Baptist Message

“Behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee BAPTIST in all places TO REPORT A NEWS ITEM whither thou OR BUY AN AD goest. CALL 800.376.7728 OR 318.442.7728 – Genesis 28:15 (KJV) MessageNewsjournal for Louisiana Baptists Helping Louisiana Baptists impact the world for Christ Volume 132 l Issue No. 8 www.baptistmessage.com April 20, 2017 Lottie Moon giving slumps, on pace for historic drop By Will Hall Program, Southern Baptists’ primary channel for funding all national causes, are down less Message Editor than one percent, or about $967,597 below RICHMOND (LBM) –The Southern last year. Baptist Convention Executive Committee has By contrast, contributions to the Lottie released data showing relatively stable Coop- Moon Christmas Offering, which benefits only erative Program giving but a flagging Lottie the International Mission Board, Southern Moon Christmas Offering that is trending Baptists’ overseas-missionary-sending entity, toward a record single-year fall. have tumbled almost $13.5 million, a nearly Comparing receipts from Oct. 2016 12 percent drop, for the same time frame. through Mar. 2017 with totals for the same period a year ago, gifts through the Cooperative See LMCO on 7 Luter tells governor, legislators, ‘Take it to God in prayer’ By Brian Blackwell Message Staff Writer

BATON ROUGE – Prior to the start of the second day of the 2017 Louisiana Legislative Session, Franklin Avenue Bap- tist Church Pastor Fred Luter told elected officials that when facing major decisions, follow Jesus’ example and consult with the Father. “Throughout His time here on earth, whenever Jesus had a choice to make, He always – without fail – consulted with His Fa- Douglas Collier photo ther,” Luter said during his keynote address Keynote speaker Fred Luter, pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist to “learn a lesson from Jesus and take it to God in prayer” at the Church in New Orleans, told Gov. John Bel Edwards and legisators 53rd annual Governor’s Prayer Breakfast April 11 in Baton Rouge. See BREAKFAST on 4

At Celebration, God uses new Checkerz Wil- liams, pastor of Celebration Church River life for one to impact many Parishes cam- By Brian Blackwell pus, baptizes the beginning of an awaken- James Fletcher. Message Staff Writer ing in his own life, and also After his bap- a revival among many of his tism, his mother NEW ORLEANS – For family members. and wife, Elisha, years, James Fletcher strug- “I let those strongholds accepted Christ gled with drug addiction, take over my life and had to and were both resentment toward others and realize forgiveness is one of baptized within separation from his brother the biggest things I need to a six-month pe- who was sentenced to serve have,” said Fletcher, who was riod. His grand- life at the Louisiana State baptized in January 2016. mother who has Penitentiary at Angola. “I was so dependent on the made a decision But in late 2015, Fletcher things of the world to hide my plans to follow found hope in Christ at through with Celebration Church, marking See CELEBRATION on 8 baptism as well. 2 Louisiana News Final paperwork officially births CENLA Pregnancy Center By Brian Blackwell teach about choosing life but on opening a similar facility. we also want to teach about However, after learning about Message Staff Writer marriage and the role of a Louisiana Baptists’ plans, PINEVILLE – Support- mom and dad in the home. they opted to instead throw ers of the fi rst pregnancy care We will offer free classes all of their support toward center in central Louisiana from everything to maternity the facility that adheres to the have signed articles of incor- care to caring for the newborn 2000 Baptist Faith and Mes- poration, paving the way for to parenting to pre-marital sage statement. an entity that could save the counseling.” Gunter said the beauty lives of many unborn chil- Since his church began of the center is that while dren. praying in January 2014 for Baptists, Catholics and Pres- During a special ceremony the establishment of a preg- byterians may have differing Thursday, March 30, at the nancy care center in central viewpoints of a number of Baptist Mission Center in Louisiana, the idea has far theological issues, they rally Pineville, a room full of pas- exceeded what Gunter or behind the issue of pro-life. tors, physicians and other his congregation could have “We have support beyond pro-life supporters gathered imagined. the Southern Baptist commu- to fi nalize paperwork to make Originally, they pondered nity,” Gunter said. “We want the formation of the CENLA setting up such a center in the this to be a center that is 100 Pregnancy Center offi cial. back of their church property. percent pro-life, from concep- With a targeted opening of However, God had other tion to natural death. Anyone late this year, volunteers will plans. that is 100 percent pro-life, Brian Blackwell photo provide medical and educa- Hundreds of churches, we want their support.” tional services, and spiritually business leaders and other Now that the articles of Peter Lemoine, an attorney from Cottonport, and Ed Tarpley, an attorney minister to pregnant women pro-life advocates in central incorporation have been from Alexandria, and others watch as Brian Gunter, pastor of First Bap- and their unborn children. Louisiana learned of the idea, fi led, the CENLA Pregnancy tist Pollock, signs articles of incorporation for a pregnancy care center at “Our goal is to save lives contributing money and other Center will be operating as a noon Thursday, March 30, at the Baptist Mission Center. and save souls,” said Brian forms of support to help make 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organi- Gunter, pastor of First Baptist it happen. zation. Church in Pollock. “We By December 2016, a The actual location will want to save the lives of the nine-person board of trustees be fi nalized in the coming children but we also want formed, comprised of mem- months, but there are several to share the Gospel with the bers from Big Creek, Central strong possibilities in Alexan- parents. We want to not only Louisiana and North Rapides dria-Pineville, including the Baptist Associations. Baptist Mission Center. Recently, Gunter and Among those volunteering the board members were at the center will be three pro- approached by a group of life physicians, and, volun- May 6, 2017 non-Southern Baptist busi- teers who will teach classes ness leaders – many who are 5:00 PM Catholic – who had planned See PREGNANCY on 6 First Baptist Church Protection for Your Church DeRidder, LA TICKETS: $15 in advance $20 at the door $30 VIP early entry Meet & Greet $35 VIP at the door ALL SEATING GENERAL ADMISSION Property • Vehicle Liability • Workers’ Comp Paul D. Stewart

318.442.0269 spenglerstewart.com 911 4th St., Alexandria [email protected]

LOUISIANA ADVERTISING SUBSCRIPTIONS: CHANGE OF ADDRESS BAPTIST MESSAGE Display [boxed] and classifi ed [words only] advertising must be in writing, Individual: $14/year Two weeks before change is desired, send and may be submitted by email, U.S. mail or fax. Group rates available new address (with zip code and street address) Will Hall, Editor To the best of our knowledge, all ads in the Louisiana Baptist Message Call the and mailing label from this copy of theLouisiana Louisiana Baptist Message Baptist Message. Periodicals postage paid in represent legitimate companies and offerings. However, one should always STAFF at 800-376-7728 or 318-442-7728 Alexandria, Louisiana, and additional mailing exercise normal business caution in responding to ads. Fax: 318-445-8328 Philip Timothy Rhonda Havens Brian Blackwell offi ces. For all your advertising needs contact Rhonda Havens at theMessage [email protected] Managing Editor Advertising Director Staff Writer PO Box 311 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to at 800.376.7728. Alexandria LA 71309 the Baptist Message,1250 MacArthur Drive, PO JoAnne Timothy www.baptistmessage.com Box 311, Alexandria LA 71309-0311 Offi ce Manager The Louisiana Baptist Message (USPS 042-860) (ISSN 0740-2104) Board of Trustees: partners with: Published biweekly Thursdays by the Louisiana Baptist Message, 1250 MacArthur Drive, Steve Arledge, Craig Beeman, Jack Bell, Wayne Dubose, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303. Mike Canady Sarah Clancy, Jacob Crawford, Lonnie Gothrup, © Copyright 2017 Baptist Message. All rights reserved Tim Hisaw, Bill Inman, Robert Spicer, Darris Waren Volume 132 April 20, 2017 Number 8

April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESSAGE Louisiana News 3 Louisiana Baptist women celebrate missions at annual meeting By M S strategist; Gina Roberts, Inter- national Mission Board; and, Regional Reporter Lena Plunk, WMU ministry MANDEVILLE – A consultant for mobilization, “Grounded, Growing, and Birmingham, Alabama. Bearing Fruit” theme called A special collection ben- women to live on mission efi tting the Mississippi River at the Women’s Missionary Christmas Ministry, an evan- Union Missions Celebration gelistic effort serving fami- and 117th annual meeting, lies along the river, fi lled 38 March 31-April 1, at First backpacks with toys, schools Baptist, Mandeville. supplies, hygiene items, and Cindy Townsend, former Bibles to be given away. LBC women’s missions and Other activities included ministry director now serving a missions fair highlighting as executive-treasurer of the ministries around the world, Mississippi Baptist Conven- a Louisiana Baptist Nursing tion’s WMU and women’s Fellowship prayer breakfast, ministries, challenged attend- and a focused prayer time for ees to shine the light on Jesus. missions. “We are to go to our corner Offi cers were elected in a of Louisiana and we are to brief business session during put the spotlight on Jesus,” the event: Cameron Mullins, Townsend said. “If we put the First Lafayette, president; Dot spotlight on him, he will draw Chappelle, Pleasant Grove, them unto himself.” Jonesville, vice-president; Marilyn Stewart photo More than 150 guests Carolyn Fountain, Franklin attended the event led by Ave., New Orleans, recording Cindy Townsend, former LBC women’s missions and ministry director now serving as executive-treasurer speakers Gibbie McMillan, secretary; Susan Cheatwood, of the Mississippi Baptist Convention’s WMU and women’s ministries, challenged attendees to shine the Louisiana Baptists men’s light on Jesus. ministry and disaster relief See WMU on 9

April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESS 4 Louisiana News

Breakfast from page one at the 53rd Annual Louisiana Governor’s Prayer Breakfast. “If you are in a dilemma, if you are in a predicament, if you need to do something, but you just don’t know what to do, learn a lesson from Jesus and take it to God in prayer.” Luter said when facing a major decision, one cannot stay neutral. Therefore, he said, every person should consider the sorrow, solitude, submis- sion and strength Jesus showed Doug Collier photos in the Garden of Gethsemane, on the night he was handed Ricky Skaggs, a Southern Baptist from Nashville, Tenn., led the crowd in over to authorities for his even- a number of tunes including his hit song “Somebody’s Praying” and “You tual crucifixion. Are My Sunshine” written by former Governor Jimmie Davis. “On this Christian journey, Doug Collier photo there will be points in your life Jay Johnston, associate pastor of First Baptist Church, Covington, who when you will face situations also served as chairman of the 53rd Annual Louisiana Governor’s Prayer that don’t make any sense,” Breakfast steering committee, prays with Louisiana Gov. John Bel Ed- Luter said. “When things don’t wards during the breakfast. make sense, when there are things in your life you don’t of a morning centered on Church, Shreveport; Jim understand, just like Jesus you prayer and Scripture reading Wallace, minister of education will find yourself in sorrow.” at the Raising Cane’s River and administration for First Luter said at times believers Center. Baptist Church, Minden; Rick may feel all alone, as Jesus did Other pastors were joined Brewer, president of Louisiana in the Garden of Gethsemane. by elected officials and key College, and Jason Coffey, But, he also emphasized that civic leaders to share Scripture a member of First Baptist, God pledged not to abandon passages, prayers and short Covington. them. messages. “He promised to never Louisiana Baptists on the SPIRIT-LED MUSIC leave us alone,” he said. “Yes, program included Jay John- we’ve been through the flood, ston, associate pastor of First Ricky Skaggs and his we’ve been through the hurri- Baptist Church, Covington; wife Sharon, Southern Bap- canes, we’ve been through the Waylon Bailey, senior pastor tists from Nashville, Tenn., U.S. Congressman Mike Johnson (right) and Louisiana Baptists Execu- shootings. But He promised of First Baptist Church, Cov- led the crowd in a number of tive Director David Hankins converse during the 53rd Annual Governor’s never to forsake us.” ington; Tom Harrison, execu- tunes including “You Are My Prayer Breakfast in Baton Rouge. Luter’s message was part tive pastor, Broadmoor Baptist Sunshine” written by former Governor Jimmie Davis. He also encouraged the crowd with how God has spo- ken to him about Louisiana. “The wind of the Spirit is going to hit this state and flood the souls and hearts of people,” said Skaggs, a member of the First Baptist Church, Hendersonville, Tenn. “And I believe there will be a great revival, it’s going to start in this state and go all over the world. “I’m believing the Lord wants to pour out his Spirit without measure!”

PRAYER WORKS, SO PRAY

In his address, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards said during the past 15 months when the state faced challenges associated with record flood- ing and the fatal shootings of Baton Rouge law enforcement officers, he has felt the power of prayer from others like never before. “Every day as governor I feel it,” he said. “People are praying for our state, praying for our leaders, praying for me – and based on the year we had last year, please don’t stop.” See BREAKFAST on 9 April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESS LBC News 5 ERLC officers fault politics, Moore blames ‘prosperity gospel’ in ‘Seeking Unity’ B Will Hall bold and prophetic, and, saying they had — In a September 2015 editorial, “Regarding his work at the ERLC, encouraged him to engage in “private “Have evangelicals who support Trump Message Editor I have agreed with most of his state- efforts” at reconciliation “rather than lost their values?” printed in The New ments, especially those regarding the NASHVILLE, Tenn. (LBM) —Trust- public comments,” they endorsed his York Times, Moore called evangeli- sanctity of human life, the sacredness ees and the embattled president of the leadership of the ERLC. cals’ support for Trump “illogical” and of heterosexual, monogamous marriage Ethics and Religious Liberty Commis- “He will continue to do so with the declared “these voters must repudiate and religious liberty,” Gaines continued. sion issued separate comments in a joint confidence of our support,” they ended. everything they believe.” “However, I have disagreed with some “Seeking Unity in the Southern Baptist Moore, for his part, faulted his failure — In a January 2016 article in Roll of the statements he made during the Convention” statement published by to “separate out categories of people Call, a Washington, D.C., newspaper that election and I especially disagreed with Baptist Press, March 20. well” and his use of words “particularly covers politics in the nation’s capital, the tone with which he made some of The combined official release, meant in social media, that were at times overly Moore declared his disdain for Trump’s those statements. I have discussed all of to sooth “tensions in our denomination broad or unnecessarily harsh.” (and ostensibly Cruz’s) evangelical sup- this privately with him. He has genuinely over the state of American politics and Likewise, he said he was not “in- porters, saying, “Ted Cruz is leading in apologized for his mistakes and that is the role of religion,” comes about three tending to talk about Southern Baptists” the ‘Jerry Falwell’ wing, Marco Rubio good enough for me.” months after Moore issued an online but was meaning to target “most often is leading the ‘Billy Graham’ wing and In response to the “Seeking Unity” article, “Election year thoughts at Christ- prosperity gospel teachers.” He did not Trump is leading the ‘Jimmy Swaggart’ statement, former SBC President Jack mastime,” to address criticisms; and, explain whether these were the “political wing.” Graham tweeted, “This is a gracious and follows by about a month the actions operatives” he previously identified or in — In a February 2016 opinion piece unifying statement from @drmoore.” taken by the Executive Committee of addition to them. published in The Washington Post, Graham is pastor of Prestonwood the Southern Baptist Convention to form Blaming himself for not separating Moore said “this election makes me hate Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, which two committees – one from members of out “categories of people well” in his the word ‘evangelical,’” asserting that announced in February it had escrowed the Cooperative Program committee and personal and political attacks, he con- self-identified evangelicals (by implica- money budgeted for the Cooperative the other composed of the trustee officers fessed “I wounded some, including close tion Trump supporters) “may well be Program, specifically because of con- – to study actions by national entities friends.” He also said he regretted his drunk right now, and haven’t been into cerns with the direction of the SBC, that are causing churches to withhold “contextless or unhelpful posts on social a church since someone invited them to including “various significant positions support for national causes. media,” but that he could not “go back Vacation Bible School sometime back taken by the leadership of the Ethics & and change time, and I cannot apologize when Seinfeld was in first-run episodes.” Religious Liberty Commission.” THEN for my underlying convictions.” He also asked people to stop referring to David Hankins, executive director of “But I can — and do — apologize him as an “evangelical.” the Louisiana Baptist Convention, told In the December statement issued for failing to distinguish between people — He even declared the Bible Belt the Baptist Message, “I commend Dr. just by Moore, he urged “after a divisive who shouldn’t have been in the same (a map marked in Southern Baptist red) Moore for confessing his failings that election” that readers “try to see where category with those who put politics over as populated by “almost Christianity” a led to the serious breach of fellowship there are misunderstandings,” and he the gospel and for using words, particu- kind of “God-and-Country civil religion among Southern Baptists. confessed to “one situation” when he larly in social media, that were at times that prizes cultural conservatism more “I trust we will see improved rela- was “pointed in my criticisms,” and overly broad or unnecessarily harsh. than theological fidelity.” tionships with Dr. Moore marked by re- described the target of his harsh words That is a failure on my part,” he wrote. spect for rank and file Southern Baptists “a handful of political operatives” and SBC LEADERS RESPOND and a willingness to hear their opinions apologized to “pastors and friends” who WHAT CAUSED THE FLAP? on matters of moral and social concern,” thought he was “criticizing anyone who SBC President Steve Gaines, pas- he said. voted for Donald Trump.” While Moore’s apology was pub- tor of Bellevue Baptist Church in the Louisiana Baptists were among the “[I]f that’s what you heard me say, lished in Baptist Press, and also made in Memphis, Tenn. area, responded to the first groups to formally raise questions that was not at all my question, and I private with individuals, his harsh criti- most recent ERLC press release, telling relating to the developing spate of con- apologize,” he wrote. cisms were printed as scathing editorials Baptist Press he was “grateful for the troversies entangling SBC entities. in such media as The Washington Post statement from Dr. Russell Moore and A motion asking the LBC Execu- NOW and The New York Times, and subse- the ERLC executive committee.” tive Board to “study the recent actions quently were propagated in many other In written comments, he said the of the SBC Ethics & Religious Liberty In the recent joint statement, ERLC outlets. ERLC is assigned with “a very difficult Commission with regard to issues of trustee officers cited the “challenging Also, while he has apologized for task. Indeed it is impossible to please concern to Louisiana Baptists” was political” cycle and Southern Baptists’ those times when he appeared to tar- everyone regarding issues of conviction referred to the LBC Executive Board disagreement with Moore’s “delivery, get a group of leaders he assures did and conscience. with a near-unanimous raise of ballots tactics and approach” for the denomi- not include Southern Baptists, some of “I know Dr. Moore to be a very godly by messengers at their annual meeting in national rift which has made national his most vitriolic condemnations were servant of Jesus Christ. He has preached November 2016. headlines. They described his leadership pointed to Christians at large – if they at Bellevue Baptist Church and he did a “in this difficult context” alternately as supported then-candidate Donald Trump: wonderful job,” he added. See ERLC on 6

April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESS 6 Louisiana News

Pregnancy from page 2 ERLC from page 5 NEXT STEPS on such subjects as maternity care, caring for newborn children and parenting from God’s Only one of the two panels perspective. formed by SBC Executive Dr. David Spence, obstetrician-gynecol- Committee members has an- ogist at Rapides Regional Medical Center in nounced any details about its Alexandria, will serve as the lead physician intentions. at the clinic. Baptist Press published For the past 35 years, Spence has deliv- March 6 that the ad hoc panel ered nearly 8,000 babies and is excited about formed by the Cooperative how he could play a part in a female opting Program committee would cal- to forgo abortion as a result of visiting the endar a date for its first meeting CENLA Pregnancy Center. by March 18. “I came here to Alexandria in 1990 and However, there have been couldn’t believe there was such an abor- no further announcements tion issue in a state that is so pro-life,” said about future actions by this Spence, a member of Our Lady of Prompt group. Succor Catholic Church in Alexandria. The ad hoc panel compris- “I deal with so many young girls who are ing SBC Executive Committee pregnant and get such peer pressure from trustee officers has not released their parents or boyfriend to go through any information about its inten- with the abortion,” he explained. “Now, I’m tions. excited we are making a push toward this Brian Blackwell photo Meanwhile, the officers of center and how it will give them an option the Louisiana Baptist Conven- Philip Robertson, pastor of Philadelphia Baptist Church, Deville, and Clay Fuqua, campus pas- tion Executive Board met April for life. Instead of going to Shreveport or tor of the congregation’s Horseshoe Drive location in Alexandria, present a check Tuesday, Baton Rouge to abort the baby, it will give 6 to chart a path forward for April 11, for the CENLA Pregnancy Center to Brian Gunter, pastor of First Baptist Church, Pol- their inquiry. According to state them the opportunity where they have the lock, and Robert Daniel, director of missions for Big Creek, Central Louisiana and North Rapides support and medical care to make another Baptist Associations. A Sunday school class from the Horseshoe Drive campus spearheaded an staff, the officers will bring a decision.” effort to collect spare change to support the center, which Gunter visualized and has champi- suggested strategy to the full For more information on how to donate oned as a compassion ministry for Central Louisiana. During December and January, the class Executive Board during its money or other resources to the CENLA of 25 members with help from others at the campus collected $1,268.56 in plastic pink and spring meeting May 2 at the Pregnancy Center, contact the Baptist Mis- blue baby bottles. When the center opens later this year, volunteers will provide medical and Tall Timbers Baptist Confer- sion Center at 318.445.5772. educational services, and spiritually minister to pregnant women and their unborn children. ence Center in Woodworth.

April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESS SBC News 7

only 3,596 persons serving president, Russell Moore, president of the Tennessee abroad, meaning the IMB has received backlash from Baptist Convention, also LMCO from page one had dropped another 221 Southern Baptists and other resigned as an IMB trustee Importantly, these figures accounting year, the current people from the field, even evangelicals for hateful over the matter. reflect only funds received shortfall likely means the after adding some replace- insults about Christians who The IMB subsequently through the SBC Executive IMB will not hit even this ments following the VRI held political views that announced it had “revised Committee – some LMCO lowered target, and perhaps and HRO. This left the field differed from his during our processes,” such that gifts are donated directly to will miss the mark of $155 missionary force at its low- the 2016 U.S. presidential IMB President David Platt the IMB. million, set as the official est level since 1985. campaign. and General Counsel Derek Also, the accounting 2016 goal. Meanwhile, the support Baptist Press, Southern Gaubatz no longer will sub- year for the LMCO is June staff had risen slightly to Baptists’ official news ser- mit friend of the court briefs 1 through May 31, but the RELATED NEWS 306. vice, reported in its cover- without trustee approval. difference with the SBC age of the proceedings that Executive Committee fiscal The IMB’s LMCO woes PINPOINTING PROBLEMS “churches have taken or are CALENDAR NOTE year does not change the could worsen the Southern considering … action over negative trend in LMCO Baptists’ already weakened The IMB’s spiraling concerns related to multiple The IMB’s next regularly giving. overseas missionary force. LMCO troubles accompany SBC entities.” scheduled trustee meet- According to past reports During the entity’s last accounts out of the SBC Ex- Subsequent news reports ing will be held June 12 in out of Nashville, March is trustee meeting, IMB staff ecutive Committee’s Febru- from multiple sources indi- Phoenix, Arizona, the day the third month in a row informed trustees about ary meeting that two panels cated at least 100 congrega- prior to the start of the 2017 for the special offering to personnel losses that were were being formed — one tions are withholding con- SBC Annual Meeting. plunge, with successive even greater than reported from members of the Coop- tributions normally given falls of $4.72 million, $4.17 when a two-phase termina- erative Program committee through the Cooperative million and $4.59 million, tion process was completed and the other composed Program and that 49 congre- respectively. in April 2016. of the trustee officers – to gations chose to withdraw The $13.5 million drop Previously, the IMB had investigate concerns South- membership from the SBC comes after record giving published that the offer of ern Baptists had expressed last year—more than eight last year, $165.8 million, early retirement (Voluntary (some in context of defund- times the normal amount of when Southern Baptists Retirement Incentive) coming) about the direction of such requests. responded generously with bined with other transition the Convention because of hopes of keeping mission- opportunities (described as a actions taken by national ONE EXAMPLE aries in the field after the Hand Raising Opportunity) entities. Richmond-based IMB an- had produced 983 volun- Both the IMB and the As a result of the am- nounced terminations were teers among 4,800 field mis- Ethics and Religious Liberty icus curiae brief matter, necessary to balance the sionaries and 149 separa- Commission have come the First Baptist Church in budget. tions among 450 Richmond under fire for signing onto Morristown, Tennessee, has The previous high was staff (including 30 firings a friend of the court brief escrowed its Cooperative $154 million in 2013, but among the communication (also known as “amicus Program gifts for national the 2014 LMCO was close, team). curiae” brief) that supported causes while still distribut- totaling just more than $153 This left the IMB with the construction of a Mus- ing money for support of million. 3,817 missionaries and 301 lim mosque in New Jersey. state missions and minis- support persons when termi- The ERLC also is accused tries. FBC Morristown is IMB MUM nations ended in April 2016. of taking “various signifi- described as the fifth largest But in materials avail- cant positions ... that do not contributor of gifts through The Baptist Message able to trustees March 1, the reflect the beliefs and values the Cooperative Program sought information about IMB staff noted the organi- of many in the Southern from Tennessee. whether LMCO funds zation had ended 2016 with Baptist Convention” and its The pastor, a former received directly by the IMB somehow offset the tumbling contributions forwarded through the SBC Executive Committee; and, likewise, asked for comment about what essentially was a wild reversal of fortune (almost $24 million) from October 1, 2016, when reports showed donations were about $10.4 million above the record pace of the previous year. But Terri Willis, national relations team leader for the IMB, replied by email that the IMB “traditionally doesn’t comment about LMCO or other numbers until the fiscal year is over.” Regardless, the IMB announced in November 2016 that the 2017 budget was balanced on the basis of a “responsible” projection of $170.5 million for the 2016 LMCO, taking precaution to include only 96 percent of this projection, or $163.1 million, in the actual finan- cial plan. Now, with only two months remaining in the April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESS 8 Louisiana Church growing number of baptisms and professions of faith at the Celebration from page one church’s several locations to feelings, but once I took ing,” Fletcher said. “People being intentional about equip- it to the Lord, He took away see how great the Lord is ping members to share their those burdens and anxiety. and what a difference He has faith. made in my life. They want to He pointed to a recent ini- IT ONLY TAKES A SPARK then follow the Lord. It’s like tiative to illustrate how simple a gravitational pull.” it is to prepare others to share Fletcher also shared how Christ around them. God used his faith to touch EVANGLISTIC HEARTBEAT Earlier this year, he and the lives of those close to him. his staff began requiring “Now, a lot of my fam- In the past two years, Cel- members to write down the ily members have accepted ebration Church has experi- details about how they came Christ,” he exclaimed, “and enced more than 500 baptisms to saving knowledge of Jesus. we are so excited about what annually, combined among its In turn, pastors and other He is doing with us.” nine campuses in the New Or- leaders from the church assess After his baptism, his leans, Northshore and Baton the inputs, and return instruc- mother, Veronica Singleton, Rouge areas. tions via e-mail with hints on and wife, Elisha, accepted Also, the single congrega- how to start a conversation Christ and both were baptized tion in multiple locations has that leads to presenting their within a six-month period. His recorded more than 1,100 and testimony with people they in- grandmother, Janet Richard, 1,250 professions of faith, re- teract with on a regular basis. was redeemed in March and spectively, in 2015 and 2016. Since launching the cam- has plans to follow through In 2017, through just the paign in February, hundreds with baptism in April. first 12 weeks of 2017, Cel- of members have turned in MISSIONS IS THE PULSE inspired by the Holy Spirit to Fletcher, who recently be- ebration Church has baptized their write-ups for feedback. train 1,000 pastors in the Do- came a youth ministry volun- 89 people and counseled 359 “By having them write Watson said the congrega- minican Republic in the next teer for Celebration Church’s individuals who made profes- down their story, we are able tion’s health and growth in 10 years, seeking to spark River Parishes campus in sions of faith. The goal for the to turn around to affirm their evangelism is a reflection of revival in the country. LaPlace, said God has shown year is 700 baptisms, which if story of what the Lord has the members’ passion for mis- “We can help take that him in the past 15 months that reached would set an all-time done in their life and encour- sions. nation for Christ,” Watson He can use one life to impact record, surpassing the all-time age them to share this with In December 2016, Cel- said. “It can revolutionize the many. high in 2015 of 552. others,” Watson said. “By ebration Church started two country. We could see a great “Being able to share my Dennis Watson, pastor of sharing ways to share their new campuses – one in the spiritual awakening in the Do- story with my youth, family Celebration Church and is story, it then becomes a natu- Covington/Mandeville area minican Republic and other members and others in the found on the Metairie cam- ral transition to invite friends and another in St. Gabriel. nations as well. community is a great feel- pus most days, attributes the and others to church as well.” They hope to launch another campus in New Orleans East GOD’S VISION GUIDES in April 2018. Celebration Church also “I knew God had called supports church plants around me here in 1989 to pastor and the country, in Florida and start a church in New Orleans, Texas, and even internation- I wanted to be faithful in ally, in Costa Rica. that,” he continued. Celebration Church also “There is no way we could has trained more than 5,000 have dreamed where we are pastors in other nations in the now. It’s just God -- the favor span of 5 years – and has been and blessing of the Lord.”

April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESS Louisiana News 9 it by His grace. And why do WMU from page 3 we do it? For His glory.” Magnolia Baptist, Saline, and for His glory.” A LIFESTYLE OF MINSTRY assistant recording secretary; Townsend recounted her and Brenda Blackman, First visit to “Speaker’s Corner” “If you are a follower of Lafayette, scholarship com- in Hyde Park, London, Christ, you’re called to live a mittee chair. where large crowds gathered lifestyle of ministry,” Plunk Janie Wise, Louisiana in the open-air, free speech told listeners in the Saturday Baptists women’s missions venue to direct hate speech morning session. She then and ministry strategist, toward America and toward asked, “What does that look pointed to the importance of biblical, traditional marriage. like on a daily basis?” every believer making mis- Nearby, a man with a sign Start with a broken heart sions a priority. reading “Jesus is Lord” sat for others, Plunk said, add- “We live in a state where quietly talking to individuals ing that a missional lifestyle one out of every two persons and leading them to faith in is centered on true compas- is lost,” Wise said. “If we’re Christ, Townsend said. sion, true humility and true going to reach the world, we Like the man in the park, meekness. have to reach the states.” every woman who serves Take note of people God faithfully can make an encountered daily whether EQUIPPED FOR THE TASK impact, Townsend said, add- it’s at the coffee shop, the ing that when the task seems grocery store, or nail salon, At the missions brunch, overwhelming, remember Plunk said. concluding the weekend “who you are.” “The most important event, Townsend told listen- “Who are we?” encounter in ministry is not ers that to be equipped for Townsend asked. “We are the encounter with you, but missional living they must women in His word. We are their encounter with Jesus,” remain: “In His Word, on women on His mission. We Plunk said. “And you’re His mission, by His grace, are women who can only do simply called to set up that encounter. Prepare yourself to set up that encounter by clothing yourself in Christ and arming yourself with the Breakfast from page 4 Marilyn Stewart photo truth of the Scripture. And in Edwards encouraged all as chairman of the prayer doing these things, you will Speaking at the WMU Annual Meeting, Lena Plunk, WMU ministry con- in attendance and watching breakfast steering commit- be prepared to live a mis- sultant for mobilization in Birmingham, Alabama, told the crowd people on the livestream broadcast tee, closed the event by chal- sional lifestyle.” must live a “lifestyle of ministry. to make a concerted effort to lenging everyone to offer pray Friday, April 14, when uplifting words to anyone Christians remember the day they encounter. Jesus died on the cross. “I have found the great- “While there is never a bad est opportunity we can offer time to pray, there is never a someone is a word of en- better time to pray than holy couragement,” he said. “So week and particularly Good I pray today that as business Friday at 3 p.m.,” he said. takes place at the state capi- “I’m encouraging you at 3 tol, as business leaders go o’clock this Friday to offer a back to their business, that prayer of thanksgiving because we will find it in ourselves we are blessed in ways we can to be encouragers of each take assurance from.” other. “We may have different SHARE LOVE & RESPECT views but we can treat each other here in Louisiana with Johnston, who served love, kindness and respect.”

March 9, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESSAGE 10 Classifieds Message

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Call Advertising Director Rhon- da Havens at 318.449.4351 to place your ads. First Baptist Church Arcadia is seeking a permanent FEED / SEED / FERTILIZER FARM /LAWN & GARDEN SUPPLIES MINISTER OF MUSIC send résumé to First Baptist Church, Arcadia, PETRUS 701 Jackson St. l Alexandria, LA 71301 l 318.442.3363 2701 Military Hwy l Pineville, LA 71360 l 318.640.1678 Attention: search Committee FEED & SEED STORES 11886 Hwy. 84 West l Jena, LA 71342 l 318.992.4158 l 445 W Bontemps St. l Marksville, LA 71351 l 318.253.5979 2249 hazel st. Arcadia, LA 71001 Hwy 1 North, Alexandria www.hixsonbrothers.com or email: [email protected]

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BusiNess/ChurCh List DAtes tO ruN: ADDress CLASSIFIED AD RATE: Cost is $6 per line (5 words per line); 25 word minimum. City PhONe Advertisement must be accompanied with payment in advance MAiL AD/CheCK tO: Baptist Message l P.O. Box 311 l Alexandria, La. 71309 and there are no discounts for classified line ads.

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March 9,, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESSAGE Louisiana Notables 11 ON THE MOVE for 63 years, he is survived by one daughter Revival Luncheon, April 20, 11:30 a.m. in the concert, April 21, 7 p.m. There is no cost. A love Come to the Well Women’s Conference, Freda Brantley; Little (Jack), his grandson Luke Fireside Room. This will be the last session be- offering will be taken. Pastor: Durhl Davis. April 29, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Doors open at 8:15 n New Life Baptist Church, Deridder: Lynn P. N. Little; two brothers William O. “Bill” Brantley fore our area wide Crusade, so don’t miss it. This n Lakeshore Baptist Church, Monroe: Gospel a.m. Cost: $30. Pastor: Lonnie Gothrup Clayton has announced his April 30 retire- and Louis “Gary” Brantley; and two sisters Janice will be a covered-dish style luncheon. The Foto concert featuring Sisters Four, Blessed As- n First Baptist Church, New Orleans: Life- ment, after 14 years as founding pastor. he was Brantley Boozer and Eula May Brantley Duroux. Sisters in concert, April 23, 6 p.m. Sign up in surance and Southern Revelation, April 21 way’s Main April 29, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: previously editor of the Louisiana Baptist Mes- He was preceded in death by his parents; six the church office if you plan to attend this event. at 7 p.m. A love offering will be taken. Pastor: $59. Speakers: Darryl Strawberry, Russell sage for 28 years. he and his wife Leah plan to brothers Lamar, Billie, Roy, Dewitt, JB and Ab- Or call 318.628.3544. Women’s Salad Luncheon, William Smith. Moore, Fred Luter, Rick Burgess, Eric Geiger, reside in Deridder. ner Brantley; and two sisters Mabel Beard and April 29, 11 a.m. in FBC’s Fireside Room. Speaker: n Coteau Baptist Church, Houma: Secret Robby Gallaty, Brodie Croyell, Brad Stine and n Collin (wife Gina) Wimberly is the new Genevieve Wallace. Sandra Morehart, “It’s Not About the Periwin- Church Simulcast with David Platt, April more. For tickets or more information, go life- pastor at trinity heights Baptist Church, shreve- kles.” The 37th Annual Max Kelley Memorial 21, 5 p.m. cost: $10 per person; Second Har- way.com/Mainevent or call 800.254.2022 Pas- port. HOMECOMING Bar-B-Cue, April 30, 11a.m.-1p.m. Pick-up only. vest Food Bank, April 29, 7 a.m. Pastor: Wayne tor: David Crosby. n Larry Bernal has resigned as pastor of Beth- Cost: $10 per plate (half of a bar-b-cue chicken, Hunt. n Toledo Bend Baptist Resort Ministry, saida Baptist Church, ida. n Bonita Road Baptist Church, Bastrop: 63rd potato salad, and “Skid Row” baked beans. Pas- n Cypress Baptist Church, Benton: Chris- Zwolle: 12th annual Toledo Bend Chil- n Billy Stevens has resigned as pastor of Wil- Homecoming, April 30, 10:30-noon. Speaker: tor: Steven Smithson. tian standup comedian Tim Hawkins dren’s Fishing Derby, April 29, 8:30 a.m. – 2 low Point Baptist Church, shreveport. Brian McAllister. Worship: The Lisembys. n First Baptist Church, DeRidder: Louisiana Live, April 22, 7 p.m. Tickets can be pur- p.m. at San Miguel Park beach area. Kids, ages n Jeremy Brister has resigned as pastor of Pastor: Casey Johnson. Baptists Singing Ministers and Singing chased at timhawkins.brushfireapp.com/ 3-15, come join the fun. Preschoolers must Oak Grove Baptist Church, Bentley. n Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs: Women in concert, April 20, 6:30 p.m. Cost: events/435477. Pastor: John Fream. have a parent or guardian present and school- n Jason, wife Tracy, Ogle is the new pastor at 180th Homecoming, May 7, 10 a.m. Speaker: Free. A love offering will be taken. Every dollar n Fair Park Baptist Church, West Monroe: age children groups must have at least one Bethlehem Baptist Church, Albany. Rob Burns. collected goes toward the B.B. McKinney & Car- Fifth Annual Race2Grace 5k, 10k, and 1 adult for each 5 children. Bring a fishing pole n James Summerlin is the new associate n Maryland Baptist Church, St. Joseph: 75th roll Lowe and Teresa Thomason Scholarships. mile fun run, April 22. Proceeds from the or rod and reel and some bait (not provided). pastor to students at First Baptist Church, ham- Homecoming, May 7, 10:45 a.m. Lunch will The McKinney & Lowe scholarships are awarded race will help FPBC kids attend Centri-Kid There will be a complimentary lunch on the mond. be served following the worship service. Special annually to two students at Louisiana College Camp this summer. Pastor: Waymond Warren. grounds. For more information, call Mary Gore n Dustin Pierce is the new youth pastor at Music: Brothers in Christ. Pastor: Larry Foster. and two students at New Orleans Baptist Theo- n Holmesville Baptist Church, Downsville: at 318.452.9731 or Toledo Bend Baptist Resort trinity Baptist Church, hammond. n Bethel Baptist Church, Franklinton: 110th logical Seminary who are pursuing a degree Celebration Sunday honoring Pastor Ministry at 318.645.6601. n Judd Roark has resigned as pastor at south anniversary, May 7, 10:30 a.m. A potluck din- towards a career as Minister of Music/Worship Jerry Whitman, April 23, 10:30 a.m. Follow- n First Baptist Church, Haughton: Love side Baptist Church, Bastrop. ner will follow services. Everyone is welcomed. Leader. The Thomason Scholarship is awarded to ing the services there will be dinner on the Worth Fighting For Marriage Conference, Pastor: Joseph Kelley. a participant in the Louisiana Baptist State Pia- grounds. Concord Union Baptist Association April 30, 4-7:30 p.m. Speaker: Kirk Cameron. IN REMEMBERANCE n First Baptist Church, Morgan City: 85th no Festival for the purpose of further collegiate Director of Missions will present Whitman Musician: Warren Barfield. Cost: $40 per cou- homecoming. May 7, 10:45 a.m. Speaker: studies. Checks can be made out to the Louisi- with a plaque for his 40 years as pastor. A ple and tickets are on sale in the church office. n Miguel “Papi” Barrios of Bernice passed Wayne Jenkins. Pastor: Brent Romero. ana Baptist Foundation. For more information, church wide fellowship will be held on Sun- Pastor: Gevan Spinney. away March 29 in West Monroe at the age of call 337.463.9047. Pastor: Josh Eubanks. day, April 23, 2017 to celebrate this milestone n Bethlehem Baptist Church, Albany: A joint 80. Burial services were at First Baptist Church REVIVAL n Northeast Baptist School, Monroe: 9th An- in our church’s history and to recognize his fifth Sunday singing with Blood River, of Farmerville on saturday, April 1. reginaldo nual Golf Tournament, April 21, Chennault dedication to our church and the community. April 30, 5 p.m. with a fellowship following. DeLeon officiated. Interment followed at Shi- n Bethel Baptist Church, Colfax: Spring Re- Park. Registration/lunch will be at noon with a Pastor: Jerry Whitman. Pastor: Preston Nix. loh Cemetery in the Shiloh Community. Barrios vival, April 23-26, Sunday, 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m. 1 p.m., shotgun start. This is a 4-Man scramble. n Bethany Baptist Church, Columbia: The n Hebron Baptist Church, Bush: Ben Waites was born July 5, 1936 in Guatemala. He was the Monday-Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Evangelist: Scot- Cost: $100 per person. Registration forms avail- Sanctuary Quartet, April 23, 6 p.m. Pastor: in concert, April 30, 10:30 a.m. Following founder of the Iglesia Bautista Nazaret and a ty McDowell, chalk artist. Pastor: Carl Gulde. able at the Associations Center, the School, or Brian Rankin. services, the youth will have their fundraiser former church planter for the North American n Wayside Baptist Church, Pollock: Revival, online at www.nelba.net. For more informa- n First Baptist Church, Covington: ‘A South- lunch. Pastor: Reggie Ogea. Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Conven- April 23-26; Sunday, 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.; tion call the school at 318.325.2077 or log onto ern Gospel Concert’ featuring the Mark n First Baptist Church, Pineville: First@ tion. A truly hard-worker, a caring pastor, and a Monday – Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. Speaker: Lloyd www.mynbs.org. Trammell Quartet and Allison Speer, First Business Leader Luncheon, May 1, great church planter, he planted Iglesia Bautista Whitman. Music: Joey Beck. Nursery will be n First Baptist Church, Bossier: Jeremy Camp April 28, 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.) Cost: noon. Speaker: Ricky Belgard, Philadelphia Betel betwen Farmerville and Bernice; Misión provided. Please come and join us. Pastor: Kevin in concert, April 21, 7 p.m. The concert will also $15 (general admission). For more informa- Baptist Church. Cost: $10 and you may pay Bautista de Forest in Forest; Misión Bautista Simmons. feature Citizen Way. For more information, call tion, call the church at 985.892.2149. Pastor: at the door. Please RSVP to Melinda Langford Belén in Ruston; a mission in Athens; Misión n Fish Bayou Baptist Church, Crowville: Reviv- 318.746.7940. Pastor: Brad Jurkovich. Waylon Bailey. ([email protected]. Pastor: Stewart Bautista Filadelfia in Simsboro; a mission in al, April 24, 7 p.m. Speaker: Kelly Clark. Special n First Baptist Church, Anacoco: The Issacs in n Houston River Baptist Church, Sulphur: Holloway. Minden, and Iglesia Bautista Nazaret in Bernice. Music: Wolleson’s Sister’s (Amanda & Julie). He also planted churches in Texas and Illinois. Pastor: Jim Goodman. In 1983, he came to Monroe to serve as asso- n First Baptist Church, Jonesboro: Area-wide ciational church planter and pastor of the small Crusade, April 29-May 3; April 29, Prayer Rally Scripture Crypto mission started by Alvin Rosenow, his wife Ruth at Dodson High School Gym, 6 p.m.; April 30, The Scripture Crypto is a Bible verse in which one letter has been substituted for another, thus encoding the verse. To find out what the verse and in-laws, IMB missionaries, James and Susan Jonesboro-Hodge High School Gym, 6 p.m.; is, you must determine what each letter is a substitute for. An “a,” for example, may stand for a “t” in this week’s issue of the ScriptureCrypto. Ware. He faithfully served the Hispanic popula- May 1, Jonesboro-Hodge High School Gym, Next week, “a” could stand for a “d.” Each week, each letter is different. Solve by trial and error. The answer will be given next week. Note: All tion in Northeast Louisiana -- Tallulah, Colum- 6 p.m.; May 2, Winnfield Middle School Gym, numerals, such as those in the scripture reference after the verse, are spelled out. bia, Transylvania, Bastrop, Bonita, Rayville and 6 p.m.; May 3, Winnfield Middle School Gym, Ruston. He is preceded in death by: His first 6 p.m. Evangelist: Bill Britt. Music: ODE’. Pastor: wife, Oralia Barrios; a granddaughter, Alexan- Stuart Toms. dra; and a great-grand-daughter, Willow. He n Cecilia Baptist Mission, Cecilia: Revival, msx yk sfq ak tihk afcz wmqvkzd, msx tihk is survived by: his wife Maria Y. Barrios; a son, April 30- May 3. Evangelist: Lyndon Longoria. Miguel Barrios and wife Melba Pietri de Barrios, Special music: Kerry Longoria. Pastor: Peter from Dorado, Puerto Rico; daughters Brenda Vidrine. Barrios Lambert of Winston Salem, N.C. and n Bethel Baptist Church, Bastrop: Revival, Mary Barrios from Farmerville; five grandchil- April 30 – May 3, Sunday service begins at 6 p.m. afcz yzkqvzks, bvilv qzkdrmddkx mjmisdq qvk dren – Miguel E., Selena, Jonathan, Dennis Jr., Monday –Wednesday 7 p.m. Evangelist: Rubin and Courtnee; seven great-grandchildren; and Weaver. Pastor: Joe Don Hawthorn. special nephews Berner Requena, Axel Requena n Fellowship Baptist Church, Mansfield:Re - and Donald Rodriquez. vival, May 2-4, Friday and Saturday, 6:30 p.m.; tfzx jfx fw qvkiz wmqvkzd, bvf qvkzkwfzk jmpk n Robert (Murphy) Brantley, 89, passed Sunday, 9 a.m. Evangelist: David Permenter. away on March 5 in Baton Rouge. He was born Music: Pam Whitlock and Vicki Davis. Pastor: July 29, 1927 in Walnut Grove, MS to Jennie May Weyland Gauntt. Cox and John Jackson Brantley and was a resi- n Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Columbia: dent of Covington for 45 years. He was a United Revival, May 7-10, Sunday, 6 p.m. Monday- qvkg cr qf xkdftmqifs, md ak dkk. States Army veteran of WW II and a graduate of Wednesday, 7 p.m. Evangelist: Bill Robertson. William Carey College in Hattiesburg, Miss. A Special Music: Ben Waites. Pastor: Jerry Hen- Baptist minister for over 50 years, he was the drixson. dklfsx lvzfsiltkd qvizqa:dkpks long-time pastor at Collins Boulevard Baptist Church and also served Countryside Baptist LAGNIAPPE Clues: Answer to April 6 Scripture Crypto: Church in the old Chappapeela Association. F = O; D = S Jeremiah twenty-eight: sixteen The beloved husband of Exie Burns Brantley n First Baptist Church, Winnfield:Senior Adult April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESSAGE 12 Louisiana College LC continues to innovate missions & ministries, and engineering

B Brian Blackwell gelism, missions and pastoral a good number in this room Message Staff Writer ministry. who want to do that. I believe “I see God lifting up, even we’re going to see 10, 20, 30 PINEVILLE – Louisi- in this room, young people students, together, go and plant ana College celebrated churches based on what several “firsts” Monday, they learn here.” April 10. Lowery said the need During a press for training Christian conference, the school college students to make announced a new degree, a difference in the world new scholarship and the has not been greater. grand opening of its first “We can’t keep doing engineering classroom. church like we’ve been To equip young men doing church or we won’t and women called to be reach this generation,” marketplace missionaries Lowery said. “I am just Submitted photo from central Louisiana to excited about the missions the ends of the earth, LC and ministries program Louisiana College President Rick Brewer and other college officials hold a will offer a new bach- Fred Lowery, a retired pastor from First Baptist because that’s what you ribbon cutting for the school’s new engineering classroom April 10, 2017 elor’s degree in missions Church in Bossier City, talks about the purpose of want to see happen. You and ministries. Those the scholarship named in his honor. want to train these pre- “You’re taking this respon- open house of the recently out- who qualify as fresh- cious young men and sibility seriously, and I want fitted Tara Terrill Engineering men automatically will receive who say, ‘I want to be like young women to realize this is to thank you for your vision Classroom in Cavanaugh Hall. $6,000 annually through the Paul, to be a tentmaker,’” said a new day, it’s a different cul- and willingness not to do just In September 2015, Brewer Dr. Fred Lowery Scholarship, LC President Rick Brewer. ture, and we have to be willing things as usual, but to be look- and Louisiana Tech President named after the retired pas- “To go to an Omaha, a Kansas to change. ing at the future, and to be in- Les Guice finalized a 3+2 tor of First Baptist Church in City, a Houston, a Dallas, a Los “This program is exciting terested in making a difference agreement, which allows Bossier City. Angeles and plant churches because of what can happen in the lives of every student qualified students to complete The degree will be offered and share the Gospel, but not to in the future,” he continued. and heading them in the right three years of pre-engineering through the School of Missions have to count and depend upon “Encouraging and training direction.” classes at LC and finish the re- and Ministries, formerly the income from those people you pastors, missionaries, church maining two years at Louisiana Division of Christian Studies. are trying to reach. planters and worship leaders is NEW ENGINEERING CLASSROOM Tech. Upon completion, the This school will have empha- “I believe there’s a genera- critical today,” he continued, student will have earned two ses on apologetics, biblical tion wanting to do that,” said “and I believe it’s more critical School officials also held a Bachelor of Science degrees in studies, church planting, evan- Brewer. “And I believe there’s than ever before. ribbon cutting, dedication and five years.

April 20, 2017 l www.baptistmessage.com l LOUISIANA BAPTIST MESSAGE