provides consistency in collegiate need, and they provided her with a $375 Springs Baptist Church and James ministry. loan with a note that her debt would be Hedges of The Summit Church, who Leaders come and go, but churches forgiven if the recipient was appointed and are working together to make disciples are there, loving students in the name served on the mission fi eld. Huff, seen here at Wake Tech’s South Campus near of Jesus, calling students to the cross of with WMU-NC executive director-treasurer Fuquay-Varina, have found they only Jesus, proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Amy Boone, was appointed in 1963 at get about one semester with students and stepping into Ridgecrest Conference Center, and her note was canceled Oct. 16, 1963. Huff brought before they move on with their educa- the void to start the note with her to the board meeting tion or enter the workforce. over whenever and shared it with the board, along with a That’s the equivalent of starting over necessary. check for $375 to help “some other woman every six months! Starting over who feels God calling to be a missionary Some people consider that a frus- is part of what it and who needs fi nancial help with getting tration, but there’s a better way to means to be Eas- prepared to do that. I realize this is not a lot of money right now in our time, but in 1960 while I was in understand it. ter people. seminary and in need of fi nancial help, it was a lot of money. I appreciated so much this help from NC. Now I would like to pay back the money even though the debt has been cancelled.” (Contributed photo) EDITOR’S NOTE – Jonathan Yarboro is team leader and strategist for Collegiate Partnerships with the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. Contact (828) 406-3202, or JONATHAN YARBORO [email protected]. Visit 14 Sunday School APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

April 14 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE April 21 God Won’t Forgive This Sin You’ll Never Die Focal passages: Matthew 12:22-32 amazed, which only highlights the won- Focal passages: John 11:25-27; 20:24-29 But how many of us can relate to him? der of God’s work in that moment. Despite our unbelief, Jesus is a high ne of my favorite characteristics Knowing the gravity of what they had elieving and unbelieving schol- priest who can sympathize with our of Jesus is His ability to send just seen, the Pharisees attempted to con- ars alike argue that the resurrec- weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15), and He Oshockwaves across multitudes demn Jesus by accusing Him of casting Btion of Jesus is foundational to sympathized with the apostle Thomas by of people. He offered grace and forgive- out demons through the work of Satan. Christianity. If the resurrection of Jesus appearing before him. ness in the midst of a culture that cov- By making these deliberate did not occur, everything else “Then He said to Thomas, ‘Reach your finger eted religiosity. He destroyed hierarchies claims in rejecting Jesus, the we believe in Christianity does here, and look at My hands and reach your among sinners by challenging those who Pharisees were clearly com- not matter. hand here and put it into My side. Do not be wanted to be first to be last. When others mitting the unpardonable sin. But if Jesus Christ indeed unbelieving, but believing’” (John 20:27). focused on trapping Him, He focused on They committed blasphemy rose from the dead, everything Our Savior knew that Thomas needed freeing others. against the Spirit because they else in Christianity must be to see to believe, but He also calls many Our Savior overturned tables outside rejected the power of the Spirit true, including eternal life for of us to believe without seeing. the temple and washed the feet of the by which Jesus did everything. those who believe. “Jesus said to him, ‘Thomas, because you man who betrayed Him. After exposing the flaws in Jesus clearly states that His have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are Matthew 12:22-32 shows that Jesus’ the Pharisees’ accusations, Je- resurrection makes our own those who have not seen and yet have believed” words were equally as astounding as His sus said something they would DANIELA SANCHEZ resurrection and eternal life (John 20:29). actions. surely never forget. Member, The Summit possible. If we look back at John 11:25-27, we see These passages begin with Jesus “Therefore I say to you, every Church, Durham “I am the resurrection and the that Jesus emphasizes the call to believe showing God’s power through a miracle. sin and blasphemy will be forgiven life. He who believes in Me, though to Martha, just as He did with Thomas. “Then one was brought to Him who was demon- men, but the blasphemy against the he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and Before Jesus does any resurrection work possessed, blind and mute; and He healed him, Spirit will not be forgiven men … either in this believes in Me shall never die” (John 11:25- on behalf of Martha’s brother, Lazarus, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and age or in the age to come” (Matthew 12:31- 26). He tells Martha that He is the source of saw” (Matthew 12:22). 32). Most Christians can agree that know- eternal life. Then He asks her, “Do you This man could neither see his Savior Committing a sin that is unforgiveable ing we will die and rise again is a difficult believe this?” (John 11:26). nor call out to Him, yet the power of God is so weighty that many have wondered concept to understand, let alone believe. Eternal life is possible for anyone in Christ proved to be greater. We don’t if they have ever crossed that line. How Many of us roll our eyes at “Doubting through Jesus Christ’s death and resur- know how many witnesses were present, does this scripture help us address that Thomas” for not believing in Jesus’ resur- rection. but we do know that they were all concern? rection in John 20:24-25. Do you believe this? April 14 EXPLORE THE BIBLE April 21 Commands Saves Focal passage: Mark 9:14-27 and go back to faith or be left unresolved Focal passage: Mark 15:27-39 employees, including Rescorla, were and move on to unbelief.” The coin for unaccounted for. issionaries are amazing Guinness dropped. It was 1960 when he n amazing story of heroism can Rescorla was responsible for saving people. They feel called to go came to faith. be found in Rick Rescorla, chief many lives, even sacrificing himself to Mand risk persecution, prison In Mark 9:14-27, the father’s faith A of security at Morgan Stanley, a save more. Jesus, too, gave Himself as a and even death for the sake of the gospel. comes to the point of almost former business tenant of the sacrifice (Mark 15:31). Well-known author Os Guinness was failing, but the father is World Trade Center. In 1990, Indeed, He continues to save souls born in China while his parents were strengthened by Jesus. he wrote a report to the Port through the Word, if people would “re- spreading the gospel as medical mission- The main focus of the pas- Authority observing the build- pent and believe” (Mark 1:15). The death aries. sage is a desire for the reader ing was open to attack. No and resurrection of Jesus bridges the rift Two of his brothers passed away in to believe. action was taken by the Port created by sin between us and the Father. the 1943 Henan Famine when he was a There may be uncertainties Authority, and an unsuccessful No amount of good works can accom- toddler, and his parents were imprisoned that come along with belief, bombing attempt occurred in plish such a task. throughout his adolescence. but like the father in Mark 9, 1993. Rescorla was just a man, yet Jesus was Doubt seems to have settled in during we should go to Jesus (v. 24), After that incident, Rescorla fully man and fully God (vv. 37, 39). Re- this period of his life due to the amount focus on His power (vv. 25-26) began to think the building scorla did not atone for the sins of those of suffering he witnessed. and pray (v. 29). MIKE PARRY was open to attack by plane as he saved, but Jesus did (2 Corinthians In a biographical profile, Nathan Mar- Prayer played a critical role Member, well. He practiced emergency 5:21). Moreover, Jesus took His Father’s tin records these words from Guinness, in Guinness’s life. Likewise, North Wake Church, drills every three months for wrath on the cross (Romans 3:25). Wake Forest “People often see doubt as the opposite the narrative in Mark’s Gospel all Morgan Stanley employees. Saving as many as Rescorla could, of faith, and that’s not true. The opposite shifts attention toward Jesus’ When an airplane struck the he bravely went back in search of more of faith is unbelief. Doubt is a halfway power and life of prayer. World Trade Center in the now-infamous people. He was last seen on the 10th floor stage.” These two, power and prayer, help terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, he ig- going up to save more. We too should He continues, “Like a spinning coin, strengthen one’s belief and cultivate a nored initial calls to stay in the building. bravely go into the world to spread the it’s going to come down one way or the personal relationship with the Savior. As a result, more than 2,700 employees gospel. other. What doubts keep you from a personal that were located more than 40 floors Where are you going to spread the Doubt is either going to be resolved relationship with Jesus? up were saved. Only six Morgan Stanley gospel?

ADVERTISE in the Biblical Recorder – (919) 459-5691 APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 15 Baptist leaders praise housing allowance ruling Baptist Press & GuideStone Financial Resources ance, enabling “ministers of the gospel” to exclude for “We are thankful that the Seventh Circuit sided with federal income tax purposes a portion or all of their a host of legal experts that the housing allowance allows outhern Baptist entity leaders applauded a fed- gross income. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has churches of all types to best provide for their pastors’ eral appeals court decision March 15 upholding interpreted “ministers of the gospel” to include leaders needs without favoring any one over the other,” Guide- Sthe constitutionality of the ministerial housing of other religious faiths. Stone President O.S. Hawkins said in a news release. allowance. The Seventh Circuit panel ruled the housing allow- GuideStone expects challenges to the allowance to A three-judge panel of the Seventh Circuit Court of ance is constitutional under two of the U.S. Supreme continue “as groups like the Freedom From Religion Appeals in Chicago ruled unanimously the long-stand- Court’s church-state precedents. The allowance, the Foundation seek to undermine churches and ministries ing clergy allowance does not violate the First Amend- judges said, “falls into the play between the joints of in any way they can,” Hawkins said. “We will continue ment clause that prohibits government establishment the Free Exercise Clause and the Establishment Clause: to monitor future cases and stand ready to advocate of religion. The decision reversed a federal judge’s 2017 neither commanded by the former, nor proscribed by alongside our Southern Baptist family and alongside a opinion that invalidated the allowance as a violation of the latter.” coalition of large and historic pension boards for the the establishment clause. GuideStone Financial Resources – the Southern benefit of the pastors we are privileged to serve and, A 1954 federal law permits churches to designate Baptist Convention’s health and financial benefits entity indeed, pastors throughout this country.” part of eligible ministers’ income as a housing allow- – expressed gratitude for the decision. See Housing page 16 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Denominational Providence Baptist Church in Shawboro, NC, Eastside Baptist Church of Shelby, NC, is First Baptist Church of Mauldin, SC, is seeking Flat River Baptist Assoc. seeks a part-time is prayerfully seeking a full-time pastor. Due seeking a Music Minister. We are seeking to hire a full-time Student Pastor. Primary Director of Missions. The DOM should be a to the retirement of our pastor after 16 years, the candidate that God calls to our church duties include overseeing the ministries of missions strategist and resource for pastors. we are searching for a man of God to lead either full or part-time. Full-time position our students and their families from 6th grade Pastoral experience required; seminary our congregation of believers into the future. would include associate pastor duties. through college. Applicants must possess a degree and missions experience preferred. Providence Baptist Church has an average College degree in music and/or discipleship bachelor’s degree and 3 years of experience is For questions or to apply, send a résumé to attendance of 130 and is affiliated with the is required. Send résumés to officeebc@carolina. preferred. Please submit résumés and/or ques- [email protected]. Deadline is April 30, Southern Baptist Convention. Please send rr.com. tions to [email protected]. 2019. résumés to [email protected] or P.O. Box 140 Shawboro, NC 27973, c/o Pastor North Point Baptist Church (conservative SBC) Concord Baptist Church (Granite Falls, NC) Seeking part-time Director of Missions Search Committee. in Weaverville, NC, is searching for a full-time is seeking a full-time Children’s and Family for the Tennessee River Baptist Association, student pastor (7-12 grades). Please send minister. Growing church with approx. 750 Bryson City, NC. Please send résumé to PO Stallings Memorial Baptist Church, Salisbury, résumés to 119 Monticello Rd., Weaverville, members. Three other full-time staff. Experi- Box 1503, Bryson City, NC 28713, or call (828) NC, is seeking a full-time pastor. Being a NC 28787. ence is required and affirm the Baptist Faith 269-2847. mission-minded Southern Baptist church, we & Message 2000. Please send cover letter are searching for the man God desires to lead First Baptist Church, Gaffney, SC, is searching and résumé to: [email protected] or mail Pastor His church into the future with an emphasis for a Minister of Worship. Candidate should to church at: Concord Baptist Church, Attn Beech Glen Baptist Church, Inc., a Southern on evangelism and missions. Applicants have experience leading both traditional and Pastor, PO Box 127, Granite Falls NC 28630. Baptist church in Mars Hill, N.C., with an should be SBC ordained with a seminary contemporary worship services. Job descrip- attendance of 80+ (Sun. morning worship), education from one of the SBC seminaries and tion can be found on the church website, Miscellaneous seeks a full-time pastor who is devoted to affirms the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message. www.fbcgaffney.org. Résumés can be mailed to Advertise your ministry or business? The Jesus Christ, His Church, His Word, and Send résumés to: smbcpastorsearchcommittee@ Worship Search Committee, c/o First Baptist Biblical Recorder offers competitive de- His Mission in the world. We are associated gmail.com, or PO Box 438, Rockwell, NC 28138. Church, 200 N. Limestone St., Gaffney, SC nominational and nondenominational rates for with the French Broad Baptist Association. 29340, or email to [email protected] with media outlets our size. Contact alison@BRnow. Seminary and/or bachelor’s degree preferred. Church Staff subject line Worship Search Committee. org for information or visit BRnow.org/Advertise. Please send résumé to “Search Committee, Quaker Gap Baptist Church of King, NC, seeks PO Box 715, Mars Hill, NC, 28754,” and/or interested candidates for full-time Minister White Level Baptist Church, Louisburg, MOVED? Don’t forget to change your address via email to [email protected]. of Youth/Children’s Director, with primary NC, is prayerfully seeking an Associate/ with the Biblical Recorder. Contact Liz Tablazon responsibility for youth ministry (grades 6-12) Youth Pastor to minister and develop a close at (919) 459-5693 or [email protected]. First Baptist Church, Shelby, NC, is seeking a and secondary oversight of our children’s min- relationship with the youth of White Level. Lead Pastor to guide our church into its next istry volunteers. Qualified candidates will hold Duties include, but are not limited to plan, Do you have staff changes at your church or stage of worship and ministry. Qualifications at least a bachelor’s degree. Preference given to coordinate, supervise a comprehensive and association? Or special news you would like include: A life of personal integrity and those with ministry experience. Résumés and active youth ministry. Please contact 919-495- to share (significant church or church staff devotion to Jesus Christ; previous experience correspondence accepted through April 30th 3391 or [email protected] for more anniversaries or a mission effort to reach your as a pastor; master of divinity degree or to [email protected]. info. community)? Let the Biblical Recorder know by higher; spirit-directed proclamation of the calling (919) 847-2127 or email [email protected]. Word and vision for ministry; evidence of Placing a classified ad in theBiblical Recorder strong leadership skills; possession of energy Share the Biblical Recorder – FREE. Order three Choose one of three avenues: and passion for the mission of the church; months free. Contact [email protected]. • Send e-mail to: [email protected]. effective communication skills to relate • Purchase ads at BRnow.org/Advertise. and collaborate with staff, church leaders • Send a Fax to (919) 467-6180. and church members. Those interested in For more information, call the office at (919) 459-5691. applying should send a letter of interest Cost for Baptist churches/organizations is $1.25 per word, number and and résumé to firstbaptistchurchshelby@gmail. stand-alone initial ($1.45 for commercial and non-Baptist entities) with a com. FBC Shelby supports the mission minimum charge of $35. Classifieds also are carried online. agencies of the Cleveland County (NC) Be sure to Baptist Association, the North Carolina Baptist State Convention, the Cooperative check out Baptist Fellowship and the Southern Baptist ADVERTISE (919) 459-5691 our website Convention. 16 APRIL 6, 2019 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Greenway lays out ‘big-tent vision’ for Southwestern new vision and complete discontinuity Southwestern Seminary, even as they’re seminary’s founder and second presi- By ALEX SIBLEY | SWBTS from the glorious 111-year history of the driving up James Avenue or they’re driv- dent. “I believe it’s the heart of the New believe Southwestern Semi- crown jewel seminary of the Southern ing down Seminary Drive, the closer they Testament. nary historically has been at its Baptist Convention. get to this sacred 200 acres, they sense “As much as it depends upon me, “Ibest when it’s been known as “If anything, I believe the Lord called the power of the Spirit of God. They this is where we’re going to stand,” the big-tent seminary of the Southern me here to help reinvigorate and to retell sense a community of people who love Greenway said. “And any way that our Baptist Convention,” Adam W. Green- the great legacy of our seminary for a new one another.” seminary can serve you, can help you, can way said in his first chapel sermon as generation. That is my passion and my Greenway acknowledged that the sem- equip you, that’s what I desire for our president of Southwestern Baptist Theo- desire as a Southwesterner.” inary family does not agree on every mat- seminary to be.... logical Seminary, March 21. Addressing the seminary family as well ter, but they agree on “the main things,” “Our seventh president, Dr. [Ken] Evoking the imagery of big-tent revival as prospective bachelor’s, master’s and such as the inspiration of scripture and Hemphill, said that together, we can meetings, Greenway laid out his vision doctoral students attending Experience the necessity of personal evangelism. touch the world and we can impact eter- for the seminary’s future, explaining that Scarborough, Experience Southwestern Furthermore, he said, Southwestern- nity. That is my prayer. May God bless us, just as a tent has four pegs, so Southwest- and Research Southwestern events, ers recognize that “there is a beautiful may God use us, may He find us faith- ern Seminary holds to four points of con- respectively, Greenway assured the level of diversity on the nonessential mat- ful, and may He make us fruitful for His viction and commitment – a high view of audience that if they find themselves in ters that is a reflection and a reminder of Kingdom’s work.” scripture, the Baptist Faith and Message, alignment with these four pegs – a com- what it’s going to look like one day when In other news, SWBTS has returned the Great Commission, and cooperation. mitment to the inerrancy and authority we stand in the very presence of God in to its historic seminary seal as its pri- Greenway, who holds an master of of scripture; the convictions laid out in heaven and we sing that new song to- mary institutional logo. Featuring the divinity degree from Southwestern, was the Baptist Faith and Message; preaching, gether – believers from every tribe, every institution’s iconic B.H. Carroll Me- unanimously elected as the seminary’s teaching, evangelism and missions; and tongue, every nation, every language, morial Building, the logo has signified ninth president during a Feb. 26-27 a spirit of cooperation with one another every people group singing, ‘Worthy is Southwestern since at least 1970, and called trustee meeting at the Fort Worth, and especially with the churches of the the Lamb that was slain.’” will now once again be used to represent Texas, campus. Southern Baptist Convention – then Greenway emphasized that a big-tent the seminary’s dedication to equipping “I think it’s important to say even in Southwestern is “a home for your heart. vision is neither new nor novel; on the God-called men and women for Christian the midst of uncertain, changing, transi- This is the seminary for you.” contrary, he said, it is the founding vision service. The announcement came dur- tional times, some things ought never to “As much as it depends upon me,” of the seminary. “I believe that was the ing spring break on the 111th anniversary change,” Greenway told the chapel audi- Greenway said, “I want to lead in such heart of B.H. Carroll and L.R. Scarbor- of the seminary’s founding on March 14, ence. “I don’t come in with some radical a way here that when people come to ough,” Greenway said in reference to the 1908.

Housing Continued from page 15

Russell Moore, president of the Ethics & Religious ment Clause challenges must be viewed by reference to Federal law also permits housing allowances for cer- Liberty Commission (ERLC), described the ruling as “a historical practices and understandings. tain employees, including members of the U.S. military, victory for all Americans who care about the cause of re- Since the federal government enunciated three workers living overseas and employees of educational ligious liberty and desire to see communities flourish.” secular purposes for the allowance, “the first prong of institutions. “That’s because it’s in no one’s interest for the gov- Lemon is satisfied,” Judge Michael Brennan said in the FFRF continued to criticize the housing allowance ernment to penalize clergy in small congregations faith- panel’s opinion. The “primary effect” of the housing after the court issued its opinion. fully serving their communities,” Moore told Baptist allowance “is not to advance religion on behalf of the The housing allowance is “an injustice not just to us, Press in written comments. “The court was right to say government, but to ‘allow churches to advance religion, but to taxpayers who have to pay more than their share, providing a tax exemption does not ‘connote sponsor- which is their very purpose,’” he wrote. because clergy pay less,” said Annie Gaylor, FFRF’s co- ship.’” “Providing a tax exemption does not ‘connote spon- president, in a written release. “The housing allowance The clergy allowance “has never been about an estab- sorship, financial support, and active involvement of the is so clearly a handout to churches and clergy, and it so lishment of religion but instead applied indiscriminately [government] in religious activity,’” Brennan said, quot- clearly shows preferential treatment and discriminating across religions,” he said. “I’m thankful to see sanity ing a Supreme Court decision. in favor of ministers.” prevail in this ruling, as are millions of men and women Regarding the “historical significance test,” de- Federal Judge Barbara Crabb of Wisconsin has twice around the country.” fenders of the allowance “have provided substantial ruled the housing allowance is unconstitutional. The GuideStone and the ERLC signed onto a friend-of- evidence of a lengthy tradition of tax exemptions for Seventh Circuit overturned Crabb’s 2013 ruling, finding the-court brief filed by the Church Alliance last April religion, particularly for church-owned properties,” the FFRF – a Wisconsin-based atheist organization – that asked the Seventh Circuit to reverse the lower court Brennan wrote. lacked the legal right, known as “standing,” to chal- opinion. The brief contended the housing allowance In oral arguments in October before the Seventh lenge the allowance. This time, the appeals court agreed acknowledges the reality that a minister’s residence is Circuit panel, Justice Department lawyer Jesse Panuccio with Crabb that FFRF had “standing” because the IRS often an extension of a church’s ministry and passes the argued the allowance passes both establishment clause rejected its leaders’ efforts to claim the ministerial al- Supreme Court’s establishment clause tests. standards. Becket, a religious freedom organization, also lowance. In its opinion, the Seventh Circuit panel decided argued on behalf of the allowance. GuideStone and the ERLC also opposed Crabb’s ear- the allowance – which was challenged by the Freedom The Seventh Circuit panel “rightly recognized that lier decision striking down the housing allowance. From Religion Foundation (FFRF) – does not violate striking down the parsonage allowance would devastate The lawsuit did not threaten the part of federal law the three-part Lemon test. That standard, named after small, low-income houses of worship in our needi- that enables tax-free use of a parsonage or other home the 1971 Lemon v. Kurtzman opinion, says a law must have est neighborhoods and would cause needless conflict owned by a church or another religious body. a secular purpose, not primarily promote or restrict between church and state,” said Luke Goodrich, vice In December 2017, Crabb issued a stay postponing en- religion and “not foster an excessive entanglement with president and senior counsel at Becket, which repre- forcement of her opinion until after the appeals process religion” in order to be considered constitutional. sented some Chicago clergy and churches in the case. is concluded. The appeals court panel also ruled the provision is “The tax code treats ministers the same as hundreds of The Church Alliance is a broad coalition of denomi- constitutional under Town of Greece v. Galloway, a 2013 thousands of nonreligious workers who receive tax- national pension programs that cover ministers who Supreme Court decision regarding prayers before the exempt housing for their jobs – that’s not special treat- qualify for the housing allowance. opening of a legislative session that suggested Establish- ment, it’s equal treatment.” The case is Gaylor v. Mnuchin and Peecher.