June 24, 2021 Volume 136 l Issue No. 7
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www.baptistmessage.com On second ballot, messengers elect Litton SBC president By Will Hall FIRST ROUND CAJUN COMMENDATION Message executive editor Stone, pastor of Emmanuel Fred Luter, pastor of Frank- NASHVILLE, Tenn. (LBM) Baptist Church, Blackshear, lin Avenue Baptist Church, – Ed Litton, pastor of Redemp- Georgia, led Litton after the New Orleans, nominated Litton tion Church in Saraland, Ala- first round of voting among with a strong endorsement of bama, was elected president four contenders, who included Litton’s ability as a “uniter” of the Southern Baptist Con- R. Albert Mohler, president of who has “uniquely shown his vention, June 15, in Nashville, Southern Baptist Theological commitment to racial recon- Tennessee, during the 2021 SBC Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky, ciliation.” Annual Meeting. and Randy Adams, executive Luter described the SBC as Litton won a runoff vote director of Northwest Bap- “no longer shoulder to shoul- against Georgia Pastor Mike tist Convention, Vancou-ver, der, but face to face” adding Stone, by a margin of 556 votes, Washington. that “we are no longer fighting 6,834 to 6,278. First Vote: Stone, 5,216, or an enemy on the battlefield, we The messenger count peaked 37.5 percent; Litton, 4,360, or are now fighting our brother in at 15,691 prior to the election, 32.4 percent; Mohler, 3,764, or Adam Covington photo the barracks.” according to registration secre- 26.3 percent; and Adams, 673, “Southern Baptists, it is time SBC President Ed Litton addresses members of the me- tary Don Cur-rence. However, or 4.7 percent (out of 14,013 dia at a news conference after his victory, June 15. only 13,112 ballots were cast. total votes counted). See Litton, page 2 Congresswoman Letlow says faith is critical during challenging times By Brian Blackwell and precious those prayers Message staff writer were to me,” Letlow said. “Even while we were in the MONROE, La. (LBM) – hospital and Luke was in bad U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow won shape, we treasured those Louisiana’s 5th Congressio- intercessory prayers that nal District seat in people were saying March, only three- on his behalf and on and-a-half months ours. I know that after her husband, they enveloped him, Luke, died from CO- and he wasn’t alone, VID-19 complica- and he was at peace, tions, Dec. 29, 2020. and he had hope. To He was just five feel that on a vis- days from taking ceral level -- thou- Eric Brown photo office after he had U.S. Congresswoman sands if not many thousands of prayers Messengers to the 2021 Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting are shown casting their ballots on a reso- won the election Julie Letlow lution. A total of 15,726 of whom 633 were from Louisiana attended the two-day event. the month before going up -- I will to succeed Ralph Abraham, never be able to put who retired from Congress. into words what that means She told the Baptist Mes- to me and my family.” Messengers adopt 10 resolutions sage that the prayers of oth- Her husband’s death was By Will Hall the previously submitted will not embrace an incre- ers helped her during that not the first loss of a close Message executive editor pro-life resolution, June 15, mental approach alone to difficult time. loved one, she said. because the issue of abor- ending abortion because “It’s hard for me to put When she was a junior NASHVILLE, Tenn. tion had been addressed it challenges God’s Lord- into words how overwhelm- (LBM) – Messengers to the in another resolution they ship over the heart and the ingly beautiful and impactful See LetLow, page 2 Southern Baptist Conven- wrote. However, one of the conscience, and rejects His tion’s 2021 Annual Meet- co-authors of the rejected call to repent of sin com- ing adopted nine of the 10 resolution spoke to the pletely and immediately.” resolutions submitted by messengers, who voted Meanwhile, the com- the Resolutions Committee to bring it to the floor for mittee tabled the pro- and added one from the consideration with a two- posed Resolution 7 they floor that called for “abol- thirds vote, and adopted had crafted -- which ishing abortion.” it the next day after the denounced “the Capitol According to Baptist word “alone” was added. resurrection of January Press, the Resolutions In the end, this resolu- Committee had declined tion declared “that we See ResoLutions, page 7 2 LOUISIANANEWS
Letlow from page one at the University of Louisi- including fellow members tion at the University of chose to serve.” Letlow, who in 1991 ana at Monroe, her broth- of the campus Baptist Col- South Florida on grief. “As Letlow, who is adjust- put her faith in the Lord er, Jeremy, 17, died from legiate Ministry. you know col-lege often- ing to life as a congress- and was baptized in the injuries sustained in a “The BCM was there times can be that time woman while also mother Ouachita River by the motor vehicle accident in for me in every way pos- when people stop going to her two children, hopes non-denominational Cov- March 2002. The incident sible and was an integral to church and fall off on to continue represent- enant Church in Monroe, devastated Letlow and her part of shaping my faith,” their faith. It’s organiza- ing her constituents and asked for prayers of clarity family, but she said she said Letlow, who wrote tions just like the BCM family. Her focuses will of mind and wisdom to was comforted by many, her doctoral disserta- that kept me connected include agriculture and serve her constituents and and engaged.” education. be the hands and feet of Mark Robinson, cam- “We just want to work Jesus. Insurance for Churches pus BCM director at the hard and try to make this “This world is not our Since 1916 time, provided counseling world a better place for home,” Letlow said. “We and eventually invited her our children and for future are passing through and to be a part of a new Bible gener-ations,” Letlow said. are called to live every study for members of the “So, it’s an absolute honor day to the fullest. Serve campus fraternities and to live amongst our rural other people and let Christ sororities. He sensed even communities and be a part guide your life. We all will during her college time and member and ultimate- be reunited again one day that Letlow was bound for ly to represent them is an in some place far better.” great things. amazing honor.” “Her spiritual leader- Call 318.442.0269 ship, academic abilities [email protected] and social graces were Litton from page one unparalleled,” said Robin- www.spenglerstewart.com get focused on the Great son, now the state colle- to get out of the barracks,” Commission,” Luter urged. Lori Ardoin & Paul D. Stewart giate ministry director for he said, adding that “if “Friends, take it from Louisiana Baptists. “We all we don’t get out of the Fred. Let’s vote for Ed. Ed knew very early that she barracks, we miss out on Litton for president of the was destined to become what God is doing in a lost Southern Baptist Conven- a great leader in what- and dying world. tion!” ever field of discipline she “This is our moment to
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June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message LOUISIANANEWS 3 First Covington launches ‘The Chapel’ ministry
By Brian Blackwell of First Covington for 40 invite people to come and Message staff writer years and a former deacon, celebrate marriage here.” said his family felt com- Camp said The Chapel COVINGTON, La. pelled to donate The Chapel hosted its first ceremony in (LBM) – First Baptist to the church five years January and has weddings Church in Covington has ago. Construction was booked through April 2022, opened a wedding chapel begun in early 2020 and but still has openings. The to help couples celebrate completed later in the year. facility is open to members God’s design for marriage. “We wanted a gate- and non-members, but The Chapel, located way to the church for the guests are asked to respect at 16054 Murphy Road, public, and marriage came First Baptist Church, Cov- Covington, is located across to mind,” Camp told the ington’s religious beliefs. from the First Baptist Baptist Message. “Marriage Covington campus. The is so important in God’s de- For more information Submitted photos facility can seat 275 guests sign for a man and woman on availability, policies, First Baptist Church, Covington’s wedding chapel features a facility that for larger weddings in the to become one. Since the rates and other informa- can seat 275 guests and a smaller room that holds up to 75 for smaller main chapel area and up to big auditorium doesn’t lend tion visit https://fbccov. ceremonies. The Chapel hosted its first ceremony in January. 75 for smaller ceremonies itself to a smaller wedding, org/chapel/ or send an in the garden room. we thought The Chapel email to chapel@fbccov. Sam Camp, a member would be the perfect way to org. Louisiana ministry touches needy in Israel By Brian Blackwell Twelve people in Israel, kitchenware Message staff writer including a five-year-old boy -- fold-up beds, mattress- and 16-year-old girl, were es, pillows, bedding, blankets COVINGTON, La. (LBM) killed. -- teen gifts (shoes, back- – Johnny Huffman, founder Huffman’s ministry has See Israel, page 12 of Fairhaven Ministry in shipped about 150 containers Covington, has issued an ur- to 15-20 countries since 1997, gent call for donations that including two contain-ers will be placed in a 40-ft. con- to Israel in July 2016 and an- tainer and shipped to Israel. other in March 2018. He said “Recently, as I have the latest developments have watched the news, I watch reminded him once again of people here in the US, as the need for friends of Israel well as countries around to help the citizens there. the world, turning against NEEDS LIST Israel,” Huffman told the -- baby diapers Baptist Message. “The Lord -- children’s toys has impressed on me that if -- towels, linens, dishes, there was ever a time that Christians need to stand with and support His people, it is now. It is my opinion that the Lord gives us these opportunities. What we do with them is our decision.” Fairhaven Ministry, through a partnership with God’s Warehouse that is operated by Nolachucky Baptist Association in Morristown, Tennessee, is collecting items that will be shipped to and distributed by the non-denominational Joseph Project in Israel. Ac- cording to its website, since 2000, the Joseph Project has received nearly 800 contain- ers and provided more than $100 million in humanitarian aid to Israelites. Israel experienced 11 days of fighting between the country’s army and terror- ists in the Gaza Strip before a cease fire was in effect, May 20. At least 230 Pales- tinians were killed, including 65 children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 4 SBCANNUALMeeting Send Conference draws 10,000 for Gospel training, Crossover enlists 92 volunteers for Gospel work By Will Hall Baptist Convention, at- Richt (Georgia University). blessed during the Sunday min Watson (stu-dents), Message executive editor tracted 10,000 participants Meanwhile, the North night opening session by Scottish-born American from across the nation, American Mission Board worship music led by Mi- contemporary Christian NASHVILLE, Tenn. June 13-14, for general ses- was able to enlist 92 vol- chael W. Smith and CeCe vocalist, writer and speak- (LBM) – The June 13-14 sions and breakout meet- unteers, largely compris- Winans, and a concert by er Sheila Walsh (women); Send Conference, jointly ings headlined by Southern ing seminary students, (Steven Blake) Crowder. as well as 26 other present- sponsored by the North Baptist celebrities such as according to Baptist Press, Meanwhile, Tony ers. American Mission Board football coaching legends who conducted four days Evans, pastor of Oak Cliff Bowden and Richt and the International Mis- Bobby Bowden (Florida of door-to-door outreach, Bible Fellowship, Dallas, headlined the NAMB lun- sion Board of the Southern State University) and Mark June 13-16, coinciding with Texas, offered a message cheon as part of the Mon- the two-day Send Confer- that urged the crowd to day activities, and IMB ence. be “fulltime saints pull- commissioned 64 mission- ing Heaven down to earth aries to cap the day. SEND CONFERENCE as true reflections of the imago Dei.” CROSSOVER Billed as a “gathering “We have watched our of pastors, families and nation decline because Despite registering churches across North there aren’t enough accu- 10,000 participants from America learning and cel- rate reflections of Christ across the country for the ebrating what it means to invading the culture,” he Send Conference, NAMB be on mission together, for said, along with encour- noted on its registration the sake of the gospel’ the agements about unity and website for Crossover that Send Conference offered racial reconciliation. “Due to the ever-changing “specialized tracks for ev- The next day partici- nature of pandemic guide- ery member of the family” pants could join various lines, we are not able to ac- providing “the tools and tracks led by such person- commodate outside groups connections to become a alities as David Jeremiah this year.” movement of people — the (pastors), pastor of Shadow Regardless, 40 area Church — sharing the gos- Mountain Community churches took part in pel with a world in need.” Church, El Cajon, Cali- Participants were fornia; NFL great Benja- See SBC, page 12
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June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message SBCANNUALMeeting 5 Variety of topics among motions presented by messengers
By Staff in Lake Forest, psyche theory that three-year audit about sex Baptist Message California (Shad includes a person- abuse in the SBC (Todd Tibbs, Louisiana); ality test (James Benkert, Indiana); NASHVILLE (BP) – • that spe- Walker, Texas); • that the SBC investi- Messengers presented 32 cific conditions be • that the SBC gate claims in the legal fil- motions during the 2021 met before using strike from the ings of the case McRaney Southern Baptist Conven- Cooperative Pro- 2021 Book of Re- v. North American Mission tion Annual Meeting, and gram funds to pay ports a portion of Board (Brian King, Or- moved: for an outside in- the Southwestern egon); • for an investigation of vestigation of the Baptist Theologi-cal • to rescind an 1861 the ERLC for concealing Ethics & Religious Seminary report, resolution dealing with knowledge about sex abuse Liberty Commis- which makes nega- proposed name changes for more than a year and sion or the EC tive characteriza- related to the formation only revealing such infor- (Allen Nelson, tions about former of “the Southern Confed- mation through leaked Arkansas); SWBTS President eracy” (Alan Cross, Cali- ERLC letters accusing the • that a Fellow- Paige Patterson fornia); EC of racism and mis- ship Meal Sunday (Peter Lumpkins, • that the Executive handling sex abuse cases be added to the Georgia); Committee revise SBC (Jared Longshore, Florida); SBC calendar • that the Com- documents to create a • for an outside investi- (James Allen Mur- mittee on Order of 30-day prior release of gation of the EC regarding ray, North Caro- Business amend the the Com-mittee on Reso- the ERLC’s accusations in lina); order of business to lutions report (Robert the leaked letters (Grant • to rescind Karen McCutheon photo lengthen time for White, South Carolina); Gaines, Tennessee); Resolution 9 (that Grant Gaines, pastor of Belle Aire Baptist Church in Mur- new motions (Jo- • to amend the bylaws • for the Executive approved of Criti- freesboro, Tennessee, presented a motion calling for a seph Horan, Missis- governing the Resolutions Committee to study pos- cal Race Theory task force to oversee a third-party investigation into alle- sippi); Committee (Charles John- sible conflicts of interest and Intersec- gations of mishanding abuse claims by the SBC Executive • for adoption of son, Kentucky); because the same legal tionality), which Committee. a resolution against • to inform messengers counsel represents the EC was adopted on Resolutions (Ted Tray- Critical Race Theory about the CP giving of and the SBC (Jay Adkins, during the 2019 SBC An- lor, Florida); submitted with the motion nominees for office (Steve (Bob Dutton, Georgia); Louisiana); nual Meeting (Tom Ascol, • that the North Ameri- Bailey, Arkansas); • to break fellowship Florida); can Mission Board study • that the ERLC hire an with Saddleback Church • to end the Committee the Enneagram, a human outside firm to perform a See Motions, page 7
June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 6 CulturalNews Biden budget refers to ‘moms’ as ‘birthing people’ By Will Hall people.” Maloney (D-N.Y.), during a and religious liberty” based Message executive editor During a Senate Finance CULTURALNEWS House Oversight Commit-tee in Chicago, Illinois, accord- Committee hearing, June 10, hearing in a discussion about ing to its website, argued WASHINGTON (LBM) Lankford conducted a blunt replaced with ‘birthing maternal health. In that these points in a May 25 – Sen. James Lankford, an interview, pressing Becerra people,’” Lankford said. “Is meeting she asked, “How column published on thom- Oklahoma Baptist, chal- to explain the unusual phras- this a direction you are go- does one of the most medi- asmoresocie-ty.org. lenged Health and Human ing. But Becerra dodged even ing—regulatory changes that cally advanced nations in the She observed that “wom- Services Secretary Xavier repeating Lankford’s use of are happening or what the world continue to fail black en, who have taken surgical Becerra about the choice “mother.” purpose of that is? ‘birthing people’ at such high or psychological steps to of language in the Biden “I was a little taken aback Becerra told Lankford, rates?” deny their chromosomal Administration’s $6 trillion when I just read it and saw “I think it’s probably—and These high visibility uses female identity and to take budget request that refers that the term ‘mother’ was again I’d have to go back and of “birthing people” appear on a male or binary or non- to “mothers” as “birthing gone in spots, and it was take a look at the language to be a coordinated effort to binary identity,” can use the that was used in the bud- avoid the physiological real- name change to avoid being LOUISIANA CHURCH INSURANCE get—but I think again it sim- ity that only a biological fe- referred to as “mother.” ply reflects the work that’s male can give birth – which She also addressed the runs counter to transgender reverse scenario, writing “Three generations being done.” But Lankford pushed politics that de-mand treat- that despite the “name of Galloway’s serving ing as “men” those biological Louisiana Churches.” back, asking Becerra to change” a “chromosomal “admit that calling a ‘mom’ females who have not had male who takes surgical a ‘birthing person’ could be their reproductive organs or psychological steps to offensive – that they don’t removed but call themselves identify as female … will not want to get a ‘Happy Birth- “transgender men.” have the biological features ing Person’ card in May.” It also steers clear of the of a birthing person.” However, Becerra de- obvious about biological Moreover, Gitchell was clined to answer the ques- males who call themselves adamant that any change Call us tion, telling Lankford, “transgender women,” but from using the word “moth- for your church instead, “Senator, I’ll go back lack the biological possibil- er” could not alter a funda- insurance needs and take a look a look at ity of giving birth. mental reality. terminology that was used, Rita Lowery Gitchell, “The biological differ- special counsel with the www.louisianachurchinsurance.com l 800.256.0700 and I could get back to you, ences of men and women al- but again … we’re trying to Thomas More Society, a low for the creation of life,” be precise in the language “not-for-profit, national she argued, noting that only that’s used.” public in-terest law firm “the person or being with The term was used earlier dedicated to restoring re- the female chromosomes” in May by Rep. Carolyn B. spect in law for life, family, can “bear life.”
June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message SBCANNUALMEETING 7
Carolina); • to require an audit • that LifeWay Chris- from page • for a name change to of each entity with dis- tian Resources produce Motion 5 Great Commission Bap- closure 30 days prior to resources for deaf people • to allow for proxy vot- • that the SBC give tists (Christopher Benavi- the annual meeting (Rick (John Blackmon, Geor- ing by SBC missionaries guidance to Southern das, Texas); Hillard, Kentucky); and gia). (Nate Maglaughlin, Texas); Baptists about puberty • to give advanced blockers (Walter Bout- notice of the Resolutions well, Alabama); Committee report (Jason • that the SBC reject Wing, Ohio); racism, Critical Race • to add a corporate Theory and Intersection- day of repentance to the ality (Todd Stinnett, Ten- denominational calendar nessee). (Roy Youngblood, Texas); • for an SBC name • to resend a list of reso- change to the Great Com- lutions by previous Con- mission Baptist Con- ventions (Jonathan Six, vention (Philip Nelson, North Carolina); Illinois); • to create a task force • to study non-disclo- to pursue the abolition of sure agreements required abortion (Tristan Heart, by SBC entities (Brad Pat- Michigan) terson, Texas); • to study using Nash- • that no less than ville as the permanent site 20 percent of time dur- of the annual meeting and ing the annual meeting creating satellite loca-tions be allotted for business (Gary LeRoy, Tennessee); (Michael Hoffman, North Resolutions from page one 6, 2021, … as inconsistent Uyghurs to this country as with faithful Christian refugees, and provide re- citizenship,” but did not con- sources for their support and demn the riots of 2022. resettlement,” and asked for Others: prayers for the Uyghurs, as • Resolution 1 urged well as the Christian workers Southern Baptists to main- who bring both physical aid tain unity and protect their and the Gospel of Christ. witness for Jesus Christ. • Resolution 9 mourned • Resolution 2 affirmed those whose lives were lost the sufficiency of Scripture to the COVID-19 pandemic. on race and reconciliation • Resolution 10 thanked and rejected any theory that Nashville for its hospitality credits racism to anything as the host city for the 2021 other than sin (without nam- SBC Annual Meeting. ing Critical race Theory and Intersectionality). • Resolution 3 condemned any effort to repeal the Hyde Amendment (a 50-year federal policy that prohib- its using tax dollars to fund abortions except in cases of incest, rape, or to save the life of the mother). • Resolution 4 denounced the Equality Act, which el- evates sexual orientation and gender identity to a status that eclipses religious liberty rights. • Resolution 5 asked SBC churches to permanently dis- qualify as pastor “any person who has committed sexual abuse.” • Resolution 6 reaffirmed “sole membership” which de- fines the corporate structure of each SBC entity, making each legally bound only to the messengers of the Con- vention. • Resolution 8 called for China to stop its genocide of the Uyghur people, im- plored the United States to “prioritize the admission of June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Messagesage 8 lEGISLATIVESESSION 2021 regular legislative session dominated by ‘vice’ bills By Will Hall trafficking and greater exploi- at each committee hearing, being a paid lobbyist for the subsequent violators in pos- Message executive editor tation of sex workers – be- rebuffing both measures as measure. The bill subsequent- session of 14 or fewer grams cause the bill also decriminal- allowing wealthier areas of ly was recommitted to the of pot (H.B. 652); legalize the BATON ROUGE, La. ized “pimping” and brothels St. Tammany Parish to avoid Senate Finance Committee. cultivation, manufacture and (LBM) – The 2021 Louisi- and these two activities are having the casino in their Meanwhile, Smith voted also retail sale of marijuana (H.B. ana Legislative Session was used to keep women captive respective backyards and yet for H.B. 702, again, despite 709); and study “the impact of designated a budget session, in sex trafficking. reap tax benefits from forcing an apparent ethics breach legalizing the possession and so each lawmaker was lim- In the end, Landry volun- Slidell to accept the casino; because of his wife serving as use of cannabis on the citizens ited to submitting five bills tarily withdrew her bill when and they cited the example a gambling lobbyist, in a 4-3 of this state” for the purposes each that did not deal with it became apparent from com- of Rep. Richard Nelson (R) to vote that moved that bill fa- of discovering best practices state finances. However, it ments by committee members make their point. Nelson was vorably to the Senate Finance for regulating the sale of mari- was those other bills, most that it was going to be voted noted in local newspapers for Committee. juana (H.R. 1). involving vices, that seemed down. having opposed a proposed S.B. 213 did not make the Rep. Richard Nelson’s (R) to dominate headlines across Meanwhile, the House boutique hotel and conference agenda in the Senate Finance attempts to legalize and tax the state. soundly defeated a resolution center (with an undercur- Committee. However, this recreational marijuana failed (H.R. 136) by that committee’s rent discussion of a riverboat committee did take up H.B. in the House -- H.B. 699 was PROSTITUTION chairman, Rep. Ted James casino) in Mandeville, where 702 and voted 5-4 to move it allowed to expire by calendar, (D), to create a commission to he lives. On the other hand, favorably to the full Senate, and H.B. 434 was defeated by Rep. Mandie Landry (D) study the benefits of legal- he told nola.com that he was where it was approved by a a vote of 47-49-9. of Orleans Parish, submitted izing prostitution (35 yeas-62 “not going to stand in the way vote of 23--14-1. It already had Legislators stripped the H.B. 67 which would have le- nays-8 absentees). of people voting” on putting a passed the House, and now proposed tax on “medical” galized prostitution, elevating riverboat casino in Slidell, 20 awaits the governor’s signa- marijuana from the broader it to the same status as any SLIDELL CASINO miles away from his home. ture. sales tax bill, H.B. 514. How- line of work in the state. Wit- Moreover, there were Sen. Sharon Hewitt (R), a ever, both chambers passed nesses in support of the bill Sponsors of two riverboat charges of conflict of interest presumed candidate for the H.B. 391 (House, 75-18-12; Sen- mocked “morals” and urged gambling bills, S.B. 213 and against Sen. Gary Smith (D), 2023 governor’s race, spon- ate, 23-14-1), which legalizes members of House Admin- H.B. 497 (later, H.B. 702 was chairman of Senate Judiciary sored S.B. 213 in the Senate, smoking pot for “medical” istration of Criminal Justice adopted as a substitute), each B Committee and a mem- and Rep. Mary Dubuisson purposes, and it is now await- Committee “not to look to seeking to place a casino in ber of First Baptist Church, (R) authored H.B. 702 in the ing disposition on the desk of your pastor” for guidance Slidell, framed the issue as “a Norco. The Advocate reported House. Gov. John Bel Edwards (D). about prostitution. local matter” and the right for that he cast the tie-breaking Gov. Edwards signed H.B. But opponents argued that voters to decide. vote in his committee to POT 652, authored by Rep. Cedric legalizing prostitution would However, a strong con- approve S.B. 213, instead of re- Glover (D), into law as Act contribute to more human tingent from Slidell spoke cusing himself due to his wife The pot lobby pushed 247, which allows only fines multiple measures to the 2021 for possession of 14 or fewer legislature seeking to: tax raw grams of pot, but jail time and marijuana (H.B. 434); legal- higher fines for a second con- ize recreational marijuana viction of possession of more (H.B. 524, and substitute, H.B. than 14 grams of pot (with the 699); allow pot smoking as possibility of 8 years of hard “medical” marijuana (H.B. labor and fines up to $5,000 391); tax raw pot as “medical” for a fourth and subsequent marijuana (H.B. 514); reduce conviction for possession of the criminal penalties (no jail, but fines) for first time and See SeSSion, page 9
June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message LegislativeSESSION 9
is awaiting a vote in the Sen- Hall said that Gov. Edwards de-escalate a situation,” Hall churches willing to follow from page ate. However, an executive and his staff reached out to offered. these same rules that every- Session 8 mandate promoting transgen- Louisiana Baptists and other He also referred to the body else has to follow?” this amount). der rights by President Joe faith communities during the many necessary face-to-face Luneau questioned. “I think The House denied Rep Biden (D) calls for a review of pandemic when the governor ministries that churches that instead of trying to pass Candace Newell’s attempt federal policies that likely will was formulating his policy had to continue during the this resolution that says they (H.B. 709) to legalize the sale produce the same result as on public safety measures pandemic, including addic- don’t have to follow the laws, of marijuana and to tax those passage of H.R. 5. and that he was receptive to tion counselling, filling basic they should be the first ones sales (34-62-9). However, The Louisiana Senate inputs. needs of families (distribution to stand up and say we are members approved H.R. 1 passed Mizell’s measure to But Hall said H.C.R. 5 is of food and hygiene products) God-fearing, Christian people (63-28), sponsored by Rep. guard against males on female needed to deal with impasses as well as conducting disas- and we are going to follow the Marcus Bryant (D), that will teams, 29-6-4, and the House, that could erupt during emer- ter relief efforts in response laws and we are going to set create a group of stakehold- too, 78-19-8. However, Gov. gency orders, and he cited the to three hurricanes and two the example for everybody ers to study legalization and Edwards has threatened to conflict between the mayor other major storms. else.” bring recommendations to the veto the bill. of Greenville, Mississippi, and Hall said churches were legislature in 2022 about how Temple Baptist Church as an not being defiant but were WOMEN, CHILDREN, FAMILIES to implement the sale and RELIGIOUS LIBERTY example. Hall said the mayor trying to comply with the taxation of marijuana. of that town, who had banned emergency order while Rep. Mike Johnson (R), Rep. Danny McCormick in-person worship services, providing essential services a member of First Baptist WOMEN’S SPORTS (R), a member of Trees Baptist felt disrespected because the to meet critical needs in the Church, Pineville, and Rep. Church in Vivian, sponsored congregation held “drive- state. Raymond Crews (R), a mem- Sen. Beth Mizell (R), a resolution to express the in” services where everyone Judiciary C moved McCor- ber of First Baptist Church, Senate president pro tem- legislature’s intentions regard- stayed in their cars but parked mick’s resolution favorably Bossier City, presented pore and a member of First ing executive order violations in the church parking lot without a single objection. measures that offered greater Baptist Church, Franklinton, that involve the exercise of listening to the broadcast Both chambers voted for the protections to women and authored S.B. 156 “Fairness in constitutionally protected of worship services. Conse- measure (67-20-18; 23-13-2), children. Women’s Sports Act” as an religious liberties. quently, the mayor had the but not without at least one Crews authored H.B. 357, attempt to level the playing Specifically, the measure town police fine each of the strong objection. which enhances protections field for women athletes. In will suspend for 14 months vehicle occupants $500 for Sen. Jay Luneau (D), a for young women by increas- short, the measure prevents “all criminal penalties and re- violating his emergency order member of Calvary Baptist ing the reporting require- biological males (as transgen- strictions related to religious against religious assemblies, Church, Alexandria, spoke ments about minors who un- der women) from playing on assembly.” although the Mississippi gov- against H.C.R. 5 on the Senate dergo abortions. There were women’s sports teams. Will Hall, director of the ernor had declared churches floor, arguing that the mea- 15 or so major changes to the The bill is a response Louisiana Baptist Office of to be “essential services.” sure, “tells churches that they present law, but three of the against the H.R. 5 “Equality Public Policy testified that the “By simply taking the don’t have to follow the rules most critical of these hold Act” submitted in the U.S. bill was “a common sense” penalties out of the equation, that everyone else has to fol- abortionists accountable for Congress that would allow measure for de-escalation in as this bill does regarding vio- low,” citing the Bible passage (1) reporting sexual abuse, (2) biological males to compete as potentially tense situations. lations of an executive order, to “render under Caesar what documenting complications females. It was passed at the Speaking to the Sen- you’re offering cool-headed belongs to Caesar.” federal level by the House and ate Judiciary C Committee, people an opportunity to “So why aren’t the See SeSSion, page 12
June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Messagesage 10 CLASSIFIEDADS Message
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CROSS ROADS BAPTIST CHURCH in Grayson, LA is seek- ing a youth leader. For more information call318.649.2227 or send resume to Cross Roads Baptist Church, P O Box 397, Grayson, LA 71435.
Call Ad Director Rhonda Ha- vens at 318.449.4351 or 877.234.3832 to place your ads.
Family Health Insurance at Group Rates GROUP, INDIVIDUAL, MEDICARE SUPPLEMENTS, DENTAL Call or email for a free quote!! 701 Jackson St. l Alexandria, LA 71301 l 318.442.3363 Melvin Thomas 2701 Military Hwy l Pineville, LA 71360 l 318.640.1678 11886 Hwy. 84 West l Jena, LA 71342 l 318.992.4158 318.795.4924 445 W Bontemps St. l Marksville, LA 71351 l 318.253.5979 www.hixsonbrothers.com [email protected] l l 411 Ashley Ridge Blvd., Shreveport, LA 71106
To place a classified ad , complete this form and fax to 318.445.8328 or mail to Baptist Message Advertising, 1250 MacArthur Drive, P.O. Box 311, Alexandria, LA 71309 For questions, please call Rhonda at 318.449.4351 or email [email protected]
June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message LOUISIANANOTABLES 11
EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you have a Revival, n Caleb (wife Heather) Brown as 7 p.m. there will be hot dogs and fire- n First Baptist Church, New Orleans: Paloma Sporting Clay Range and Event Homecoming, a new pastor, a community youth directors at Clark Springs Baptist works. Pastor: Philip Robertson. VBS – Concrete and Cranes, July Center! Registration & skill contests outreach or a concert? The Baptist Mes- Church, Eros. n Hopewell Baptist Church, Center- 12-16, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. VBS is stu- begin at 8:30 a.m. with a shotgun start sage would love to share your church n Lucas Tolar is the youth minister at point: Sharing the Hope of Jesus dents who have complete kindergarten at 9:30 a.m. Cost: $100 per person or news with the rest of the state. It is very First Baptist Church, Swartz. with others, June 27, 11 a.m. Speaker: through sixth grade. Pastor: Chad Gil- $400 per 4-man team. All forms and easy to do, just send in your informa- n Charles Dupree retired after 38 Pastor Ricky Belgard give his testi- bert. money are due by Monday, June 28. tion (who, what, where and when) years in ministry. He was honored with mony of healing and restoration. Pastor: n First Baptist Church, Monroe: Vaca- For more information, contact Joey at to [email protected] or call a reception after the morning service Ricky Belgard. tion Bible School, July 12-16 5-8:30 318.573.9580. Pastor: Gevan Spinney. 318.449.4345. To get your event in the on June 13 at Parkview Baptist Church, n McClendon Baptist Church, West p.m. Pastor: James Doughty. n Lighthouse Baptist Church, Indepen- paper, please submit your information Monroe. Monroe: Vacation Bible School, June n Great New Antioch Baptist Church, dence: Greg Sullivan in concert, July three weeks prior to the event. 28-July 1, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Pastor: Kevin Monroe: Vacation Bible School, July 18, 11 a.m. Pastor: Russell Osborne. REVIVAL Stewart 12-16 5-8:30 p.m. Pastor: John Russell. n Cheniere Baptist Church, West Mon- ON THE MOVE n Rocky Springs Baptist Church, Lisbon: n Bethel Baptist Church, Colfax: Youth roe: Vacation Bible School, July 19- n The Church at Marksville, Marksville: Vacation Bible School, June 28-July 2 Vacation Bible School, July 16-18, 23, 6-8 p.m. Pastor: Zach Anderson n Michael (wife Tammy) Wilkinson Revival, June 27-30, 7 p.m. nightly. from 5 -8 p.m. Pastor: Everett Geis. Friday-6-9 p.m., Saturday-9-6 a.m. n Beulah Baptist Church, Winnfield: from Macedonia Baptist Church, Effie Evangelist: Bill Britt. Pastor: Ken Aus- n First Baptist Church, Morgan City: Va- Sunday 5-8 p.m. Youth VBS for grades Ben Waites in concert, July 22, 10:30 to become pastor at East Jena Baptist tin. cation Bible School, June 28-July 2, 9 that just finished 6th-12th grade. The a.m. Pastor: Lamar Carpenter. Church, Jena. n Pilgrim Home Baptist Church, Cous- a.m. – noon. Pastor: Tracey Smith. event will take place in the gym at n First Baptist Church, Jackson: Vaca- n Sam Haggard is the new youth min- hatta: Revival, July 11-14. Evangelist: n First Baptist Church, Eunice: Exca- Bethel Baptist Church, Colfax. You can tion Bible School, July 26-30, 5:30-8 ister at Bethany Baptist Church, Bethany Bill Britt. Pastor: Shawn Beard. vate the Truth 2021, July 5-9, 9 a.m.- pre-register at https://kideventpro.life- p.m. Pastor: Joe Nesom. n Kirk (wife Jordan) Talley is the n Broadmoor Hispanic Baptist Church, noon. Children who have completed way.com/myEvent/?id=60088. Pastor: n First Baptist Church, Mandeville: new music minister from Open Door, Shreveport: Harvest Sunday, July 18. Kindergarten - 6th grade are welcome! Carl Gulde. Vacation Bible School – Rocky Rail- Ragley to Blanchard Baptist Church, Evangelist: Bill Britt. Pastor: Daniel Her- During the week the children will learn n First Baptist Church, Haughton: way, July 26-30, Pastor: Corey Fontain. Blanchard. nandez. fun new songs, bible stories, play games, Sporting Clay Classic, July 17 at Los n Joshua (wife Rebekah) Timothy n First Baptist Church, Princeton: Har- do fun activities, and more. The church is will be ordained to the Gospel ministry vest Sunday, July 25. Evangelist: Bill located at: 331 Park Avenue, Eunice, LA on June 27 at 6 p.m. He is the pastor of Britt. Pastor: Darrell Cooper. 70535. Pastor: Brent Shoalmire. Esler Baptist Church, Pineville. n Acadian Baptist Center, Eunice: Wor- n Will Simmons is the new disciple- LAGNIAPPE ship Center dedication, July 10, 2-4 ship pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, p.m. Shreveport, from North Keithville Bap- n Emmanuel Baptist Church in Oakdale n Faith Baptist Church, Livingston: tist Church, Keithville. is seeking a bi-vocational pastor. Greg Sullivan in concert, July 11, n Austin Eaken is the new youth pas- Please send resumes to: wandamill- 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Trey Colwell. tor at Calvary Baptist Church, Shreve- [email protected] n Beulah Baptist Church, Winnfield: port from Grawood Baptist Church, n A Wurtzler piano that is in pristine Ben Waites in concert, July 11, 10:30 Keithville. condition is being given away to either a.m. Pastor: Lamar Carpenter. n Chris Keeny is the new pastor at a church or individual in need by re- n Summer Grove Baptist Church, Westlake Baptist Church, Shreveport tired Pastor Bob Galloway. If interested, Shreveport: The Hoppers in concert; from Mooringsport Baptist Church, call 318.473.8803. The piano must be July 11 at 5 p.m. Pastor: Heath Peloquin. Mooringsport. picked up from Galloway’s home, which n Bayou Vista Baptist Church, Morgan n Student Minister Noah Greene is is located 150 Christine Drive, Boyce, La. City: Vacation Bible School, July 12- the new Missions Minister at First Bap- n Victory Baptist Church, Monroe: Va- 16, 8 a.m. – noon. Pastor: Steven Kelly. tist Church, New Orleans. cation Bible School, June 26, 8 a.m.- n Jesse, wife Christi, Balch was or- 2:30 p.m. Pastor: Grant Bamburg. dained to the Gospel ministry on May n Philadelphia Baptist Church, Deville: 26. He is pastor of Bosco Baptist Church, Independence Day Celebration, Scripture Crypto Monroe. June 27, 7 p.m. Following the service at 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 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. 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: IMMEDIATE JOB OPENINGS All numerals, such as those in the scripture reference after the verse, are spelled out. On Monroe Campus COTTAGE PARENTS: Husband and wife teams are needed. Full-time positions in- KYSMP UFB DM DB YDM YFBV, FBV YP KDCC XYISJEYCZ clude salary, benefits, paid vacation, and training. Basic job de- scription is to provide love, care, and hope in Christ for children in need. Applicants should not have children living at home under the age of 18. Applicants must have a sense of call and commitment to a ministry of service to children and be active members of a local Southern Baptist church. Part-time posi- NJIEP YDM UCSSI, FBV KDCC EFXYPI XYP KYPFX DBXS tions are also available. Please send resume to: Susan Nolan at [email protected] or LBCH, PO Box 4196, Monroe, LA 71211. COTTAGE CARE MANAGERS: YDM EFIBPI, WJX XYP GYFUU YP KDCC WJIB KDXY UDIP Full-Time and Part-Time Positions Available: Christian women needed to serve in HomePlace, a transitional living ministry for homeless children and their mothers. Must have a sense of call and commitment to a ministry of service to children and families.
Please send resume to: Jonann Byargeon at jonann@lbch. JBAJPBGYFWCP. org or LBCH, PO Box 4196, Monroe, LA 71211. CJOP XYIPP:MPRPBXPPB
Clues: Answer to May 27 Scripture Crypto: Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home & Family Ministries U = F; D = I First Chronicles nine: twenty-eight
June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 12 LegislativeSESSION
Additionally, Johnson was Mizell’s S.C.R. 68 extends Alan Seabaugh (R ), a mem- to threatening Seabaugh lauded in a press release by the life of the Task Force ber of Broadmoor Baptist with gun violence. Session from page 9 Louisiana Right to Life for on Benefits of Marriage and Church, Shreveport, in a However, Seabaugh told that result from an abortion, working behind the scenes to Incentives for Premarital dispute about wording in state police that White said and (3) ensuring that a minor “lead the effort to secure an and Pre-divorce Counseling. White’s domestic abuse bill, “either, ‘I’m going to get my is mature enough to give $11,946,139 increase for foster Meanwhile Cloud’s S.C.R. 195 H.B. 159. The episode, which gun and finish this,’ or, ‘Let consent to an abortion. H.B. care board rates, adoption renews the authorization of included shouting by White, me get my gun and we’ll fin- 357 passed both chambers subsidies, and guardianship the Task Force on Protect- interrupted proceedings on ish this.’” (73-28-4; 36-2) and awaits subsidies, the first such in- ing Children from Exposure the floor of the House, June The next day White disposition by the governor. creases in 15 years,” bringing to Pornography. Both task 9, until other lawmakers pulled her legislation from Johnson’s H.B. 125 ensures the state “much closer to the forces include a Louisiana intervened. consideration and apologized that children’s interests will southern average for foster Baptist Convention represen- According to theadvo- to House members. be protected by mandating care and adoption support.” tative in their memberships. cate.com, Seabaugh had that “support enforcement Neither task force was able recommended changing the services are … provided by LOUISIANA BAPTIST INFLUENCE to meet during the pandem- phrase “household member” SBC from page 4 [Department of Children and ic, thus leaving their work, to “family member” because churches took part in Family Services] on behalf Mizell and Sen. Heather started in 2019, incomplete. of legal differences between “Who’s Your One Sun- of the child involved” in any Cloud (R) offered measures the two terms, and he sug- day” to supplement the 92 paternity action, support that renewed the authoriza- VIOLENCE OVER DOMESTIC ABUSE gested White did not under- volunteers who engaged obligation situation, and any tions for two tasks forces stand because she was not an in 6,300 Gospel conver- change to a court-ordered created largely in response In perhaps the most bi- attorney. sations, resulting in 176 manner of payment of sup- to two resolutions passed zarre incident of the legisla- White said that “trig- salvation decisions. port. His bill passed both by Louisiana Baptists (2015: tive session, Rep. Malinda gered” her and confessed NAMB’s decision not chambers without a single protecting children from White (D), a member of First that she made comments in to accommodate out- “no” vote and was signed pornography; 2017: promot- Baptist Church, Bogalusa, the heat of the moment that of-state groups in 2021 into law as Act 11 by the ing premarital counseling allegedly threatened gun she should not have made. likely hurt the evangelistic governor. and reconciliation counsel). violence and grabbed Rep. However, she did not admit outreach in Nashville. But the number of salvation decisions resulting from Crossover has decidedly dropped (except for Dallas as well as two Greg Lau- rie crusades held in con- junction with Crossover) since 2010, when nearly 2,000 new believers were birthed during Crossover activities:
10-YEAR SUMMARY OF SALVATIONS
2010 -- 1,940 (Orlando) 2011 -- 1,131 (Phoenix) 2012 -- 1,140 (New Orleans) 2013 -- 582 (Houston) 2014 -- 214 (Baltimore) 2015 – 345 (Columbus) 2016 – 556 (St, Louis) 2017 – 115 (Phoenix), plus 3,398 during Harvest America by Greg Laurie 2018 – 1,015 (Dallas), plus 3,214 during Harvest America by Greg Laurie 2019 – 364 (Birmingham) 2020 – pandemic
Offering some hope for greater Crossover partici- pation and results in 2022, NAMB posted “We hope to resume normal proce- dures next year.” Israel from page 3 packs) -- walkers, wheelchairs, adult diapers
Contact Huffman to donate items or to provide funds to cover the cost of shipping: 21066 Fairhaven Road, Covington, LA 70435, 985.264.5052 or johnny@fairhavenminis- try.com. June 24, 2021 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message