Chris Rix: Filipino former Conference asks, quarterback ‘Who moved my pulpit?’ talks faith, ministry Page 6 Page 5

JANUARY 14, 2017 • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists • VOLUME 183 NO. 1 • BRnow.org

Sanctity of Life Sustaining the courage to care

sounds, abortion education and life skills “the Lord starting putting the right peo- Your Choice filed a rezoning appli- By SETH BROWN | BR Content Editor training for men and women. ple in the right place at the right time.” cation in early 2016 that made its way hen Tonya Baker Nelson’s The organization has deep roots in the unhindered through standard procedure, Sunday School class de- Christian faith, which Nelson credits as Ending late-term bureaucracy including reviews in neighborhood meet- cided to do a community the sustaining core of their work. Crisis Hand of Hope outgrew two properties ings, the Citizen’s Advisory Council and project, something inside pregnancy ministry is emotionally taxing. in Fuquay-Varina within a few years of the Raleigh Planning Commission. compelledW her to take a bold step. Build- That, coupled with an uphill legal battle, their 2005 launch, eventually settling in a The planning commission approved ing another handicap ramp just wasn’t has tested her mettle over the past year, midcentury colonial-style residence near the request by a 10-0 vote, clearly stating enough. Before she had time to hesitate, but she’s as ambitious as ever. the center of town. that reclassifying the one-acre property an idea was born: “We could open a preg- “I will run to face [Goliath] because Nelson opened a second location on from residential to mixed-use office nancy center.” I know God is not on my side, I’m on the southwest side of Raleigh in 2012, space fell within established guidelines. That was more than a decade ago, and God’s side,” Nelson said. called Your Choice Pregnancy Clinic, Nearly all of the nearby properties on the she’s been marching forward ever since. Nelson didn’t hesitate to admit her which became the focus of a controversial street had already been rezoned in similar Today, Nelson serves as the CEO of Your fears, however, especially as she reflects legal battle after purchasing property in fashion. Choice Pregnancy Clinic in Raleigh, N.C., on the early days. She had no experience late 2015 next to A Preferred Women’s The city council must review rezoning and Hand of Hope Pregnancy Resource operating a not-for-profit organization. Health Center, a clinic which specializes requests, so the application came up for Center in nearby Fuquay-Varina, which “I am in so far over my head,” Nelson in abortion procedures. consideration in a meeting June 21. The offer pregnancy and sexually transmitted thought. Initial plans to move into the new abortion provider next to the property infection testing, informational ultra- But right from the beginning, she said, facility developed normally. See Life page 12 2 Opinion JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Defund Planned Parenthood now an. 22 is Sanctity of Human Life “Ryan said cutting off federal funds to less of their energies forcing the rest hood executive that one vendor, Stem- Sunday. The day gives pause for the organization will be included in of us to pay for it and more of their Express, appeared to make a 2,800 per- Jall Americans to reflect on more a ‘reconciliation’ bill that also repeals resources to pay for it themselves. cent profit on a baby’s brain harvested than 50 million lives lost and countless the core of ObamaCare. The reconcilia- Many states have already removed from a Planned Parenthood clinic.” others damaged by the national license tion process prevents Democrats from Planned Parenthood from their bud- The sixth statement is “Planned to conveniently destroy human life at launching a filibuster against the mea- gets. It’s time for our debt-ridden Parenthood affiliate clinics ‘routinely’ will. sure, meaning Republicans federal government to defund PPFA. violated privacy regulations imposed From the more positive won’t need 60 votes to win The Biblical Recorder reported in 2012 by the Health Insurance Portability and perspective, followers of on defunding.” that in the previous year, eight states Accountability Act of 1996, seeking to Jesus Christ use the day to “Planned Parenthood passed legislation that diverted a com- ease the process of harvesting body honor the gift of life because legislation will be in our rec- bined $61.7 million in family-planning parts and other fetal tissue.” it is the unique creation of onciliation bill,” Ryan said, funds from PPFA to state or county More Americans are pro-life than God. We cannot be weak in without providing any more agencies for health screenings and at any time since the passage of Roe v. the issue of life. Loyalty to details, The Hill reported. other services that don’t include abor- Wade. They are demanding action at the scripture does not allow for It’s about time! Planned tion. Soon after that, the Obama admin- federal level on the matter. neutrality on the subject. Parenthood is a private istration bypassed the law in Tennessee Much helpful information on pro-life Our convictions must be organization that should to directly fund Planned Parenthood issues is posted on the Ethics and Re- K. ALLAN BLUME expressed. Our voices must never have been funded by Greater Memphis. ligious Liberty Commission’s (ERLC) Editor be heard. taxpayers. Although they In 2012 North Carolina, Arizona, website. Since the Supreme Court’s deny it, the facts show they Iowa, Ohio, Oklahoma and New Hamp- I encourage every Southern Baptist grievous Roe v. Wade decision on Jan. are a major abortion provider and shire defunded PPFA according to the to read the resourceful article by Travis 22, 1973, two presidents of the United money-making machine. They must be Susan B. Anthony List (SBA), which has Wussow and ERLC president Russell States who were members of a South- defunded now. assisted all the states in the move to Moore titled, “6 pro-life priorities for ern Baptist church did not stand on Bill O’Reilly, whose evening show defund the abortion seller. the president and Congress in 2017.” pro-life principles. on the Fox News network boasts the A story on the popular pro-life Live The writers said, “We work for Some Baptists in the Congress joined highest cable ratings in prime time, Action News website said, “Defunding protections, in law, for the unborn, them. I find that embarrassing and said on a recent program, “People who Planned Parenthood is about taking because we believe every person is unconscionable. don’t believe in abortion, who believe money from a scandal ridden organi- created in the image of God and has The shortage of biblical preaching on it is the taking of a human life, are zation which does not deserve to be dignity and worth. So we are encour- the value of life in the past five decades then forced to participate in abortion, a monopolizer of funds for legitimate aging our elected officials to highlight is perhaps more troubling than the because that money goes to Planned health services, especially when those these six pro-life priorities ... .” positions of political leaders. Too many Parenthood, which performs, or makes health services have decreased over the Number four on the list reads, preachers have been more concerned possible, about 350,000 each year. So years, and there are Federally Qualified “Eliminate all funding for Planned Par- about offending church members and it’s more of a ‘look, abortion is legal in Health Centers outnumbering Planned enthood from the federal budget.” less interested in following the call to the USA, but I don’t want to pay for it, Parenthood locations 20 to 1 which Wussow and Moore add, “... we bold, prophetic proclamation of truth. and I shouldn’t be forced to pay for it.’ provide more comprehensive care and will work with Congress to use the It is commendable that in the 33 That’s the beef.” are more deserving of federal funds.” next available budget measure to de- years since the court’s Roe v. Wade deci- Well, that’s part of the problem, Mr. The Daily Signal website posted fund Planned Parenthood. sion, preaching on the sanctity of life O’Reilly. The greatest issue is that it’s a story on Jan. 4 titled, “6 Alarming “We were supportive of the defund has increased in evangelical pulpits. simply wrong! It violates every stan- Findings in House Panel’s Planned effort that was vetoed by President And I believe most of that preaching is dard of human decency, dignity and Parenthood Probe.” The report exposes Obama, and we will continue to work growing in the balance of truth, grace civility. It is immoral. the raw immoral code of conduct that to support this effort in the coming and compassionate action. O’Reilly offered a simple solution. is common in the abortion industry. It Congress.” The impact of truth has now reached He suggested that private donations is very disturbing. As you and your church family honor the halls of Congress. House Speaker could fund PPFA saying, “if all the The first finding reads, “Several God’s gift of life, pray for your pas- Paul Ryan announced Jan. 5 that true believers … who believe in abor- Planned Parenthood affiliates made a tor and other church leaders to stand defunding the Planned Parenthood tion want Planned Parenthood around, profit from the transfer of aborted body together and strong on the sanctity of Federation of America (PPFA) will certainly those donations will make it parts and other fetal tissue, in violation life for the glory of God. be included as part of a bill to repeal possible.” of federal law prohibiting that.” Pray for everyone who serves us in ObamaCare. I agree! Let the entertainment and The second item in the report says, government at every level. Let them According to a report in The Hill, media elites who believe in PPFA spend “It didn’t ‘bother’ a Planned Parent- know you are praying for them.

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t long last, the new year is here. Fittingly, is still working in the lives of many who are considering many of us spend these opening months of abortion. A the year thinking about new beginnings – I am so thankful for the many pregnancy centers new lifestyle changes and new goals for the year among throughout our state that help these expectant mothers them. to consider other options for their newborn One particular new beginning, however, infants. is on my mind along with others this time of Please join me this month in praying that Local churches and individuals must stand ready to year: the new beginning of human life. mothers who are considering having abortions spiritually support and also financially assist the unwed I like to think that most Baptists believe would come to the understanding that the moms who are brave enough to give birth to their baby. that all life begins at conception, which is fetus within them is much more than a mass of During this month, let’s not forget to remember in why we designate a special time each year to tissue. prayer those mothers who have had abortions in the celebrate Sanctity of Human Life Sunday. It is a human being into whom God has past. Every January, the Southern Baptist Con- breathed life and is developing this little Many of them come to the realization that they have vention selects a Sunday as a time to under- person so that it can experience physical birth ended the life of their child soon after the procedure – score the miracle and gift from God that is and begin a life of its own. and that realization is understandably painful. human life. MILTON A. Pray that these expectant mothers will feel Our Heavenly Father has no short supply of mercy HOLLIFIELD JR. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and God’s strength and know that He will be pres- and grace for these parents – He loves them, just as He BSC executive Prevention) has put out statistics on abortion ent with them during their journey of giving loves their children in heaven and He offers forgiveness director-treasurer rates in America dating from 1979 through life to a new baby. and opportunity for a new walk with Him. 2013, and it breaks my heart to read them. In Pray also that they would be reminded that As we celebrate Sanctity of Human Life Sunday this 2013, there were 664,435 reported, legal abortions in the there are families who would be overjoyed to adopt month, I ask you to pray for an end to abortion in this United States, which amounted to 200 abortions per their child into a loving home – this is another option nation. 1,000 live births. Most of the women who had abortions for expectant mothers, and it is one that I truly believe “For You formed inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s were in their 20s. mirrors the way that the Lord has saved and adopted us womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Though these numbers are dire, I know that the Lord into His spiritual family. marvelous are Your works” – Psalm 139:13-14.

PROFILE OF A MENTOR 30 years of offering hope hat a contrast! Oklahoma minute. Every abortion kills an unborn met Joe in May 1992 when I in- less hours with Joe every week both Baptists have celebrated child! Every abortion means money for terviewed for my first job out of formally and informally. W the 30th anniversary of its the clinic. college, teaching middle school • Proximity. This is related to time first Crisis Pregnancy Center (now called Let me put that number in perspec- I Hope Pregnancy Center). At the same tive. From 2002-2015, Oklahoma averaged band in small town Georgia. He was but goes deeper. Joe included me in the high school band director and a family trips and meals. I watched him time, abortionists are rejoicing at the 5,646 abortions per year. After a peak legend in the music education com- as a husband and a father. I saw the opening of the first new abortion clinic in of 6,807 abortions in 2006, the number munity. I did not know the whole person, not just the Oklahoma in 40 years. dropped to a record low of 4,330 in 2015. interview on that day would professional. One organization – Hope Pregnancy Contrast abortion clinics with the change the trajectory of my • Intentionality. Mentor- Center, now with five locations in the Hope Pregnancy Centers. In 1986, God life. We talked about Jesus ing is more that just relation- state – has spent three decades serving allowed me to lead a small group of more than music. I told Joe al time. Joe always drove the women facing a crisis pregnancy and sav- pastors and churches to open the first I was struggling with a call conversation beyond surface ing the unborn child from certain death. Oklahoma Baptist Crisis Pregnancy to ministry. He encouraged issues to how circumstances Now, we have a new abortion Center in Oklahoma City; me to see whatever I did as were molding my character. death chamber dedicated to another center was opened ministry, saying he believed He always brought the con- destroying the unborn child. in Tulsa. Oklahoma Baptists a man could be as effective versation back to Jesus. One organization celebrates opened the centers to provide life, while the other celebrates love and care for women faced preaching from a band po- BRIAN UPSHAW • Expectation. People dium as a pulpit. rise to the level of expecta- death. with “unwanted” pregnancies. I got the gig, and for the next four tion. Joe held me accountable in all The Trust Women South Rather than going to abortion years Joe was more than a boss. He areas of my life. Wind Women’s Clinic opened clinics and shouting at the was my mentor. He was tough and • Scripture. We never sat down for business in September. Ac- women who made their way to The Oklahoman tender, and saw his vocation as a for a formal Bible study; rather, Joe cording to daily destroy their unborn children, vehicle for making disciples. If “iron applied the truths of God’s Word to newspaper, CEO Julie Burk- ANTHONY L. JORDAN Oklahoma Baptists determined sharpens iron” as Proverbs 27:17 says, our real life circumstances. He saw the hart described the clinic as Guest Column to provide a loving alternative. then Joe was titanium. He honed my Lord as an active participant in every committed to address the lack Rather than charge for services, skills as a teacher and my character as aspect of life. of reproductive health care in Oklahoma. we would provide counsel, love, support a man. You should be mentoring someone. Interesting choice of words. There is and extended involvement with women Joe passed away the week before Like Joe, you have something to give nothing reproductive about abortion – it facing crisis pregnancies. Christmas. His death prompted me to away to others. There is a young man is anti-reproductive as an unborn child is Over these last 30 years, the number of reflect on the impact anyone can have or woman around you who needs your eliminated with every abortion. Hope Pregnancy Centers has increased to if we invest our lives in others. Joe was influence. While the clinic physicians will ad- five. Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Chil- a special man, but the things he gave (EDITOR’S NOTE – Brian Upshaw is dress other health issues for women, dren operates these centers. The ministry me are things we all possess and can the church health and revitalization team there is little doubt abortion is a central of these centers cannot be put in mere share with others: leader at the Baptist State Convention of focus of their practice. Indeed, Burkhart numbers, but the numbers do provide a • Time. There is no substitute for North Carolina. Contact (800) 395-5102, ext. proclaimed the clinic expects to per- picture worth seeing. spending time together. I spent count- 5632, or [email protected].) form 1,500 abortions the first year, with From 1986-2015, these centers of an expected level of 3,000 abortions to Christ’s love had 130,139 client visits. be reached each year. Let that soak in a See Hope page 12 4 JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Colerain church reopens, perseveres through storms on. It was kind of unusual.” By LIZ TABLAZON | BR Staff Writer The property looked maintained, hristmas came a few weeks early White said, but he never saw people for Wakelon Baptist Church using it. He asked a retired sheriff who Cin Colerain, N.C., a church lived a mile away from the church about that pushed through some challenging it, and the sheriff pointed him to William months after reopening in 2015. “Speck” Bryant. Members saw new stained glass Bryant had been a long-time member windows installed in the sanctuary dur- and treasurer of Wakelon and called him- ing the first week of December, months self the church’s check writer. ahead of schedule. Allen White, Wake- Even after the church closed, he faith- lon’s pastor, said the church initially put fully cut grass and paid light and gas bills the project on hold to focus on repairing month after month. Bryant told White he damage done by tropical storm Julia in would love to have the church back up, September and Hurricane Matthew in but the floors in the bathroom were in October. poor condition, and there was no heat or The windows were among a list of air conditioning. upgrades that included a new ramp, a fel- White was a bivocational carpenter. lowship hall and new bathroom floors – a “I said, ‘Well if that’s the only problem, process of restoring the church that was I’ll go in there because that’s what I do. closed for about eight years. [Bryant] was just amazed. He had no idea Wakelon, originally built in 1943, was someone could fix it,” he said. once a small but thriving congregation White received donated materials to of more than 100 members. As children finish the bathroom floors, and members After reopening in 2015, Wakelon Baptist Church in Colerain sustained damage from a tropical grew and moved away, and older mem- from Edgewood Baptist Church came to storm and hurricane in 2016. With help from Baptists on Mission, also known as North Caro- bers passed away, the church found itself help clean on the Saturday before the first lina Baptist Men, N.C. Baptists from a local church and students from Chowan University, the service. without a pastor and only a handful of church received needed repairs in time for Christmas. (Contributed photo) members meeting for Sunday School He remembered Bryant propped up by every week. a truck, watching the work. White was a layman at Edgewood Bap- “He had tears rolling down his tist Church in Windsor, N.C., who an- cheeks,” White said. “I said to him, ‘I swered the call to ministry in June 2015. guess you never thought you’d see this “I kept riding by the little church. church open, did you?’ He said, ‘No, I Something kept drawing me to the never thought anyone would care about it church even before I entered the minis- as much as I did.’” try,” he said. See Church page 9 “I couldn’t figure out what was going

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By K. ALLAN BLUME | BR Editor

hen Lynn Sasser read Thom Rainer’s book Who Moved My W Pulpit? Leading Change in the Church he knew immediately that church leaders need to hear the book’s mes- sage. Rainer is the president of LifeWay Christian Resources, and Sasser is the entire church staff focused on leading executive leader for the evangelism and change in the local church.” discipleship group of the Baptist State “The book is about change in the lo- Convention of North Carolina (BSC). cal church,” said Sasser. “The reason it Convinced that a statewide intrigued us is that it’s around conference on the subjects of the premise of church revital- revitalization and change is ization.” needed, Sasser reached out to Many churches are in de- Rainer with an invitation to cline and need to take inten- come to North Carolina. “We tional steps toward revitaliza- felt like [Rainer’s] presence tion, but are reluctant to make would draw a number of North necessary changes. Carolina Baptist church leaders “Every church that needs to to come and begin thinking be revitalized has to deal with about how they need to deal change,” Sasser said. “The with change in their church,” THOM RAINER church got where it is based he said. on the way they’ve done things Rainer accepted the invitation, and over time. If they want to have different the conference, Leading Change in the results, they’re going to have to deal with Church, is set for March 7 at the west change. That is what hooked our interest campus of Calvary Baptist Church in [in Rainer’s book].” Winston-Salem from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. With more than three decades of ex- and staff leader at BSC, Sasser under- than 20 training opportunities in revital- Sasser called it “a one-day event for your perience as a pastor, director of missions stands church values. He said he was ization through discipleship, age-group “very pleased” to see the book identified ministries, social media, worship, theol- prayer as the beginning point for revital- ogy, multi-site options, cultural engage- ization. ment and other related topics. “That’s the very first thing that has Breakout speakers from the three to happen in a church. That really is the sponsoring organizations include Jamie key problem in churches that need to Dew, Art Rainer, Ryan Hutchinson, De- be revitalized. It’s a spiritual issue more nise O’Donoghue, George Robinson, Sam often than not. And I realize that some Morris and John Ewart from SEBTS. Life- churches may have tried to be very faith- way’s speakers are Trevin Wax, Daniel Im ful but just find themselves in a very, very and Aaron Armstrong. Breakout leaders hard place.” for BSC include Brian Upshaw, Chuck Beginning with prayer, the book Register, Kenny Lamm, Merrie Johnson, provides a clear outline of progression Mark Smith, Cheryl Markland and Zac through the process of revitalization, he Lyons. Rob Peters, Calvary’s senior pas- said. tor, is also a breakout leader. “Then there’s also a very helpful piece Advance registration is requested at called a ‘readiness change inventory’ in leadingchange.church. Individual registra- the book, and I hope Dr. Rainer will ad- tion for the conference is $10 and covers dress that [at the conference].” admission to the conference and lunch. The conference is jointly sponsored by Church staff pricing for more than five LifeWay, BSC and Southeastern Baptist attendees is $50 for an entire group. For Theological Seminary (SEBTS). Two key- more information email questions@lead- note sessions will feature Rainer. Four ingchange.church or call Kathryn Markham breakout session tracks will offer more at (919) 459-5648. Whitworth elected Pennsylvania/S. Jersey exec

Baptist Press Whitworth succeeds David Waltz, who retired after 23 years of leading arry Whitworth, a longtime church the two-state convention, which has Bplanter who has served churches rebranded itself the Baptist Resource in three states, has been elected execu- Network of Pennsylvania/South Jersey tive director of the Baptist Convention (BRN). Whitworth will assume his new of Pennsylvania/South Jersey by a unani- role Feb. 1. mous vote of the convention’s Executive He and Beth have two children and six Committee. grandchildren. 6 JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Filipino former quarterback talks faith, ministry

hris Rix is the only player to ministry and sports, start four years as quarter- this calling from God Cback for Florida State Univer- has been a privilege. sity. In his 2001-2004 college career, he Right now we run played for the well-known coach Bobby about 95 campuses. It’s Bowden. The team a privilege to share the claimed three confer- gospel here in Southern ence titles and played California. in four consecutive bowl games with Rix It has become calling the snap. Rix Q: so much tough- kicked off his profes- er to share the gospel sional football career on college campuses. with the San Diego Is it so important Rams in 2005 and to reach youngsters also began working ROMAN GABRIEL III in middle and high in sports broadcast- Sports Q &A school? ing. He currently commands the mic as an analyst for Fox Absolutely. I Sports Radio, regularly contributing on A: wish that I had several shows. Rix also founded Cham- some foundation in ju- pion Training Academy, which develops nior high or high school; and mentors young athletes, and serves I wasn’t introduced to as the director of Fellowship of Christian a fun youth and sports Athlete (FCA) ministries in California. ministry until college. I grew up going to church You are involved in covering some, but I would Q: high school and college sports call myself a “CEO” for Fox, what about the stretch run for Christian: Christmas the College Football National Champi- and Easter only. Maybe onship? Mother’s Day to honor Chris Rix, above, started as quarterback all four years at Florida State University and has spent part of his career behind a my mom, but I really camera at FOX Sports as a sideline reporter. He currently works with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. (Contributed photos) You have Ohio State, Clemson, didn’t grow up in the A: Washington and Alabama for all of football, Bobby Bowden. Tell me huge impact on church. To have that the championship. Now that you’re in, what that experience was like. former players. kind of atmosphere in it becomes about who’s going to finish He is one of my college was great, but if this thing. Who’s going to stop believing He gave me the opportunity heroes. I named I had that earlier in my their own press – the hype? But this is A: through a scholarship offer to go my second life I definitely would why we love college football, right? You to Florida State. I was a good quarter- son after him, have made some differ- get here. This is why they play the games back, but I know there were a lot more Bobby. ent decisions. To be able – survival of the fittest. Who’s going to out there more talented than me, so I’m to now connect with be at the top at the end? Its always fun to appreciative of the opportunity. For him You middle school and high watch. These next few weeks are going to to say this was the first scholarship of- Q: and I school students has be exciting! fered to a California player, he really did have a couple been invaluable. Because recruit predominately from the South. of things in once you get to college, Let’s get down to business. During that process, Mark Richt, the common. One you start to get set in Q: There are very few Filipino offensive coordinator at the time, was of those is your ways. It’s awesome quarterbacks ever to play in the NFL. recruiting me heavily. The combination of serving with to have the opportunity My dad was the first one. Are you those two guys really led me to go there, FCA, which I did for almost four years. to plant seeds and encourage students. proud to be one of them? and they had just won the national cham- Aren’t you are doing the same now in pionship my senior year. Southern California? Follow Chris Rix at aimforgreatness.com Yes, my mother was Filipino. She and on Twitter @coachrix. A: passed away from cancer, God rest Did Coach Bowden really take My wife, Anita, and I have been her soul. I’m very proud of my Filipino Q: a holistic approach to student A: with FCA going on seven years. (EDITOR’S NOTE – Roman Gabriel III is heritage and big family. And it was my athletes on and off the field? FCA made an impact on me in college at an evangelist and motivational speaker. Visit family that let me know about the great Florida State. It started that faith journey the Faith Family Sports website: fspn.net. Hear quarterback [your father] Roman Gabriel. Hearing him start every meeting for me and got me plugged into a church, his Sold Out Sports Talk Radio program on Playing quarterback in the Atlantic A: with a message of faith, salvation then coming back here years later to American Family Radio in 200 cities nationally Coast Conference for Florida State and and then telling us about the FCA – it speak at some schools in Southern or streaming live at afr.net. Visit his website: against N.C. State, you learn a little bit was just a totally different environment California, which led to the opportunity soldouttv.com; Facebook: Roman Gabriel III; more about your father. You said there than I grew up in. Hearing from other to become a FCA director here in Los connect on Twitter: @romangabriel3rd. Con- weren’t many Filipino quarterbacks in Florida State great alumni like Deion Angeles. tact at (910) 431-6483 or email: soldoutrg3@ football history. I have always tried to Sanders, Charlie Ward, Corey Simon and Combining two of my largest passions, gmail.com.) represent that well. Peter Boulware coming back and talk- ing about their faith to me. That really You had the pleasure of playing started the faith process for me. Coach ADVERTISE – (919) 459-5691 Q: for one of the great coaches in Bowden as you know has made such a JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Opinion 7 Pro-life, anti-poverty e can’t truly be pro-life if we’re not anti- tion of court systems and the facilitation of taxpayer And it doesn’t even include the medical bills for labor poverty. Follow me through the facts here. funding. and delivery (which average over $9,000). Perhaps she W Planned Parenthood celebrated its 100- Pro-life convictions are in our spiritual DNA. As could apply for government assistance, like the WIC year anniversary last October. far back as the second century, the early church con- program? In that case, she must not earn more than Since 1916, founder Margaret Sanger’s vision for this demned the practice of abortion, a stance that contrib- $2,500 a month without losing the additional income. organization, reflected in its very name, was that every uted to twice as many women converting to Christianity This means she will be caught in the limbo of not earn- child be a wanted child. But underneath this mantra lay than men. ing enough to support herself and her child indepen- an ambition of systematic eugenics along with her belief But there’s another characteristic of the early church dently, but not earning so much that she is unqualified that “the most merciful thing that a large family does to that doesn’t seem to have the same urgency here in for financial help. one of its infant members is to kill it.” America, at least not in our conversations on For the single woman with an unplanned pregnancy Today, Planned Parenthood has performed important social issues. living on less than $12,000 per year, raising a child seems approximately 7 million abortions of the 57 And it happens to be inextricably linked impossible. For her, a five- to 10-minute procedure at million pre-born lives ended since abortion to the prevalence of abortions in our commu- a neighborhood clinic for about $450 seems like a way was legalized. And that’s just here in the nities: If we’re going to be truly pro-life, we out. United States. must also be anti-poverty. Perhaps this reinforces why pro-life advocacy that To put that number in perspective, over 57 Consider this: In 2014, 49 percent of wom- focuses on the mother rather than the unborn child million is about one-sixth of the U.S. popula- en who had abortion procedures had incomes has proven more effective. According to a study titled, tion and rivals the number of atrocities com- at the federal poverty level, i.e., a single wom- “Profile of a Woman with an Unplanned Pregnancy,” a mitted by Joseph Stalin. This number would an with no children living on $11,670 year or woman may agree that having an abortion means killing be similar to the genocide of the nation coun- KATIE MCCOY less. (An additional 26 percent of women who an unborn child, and even agree that abortion is morally try of South Africa, or South Korea, or Spain. Guest Column had abortions in 2014 had incomes between wrong. Further, of that 57 million, minorities are $11,670 and $23,340 per year.) Inability to However, as the study explains, “that is the price a disproportionately represented. African Americans afford a child is among the top reasons a woman has an woman in that situation is willing to pay in her desper- make up less than 13 percent of the total population in abortion; a 2004 study found that 74 percent of women ate struggle for what she believes to be her very surviv- the United States yet comprise between 30-35 percent of having an abortion cited financial constraints. al.” The woman with an unplanned pregnancy believes abortions. What organizations like Planned Parenthood leave her entire life is at stake. In fact, a black American woman is five times more out of their marketing strategies is how much money Yet, in her fear and uncertainty, the woman consider- likely to have an abortion than a white American they make off a woman in poverty. ing an abortion will likely not hear about her increased woman. Put yourself in her shoes: A new mother can expect risk of addiction, eating disorders or future infertility, Among professing Christians, abortion is rightly de- to spend about $2,400 on diapers, formula and baby along with the shame, guilt and difficulty in relation- cried as a modern-day Holocaust, the killing of millions food alone. And that doesn’t count the cost of things ships she will likely endure. To quote the Profile study of defenseless unborn lives under the political protec- like furniture, clothes or childcare. See Pro-life page 12 8 JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists CAMP OPPORTUNITIES

Each week campers will have the • Teen Girls (grads 7-12): June 19-23, opportunity to participate in mission July 10-14 projects. • Girls Mini Camp (grades 2-6): June Download the registration form or 26-28, July 24-26 At Camp Caraway campers will expe- April 7-8, June 16-17 register online at campmundovista.com. • Mother/Daughter Mini Camp rience the love of Jesus, develop healthy • Father-Son Camp (2 nights): $135, • Girls Camp (grades 3-6): June 19- (grades 1-6): June 26-28, June 28-30, July relationships and learn about the impor- Oct 20-22 23, July 10-14 17-19, July 19-21 tance of missions. • Boys’ Camp: $295, June 26-30, July Every activity – whether a recreation, 10-14 worship service or missions time – teach- • Father-Daughter Camp: $80, July es and equips campers with biblical truth 3-4 for daily living. Register at caraway • Mother-Son Camp: $80, July 5-6 summerfun.org. • Children’s Camp: $295, July 31-Aug • Father-Son Camp (1 night): $80, 4, Aug 7-11 N.C. Baptist Assembly at Fort Cas- and meals. Please contact Caswell at well presents Be Do Tell Youth (BDT) (910) 278-9501 for pricing. Visit leaders. Camp Cale sits on the banks of the Weeks, a youth camp on the beach that bedotell.com/index.php?id=87. Perquimans River. It provides age-graded includes worship, a hands-on missions • June 12-17 – Acton Bowen summer camps for youth and children, experience, intentional discipleship for • June 19-24 – Tony Merida complete with adventure activities and students and youth ministry training for Bible study. This year’s theme is Search • June 26-July 1 – Stuart Hall and Rescue. Early bird registration by adults. Each week also includes daily • July 10-15 – Eddie Briery April 29 is $290 for Early Camp Week, quiet times, devotions, sports, drama, • July 17-22 – Trevor Atwood $290 for Kids Weeks, $300 for Teen improv, games and more. • July 24-29 – Mike Satterfield Weeks and $290 for Sports Week. A The program fee is $65 plus lodging • July 31-Aug 5 – Wes Hamilton non-refundable deposit is required per camper. Visit campcale.com/summer-camp. html. • Early Week Camp (Completed 2-12th grades): $300, June 4-9 • Teen Weeks (Completed 7th-12th • Kids Weeks (Completed 2nd-6th grades): $325, July 16-21, July 23-28 grades): $300, June 11-16, June 18-23 and • Sports Camp (Completed 2nd-6th July 9-14 grades): $300, June 25-30 Deep Impact Kids Missions Weeks services and fun activities. Weekends are and Weekends are mission and ministry $80 per person and week-long camps are experiences sponsored by Baptists on $160. Included in the cost per person is: South Mountain Baptist Camp Mission that provides elementary age lodging, meals, program, materials/sup- students and leaders/parents with the plies, T-shirt and insurance. Visit baptist- opportunity to share the love of God. The sonmission.org/Camps/DI-Kids. South Mountain Baptist Camp’s mis- Visit southmountainbaptistcamp.com/ experiences are geared for children in 1st- • Red Springs Camp Weekend: May sion is to develop young disciples that summer-camp.html. 5th grade (6th grade is included if they 19-21 will be effective in impacting culture • Children’s Camp (Completed 1-6th are in the church children’s program) and • Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute and carrying the gospel throughout grades): $165, June 12-16, June 19-23, leaders/parents. Students will participate Week: June 26-30 the world. Campers will participate in June 25-29, July 17-21, July 24-28 and July in interactive biblical teaching with an • Red Springs Camp Week: July 17-21 morning quiet time, group recreation, 31-Aug 4 emphasis on missions, age appropri- • Shelby Camp Week: July 24-28 Bible study, chapel, church group time • Youth Mission Camp (Completed ate servanthood evangelism or hand on • Truett Camp Week: July 21-Aug. 4 and various fun activities. The camp is in 6-12th grades): $200, July 9-14 service projects, devotions and worship • Shelby Camp Weekend: Sept. 8-10 Connelly Springs. • Day Camp (Completed K-2nd A non-refundable deposit of $55 is grades): $50, July 11-13 required for all overnight camps, $75 for • Coed Camp (Completed 1st-12th youth camp and $25 for day camp. grades): $165, Aug 6-10

World Missions Deep Impact Missions Weeks are • July 2-8: $315+, Caswell week-long mission experiences spon- • July 10-15: $210, Rockingham Week sored by Baptists on Mission for middle • July 17-22: $225, Shelby (must have completed 6th grade) and • July 24-29: $210 Beulaville high school students and their leaders. • July 31-Aug. 5: $225, Red Springs World Missions Week is being hosted of the week. Rush of Fools will be lead- Devotions and worship will help stu- Outside North Carolina by N.C. Baptists on Mission July 3-8. ing worship each evening. Tom Richter dents reflect on their lives and commit • Honduras: $1650, June 17-24 Anyone interested in learning about will be the pastor for the week. Inspi- themselves to serving others. Visit baptist- • Philadelphia: $350, June 25-July 1 exciting opportunities for involvement in rational and informative studies will be sonmission.org/camps/deep-impact. • Nassau, Bahamas: $1200, July 8-15 state, national and international missions provided for all age groups starting with North Carolina dates: (Must be in grades 9-12) is welcome. pre-school. For more information visit • June 19-24: $210, Boone North Carolina Mini Weeks Celebrative worship, small group time baptistsonmission.org/camps/world-missions- • June 26-July 1: $210, Stokes/Forsyth • June 11-14: $115, Red Springs and mission moments are but a small part week. County • June 15-18: $115, Shelby JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 9 Roman Gabriel, Tony Dungy host Super Bowl rally

“We’re partnering with Tony By K. ALLAN BLUME | BR Editor Dungy’s group, All Pro Dad, which ootball has been a big part of Roman Gabriel III’s is a fatherhood/parenthood engage- life. His father was a star quarterback at North ment charitable organization out of FCarolina State University and advanced to play Tampa, Florida,” Gabriel told the for the Los Angeles Rams for eleven seasons, then five Biblical Recorder. “Coach Dungy’s seasons for the Philadelphia Eagles. The son followed coming alongside to help us promote his dad with a short stint in the NFL until he was side- it to the churches.” lined by injuries. In a promotional video Dungy Gabriel remains closely connected with his football said, “Our goal at All Pro Dad is to roots through an organization he founded, Sold Out help men love their family well.” Sports. Sold Out is a sports and character education The rally will originate from Grace program that places Gabriel in schools where he chal- Community Church in Humble, lenges students to abstain from alcohol and drugs. Texas. The Faith, Family & Football His calling takes him all over his home state of North rally features testimonies and con- Tony Dungy, seen here in this video screenshot, and Roman Gabriel, Biblical Recorder sports correspondent, will be hosting a live Super Bowl Rally Feb. 1 for churches to use. Carolina. But every year Gabriel reserves a week of his versations with coaches, players and schedule to attend Super Bowl events where he spends other sports personalities. Joining time with big name athletes and sports media personali- Dungy in the broadcast will be CBS sports personality would come to a Super Bowl event,” Gabriel said. “At ties. For the past five years he has served as the Biblical James Brown, sports agent Leigh Steinberg, NFL alumni the end of the one-hour program there will be a clear Recorder’s sports correspondent at this big event. Dan Pastorini and Shawn Alexander, and the NFL’s first altar call and gospel presentation.” But the 2017 Super Bowl in Houston, Texas, will be female coach, Jen Welter. Additional guests from the Gabriel said he hopes to get approval from the NFL much different for Gabriel and a host of other sports competing teams will be added to the schedule. Commissioner to make the rally an official, annual Super figures that have worked together to launch a rally the “Our whole goal with the program is to lead to a gos- Bowl event beginning next year in Minneapolis. Wednesday night before Sunday’s big game on Feb. 5. pel presentation so that churches, through their men’s All Pro Dad already has an official Super Bowl event. The rally will be broadcast directly to churches and ministry and through their family ministries, can invite “It’s a youth mentoring camp,” Gabriel explained. “So other faith gatherings with a clear message of the gospel. people to attend who might not ever go to church, but we hope to bring our event alongside Dungy’s camp that reaches out to families in the community who can’t af- ford to experience Super Bowl events otherwise.” Churches are invited to host the broadcast in their Continued from page 4 Church location. Although the live simulcast is on Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. (CST), Gabriel said, “churches that cannot fit the On July 12, 2015, Wakelon reopened its doors for wor- Church and students from Chowan University came Wednesday event in their schedule, can download the ship, and White was ordained. and helped tear out hardwood floors in the fellowship video and host their own event on Thursday, Friday, Bryant died at 75 years old in March 2016. He saw hall. Saturday, Sunday or any time that fits best for the his beloved church hold four baptisms and grow to Stockman continued to make phone calls in search church.” 18 members and 30 regular attendees. of partnerships, support and resources for the There’s a nominal fee to the church to access the vid- church, until White received a call from Rich- eo. Gabriel said, “We want to work with churches of all Storms strike ard Brunson, NCBM executive director, sizes to help them reach their friends with the gospel.” One year after reopening, Wakelon saying a check was in the mail to cover The American Family Network and other ministries had just raised enough funds and signed the floor replacements. are joining the effort. You Version Bible app is providing a contract with Laws Stained Glass “The Lord’s been good to us and been a six-day follow-up program. “Those who make deci- Studios for new windows, when Tropi- good to them,” Stockman said about sions for Christ at the rally or local church event will be cal Storm Julia hit last September and Wakelon. provided access to this spiritual growth tool that will flooded the air conditioning unit in the “We want to thank the churches of walk them through the decision they made,” Gabriel sanctuary. the association that helped with floors said. “This gives churches a way to begin the discipling The contract meant Wakelon could and provided assistance. The response process for each new believer.” not cancel the new windows, but the has been overwhelming.” A new faith based awards program is another ad- company agreed to delay the installation. Once Wakelon received the funds dition to Gabriel’s project. Five awards will be given “I told the congregation, ‘Don’t worry from NCBM, they were able to move up to deserving faith-based sports personalities, coaches, about it, the Lord is going to take care of the installation of the new windows. players and people in the sports media business. Gabriel us,’” White said. “It’s amazing how the Lord has said, “Coach Dungy will be giving out the All Pro Dad Terry Stockman, director of missions blessed us so much when we thought we award. Spencer Tillman will present an award to a local for West Chowan Baptist Association, were down … shows you have to keep high school athlete who has faith and family principles. connected White with Baptists on Mis- your faith in the Lord even through the There will also be a mentoring award and a first female sion, also known as N.C. Baptist Men storms,” White said. coach award for Jen Welter’s impact with women in (NCBM), and churches within the as- Church repairs are expected to sports. There is no other event like this at the Super sociation to help with repairs after Julia. be complete by the end of January, if Bowl.” Wakelon received a grant to replace weather permits. Gabriel invites church leaders to use the rally as an the air conditioning units, but halfway “If not, we’ll finish in the spring when outreach tool. through installing the unit, Hurricane it gets warmer,” White said. “Just doing “Coach Dungy so represents integrity and godliness Matthew caused more devastation, this time flooding it a little bit at a time.” in the world of sports,” said Gabriel. “He’s honored the fellowship hall. NCBM continues to help churches and homeown- as the most trusted sports broadcaster in the business. All the work that was completed in the bathroom also ers with repairs after the devastation that Hurricane We’re so pleased he is willing to bring his persona to needed to be removed. Matthew brought to North Carolina. To partner with this event.” “After all the progress, it felt like the devil was trying a church or homeowner, contact (800) 395-5102, ext. Discounts are available for churches that sign up by to shut us down or flood us out,” White said. 5599. Jan. 22. For more information, visit faithandfootballlive. Members from the neighboring Colerain Baptist Visit baptistsonmission.org. com. 10 JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists David Platt to students: ‘Risk your life in faith’ to send and support those who are called by God to go leverage their jobs for the spread of His gospel and glory By MYRIAH SNYDER | Western Recorder to them.” throughout the world.” s 2016 came to close, more than 2,000 college Conference sponsors included the International “We have the good news of the God who has con- students and campus leaders were challenged Mission Board (IMB), The Master’s Seminary, Crossway quered death,” he said. “Don’t you want to give your life A by Southern Baptists and other Christian and The Gospel Coalition. Worship was led by Matt to making that news known?” speakers to give their lives to the cause of missions dur- Boswell, and the conference kicked off with a concert ing the Cross 2016 missions event. from Trip Lee, Christian rapper and pastor at Corner- ‘Go, Send, or Disobey’ The purpose of the Dec. 27-30 conference at the Indi- stone Church in Atlanta, Ga. “The question is not if you are called, the question anapolis Convention Center was “to mobilize students Drawing from Numbers 13 and the story of the 12 is where and how,” J.D. Greear, pastor of The Summit in the cause of frontier missions for the glory of Jesus spies, Platt presented “the anatomy of retreat in fear” Church in Raleigh-Durham, N.C. Christ,” according to the event website and various and the “anatomy of risk in faith.” In his message on the topic of “Go, Send, or Dis- speakers throughout the gathering. Referring to the 10 spies who did not believe God’s obey,” Greear noted, “To follow Jesus, whatever you do, “Don’t retreat in fear! Risk your life in faith,” David promises, Platt said, “They disregarded the goodness of do it well for the glory of God and then do it somewhere Platt, an event speaker, urged students. God. They doubted the greatness of God. They dis- strategic for the mission of God.” “You are either a sender or a goer when it comes to obeyed the Word of God. And they disqualified them- Greear recognized that although many in the room the people who have not been reached with the gospel,” selves from the blessings of God.” would be called as full-time missionaries or in other ar- Platt, president of the International Mission Board, told “He’s powerful; what He’s chosen to do throughout eas of full-time ministry, not everyone under the sound the crowd. “We either go to them, or we give our lives history is to put His people in places where they can’t of his voice would be. “The point is that all of us have a do things on their own, and God is role,” he said. faithful to provide for their needs ac- Drawing from Acts 7-8 and the life of Stephen, Greear cording to His power,” Platt said. shared “four convictions that shaped Stephen’s life that He contrasted the actions of the 10 should also shape yours.” disobedient spies with that of Joshua, Those four convictions are: “God intends to use me. Caleb and the “anatomy of risk in The Holy Spirit fills me. I owe the gospel to others. And faith.” Jesus is worth it.” “They believed the goodness of “There is one that is worthy of your life, and as awe- God. They trusted the greatness of some as your parents are and as exciting as your career God. They obeyed the Word of God. is and as dear as your dreams might be to your heart, And they would experience the bless- Jesus is worth it all!” Greear said. ings of God,” he said. “At some point, following Jesus is going to take you “If you can trust Him to save you 180 degrees opposite of the direction you want to go. At from your sin for all eternity, then that moment, you’ve got to decide who’s worthy.” surely you can trust Him to lead you Among speakers for the week were Thabiti Anyab- in your life on this earth, and not just wile, pastor of Anacostia River Church, Washington, to lead you but to satisfy you every D.C., Zane Pratt, vice president for global training with step of the way,” Platt said. the IMB and Afshin Ziafat, pastor of Providence Church He asked the crowd, “Do we real- in Frisco, Texas. Their messages, along with the others ize the opportunities that lie before who spoke throughout the week, laid out many of the us?” foundations of the faith, and focused on discipleship “Although God is still calling and the call to go out. people to full-time missionary work,” The Cross conference began in 2013 and continued he said, “God is calling multitudes of with a simulcast in 2015. For more information or to people not to leave their jobs but to hear sessions, visit crossforthenations.org. Retirement not in missionary’s vocabulary commander in the U.S. Navy during for home assignments. In 1992, the couple By CAROLINE ANDERSON | IMB World War II. Gary married Evelyn Doro- moved to Mongolia to teach English ’ll retire when the devil retires.” thy White in 1945 and retired from active to medical doctors. The Harthcocks’ Gary Harthcock faithfully lived military service in 1946. ministry service with IMB continued in “Iout his famous words on four Gary used his bachelor of science de- Guyana where they served for six months continents and in multiple avenues of gree in agriculture in a number of arenas, before they relocated to Cambodia in service. including starting a business building 1996 to teach English to Buddhist monks “That quote was taped to his desk, greenhouses. He eventually joined the and doctors, surgeons and medical pro- and he told me he read it every day. He staff at the Baptist State Convention of fessionals in hospitals. has truly lived that out,” Kathryn Mon- North Carolina and was later the director In 1999, the Harthcocks, then in their roe* said. “Retirement was not in his of Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute (now late 70s, moved to Thailand and contin- Gary Harthcock and his late wife Evelyn served vocabulary.” Kathryn and her husband college). Gary and Evelyn began serving ued ministering and writing books, Bible overseas in six countries. He died Jan. 5. Philip* were friends of Gary. with the International Mission Board lessons and tracts that have since been addressed to his “lovable worldwide Gary, 97, died Jan. 5 after an abdominal (IMB) when he was 56 and she was 55. translated into seven languages and are family.” aortic aneurysm. He and his wife Evelyn They first served on the island of Antigua used worldwide. Gary Harthcock is survived by his sis- were married 69 years before she passed in the Caribbean. Although they officially Gary was 82 and Evelyn was 81 years ter, Margaret Varnell of Cleveland, Tenn.; away in September 2015. They served retired in 1985, they continued to work old when they completed their Master’s his brother, Thomas B. Harthcock Sr. of together overseas for 40 years in six alongside IMB. Gary and Evelyn moved Program assignments. The couple con- Newton, Miss.; and foster daughter, Car- countries. to Liberia in 1986 with IMB’s Master’s tinued to serve using their own funds. men Fitzsimons of Summerville, S.C.. Gary was born in Clarksdale, Miss., Program to continue the ministry efforts In his last days in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Memorials to: imb.org/lottie-moon-christ- on July 7, 1919. He served as a patrol plane of IMB workers who returned to the U.S. Gary wrote daily spiritual devotionals mas-offering. JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 11 Baptist missionary fighting Russia anti-evangelism law tinues to fight the conviction. Russia’s crackdown on By DIANA CHANDLER | Baptist Press religious liberty is occurring as the world marked on longtime Baptist missionary convicted under Christmas the 25th anniversary of the fall of the USSR. Russia’s anti-evangelism law has returned Ossewaarde, speaking from his personal evangelistic ex- A briefly to his Illinois home as lawyers appeal periences there, said an initial thirst for the gospel that his conviction and challenge the law’s constitutionality. emerged after USSR’s collapse has subsided. Donald Ossewaarde was compelled to end his minis- “The hunger for spiritual things has drastically try months ago after his arrest under the July 2016 law. changed in the last 25 years,” Ossewaarde told BP. “My He hopes other Baptists might find ways to continue first visit to the former Soviet Union was in 1994 when to minister in Russia as his attorneys defend religious I went to Belarus. In those days people were just thirsty freedom in the nation more than 25 years after the fall of for the Word of God. the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). “We would bring ... a truckload of Bibles into a park “There’s different ways we could continue the in the center of town and people would just mob you. ministry and that is going to depend on how the court Hundreds and even thousands of people would just sur- rules,” said Ossewaarde, who established his ministry in round us begging, ‘Please, please give me a Bible. I want Russia in 2002. “We’re hoping the court overturns all of Ruth and Donald Ossewaarde are in the process of moving from to know what God has to say.’ And it was ... a fantastic Russia after Donald was arrested in 2016 for violating a new law the charges, which could mean we could go back to the time,” he said. that was introduced in July. He was arrested in August evangelizing same type of house church services that we were doing. “We thought that was the way it was going to con- outside church walls and without a government permit. (BP photo) “If they rule in such a way that meeting in a private tinue to be. Within five or seven years, everybody who house is no longer going to be a legal option,” he said, the opportunity to see his wife, children, grandchildren wanted a Bible had gotten one, and the curiosity factor “then these other missionaries have experience with and members of his home congregation, Faith Baptist seemed to be satisfied. And then people seemed to be setting up registered organizations.” Church in Bourbonnais, Ill. “This has been a great bless- more interested in more secular things of Western life.” Ossewaarde’s attorneys anticipate a court date as ing all the way around,” he said. His wife Ruth returned The causes of the loss of interest in the Bible are open to early as March or April, making his case the first appeal to the U.S. for safety after Ossewaarde’s August 2016 interpretation, Ossewaarde said. of a conviction under the Yarovaya Law (named for bill arrest. He plans to return to Russia in the middle of January coauthor Irina Yarovaya) to reach the nation’s Supreme Ossewaarde was charged Aug. 14, 2016, under the to continue efforts to sell his apartment there and make Court in Moscow. In a separate case, his attorneys are new religion law for holding religious services in his other preparations to leave permanently, while his wife appealing the law’s constitutionality before Russia’s home, advertising services on bulletin boards in nearby remains in the U.S. for safety. Constitutional Court, a separate legal body, but have not neighborhoods and failing to give authorities written Before his current visit to Illinois, police visited his yet filed that case, Ossewaarde told Baptist Press (BP) notification when he began his religious activities. He apartment around Thanksgiving while he was inside. Jan. 4 from his Illinois home. was fined 40,000 rubles, about $600. The conviction But he refused to open the door on the advice of his The Independent Baptist missionary expressed joy at was upheld Sept. 30 on appeal, but Ossewaarde con- See Law page 13 Judge blocks mandate on gender transition, abortion “I am thankful for Judge O’Connor’s By TOM STRODE | Baptist Press intervention and pray that our federal gov- federal judge has blocked imple- ernment would stop its needless assault on mentation of a controversial the conscience,” Wussow said in written A Obama administration rule that comments for Baptist Press. requires doctors to perform gender transi- Lori Windham, senior counsel for Becket tion procedures or treatments, as well as Law (formerly the Becket Fund for Reli- abortions. gious Liberty), described O’Connor’s ruling In a Dec. 31 opinion, Judge Reed as “an across-the-board victory.” O’Connor of the Northern District of Texas “The government has no business forcing granted a nationwide, preliminary injunc- private doctors to perform procedures on tion against a Department of Health and children that the government itself recog- Human Services (HHS) regulation that nizes can be harmful and exempts its own mandates the performance of and insur- doctors from performing,” Windham said ance coverage for gender transitions – even in a written statement. “The ruling ensures on children – and abortions, even if they that doctors’ best medical judgment will violate the religious or ethical beliefs of the not be replaced with political agendas and physicians and others involved. bureaucratic interference.” The HHS rule was scheduled to go into O’Connor, whose court is in Wichita full effect Jan. 1. Religious freedom advo- Falls, had previously blocked enforcement cates applauded the decision. of another transgender directive from the “This ruling is a common-sense decision Obama administration. In August, he issued that is a victory for all who believe that chil- a preliminary injunction against a May guid- dren should not be pawns of the state and ance from the Departments of Education that the political ideology of the day should and Justice that instructed public school not supplant the consciences of doctors,” districts, as well as colleges and universi- said Travis Wussow, the new vice president ties, to allow students to use the restrooms for public policy, as well as general counsel, and locker rooms of their gender identity of the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious instead of their biological sex. Liberty Commission. See Mandate page 15 12 Opinion/News JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

decision, claiming a violation of constitu- Life Continued from page 1 tional First and Fourteenth Amendment How to get involved rights, as well as a breach of federal law • Take an on-site tour. See Hand of Hope’s pro-life ministry up close. • Invite Tonya Baker Nelson to speak at your church or Bible study group. and its supporters, fearing so-called pa- protecting religious land use. • Engage on social media. Support Hand of Hope’s ministry by sharing The suit is ongoing; meanwhile an tient harassment, obtrusive picketing and information and updates on Facebook (@AHandofHope), Twitter (@Hand- “physical violence,” voiced opposition additional legal front appeared when the ofHopePRC) and Instagram (@HandofHopePregCenters). to the pregnancy center – even objecting city attorney reinterpreted the pregnancy Hand of Hope Pregnancy Your Choice Pregnancy Clinic to the three-minute time limit on discus- center’s designation as a civic group – Resource Center 1522 Jones Franklin Road sion. Nearby residents were largely in which doesn’t require the property to be 607 North Ennis Street Raleigh, NC 27607 favor of the pregnancy center. rezoned – rather its previous designation Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 919-758-8776 The council tabled the issue after as a medical facility. The attorney’s pro- (919) 577-8002; handofhope.net yourchoicepregnancyclinic.com TONYA NELSON discovering a typo in the meeting time nouncement effectively overturned the indicated on the notice sent to nearby council’s decision to deny Your Choice lies on her faith to keep going. She trains treat abortion as an unforgivable sin, property owners, who were invited to the ability to move into their facility. the staff to do the same. keeping guilt-ridden women in the shad- attend the session. Nelson said the reversal was good “I can’t take the glory when they ows. When the issue was reintroduced a news, but the issue still isn’t resolved. decide to keep the baby,” she said, “and LifeWay’s research supports her con- week later, Nelson said the tone of the The attorney’s decision is open to appeal, I can’t bear the burden when they don’t. clusion: 49 percent of women who have room had changed. Only one resident of- which the abortion clinic filed Dec. 26. We leave the results up to God.” had an abortion agree that pastors’ teach- fered testimonial, expressing favor for the At this point it’s unclear when either Nelson’s approach, however, shouldn’t ings on forgiveness don’t seem to apply to pregnancy center since it was not a large the appeal or the lawsuit will be resolved. be mistaken for disinterest – just the op- terminated pregnancies. operation that would generate traffic in For now, Your Choice’s Jones Franklin posite. Abortion isn’t merely a political People are ashamed to come forward, the neighborhood. Rd. facility sits unoccupied, as it has for talking point for her. It’s personal. so they don’t get the support they need, The council then voted unanimously more than a year. “I completely understood the pres- and they’re unable to help others in simi- to deny the rezoning request, citing the sures to abort your child,” she said, re- lar circumstances. city’s potential to draw higher tax reve- The courage to be pro-life ferring to her own unplanned pregnancy Nelson not only wants pastors to nue if the street was collectively rezoned The Biblical Recorder asked Nelson in her early 20s. speak about abortion with more grace, to allow for “larger, more coordinated what it’s like leading an emotionally de- She’s also adamant that abortion is a but also more often. office development.” manding ministry while also navigating problem inside the Christian community, “We’re very thankful for those pastors In August, Hand of Hope filed a fed- tortuous legal obstacles. not just for secular outsiders. LifeWay that do a [Sanctity of Life] focus every eral lawsuit against the City of Raleigh’s “It’s intimidating, if that’s what you’re Research released a study in 2015 show- January,” she said, “but abortions happen asking, but it’s the right thing to do.” she ing 43 percent of women who have had February through December.” said. “I knew it was going to be a little an abortion were attending a Christian She continued, “I believe the Lord Continued from page 3 difficult. church at the time. is looking for men and women in posi- Hope “I like the stress and pressure. Steam “The church is pouring millions of tions of authority and influence to say makes the engine turn,” she said, quoting dollars into the abortion industry,” Nel- [to churches], ‘You’ve been quiet long During these visits, each client was given her father. son said. enough.’” a pregnancy test, factual information The work Hand of Hope staffers She didn’t claim to know why that In the meantime, Nelson is more than about the baby she was carrying and op- undertake at the pregnancy center can be is the case, since most evangelicals are willing to suggest ambitious pro-life tions beyond abortion. While we cannot heart-rending, as they counsel men and appalled by abortion, but she suggested ideas for the next Sunday School commu- absolutely know for sure the number of women considering abortion. Nelson re- it has to do with the way many churches nity project. children saved through these centers, we do know of 9,807 children who were given life instead of death through this Pro-life Continued from page 7 ministry. Since the inclusion of the ultra- sound, the percent of clients choosing again: “The terrible miscalculation of Our spiritual forefathers considered for the poor among us, especially eco- life over death for their unborn child is young women is that abortion can make care for the poor an essential practice of nomically vulnerable women, to state- an amazing 96 percent. them ‘unpregnant,’ that it will restore our Christian faith (Galatians 2:10, see sponsored programs? Or worse, do we These centers are not only vitally them to who they were before their also 1 John 3:18, Proverbs 31:8-9). The become dismissive, and even perhaps involved in saving the lives of the un- crisis. apostle James even makes this an issue of a bit cynical, when our government at- born, but they also are committed to “But a woman is never the same once discipleship, one that proves the valid- tempts to fulfill our ministry? sharing with the mother the Good News she is pregnant, whether the child is ity of our saving faith (James 2:14-17). If we’re going to speak up for the un- about abundant life through Jesus. These kept, adopted, or killed.” These are the He asks what good it does if we see born, we have to speak up for the poor. If centers have recorded 1,929 professions life-altering realities that a woman having someone’s material need, tell her to live we’re really going to be pro-life, we must of faith by clients over these last 30 years. an abortion may not discover until she as though her need has been met, yet do also be anti-poverty. To God be the glory! has to live with them. nothing to contribute to her situation. (EDITOR’S NOTE – Katie McCoy is as- Yes, there is a huge contrast between And this is how the abortion industry For James, this would undermine our sistant professor of theology in women’s studies the Trust Women South Wind Women’s exploits economically vulnerable women. very profession of faith. How much more at the College at Southwestern, the undergradu- Clinic and Hope Pregnancy Centers. One This isn’t to say that all issues should would it undermine our pro-life message? ate school of Southwestern Baptist Theological receives payment to destroy unborn chil- have the same priority. But it does mean Have we who claim the name of Christ Seminary. This article was originally published dren while the other gives freely to help we cannot afford to be morally selective. abdicated our responsibility of care at biblicalwoman.com.) pregnant mothers choose life. Oklahoma We cannot work to end abortion while Baptists are people of life, and the life of being ignorant of, or unmoved by, the every unborn child is precious to us. We social and economic factors that often give and serve because unborn children contribute to it. are precious to God. If we, as the people of God, consid- (EDITOR’S NOTE – Anthony L. Jordan ered the abortion-vulnerable woman as for the latest is executive director of the Baptist General our responsibility, perhaps she wouldn’t Be sure to check Convention of Oklahoma. This column first ap- feel like an abortion was her only option. N.C. Baptist news peared in the Baptist Messenger, the conven- out our website Perhaps she wouldn’t feel quite so alone. tion’s newsjournal.) and information JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 13

Law Continued from page 11 AROUND THE STATE Obituaries pastor for music, worship and organist; attorneys. In Russia, residents are not preme Court will overturn the decision,” Westfield Baptist, Dunn; Colerain Baptist; required to open their door for police, Ossewaarde said. “We strongly believe KATHY WHITE QUALLS, 67, died and the United Methodist Church in Lil- Ossewaarde said. that the law as written does violate the Jan. 4, 2017. lington. “Whether that was something they constitutional guarantees of religious A Virginia native, Qualls worked in the He was serving as associate pastor – did as a form of intimidation, whether freedom, and so ... if there’s an impartial North Carolina public school system for minister of music and worship arts at The they were going to question me about my decision in the Constitutional Court, many years as a teacher’s assistant. She Memorial Baptist Church, Greenville, trial, I really don’t know,” he said. Later they will overturn that part of the law was a member of at the time of his death. Along with the that same day, when Ossewaarde was that’s being used against missionaries.” Momeyer Baptist graded choir program, Byrum worked not home, someone poured glue on his The new law defines illegal evangelism Church, where her with youth and adult ministries as well as doorknobs and stuck clay in his keyhole as activity by an authorized representa- husband, Phil, has the facilities manager. and elsewhere on the door. tive of an officially registered religious served as pastor He was a member of the American While he has no proof of the perpetra- organization who uses media to publicly for four years. He Guild of Organist, the Choristers Guild, tors of the vandalism, Ossewaarde sus- spread the organization’s doctrine to was previously and, along with his wife Teresa, were pects it was done by the police instead of non-members to convince them to join pastor at Apex members of the N.C. Baptist Singers and common hoodlums. the group, Ossewaarde said. Baptist Church. Orchestra. “The lawyer told me that they’re But he and his wife worked on the She is survived He previously taught elementary playing psychological games with me to mission field with financial support from by her husband of school music at Hobgood Academy for try to intimidate me, to frighten me,” churches across the U.S. and did not 46 years, Orville KATHY QUALLS 11 years and played bass in the Tar River Ossewaarde said of the police. “I will represent an official religious organiza- Phillip Qualls; son, Swing Band in Rocky Mount and local say that it did bother me at the time, but tion, he said. Kevin of Matthews; daughter, Dana of groups. nothing has happened since then. I don’t Ossewaarde was arrested with five Cary; seven grandchildren; mother, Kath- He is survived by his wife of nearly 37 feel nearly as bothered by it as I did at the other ministers of various faiths and de- erine White of Newport News, Va.; and years, Teresa Brown Byrum; four chil- time.” nominations within a month of the law’s brother, Max White Jr. of Yorktown, Va. dren; W. Graham Byrum, Jr. of Zebulon, Ossewaarde’s attorneys believe they passage. They were levied fines varying Memorials to: Northwest Commu- Elizabeth Byrum Taylor of Scotland Neck, have strong arguments in both his appeal from 5,000 to 50,000 rubles, with only nity Church building fund, 10109 Mor- and Kevin Byrum and Corey Byrum, both and the constitutional challenge to the one man, a Hare Krishna, acquitted. risville Parkway, Apex, NC 27523 (give. of Winterville; and five grandchildren. law, he said. In the five months after the law’s northwestlife.org), or Christian Adoption Memorials to: The Memorial Baptist “We don’t believe that the law as it passage, 29 people were prosecuted on Services, 624 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. Church, 1510 Greenville Blvd SE, Green- was written should have been applied related charges, with 15 cases ending in Suite 100, Matthews, NC 28105 (Christian ville, NC 27858, and designated for Music to us. If the Supreme Court reaches an convictions and fines, Forum 18 reported adopt.org). Funds. impartial decision, we expect the Su- Dec. 20. WALTER GRAHAM “DR. B” BY- Staff changes RUM, 61, of Winterville, died Dec. 26, 2016. JEROME CASH has been called as A Chowan County native, Byrum felt director of missions for Anson Baptist called to the ministry as an electrical en- Association, Wadesboro. Cash previously gineering student at North Carolina State served as pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist University. Church, Wadesboro. He graduated from Campbell Universi- ty with a bachelor of music education de- Balfour Baptist Church, Asheboro, has gree with applied called GARY MASON as pastor. Mason major in organ and previously served as the interim pas- concentration in tor. He was also previously a chaplain mathematics. at Cross Road Retirement Community, He received a Asheboro. master of divin- ity with church DANIEL BARHAM has been called music degree from as pastor to Corinth Baptist Church, Southeastern Semi- Oxford. Barham previously served at nary and his doc- Lithia Baptist Church, Buchanan, Va., for tor of ministry in one year. He is enrolled at Southeastern WALTER BYRUM the area of worship Seminary. from Campbell University Divinity School. Southside Baptist Church, Greens- He was ordained in his home church, boro, has called HOWARD MCNEILL as Edenton Baptist and served in positions senior pastor. McNeill previously served at First Baptist, Scotland Neck, where as senior pastor at Maple Springs Baptist he served a 21-year tenure as associate Church, Seagrove, for 12 years. Submissions

The Biblical Recorder is pleased to publish staff changes, church news and events with a statewide interest. Please send information immediately following an event or at least two months in advance. Include cost and contact information in your email or correspondence. Send to dianna@BRnow. org or Biblical Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512. Call (919) 847-2127. 14 Sunday School JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

January 22 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE January 29 Praying with Joy Sharing with Joy

Focal passage: Philippians 1:3-11 and spiritual fellowship with each adult. Focal passage: Philippians 1:12-21 all believers that even though some have Then, I find joy in anticipation of all God wrong motives, that was not to keep the aul set the example of praying will do in their lives as adults in the years aul took the time to reassure the believers from sharing Christ with joy. with joy in verse 4 when he tells to come. readers of his letter that even Today, we can recognize that a key to Pthe church at Phillipi he is “al- There is something so key in finding Pthough he is in prison, he is okay. joy is as Paul stated, “what has happened to ways praying with joy for all of you in my every joy that we see the big picture that God’s And not only okay, but that good things me has actually resulted in the advancement of prayer” (Phil. 1:4). got this, in every time of life – the past, have come from the hardship. In Philip- the gospel.” This is significant because Paul was the present and the future. pians 1:12, he asserts, “what has So, let’s think for a moment about able to make this statement while impris- Depending on your season happened to me has really served to those experiences in your life when you oned in Rome. of life, you may find that you advance the gospel.” felt something “happened” to you. He provides this example to us that reflect more on the joys of the What could possibly pro- We could consider one category of life no matter the circumstances, we still can past, than the joys of the future duce more joy in a believer experience as loss. A list of losses that experience joy in prayer. or vice versa. than coming to that realization? happen could include miscarriage, death Our lesson writer provides a simple Paul’s days of traveling on As we study our lesson this of a loved one, job loss, a broken relation- approach to pray with joy. missionary journeys were over week from Philippians 1:12-21, ship or property loss. Paul’s list included We can find joy in what God has done and he could have focused his we see that Paul gives us ex- the loss of freedom by being imprisoned. in the past, what God is doing right now thoughts on what he was not amples of what to do and what He said, “my imprisonment is for and what God will do in the future. going to be able to do any- not to do. Paul encourages the Christ.” Can we now place our life event SHERRA STILL As a parent of five young adults, I find more, but instead, he found believers to share Christ with in the same phrase by replacing “impris- Member, so many things to pray about! joy in what he believed God joy, no matter what their cir- onment” with it? For example, the loss University Hills Baptist I find this approach to praying with would do in the lives of the cumstances. Therefore, at the of my grandmother happened to me and Church, Charlotte joy to be very applicable as I pray for each believers in Phillipi. top of the do list is share Christ “my loss is for Christ.” Can we then con- of them. He prayed that they would with joy. sider if Christ has been honored in some As I reflect on the past experience of be “filled with the fruit of righteousness that He points out however that there are way through that loss? raising children, I find such joy in the comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and those who have chosen to share Christ As Paul stated, “but that with full courage ways God has provided for, developed praise of God” (verse 11). with wrong motives. now as always Christ will be honored,” (verse and matured each one. May that be our focus too! At the top of the not to do list is to not 20). Then, we demonstrate to others that I find joy in praying for what God is (EDITOR’S NOTE – Interested in writing share Christ out of envy, strife or rivalry. we can share Christ with joy, no matter doing right now as I enjoy the maturity lessons? Email [email protected].) However, Paul is very quick to remind what. January 22 EXPLORE THE BIBLE January 29 Rebellion’s Cycle Willing Servants Focal Passage: Judges 2:11-19 seen in verses 12-13, where a significant Focal passages: Judges 4:4-10, 12-16 For whatever reason, Barak insisted upon number of Israelites “went after” and Deborah going to the battlefield with rivia Question: What do Pha- “bowed down” to the Baals and Ashtor- bout 15 years ago I started a him. Deborah reluctantly agreed, with a raoh, Korah and Jonah share eths, abandoning God. God’s reaction is church preschool day care warning and prophetic word that Barak T in common? Answer: They all evidenced in verses 14-15, where God’s A ministry. It wasn’t my idea, but would not get the satisfaction of killing rebelled against God. “anger burned” and He “handed over” I was tasked with the job of designing it, the evil Sisera. There are many cycles in life, and the and “sold them” and “brought staffing it and getting it up and Instead, that honor would go to a cycle of obedience to disobedience to disaster” upon the rebels. running. woman. punishment to repentance leading back Rebellion and its ensuing Over time this particular In a few days the battle erupted. God to obedience is one of them. It was a cycle is not limited to bad peo- ministry became quite success- threw Sisera and his powerful army into common cycle experienced by biblical ple. Israel as a nation rose and ful, a true benefit to the com- massive confusion, and all of his warriors characters and the nation of Israel. Fol- fell many times, and sometimes munity, even though I was not died except himself. lowing the death of Joshua, God “raised when she fell hard enough, around to personally witness Sisera slinked away to the tent of Jael up” judges to govern and counsel. These she would repent and experi- that growth. and his wife, famished and exhausted men, and one woman, did not inherit ence restoration (cf. 18b). God The true success of that (see verses 17-22). He mistakenly thought judgeship. Neither were they elected by chose judges, but God was ministry, and any ministry, is they were his allies. As he dropped into a the people. the ultimate Judge. God never a team of willing servants who deep slumber, the unnamed, but willing, They were specifically chosen by God. approved of rebellion’s cycle; WAYNE PROCTOR love their job(s) and get things wife of Jael slammed a tent peg through Further, judges were not career politi- it caused Him much angst. He Pastor, Eure done. his skull. As one of my professors once cians. They were ordinary people with would have preferred that His Baptist Church, Eure This week’s biblical story remarked, “Sisera died of a splitting varying degrees of leadership skills that people always behave obedi- seems to defy stereotypes. Is- headache!” God could and would use. They also ently and righteously. rael was a strong patriarchal society. Usu- For Deborah and Barak, victory came seemed to serve regionally, rather than Pharaoh’s rebellion led to the first ally men led and women worked quietly because of a team effort. Apparently nationally. “million man march,” right out of Egypt. in the background. Barak was able to leave his ego behind, The problem wasn’t, for the most part, Korah’s rebellion led to an earthquake of But here things are different. Deborah and Deborah was willing to do something the judges. The problem was the people. deadly proportions. Jonah’s rebellion led is the sitting judge over Israel, a wife, a not in her job description. Whenever they disobeyed God and His to three days in the belly of the great fish. prophetess, and a wise counselor. Barak, And the unnamed wife was able to appointed judge, bad things happened. It And of the three, only Jonah was open to a man, is the commander of the Israeli keep her fears in check as she did what was the classic case of action and reac- repentance and restoration. The cycle of army, but reluctant to take the fight to was necessary to defeat the evil in her tion, cause and effect. The rebellion is rebellion is to be avoided like the plague. Sisera, the Canaanite army commander. home. All were willing servants. JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 15

The HHS regulation, an implementation of the 2010 ment surgery improves health outcomes for Medicare Mandate Continued from page 11 health-reform law, became partly effective July 18. beneficiaries with gender dysphoria.” Gender dyspho- In October, a Christian association of more than ria refers to the discomfort a person may feel with his In granting the latest injunction, O’Connor ruled 10,000 physicians and a Roman Catholic hospital system biological sex. those challenging the HHS transgender/abortion man- – represented by Becket Law – asked O’Connor to block The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) – the country’s date had demonstrated they likely would succeed be- enforcement of the rule. largest gay and transgender rights organization – criti- cause the rule redefined “sex discrimination” and failed Eight states joined the Christian Medical and Dental cized O’Connor’s decision. to protect religious freedom. Associations and the Franciscan Network in the legal The ruling “puts thousands of people at risk of mar- As it did in its guidance to schools, the Obama ad- challenge. ginalization, harassment, and discrimination at a time ministration defined “sex” in the HHS rule to include In their motion, the challengers contended the HHS they are most vulnerable and in need of inclusive, re- gender identity, which it describes as “an individual’s regulation violates the U.S. Constitution, including spectful care,” HRC Legal Director Sarah Warbelow said internal sense of gender, which may be male, female, the First Amendment’s freedom of speech clause, and in a written release. “While Judge O’Connor’s action is neither or a combination of male and female, and which federal laws, including the Religious Freedom Restora- unconscionable, we believe that justice will prevail as may be different from an individual’s sex assigned at tion Act. courts continue to recognize that discrimination on the birth.” The HHS rule applies to all private doctors, health- basis of sex is illegal, including discrimination on the Title IX – a federal law that bars sex discrimination care providers and health insurance plans that accept basis of gender identity.” in federally funded education programs and activi- federal funding. It apparently would affect more than A new website started in opposition to the HHS ties – “unambiguously prevented discrimination on the 900,000 physicians and virtually all hospitals. Foes of rule – transgendermandate.org – reports two studies show basis of the biological differences between males and the regulation estimate it will cost citizens and health- overwhelming numbers of children who report gender females,” O’Connor wrote, thereby ruling it did not care providers nearly $1 billion. dysphoria grow out of that discomfort and live healthy include gender identity. HHS exempted the federal government’s Medicare lives despite not having surgery or life-long hormone He also said the HHS regulation’s “failure to include and Medicaid programs from the regulation’s require- treatments. One study showed this to be true in 77 to Title IX’s religious exemptions renders the [mandate] ment, however, because its panel of experts said the 94 percent of children and another in 73 to 88 percent of contrary to law.” literature “is ‘inconclusive’ on whether gender reassign- children. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Pastor Moon’s Chapel Baptist Church in rural Siler Lawndale Baptist Church, Greensboro, NC, is Miscellaneous Sandy Grove Baptist Church, Bladenboro, NC. City, NC, is a multi-generational congregation seeking Associate Pastor of Married Adults. Fred Lunsford’s newest book, “Bloom Established in 1873 seeks full-time pastor. We seeking a full-time Pastor. We are a SBC affili- Overall responsibilities include planning, co- Where You Are Planted” is now available. deeply believe in reaching the lost and un- ated church seeking a man filled with passion ordinating and leading married adult ministry. Milton Hollifield, Executive-Treasurer of the churched while offering life-changing teaching to work with our congregation and commu- These duties include: development of classes to Baptist State Convention of NC has the follow- and ministries to our members. We respect the nity, with an evangelistic mindset to reach equip parents at different stages of life. Leading ing to say about it: “This book is a collection of office of pastor and strongly believe in the role the lost and driven to preach God’s Word. enrichment classes to better equip husbands inspirational sermons that pastors and Chris- of laity in mission and ministry. Candidates Send resume to: Pastor Search Committee, 175 and wives. Developing methods and materials tian leaders will benefit from reading because must be ordained by a Southern Baptist church Moon’s Chapel Rd., Siler City, NC 27344. which facilitate mentoring of couples. Coun- it reminds us of ways that God is at work in our of good standing and led by the Holy Spirit in seling couples in marriage issues and provide life and ministry. These messages are packed interpreting and preaching God’s Holy Word. Hallsville Baptist Church, Beulaville, NC, a biblical approach to marriage. Enlisting and with Biblical truths, wonderful testimonial Candidates should share our values and beliefs is prayerfully seeking a Pastor to faithfully training leaders for on and off campus groups stories and practical illustrations you can use and willing to serve in the capacity of preacher preach and teach the Word of God and lead working within the community. Expected in Bible studies and sermons.” For pricing and and pastor. Send resume to sandygrovebaptch@ our congregation. We are a mission-minded skills are solid judgment and decision-making to order, call: 828-837-2605 or 828-837-6530. intrstar.net or Sandy Grove Baptist Church, c/o Southern Baptist church located in rural ability. A knowledge of membership and how Pastor Search Committee, 8299 Hwy 242 South, Duplin County. We have traditional Sunday best to meet the needs of that membership Coffee Shop Contents For Sale. Baptist Pastor Bladenboro, NC 28320. School and worship services with average at- through planned programs. And a sensitiv- selling entire contents of Coffee Shop located tendance of 50-80 with expectation to grow. ity to problems and fluency of ideas to meet in Fremont, NC. Includes La Cimbali espresso First Baptist Church in King, North Carolina, is The Pastor will lead three services each week the demands of the many areas of ministry. machine, tables, chairs, counters etc. $8,250. If prayerfully seeking a full-time Senior Pastor. (Sunday morning, Sunday night and Wednes- The successful candidate will have a master interested please call, 919-273-5358. Must have a strong personal relationship with day evening). Please send resumes to: Hallsville of divinity and five years ministry experi - Jesus Christ, Bible teaching, strong adminis- Baptist Church, c/o Pastor search committee, ence. Please send resume and salary history NCBAM has partnered with Building Bet- trative skills, someone who can shepherd our 1291 Hallsville Rd., Beulaville, NC 28518. to: [email protected] or employment@ ter Balance – an evidence-based screening youth and young adult program, have good lawndalebaptist.org. process that identifies fall risk. To schedule a communication skills, must be self-motivated Church Staff screening or to learn more, call 877.506.2226. and can motivate church staff. Please send Hopewell Baptist Church, Monroe, NC, seeks Mountain View Baptist Church of Hampton- resumes to: [email protected]. Pay com- an Associate Pastor of Discipleship to oversee ville, NC, is seeking a full-time Director of MOVED? Don’t forget to change your address patible with experience and ability. the discipleship ministries of a large conserva- Worship Ministries. Responsibilities include with the Biblical Recorder. Contact Liz Tablazon tive church and supervision of several staff leading blended worship, directing a com- at (919) 459-5693 or [email protected]. Magnolia Baptist Church, Inc. is prayer - members. Candidate should have a master’s prehensive church music program including fully seeking a Pastor to lead our conservative degree or higher and experience in these areas. choirs, vocal groups, praise band and instru- Do you have staff changes at your church or Southern Baptist congregation in God’s will for Resumes accepted until 2-28-17; Kim@what mental ensembles and coordinating church association? Or special news you would like worship, evangelizing and ministering to our asavior.com. media. E-mail resume to [email protected]. to share (significant church or church staff congregation and the surrounding community. anniversaries or a mission effort to reach your We are located near Stedman, NC, in rural community)? Let the Biblical Recorder know by Cumberland County. Please provide a current Placing a classified ad in theBiblical Recorder calling (919) 847-2127 or email [email protected]. resume to the Pastor Search Committee, 1021 Choose one of three avenues: Magnolia Church Road, Stedman, NC 28391, Share the Biblical Recorder – FREE. Order three • Send e-mail to: [email protected]. prior to January 30th, 2017. For email com- months free. Contact [email protected]. munication please use: [email protected]. • Submit the information via the Recorder’s website at BRnow.org. • Send a Fax to (919) 467-6180. Spring Branch Church is a rural, conservative, For more information, call the office at (919) 459-5691. Southern Baptist church in Dunn, NC, who is Cost for Baptist churches/organizations is $1.20 per word, number and prayerfully seeking a full-time pastor. Please stand-alone initial ($1.42 for commercial and non-Baptist entities) with a Be sure to check out send resumes to Spring Branch Baptist Church, minimum charge of $35. Classifieds also are carried online. our website 2391 N. Spring Branch Road, Dunn, NC 28334. 16 JANUARY 14, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists