SPECIAL EDITION

Toll free 800-803-5201 Vol. 185, No. 30 www.thealabamabaptist.org July 30, 2020 Informing. Inspiring. Connecting.

Financial Aid Challenges and tips for college students amid COVID-19

Baptist Campus Ministries Focusing on discipleship, missions mobilization and gospel outreach Back to to students

CampusResources and stories to help soon-to-be college students, as well as their parents and grandparents PAGE 2 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020

“If ye continue in My word, then ... ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31–32

(ISSN 0738-7741; USPS 011-080) © The Alabama Baptist, Inc. is published weekly except for one week in July and December by The Alabama Baptist, Inc., at 3310 Independence Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209. Phone: 205-870-4720. Statewide phone: 800-803-5201. Website: www.thealabamabaptist.org Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Contents Periodicals postage paid at Hattiesburg, Miss. MY RASHIONALE TRANSITIONING TO COLLEGE ANNUAL TAB SUBSCRIPTION RATES Includes print, digital and full web access Develop an intentional prayer strategy Help students get a ‘faith start’ by 03 14 Group Rate per issue — $16.25 for students and teachers this fall encouraging them in high school (Need at least ve in your group to qualify) Individual — $24.95 per year with 3-year plan

GOT 10 MINUTES? JENNIFER DAVIS RASH YOUR VOICE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 04 Alabama Baptist college presidents 17 Karen Moore explores choices Cynthia Watts Carrie B. McWhorter share thoughts on returning to campus in this week’s devotional Executive Assistant Content Editor Debbie Campbell Janet Erwin Director of Executive Editor Communications Grace Thornton Linda Harrison Special FINANCIAL AID IN THEIR OWN WORDS Director of Human Assignments Editor Challenges and tips for college Madison Young on being a senior Resources 06 18 Melanie McKinney Margaret Colson Advertising Manager Special students amid COVID-19 concerns in high school during COVID-19 Assignments Editor Pam Holt Sales Hannah Muñoz Representative Digital Editor

Susan Stevens Lauren C. Grim FAFSA SEMINARIES Sales Creative Services 07 What students need to know 21 SBC seminaries adopt 2020–21 Representative Manager Jessica Ingram Amy Hacker about the FAFSA during the pandemic budgets, plan for fall semester Event Coordinator Creative Services Associate Annette Brown Guest Services James Hammack Digital Services Haley Piersol Manager Client Coordinator

Deb Lowery Sarah Gill Financial Assistant Digital Services Associate Richard Maddox Computer Services Correspondents

NEWS SERVICES Baptist Press (BP), Associated Press/Religion News Service (AP/RNS), Morning Star News (MS).

POSTMASTER 08 Send address changes to: The Alabama Baptist 3310 Independence Drive Birmingham, AL 35209

GRADUATING ADDRESS CHANGE Send old and new addresses, WITH HONORS and name of church to: Subscription Department 3310 Independence Drive Birmingham, AL 35209 Allow two weeks.

To the best of our knowledge, all of the ads in The Alabama Baptist represent legitimate companies and offerings. However, one should always exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

Full member of Alabama Press Association

Accredited member of Evangelical 10 12 Council for Financial Accountability

‘Nation’s Top Regional BAPTIST CAMPUS MINISTRIES ALUMNI GROUPS Christian Newspaper’ 1999, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 as judged by Associated Church Press, Baptist Communicators Association, Evangelical Press Association or Religion Communicators Council Additional content is available at tabonline.org and in this week’s digital edition. JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 3 OPINION

By Jennifer Davis Rash MY President and Editor-in-Chief [email protected] RASHIONALE @RashionalThts Develop a prayer system for students, teachers this fall y friend Stuart through all the names required a player by name over the course ter — all of them starting with spent the late bit of discipline and tenacity. of a week. elementary school on up. hours of his birthday pray- The opportunity to lift up so It could be asking for a group What if the nearly 1 million ing by name for many young lives in a relatively photo of the sorority or fra- Alabama Baptists in our state all Meach person who left a message short amount of time inspired ternity your student joins and committed to consistent prayer on his Facebook wall that day. me to look for more ways to do praying every morning for each for our students, teachers, ad- the same. individual pictured. ministrative staff and school I love how he gave such a pre- systems in general? Can you cious gift to others on the day As your child, grandchild, Maybe once a month, you imagine the possibilities? meant for him to receive all the other family member or friend’s visit the website of our Ala- special favors. child starts to school this fall, in bama Baptist-connected schools And while I want sports sea- whatever form that takes, con- — judson.edu, samford.edu sons to return as much as the Reading his message sider developing your own form and umobile.edu — and click next person, those aren’t the reminded me of a friend who of praying for your student and around on their sites to nd the types of prayers I’m describing. does something similar each those who surround him or her. list of faculty and staff members year with the birthday cards she receives and the Christmas and pray for them by name. Check out the articles in this cards her family receives. It might mean placing the issue for inspiration on how to football team roster next to your And then once a quarter, you pray for our students and those When it’s time to put the cards Bible, so you can pray for each do the same for your alma ma- surrounding them this fall. away, she gathers them in a basket and each day pulls out one card. She prays speci cally FOR THE FRESHMEN STUDENTS ... for that person or family during her morning prayer time before tossing out the card — I mean, ling the card in the important College life can be overwhelming at first, but you can survive documents folder, of course. if you ‘trust God, hang in there, jump one hurdle at a time’ On a similar note, I attempted to pray for each of the class- By Debbie Campbell just graduated top senior in my my mind that I would be saying The Alabama Baptist mates of my graduating niece, high school class. College couldn’t goodbye to campus life. nephew and dear friends this ollege was a new adventure be that much different, could it? At last, nals were over, and I year during graduation season. Cfor me — a beginning of I signed up to take a foreign headed for home. sorts — as I left the comforts of language. What was I thinking! I The dreaded grades arrived While sitting through two live home, my home church wasn’t. French 101 was a during Christmas break. graduation ceremonies and two and my hometown. disaster. Shock. They were good — and online ceremonies, I prayed for Moving into the dorm After three weeks trying with the good grades came a re- each graduate — well, almost and meeting my room- to make it work, I knew newed sense of hope. everyone — by name. My mind mate was scary at rst, I was going to fail that I hit the spring semester with a wandered a few times. but as it turned out, we course, not to mention the growing con dence in God, not hit it off and had many history class with a profes- myself, along with a life verse, As each graduate’s name was of the same interests. sor who talked faster than Matthew 6:33, to claim through called to receive his or her di- One hurdle behind me, superman could y. the next three and a half years of ploma, I repeated the name in I thought, as we orga- CAMPBELL By midterm I was de- college life. my mind and added a quick nized our room and ex- pressed, certain this was the And when my sophomore year prayer speci cally for the grad- plored the campus together. rst and last college semester of rolled around, I felt at home on uating senior. As an excited, eager college my life. campus — an entirely different freshman, my con dence was I wrote my parents a letter to ease experience from that harrowing The pace of the names an- growing. I was ready, or so I the shock that when I came home rst semester. nounced as well as the fact we thought, to tackle those 16 se- for Christmas, I wouldn’t be going My advice to college fresh- all sat silent and still during that mester hours. back to college. men: Trust God. Hang in there. time made it a simple exercise, How hard could it be? I had The next few weeks con rmed in Jump one hurdle at a time. but staying focused and diligent PAGE 4 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020 OPINION

Share your comments, letters to the editor, blog excerpts, social media posts ‘Eternal significance’ of mission excites, inspires return By Lonnie A. Burnett most signi cant. As our new and of higher education. While the Uni- the University of Mobile unique. President, University of Mobile returning students arrive on our versity of Mobile’s faculty, staff A school our size and with our rom the fall of 1964 when I beautiful campus this fall, they and students did a Herculean job of Christian worldview has the amaz- started Bienville Elementary will return to an institution that, transitioning almost overnight and ing opportunity to not only provide F School in Prichard, Alabama, although it might look and feel a nishing the spring semester com- our students with the very best in to today as president of the Univer- little different, is focused on a pletely online, there are several rea- academic training but also to lead sity of Mobile, I have experienced never-changing mission that has sons why, if we can all safely pull them into seeking and following 56 consecutive rst days of school. never been more important. it off, the return to their God-given While each has been exciting in The events of last spring sent on-ground instruc- purpose. It is that its own way, this fall might be the shockwaves throughout the world tion this fall is so mission, with its vital. eternal signi - First, our stu- cance, that excites dents need reas- me most about this Weekend of Prayer Over surance that life is upcoming return of returning somewhat the Rams. back to normal. To Alabama Students is Aug. 7–9 young adults who Fall 2020 irst Priority of Greater Bir- school zone your prayer zone and have experienced highlights: Fmingham encourages all drive around the school as you disruptions rang- 4Classes will Alabamians to join in praying for pray. ing from schools begin as scheduled students, teachers, faculty and 4Plan a community-wide closing to parents on Aug. 17. All on- administration during Weekend prayer walk around the schools losing employment, ground classes will of Prayer Over Alabama Students in your area. Work with your lo- and to personal or end on Nov. 24. Aug. 7–9. cal churches to plan these prayer family sickness, the Photo courtesy of University of Mobile 4Faculty will We are living in uncertain times walks. return to a normal Lonnie A. Burnett is president have the option of of University of Mobile. and this new school year is lled 4Take time to encourage routine will be a giving a nal exam with fear, stress and anxiety. students, teachers and adminis- welcomed relief. during the last class Please pray for the health and tration. Call, text or mail them A second but equally important meeting or in an online format Nov. safety of each school campus. Be an encouraging card to let them need is the opportunity for our stu- 30–Dec. 3. in constant prayer for students know you are praying for them. dents to interact with their peers. 4Clinical experiences and in- who don’t know Christ. Pray that Provide them with a speci c Like the Old Testament illustration ternships will follow their regular Christian students will be bold in Bible verse you plan to pray over of “iron sharpening iron,” there is schedules. sharing their faith and God will them throughout this school year. a wonderful result when university 4Commencement ceremonies take away any fears they may 4Commission students before students experience the bene t from for the spring and fall 2020 gradu- have. they return to school. interacting with other students, ating classes will be moved from There are multiple ways you For resources to help organize a many from diverse backgrounds. Dec. 12 to Dec. 5. can be involved during the Week- prayer walk or to nd a walk near Finally, the most important ben- 4Fall break, which was sched- end of Prayer: you, visit rstpriorityal.com/the- e t in our return will be the hands- uled in October, has been can- 4When you pass by a school, latest/weekend-of-prayer. (First on spiritual mentoring that takes celled. pray for that school. Make a Priority of Great Birmingham) place in our Christ-centered univer- 4For more information visit, sity. This is what makes a place like umobile.edu/coronavirus. Share online or email [email protected] JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 5 OPINION Christ-focused education more necessary than ever By Mark Tew developed in consultation with local command us to augment knowledge 2020–21 highlights President, Judson College medical professionals. with faith. To the contrary, faith 4Fall classes will begin Aug. s the fall semester approach- While the college cannot eliminate must be the basis and bedrock foun- es, Judson is busy preparing 13. the threat of coronavirus, Judson has dation upon which everything in life 4Final exams are now sched- Ato welcome students back to implemented measures to mitigate is built. uled to occur before Thanksgiving campus. Since March, Judson stu- its spread on campus. At Judson, we begin instruction dents have been studying remotely, Facilitating our students’ return to from the assertion that “the earth is break. and Judson has been campus for class- the Lord’s and the fullness thereof” 4Commencement will be held working proactively room instruction (Ps. 24:1). Education that is any- April 30, 2021. to adapt during the is crucial because thing less is simply less education. 4Beginning in May 2021, current public health distinctive, Christ- As a result, we at Judson educate Judson will offer a May-Mester crisis. Personnel focused education our students’ faith primarily so that and a June-July term. have continued to is more necessary we can educate their minds extraor- 4For more information, visit monitor the latest today than ever be- dinarily. judson.edu. recommendations fore. Society reveals from health and daily that far too governmental au- few in our nation thorities, and the and world know the college will comply forgiveness of Jesus ‘Trust in the Lord’ with all applicable that brings recon- requirements. ciliation with God. as we approach fall 2020 When students It is vital that By Andrew Westmoreland ucation offered through personal return to campus institutions like President, Samford University interaction with competent, com- in early August, Photo courtesy of Judson College Judson College, olleges and universities passionate faculty members. they will notice a Mark Tew is president University of Mo- across the United States Never more than during these few changes. Din- of Judson College in Marion. bile and Samford Care wrestling these days days have I relied on the hopeful ing facilities and University achieve with some of the most challeng- and helpful wisdom of Proverbs classrooms will be rearranged to their God-ordained purpose to edu- ing questions in the history of our 3:5: “Trust in the Lord with all accommodate physical distancing. cate future citizens from a biblically institutions. Likewise, students your heart and lean not on your Food service will no longer be self- informed, Christian worldview. The and their parents are perplexed own understanding.” Trusting the serve. And sanitation stations will apostle said in 2 Peter 1:5 we are to with the vast un- Lord — and with abound. Other precautions, includ- add to [our] faith virtue and to vir- certainty associ- months of careful ing isolation as necessary, have been tue, knowledge. Scripture does not ated with family planning — we and institutional will eagerly re- planning for open our doors COVID-19. The in a few weeks. frustration is par- May God bless ticularly acute for this entering students who will Class of 2024. @myarnell and the Church — not Christian be entering col- lege as freshmen ... It is necessary for us to re- universities, seminaries or denomi- Fall 2020 this fall. member: The Christian academy nations — is what will be joined highlights: with Messiah in glory. Through con- serves the churches and their minis- versations with 4Commence- tries, not vice versa. We are second. @IMB_SBC dozens of univer- ment ceremonies Be humble. Serve. “The faithful Christian college sity presidents for spring 2020 does not merely teach evangelism serving at institu- graduates will be @davidwwhitlock Photo courtesy of Samford University and missions — it is driven by tions public and Andrew Westmoreland is held Aug. 13–15. Those of us in higher education them. A passion for the gospel private, large and president of Samford University 4Aug. 24 will must remind ourselves that God’s infuses every class, every course, small, I know that in Birmingham. be the rst day plan is for the Church. He died for every major, every classroom and folks everywhere of fall classes the Church, redeemed the Church dormitory.” — @AlbertMohler are doing their best to make this for most students. Cumberland next year as “normal“ as possible. School of Law students will be- This is particularly true for our gin on Aug. 17. three Baptist-related institutions 4All on-campus instruction Let the wise hear in Alabama: Judson College, Uni- will end prior to the Thanksgiv- versity of Mobile and Samford ing holiday. University. 4Classes will be offered in and increase in learning. “Large group gatherings” may several formats: in-person, hybrid be limited and last-minute chang- and online. KING SOLOMON es may be the rule, but all three 4For more information, visit- Proverbs 1:5a institutions are seeking to preserve samford.edu/emergency/informa- our hallmark: Christ-honoring ed- tion/coronavirus. PAGE 6 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020 Financial By Shawn Hendricks Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist

Financial aid challenges and tips for college students amid COVID-19 or families looking to said Marie Batson, associate vice aid afford college expenses president for enrollment and direc- this year, the COVID-19 tor of nancial aid at University pandemic has turned of Mobile. “I’ve been working in a lot of plans upside enrollment and nancial aid for Fdown. And as reports of rising pan- 25 years here at the university demic numbers in the U.S. don’t ... things are just different, just a appear to be going away, some whole new ballgame.” nancial aid experts say the view isn’t looking anymore clear going Lower numbers into the fall. The number of students who typ- With many families experienc- ically applied for U.S. federal col- ing cutbacks in hours, layoffs and lege aid fell by half in the spring, other economic challenges this compared to levels the year before, year, the nancial outlook for them according to the Associated Press. isn’t what it was a few weeks or This raised concerns many students months ago. were planning to skip or postpone And now with a lot of schools college education for now to enter preparing cautious plans to reopen the workforce or planning to attend this fall while also weighing online community college. 123rf.com learning opportunities, many pro- While the number of applicants spective students are determining has gone up as colleges have are still lower than this time the was started or continued through whether college is a realistic option ramped up efforts to encourage year before. Overall, the report remote work or other arrange- this year. students to apply for federal aid, says, “applications were down by ments. But payment schedules and “It’s such uncharted territory,” AP reported July 5, the numbers 70,000 as of June 19, representing policies on this varied from school a 3.7% drop for the entire applica- to school, according to a Fox News tion cycle.” report. To remain eligible for federal Many students are simply trying loans, students are required to at- to gure out what their options are It’s such uncharted territory tend school at least half-time, ac- amid rapidly changing outlooks on cording to studentaid.gov. Most jobs, the economy and COVID-19. ... things are just different. schools offered online teaching to allow students to complete assign- Increased call volume MARIE BATSON ments and meet the requirements. “We have had an increased vol- ume in the number of parents or associate vice president for enrollment and director of nancial aid And, according to the Depart- ment of Education, work study students calling, wanting to know University of Mobile students were allowed to continue what can they do if their parent(s) receiving funding as long as work have lost their job, or their hours JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 7 have been cut back as a result of eral loan borrowers have been al- those calls and texts have come at There are an “abundance of the COVID-19 shutdown,” said lowed to temporarily forgo making all hours. avenues that can be explored Batson, noting that students have monthly payments to their federal Both Bates and Batson encour- when searching for educational also lost jobs as well. loan debt from March 13 until age students and their families to funding other than federal or “There were a lot of our stu- Sept. 30. not be afraid to reach out to their state nancial aid,” she said. dents that may have had jobs,” she Batson noted that as more stu- nancial aid of ce for help. said, “and because everything shut Serving students dents are calling with questions “We understand how hard this “We are here to serve our stu- down, they were laid off or let go related to the changing nancial crisis has been and how our stu- for a short period of time so that dents and will do all we can to landscape, the amount of time on dents and their families have been makes a difference in their money.” lessen their burdens,” Bates said. the phone has signi cantly in- impacted,” Bates said. And she “No student should be forced to First steps creased. noted that “no one knows what a give up his or her dream. [Stu- Before any decisions can be And since the pandemic caused student and their family has en- dents] should reach out so that made on nancial aid for college, many nancial aid staff to work dured as a result of COVID-19 un- their institution is aware they students rst need to determine from home — at least for a time — less they ask for help.” have concerns.” how much federal nancial aid is available through the Free Ap- plication for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Recipients are required to com- What students need to know plete the FAFSA form every year they are enrolled in school about the FAFSA during the pandemic While deadlines and require- By Anthony ONeal lines than the federal deadline. But both answer all the questions on ments vary for state scholarships, Ramsey Solutions students can begin applying for just like the state deadlines, each the FAFSA form about income f you have a college-bound federal aid as early as Oct. 1 for school might be responding differ- and include any tax documents teen or current college student, the following academic year, ac- ently to the coronavirus and chang- they ask for. Be sure to reach out you probably already know cording to Federal Student Aid of- I ing its deadlines as a result. to the schools your child is apply- lling out the Free Application ce website. Bottom line is this: your kids ing to after you’ve submitted the for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Some of the determining factors should check with their school’s form, so you can talk through any is one of the best ways to apply on eligibility, the website says, nancial aid of ce and state guide- changes in your nances. for scholarships and grants to help include expected family contribu- lines to make sure they have their Remember, your kids can get cash ow that degree. And let’s tions, the student’s year in school FAFSA forms turned in on time. scholarships, grants and student be real, the FAFSA is already and cost of tuition, fees and books. And even if your kids have already loans by lling out the FAFSA. confusing enough on its own, so missed the school and state dead- Scholarships and grants are great, Effects of COVID-19 having to think about COVID-19 lines, there’s still time to make the but student loans can seriously After completing the form, each on top of that just adds to the federal one. hurt their future. Be sure they school’s nancial aid department stress. read the ne print in their award can then help students determine But don’t worry. We’re about What to Know About letters before signing any agree- how much aid they are eligible for to break down what you and your FAFSA When Schools ment. Paying cash for college kids need to know about the at that school for that year. Are Closed isn’t easy, especially right now, But many families are concerned FAFSA this year. but it can be done with the help If the college or colleges on your that their FAFSA information, of work study programs, schol- kid’s list are currently closed, don’t which is reective of their 2018 What to Know About arships and other nancial aid. stress. The U.S. Department of Edu- income, does not show an accurate FAFSA Deadlines Avoid student loans if possible. cation’s Central Processing System picture of their current situation, The FAFSA form has three If you and your kids need more will still process your FAFSA info said Page Bates, director of nan- deadlines: federal, state and tips on lling out the FAFSA and and send it to all the schools you cial aid at Union University in school. Here’s the lowdown: graduating debt-free, I’ve got you list. That way, your kids will still be Jackson, Tennessee. 4Federal: The federal govern- covered with some free resources. able to receive nancial aid when “Many families have been highly ment gives students a deadline See them at anthonyoneal.com/ schools do reopen. You can also affected by layoffs and furloughs of June 30 after the school year resources. check with each individual school resulting in a drastic decrease in in which they need aid — for to ensure they’re still processing accessible income,” Bates said. instance, June 30, 2021, for the EDITOR’S NOTE — Since FAFSA forms and to learn more This has resulted in an increase in 2020–21 school year — to le the 2003, Anthony has helped hun- about their plans for reopening. the number of students and parents FAFSA. They can apply as early dreds of thousands of people requesting “Special Circumstance” as Oct. 1 prior to the school year What to Know About make smart decisions with their consideration due to the change in in which they need aid. money, relationships and educa- income as a result of COVID-19,” 4State: For some nancial FAFSA When Your tion. He’s a No. 1 national best- Bates said. aid, like in-state scholarships and Income Changes selling author of “Debt-Free “In this instance,” she noted, “the grants, deadlines vary by state. If you or your kids have lost work Degree” and national bestselling students and their parents need to Certain states may be pushing during this crazy time or your in- author of “The Graduate Survival speak with their institutions nan- back their deadlines, so check come has dropped a ton, know that Guide.” He recently released cial aid department for more infor- www.fafsa.gov to see how your you’re not alone. There are plans in “Destroy Your Student Loan mation on this process.” state is handling it. place to help with those situations, Debt.” Follow Anthony on You- Another signi cant change has 4School: The schools your and your child might be able to have Tube and Instagram @AnthonyO- involved the Coronavirus Aid, kids are going to, or applying for, their nancial aid adjusted. Neal and online at anthonyoneal. Relief, and Economic Security usually have earlier FAFSA dead- Make sure you and your child com or facebook.com/aoneal. (CARES) Act. Since March, fed- PAGE 8 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020 GRADUATING WITH HONORS By Lanell Downs Smith Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist

Traditional Latin designations recognize graduates who excel in their academic coursework

raduates look “with very great honor” may given to the top 1–5% of forward to be awarded to those with a graduates earning a GPA of completing perfect academic record. 3.8 or greater. Institutions their course of occasionally reserve this study, celebrat- GPA standards honor for students with a Ging the achievement and A minimum GPA is the perfect GPA of 4.0. embarking on their chosen traditional standard for Colleges may award these career. Those earning top achieving these honors and distinctions based on a stu- marks can also anticipate an may be combined with re- dent’s class rank instead award of distinction known quirements for completing a of their GPA, awarding the as “Latin honors.” set number of credit hours. honors to the top percent of Derived from the Latin GPA ranges vary among the graduating class. word “laude” or “with institutions, but generally: Student rankings may praise,” Latin honors convey 4Cum laude goes to the depend on credits earned distinction for exemplary top 25–35% of the class with only at the nal institution, academic success among a minimum GPA threshold but some colleges consider students who meet or exceed beginning between 3.4 and transfer credits in the de- certain benchmarks. 3.8. termination. Academic or While standards are simi- 4The top 10–15% of disciplinary infractions can lar among schools, each in- graduates who earn a mini- disqualify a student from stitution develops its own re- mum GPA of at least 3.6 to earning graduation honors. quirements. Most standards 3.9 receive the distinction of “We currently base [those fall within a close range, magna cum laude. honors] on Samford earned especially regarding the re- 4Summa cum laude is hours,” said Michelle Joiner, quired grade point average (GPA) for each distinction. The three most common Latin honors are cum laude, meaning “with honor,” magna cum laude or “with great honor” and summa cum laude — “with highest honor.” Less common accolades are awarded for particu- lar distinctions. Students achieving summa cum laude in a speci c discipline can

receive egregia cum laude Photo by Sarah Fowler or “with outstanding honor.” About-to-be Judson College graduates line up for the Maxima cum laude meaning processional into the commencement ceremony in June 2020. JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 9

tion of the Latin honors, of each other,” said Susan graduates to meet the same Judson prohibits the wear- Atkins, Saint James aca- types of benchmarks as col- ing of other fraternity honor demic dean. “Many would leges. chords at the graduation have over a 4.0 due to the Some, like Saint James, ceremony. AP program and weighted stipulate additional stan- “We want the students GPAs. We faced a dilemma dards, like the completion who earned these distinc- about how to choose one of College Board Advanced tions to stand out,” said person out of the group Placement courses, a mini- Parham. “We place an em- when they mum number phasis on the Latin honors all had great of credits in at commencement because accomplish- science or for- that is a measure of a young ments. So eign languages woman’s cumulative GPA.” we started and docu- A trend is growing to- using this mented hours Photo courtesy of Baptist College of Florida ward Latin honors at the system so of community Collin Dollar earned the distinction of magna cum laude at Baptist College of Florida, signi ed by a yellow stole. high school level and some that we service. schools have elected to could rec- Latin hon- discontinue the more tra- ognize all ors allow high assistant registrar at Samford of cials sets honors criteria ditional valedictorian and of them as schools and University. “Our students in consultation with a coun- salutatorian awards. honor gradu- universities have to earn at least 64 cred- sel of academic division Alabama high schools ates.” to honor the it hours here at Samford to chairs. including Baldwin County Valedic- Photo courtesy of Lani Ashner achievements be eligible for a Latin honor schools, Huntsville City torians have Honor graduate Jake Hast- of a broader Cords and stoles ings prepares to give the and then it’s based on GPA schools and private schools traditionally 2019 graduation address at range of gradu- ranges.” Judson confers Latin hon- like Saint James School in delivered the Saint James School. ates. Universities traditionally ors at commencement. Ac- Montgomery have embraced high school “We had so bestow Latin honors upon cording to Stacey Parham, Latin honors to venerate graduation address. Saint many strong students with undergraduate students earn- Judson College vice presi- more students for excep- James allows the senior excellent academic accom- ing their bachelor’s degree, dent for academic affairs, tional achievements. class to elect the graduation plishments. We realized but some award similar hon- the awards are given in the “We typically had a group speaker from a list of the top there was not an objective ors to graduate students. form of stoles inscribed with of students whose GPAs students. way to choose only one stu- At Judson College, a cabi- the level of honor. were either tied or were High schools awarding dent from the group,” Atkins net of the highest academic To highlight the distinc- within a tenth of a point Latin honors often require said. PAGE 10 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020

College campuses as Missions field By Margaret Colson The Alabama Baptist

Baptist Campus Ministries focus on discipleship, missions mobilization and gospel outreach to students

sophomore in a Southern Baptist church. A young student arrived ing “a rst-time attendee at ery, when BCM “was my went to the However, during the quaran- a little late and alone for the BCM, eventually a new lifeline. The Lord used my Baptist Cam- tine, he realized he did not worship at the BCM on the Christian and ultimately a local BCM to connect me pus Ministries have a faith of his own. He campus of University of BCM leader,” said Bill Mor- to the lost on my campus, at University of had been walking with his Alabama at Birmingham. rison, BCM lead campus to older guys to disciple me ANorth Alabama and “began parent’s faith and decided Over the next three years, as minister at UAB. and to missionaries over- to ask deep questions about he needed to follow Jesus,” the young man got to know Ben Crocker recalls his seas who helped bring the following Jesus and what it reported Matt Daniels, BCM other students and leaders days as a student at Auburn gospel to the nations. It was actually means. He grew up campus minister at UNA. at BCM, he went from be- University at Montgom- so impactful; the Lord drew JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 11

campuses today. In Ala- for what promises to be one try to college students isn’t bama alone there are over of the most challenging fall limited to churches in large 300,000 college students semesters in recent history.” college communities,” Nuss — with perhaps more than said. 200,000 without a personal Being involved With fall semester quickly relationship with Jesus. The Nuss expressed grati- approaching, Nuss urges college campus is certainly tude for Alabama Baptists’ parents and youth pastors to one of Alabama’s most criti- role in collegiate ministry connect high school gradu- cal missions eld,” Nuss through their nancial gifts ates and current college said. through the Cooperative students to a BCM and to a The COVID-19 pan- Program, as well as through local church on or near their Photo by Matt Daniels demic, he said, “will for churches becoming involved campus. UNA Baptist campus minister Matt Daniels meets via Zoom sure change much of our in collegiate ministry. This connection can be with students sent home from campus due to the coronavirus. thinking and approach to “Almost every church is a made at bcmlink.org/con- ministry. Most likely there college church, and minis- nect. me back to campus ministry the future,” said Mike Nuss, will be less ‘gathering’ of years later to serve my alma director of the ofce of col- students and more ‘sending’ mater as [interim] campus legiate and student minis- students to the campus mis- minister.” tries for the Alabama Baptist sions eld.” These stories of lives State Board of Missions. But BCM leaders are changed through BCM re- committed to “appropriate ect a snapshot of the scope Serving students safety measures” relative to of Alabama Baptists’ colle- Nuss directs the ministry the pandemic, he said. giate ministry. of 17 full-time BCM cam- Alabama Baptist colle- “I am admittedly biased, pus ministers and 21 volun- giate ministry “will contin- but I believe that collegiate teer and part-time campus ue our longstanding focus ministry may be one of the ministers across Alabama on reaching, discipling and most important things Ala- who serve thousands of col- mobilizing college stu- bama Baptists and Southern lege students. dents,” Nuss said. “BCM, Baptists can do to spread the “The missionaries, pas- church collegiate ministry Photo courtesy of Lee Dymond gospel, win the lost, ensure tors, deacons, WMU lead- and our recent collegiate Students from Auburn University at Montgomery serve in a future missions force and ers, church lay leaders of church planting efforts are Puerto Rico over spring break in 2018, encouraging a lo- staff the local church for tomorrow are on college strong and busy gearing up cal church and assisting in disaster relief work. PAGE 12 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020 Networking By Grace Thornton The Alabama Baptist

Alumni groups provide mentoring opportunities, connecting points for students, graduates

ona Fontaine’s connec- alumnae have been right chapter gathered around her especially meant a lot to meant to our alumnae.” tions to her alma mater there celebrating with her. to present her a special gift. Fontaine. It’s a bond that continues. have been really, really This past January, she Beforehand, current Jud- Poole said some Judson long lasting. She’s kept turned 107, and Beth Poole, son students had gathered on ‘Strong bond’ alumnae classes still get strong ties to Judson Judson’s alumni director, campus to record two timely “At 107, she still remem- together every year for vaca- ICollege ever since she gradu- along with Judson President songs for her — “Happy bers the words to that song,” tion or reunite on J-Day, Jud- ated in 1935, and as she’s Mark Tew, rst lady Ann Birthday” and “There Will Poole said. “It’s just that son’s homecoming. ticked off birthdays past the Tew and members of Fon- Always Be a Judson.” strong bond of the memo- “It’s a friendship that lasts century mark, her fellow taine’s alumnae association Poole said the second song ries and all that Judson has a lifetime,” she said. JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 13

Not only that — J-Day and or just that they need to nd “It really is a family.” other regular get-togethers a church and a dry cleaner And as a “family,” they present an opportunity for and get to know their new use a platform called Hand- Judson alumnae to network, city better.” shake that’s similar to an important component of One way Samford has LinkedIn and helps alumni the lifelong Judson experi- grown these connections is connect with others in their ence, Poole said. through regional chapters, eld and nd job openings. “We have a lot of alumnae which provide instant con- They also have a career ser- who are involved with the nections as well as a way for vices center that works hard college and want to know alumni to share job opportu- to generate ways for alumni about our students to reach nities with each other. in the workforce to get on out to them “It’s a way campus and interact with and mentor to encourage students, Ratcliff said. them,” she and support said. “We have one another,” Connecting dots Photo courtesy of Judson College had alumnae Ramey said. “Being able to connect the Above: President Mark Tew weekends “It goes much dots whenever we can is re- (right) and others celebrate where we further than ally something special,” she with Judson alumna Iona Fon- invite our stu- just your time said. taine on her 107th birthday. Right: Rebekah Lipscomb dents to come as a student; Todd Greer, UM’s vice (left) and Susan W. Turner visit have lunch this is the next president for academic af- at a UM alumni and friends with our alum- chapter, and fairs, has also worked hard event in November 2019. nae and (seat) it’s a great way to implement these kinds them based on to continue of opportunities. In his to say, ‘Oh, you’re thinking their major and your Samford previous role as dean of about going into this? Let Photo courtesy of UM the alumna’s Photo courtesy of Samford University story.” the school of business, he me talk to you about what profession.” Samford alum Eric Skipwith Allie Rat- started an advisory group that looks like.’” when students hear [insights (left) visits with Samford Students coach Tommy Rohling be- cliff, director of alumni and It’s created about their career path] from community expansion of people who are leading or- also regularly fore a 2019 football game. of alumni rela- For more information, shadow alum- tions for Uni- leaders to help visit judson.edu/ their network ganizations and on the front nae and have opportunities versity of Mobile, said the students con- myjudson-alumnae, in new and line,” he said. to make connections in their transition to the next chapter nect their edu- samford.edu/alumni or great ways, It’s a relationship that eld, something Poole said of involvement comes easily cation to the umobile.edu/alumni. something starts on campus and just is “so important.” for UM graduates. “real world.” that’s possible keeps going throughout life Casey Ramey, director of “We’re already such a “They come because their because everyone involved alumni programs at Samford tightknit community as stu- in as mentors and advocates alumni “want to be involved “recognizes that it’s bigger University, agrees. dents at UM that the transi- for our students,” Greer said. and pour back in,” Greer than just them,” Greer said. “The mission of the alum- tion to alumni just kind of “They’re sounding boards said. “We hope we can cultivate ni association is to create a comes naturally,” she said. for our students to be able “It means so much more this more and more.” lifelong and worldwide com- munity of alumni,” she said. “Networking is very impor- tant as we build that com- munity and look to foster the growth of the individual.” Having a friend Ramey noted that one great thing about being a part of an alumni association is no matter where you go, no matter where you move, you’ll be able to connect with someone in that city who is also a Samford alum. “You’ll already have a friend,” she said. “A lot of times we’ll have alumni who reach out to our of ce and say ‘I am moving to a new city’ or that they are beginning their professional career and embarking on that new chapter in their lives. Through alumni connec- tions, they can begin to build their network whether it’s for professional development PAGE 14 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020

Help college students get a ‘faith start’ by encouraging them throughout high school

By Margaret Colson The Alabama Baptist

ow can parents Because of that startling sta- and church tistic, Alabama Baptist lead- leaders help ers recently led a Q-and-A students transi- webinar, “Transitions: How tion from high to Successfully Transition Hschool into college, so they Your Students from High not only succeed educa- School to College.” tionally and personally but also more importantly grow First 3 weeks spiritually in their Christian “The rst three weeks of faith? college are extremely im- Approximately 70–80% portant,” said Mills. of “incoming college stu- Those rst weeks of col- dents move away from their lege “determine patterns” Want to advertise? faith in college,” said Chris for students, he said, and Contact Melanie McKinney Mills, student missions mo- also establish “connections” E: [email protected] P: 205-870-4720, ext. 102 bilizer for the Alabama Bap- that may endure for the stu- tist State Board of Missions. dents’ entire college career. JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 15

Of Alabama’s approxi- such as, “I can’t wait to see campuses of every four-year tries offers a simple online dent pastors can keep their mately 300,000 college stu- how God uses you on your public college in the state, form at bcmlink.org for in- relationships strong with dents, as many as 200,000 college campus.” Such state- as well as on many commu- dividuals to provide contact the students by connecting “do not have a relationship ments create “a vision that nity college campuses. information for graduating through technology or occa- with Jesus, are not engaged they can see and that they An Alabama Baptist tran- seniors so that campus min- sionally visiting the college in church, are can attain,” he sitions team has noted at isters can contact them be- campuses. not engaged in said. least three characteristics fore they arrive on campus The challenge and beauty To view the webinar living out their He also chal- that demonstrate a student’s as freshmen. of youth ministry, Mallory faith,” he said. in its entirety and lenges campus readiness to make a suc- said, is “we never get to access the form to Cleve Mallo- ministry leaders cessful transition from high Staying connected know how successful we’ve provide information to hold students ry, student pas- on soon-to-be school to college: Even after students have truly been until they’re be- tor at Eastmont college freshmen, “accountable 1. Ability to communicate transitioned to college, stu- yond our reach.” Baptist Church go to bcmlink.org/ on campus in the gospel in Montgomery, connect. a biblical way 2. Capacity to share a said time and and ... push personal salvation testimony again he has them and chal- 3. Capability to partici- seen students “who were lenge them ... to take deeper pate in bene cial ways in raised in a church context” steps in their faith, where small groups. drift away from their faith. they can take ownership of Campus ministers and To help counter what has who they are and who Christ student pastors need to con- is wanting them to become become a “norm,” Mallory nect before students make when they have stepped challenges his fellow stu- the transition to college. Bill away from the umbrella of dent leaders not to procras- Morrison, BCM lead cam- mother and father.” tinate but rather to “have pus minister at the Univer- purpose in what we’re doing Staying focused sity of Alabama at Birming- ... and communicate that.” Keeping Christian stu- ham, urges student leaders When students are in- dents focused on their faith in Alabama Baptist churches volved in a youth ministry, happens most often through to give campus ministers he said, church leaders, local churches, Baptist “access to graduating se- other adult leaders and par- Campus Ministries and oth- niors before the summer of ents must “speak vision into er campus ministries. their freshman year.” them” using positive rein- Alabama Baptists cur- The SBOM of ce of col- forcement, stating phrases rently have BCM on the legiate and student minis- PAGE 16 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020 Alabama Baptist STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS

ONEMISSION:TheGreatCommissionONEPROGRAM:TheCooperativeProgramMANYMINISTRIES:GreatCommissionMinistries

Baptist Campus MinistriesYOUR CAMPUS CONNECTION YOURYOUR CAMPUSCAMPUS CONNECTIONCONNECTIONBCMLINK.ORG

Kim Andrews Zach Beasley Brad Bensinger Gary Brittain Jerrod Brown University of Alabama Alabama State University Troy University Jacksonville State University University of South Alabama [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

BAPTIST CAMPUS MINISTRIES is a student organization on college and university campuses, a ministry of local Baptist churches, AND a great way to make sure your students CONNECT. WOULD YOU BE Ben Crocker (Interim) Matt Daniels Jake Duke Auburn University Montgomery University of North Alabama West Central Alabama Area/UWA [email protected] [email protected] SURPRISED TO KNOW [email protected] THAT MANY GRADUATING SENIORS WILL GO TO COLLEGE THIS FALL AND STOP GOING TO CHURCH?

Please visit bcmlink.org/connect, complete the Transition Form for your graduating seniors and submit it. We will make sure your students get

Jacob Freeman Beth GardnerBeth Gardner connected to a campus minister and Craig Hawkins University of Montevallo UniversityUniversity of Southof South Alabama Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham Jefferson State Community College [email protected]@alsbom.org Birmingham Southern College Shelby Campus BCM on their campus. [email protected] [email protected]

Edwin Hocutt Bill Morrison Chase Williams (Interim) Steve Thompson Sean Thornton University of Alabama in Huntsville University of Alabama at Birmingham Alabama A&M University Auburn University Auburn University Calhoun State Community College University of Alabama School of [email protected] Southern Union State [email protected] Huntsville Medicine Community College [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] COLLEGIATE & STUDENT MINISTRIES 1.800.264.1225, ext. 275 JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 17 GOT 10 MINUTES? By Karen Moore Special to The Alabama Baptist | ©2020 Karen Moore | got10minutesforgod.com The World Is Full of Choices

“Discretion will watch over you, and understanding will guard you.” PROVERBS 2:11 (HCSB)

Devotional Moment Whether you’re a freshman third of its normal capacity are presented with new Help me be wise about headed out to college for of workers at any one time ideas, people and obstacles. the choices I make. Grant You may be getting the rst time or someone as we continue to weather Understanding re ects the me joy in the things I do. ready to make your way who works outside your the virus of 2020. wisdom of those choices Amen. back to school or back to home, it may be You will face and the opportunity you your of ces after being Action Step helpful to stop and new choices and have to do the right thing. home for several weeks. look at the world often you will The message then is to Think back on an unwise with fresh eyes. fend for yourself. remember who you are choice you made. Re ect Wherever you nd Proverbs 2:11 is a and whose you are, seek- on how things may have yourself, things good reminder that ing God’s direction and gone differently if you had taken 10 minutes to ask will be different God has given you counsel for every choice God for His help. than they were some built-in al- you make. Go forward with before. The rst lies. He provided con dence that God is with MOORE EDITOR’S NOTE — semester of school interior armor you wherever you may be. Karen Moore is the author may be tempered that can serve you of over 100 inspirational by smaller classes and on- well. Discretion speaks to Prayer and devotional books. She line course options. Your your choices and the judg- Lord, watch over me as loves to spend time with of ce building may have a ments you make as you I walk out into the world. God every morning.

EDITOR’S NOTE — Dave Ramsey is CEO of Dave says: Let situation guide savings plan Ramsey Solutions. He has authored seven best-sell- Dear Dave, retirement savings rolling, put ing books, including The what you can, based on your own Total Money Makeover. What percentage of our income unique situation, toward college The Dave Ramsey Show should we save for our kids’ edu- funding. is heard by more than cation? We know you recommend If you’ve got teenagers in the 16 million listeners each setting aside 15% for retirement, house, you need to get serious week on 600 radio stations but do you have a similar rule that about college funding soon — and multiple digital plat- applies to paying for college? like right now. There’s no rush if forms. Follow Dave on the — Andrew they’re toddlers, but you might web at daveramsey.com ______want to start looking at things and on Twitter at like a 529 or an ESA (Education @DaveRamsey. Dear Andrew, Savings Account). The thing is, there are just too I don’t really have a rule, or per- many variables, the main one centage, for how much you should being the ages of the kids, to set save toward a college fund. If a strict percentage. You’ve also 123rf.com you’re following the [Ramsey bud- got to consider things like where geting] Baby Steps, I recommend you’re thinking about them going getting 15% of your income going to school, how much you want to toward retirement before saving save and other factors. for college. After you’ve got your — Dave PAGE 18 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020

FIRST IN A SERIES In their OWN WORDS: Alabama Baptists and the COVID-19 pandemic By Madison Young Special to The Alabama Baptist Madison Young on being a senior in high school — ‘Not everything is going to go your way’

’m Madison Young. I’m Baptist Church in Cleburne a very tightknit family; we goodness. This is real, and cause we’re so small we’d be 17 years old and a stu- County. My parents are do everything together. I’m not going to go back to really tightknit, but we really dent at Ranburne High Wendy and Chad Young, At [the beginning of the high school.” I was really weren’t up until this year. ISchool in Ranburne, and I have two older broth- pandemic], I was with my angry at rst. I started talking to people I Alabama. I go to Macedonia ers, Clayton and Sam. We’re friend at a tennis match, I’ve been waiting for this normally wouldn’t talk to, and we were kind of jok- for 13 years! I’ve been in and we all started to bond, ing about how people were school; I have a graduation; and then this happened. That TAB CLASSIFIEDS overreacting. Then they said I want to spend this last year was one of the things I was school was out until the end with my friends, and I’m not looking forward to — just Place a classified ad for $1 per word. For more information call of April, and I said, “Oh my even going to get that. I was spending the last couple of 205-870-4720, ext. 102, or email [email protected]. goodness; this is crazy.” I really upset. months with my classmates. was kind of in denial. Then And then of course, my CHURCH POSITIONS in-tubs. We service Alabama we got a call that school was Lost time senior prom got canceled. 1-800-682-0658. canceled for the rest of the I go to a very small I’m a girl. I love to dress MUSIC MINISTER year, and that’s when real- school; my senior class is 55 up and look like a princess. Trinity Memorial Baptist SIGNS Church, Montgomery, is seek- ity set in. I thought, “Oh my maybe. You would think be- That de nitely stunk. That ing a music minister. Please NEED A NEW CHURCH contact Brett Lanham, 334- SIGN? 782-5284, if interested. Reliable Signs Services, a full- service sign company located in YOUTH PASTOR Alabama for 26 years, is ready We at Union Chapel Baptist to help you grow your church Church in Beaverton, Ala., sign ministry. From digital mes- are in search of a bivocational sage signs to traditional signs. youth pastor. To apply, please Reliable Signs handles the de- send your resumé to: P.O. Box sign, fabrication and installation 146 Sulligent, AL 35586. We statewide. www.reliablesigns. will stop taking resumés Aug. 5. com. Give Danny, Stephanie and the rest of the team a call OTHER POSITIONS 1-800-729-6844 or 205-664- 0955. OFFICE MANAGER Refuge Baptist Church is seek- TRAVEL/VACATION ing a part-time office manager (16–20 hours weekly). Position LOG CABIN RENTAL will accomplish general office Lake Guntersville area, beauti- administration, accounting and ful view and fully furnished. personnel work. Hourly sal- Discounts to ministers. Log on ary based on experience and to www.paradisevista.net to see discussed at interview. Please pictures. Call for reservations at email resumé to: refugebaptist. 205-540-3600. [email protected] or mail to: Refuge Baptist Church, 3098 AFFORDABLE BEACHSIDE Red Hill Road, Tallassee, AL CONDOS 36078. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama. Rent direct from BUSINESS Christian family owners. Lowest prices on the beach for over 25 FOR SALE NEW & USED years. Call Donna: 251-656- STAIR LIFTS 4935, Don: 251-752-2366, Lift chairs, power wheelchairs, Eddie: 205-556-0368 or www. car lifts, scooters and walk- gulfshorescondos.com. JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 19 was one of my biggest dis- my senior year to go. Then in the nursery. I love going appointments. I love prom as it got more real and as it to church. I’ve always loved so I was very prepared. I was evolved into something else, the people there. I got saved supposed to go to two proms I realized that not everything when I was 12 or 13. I’ve actually. So those dresses are is going to go your way. known the Bible stories my just hanging up in my spare And then our church start- whole life. One day it hit me bedroom, and I just go look ed doing Zoom meetings on very hard that eternity only at them sometimes and think Wednesday nights. We were comes with Jesus. Every- about it. on Zoom ... and our message thing is going to fade one was about disappointments Missing traditions day; the only thing that will and about how God doesn’t last is Him. We always have a senior make the bad things hap- I want everything to be breakfast where we all go to pen, but He allows them to perfect all the time, and I the (school) lunchroom and happen. Everything has a want everything to be my eat together for the last time. reason. I started to explore Photo courtesy of Madison Young plans. So I think the hardest And of course, there’s in my mind about the rea- Madison Young (second from left) and her friends prior to the graduation. That’s probably 2019 homecoming dance at Ranburne High School. The students thing for me was having to sons why this could happen, let go and let God take con- the biggest, biggest thing and I realized I have a lot missed their prom in the spring of 2020 due to the pandemic. trol of everything. Ever since to me. You go to school for more free time now. I can’t I’ve done that, everything 13 years to walk across the hang out with my friends, knit so we haven’t been able We’ve been able to see them has been so much better. eld, and I was going to get so I would sit in my room. I to see them as much. One because we’ve been around Of course, I struggle. Of to shake my dad’s hand (he’s would see a devotion, and I of my grandmothers had them since the beginning. the superintendent of Cle- would read it. a birthday, and we would They live just down the course, I’m not perfect at all. burne County Schools) and I nally developed a mind- normally go over and spend road from us, so we’ve been I’m not perfect, but I serve a have him hand me my diplo- set of looking at the bright the whole day with her. We able to see them a lot, which God who is. You just have to ma. I was re- side. I got to really couldn’t do that, and is a very big blessing be- keep your eyes on Him. ally excited spend more it made me very apprecia- cause I don’t think I could to go up in time with my tive of normal times. It’s the last too long without seeing EDITOR’S NOTE — As front of my family, and little things that you take her (the baby). told to Margaret Colson. In classmates, I was less for granted, like seeing your Their Own Words is an oral my family, distracted grandmother. It’s stuff you Adapting to change history of Alabama Baptists my friends by worldly don’t think about on a daily I’ve been raised in church during COVID-19. The in- and be like, things. I basis that has changed. It my whole life. My dad’s a terview has been edited for “I did it!” could sit at makes me more grateful. It deacon, and my mom works clarity and space. My biggest home and opens your eyes to the bless- challenge enjoy fam- ings that God has given you. (during the ily time I made her a cake and took shutdown) and watch a it to her, and she sat on her was not be- sermon on front porch and we talked to ing able to TV with my her. We talked about memo- go out with family. It ries of my granddad and Photo by Jonathan Fordham my friends was just an all our family. It was very Madison Young receives her because I’m diploma during graduation eye-opener special. a social but- exercises on June 8, while her for me. I Some friends and I had a tery. I like dad, Chad, looks on. started off social-distancing picnic. We to be out a in a bitter all brought our own food, lot, hang out with my friends fashion, but it made me real- and we all sat 6 feet apart or go eat with my friends — ize that sometimes He’ll put from each other. We just sat really just do anything. those roadblocks there so around and talked and that It felt really weird to not you can look around and see was really fun — different, be able to go see them as what you would have missed but it was just fun getting to much as I normally would. if this wouldn’t have hap- see how creative we could First, I looked at the situa- pened. get with our plans due to tion from a very sel sh out- I’ve de nitely appreciated coronavirus. look. This isn’t how I wanted my grandparents a lot more. My brother’s wife had a things to be, how I wanted Our family is very close- baby about 4 months ago.

Theology 101 will return next week. PAGE 20 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020 AlabamaAlabama BaptistBaptist STATESTATE BOARDBOARD OFOF MISSIONSMISSIONS

ONEMISSION:TheGreatCommissionONEPROGRAM:TheCooperativeProgramMANYMINISTRIES:GreatCommissionMinistries

Order your resources today!

YOUR GIFTS HELP SUPPORT THESE GREAT COMMISSION MINISTRIES: PinnacleAlabama.org ALABAMA WMU Visit PinnacleAlabama.org DISASTER RELIEF

CHURCH PLANTING for more than 40 virtual training PARTNERSHIP MISSIONS opportunities in a variety of CHURCH REVITALIZATION ministry leadership areas!

Myers-Mallory.org

With nearly 70 breakout classes and some of the best faculty from around the world, the Virtual Worship Conference will renew your passion and STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS equip you to better serve in these unusual days. Register today! JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 21 Seminaries By Margaret Colson The Alabama Baptist

Southern Baptist seminaries adopt 2020–21 budgets, plan for fall semester

outhern Baptists’ mitment to theological edu- plan to resume on-campus $1.9 million from the origi- a budget of $30.3 million, six seminaries have cation but also the reality classes for the 2020 fall nal 2020–21 proposed bud- an overall reduction of adopted 2020–21 of  nancial concerns result- semester, pending any new get. The 2020–21 budget is $932,000 from the previous Sbudgets that re ect ing from COVID-19. All developments or restrictions an approximate $1.4 million year’s $31.2 million budget. not only a continued com- six seminaries tentatively related to the pandemic. increase over the previous Included in the budget was a Gateway Seminary year’s budget of approxi- 5% cut to student tuition. mately $25.4 million. In its March meeting, Southern Seminary Gateway Seminary’s board New Orleans In an April 21 meeting, of trustees approved a 2020– Seminary trustees of the Southern 21 budget of $11.5 million, On June 2, trustees of Baptist Theological Semi- representing a reduction nary approved a 2020–21 of 2.1% ($250,000) from New Orleans Baptist Theo- logical Seminary approved budget of $37.2 million, the previous year’s budget down from a 2019–20 bud- a 2020–21 budget of $21.55 and a reduction of 3.8% get of $53.2 million, re ect- million, approximately 9% ($450,000) from the original ing a 30% reduction. The less than the 2019–20 bud- 2020–21 budget proposal of seminary’s board of trustees get of $23.5 million and $11.95 million. authorized its  nancial 10% less than the original Midwestern board to approve increasing 2020–21 budget proposal. or decreasing the budget, Seminary Southeastern based on ongoing  nancial On March 30, trustees of realities. Included in the Midwestern Baptist Theo- Seminary budget was a 15% cut to logical Seminary adopted On June 15, trustees of student tuition. a budget of approximately Southeastern Baptist Theo- $26.8 million, a reduction of logical Seminary adopted Southwestern Seminary On July 14, trustees of Southwestern Baptist Theo- logical Seminary approved a 2020–21 budget of $29.7 million, approximately 6% less than the 2019–20 bud- Giving you something get. EDITOR’S NOTE — The to hold on to. COVID-19 pandemic in- terrupted the spring 2020 semester and forced cancel- lations of SBC seminaries’ theropetab.com traditional commencement exercises due to restrictions A blog for young adults on public gatherings. Look for a list of semi- nary graduates from Ala- bama in the Aug. 6 issue of TAB. PAGE 22 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS For August 2 Explore the Bible Bible Studies for Life By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D. By Roy E. Ciampa, Ph.D., S. Louis and Ann W. Armstrong Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile Professor of Religion, Samford University

STAYING SOBER Solomon is WE PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER four-dimensional Proverbs 23:17–21, 29–35 pouring out his Ephesians 3:14–21 reality (with heart and soul to breadth, length, The Promise (17–18) his son. Do not Pray for the power and height and depth), Solomon warns the believer not to think that the presence of Christ to be and raises the allow his heart to envy sinners. The enemy wants you to be happy. His manifested through His paradoxical hope of knowing that “heart” refers to the seat of human malice holds out a poisoned bait. Church. (14–17a) which is beyond knowledge: the in- decision-making. The verb “envy” Poverty and shame are temporal Paul indicates he commonly comprehensible love of Christ. describes a strong emotional crav- fruits, but the eternal ruin of his de- prays on his knees, a posture that For the Church to be “rooted and ing to possess something. Coveting ceived victims is his far more deadly reected his submission to God and grounded” in love is to fully com- focuses on the object of desire while design. His authority. God’s authority is prehend God’s love shown to us envying focuses on the person who Look to Christ. Turn from your sin reected in the title of “Father” and in Christ. That happens in part by has the object of desire. to Christ (Rom. 13:13–14). in the reference to His naming of experiencing that love within the The Christian’s hope is to be con- every family (in Greek the “father body of Christ (see the references tinually with God. God is to be our The Portrait (29–32) ... family” connection reects a bit to love in Ephesians 1:4, 15; 2:4; guide now, and after this life He will Here a drunkard is looking at of wordplay: “patera ... patria”). A 3:17, 19; 4:2, 15–16; 5:2, 25, 28, receive us into glory (Ps. 73:24). himself in the mirror. Let him see father’s role in naming his children 33; 6:23–24). With this hope for the present and his own face. Let him hang up this reected his authority over them The Spirit reminds us and assures for the future, how can we possibly picture in his home. Let him hang and the rest of the family. us of Christ’s love and expresses envy sinners? up this picture in the place he fre- The reference to God as Father that love for each of us through the The Lord will show us the path of quents. Every sin brings its own woe also evokes the idea of the inheri- members of the Church who have life, and we will have everlasting joy and sorrow. Wisdom is calling out tance He may give His children (see also been transformed by that love. (Ps. 16:8–11). We are to choose to to warn us to avoid the allurements Eph. 1:11, 14, 18) and in verse 16, love the Lord above all else. of sin. Often a seemingly harmless we are told that it is out of the Fa- Pray that God would be Instead of envying sinful role look leads into a fatal temptation. ther’s riches (the riches of His glo- glorified through His Church. models, believers should constantly The drunkard has woe and sor- ry) that He grants us the wonderful (20–21) recognize the presence of the Lord row. The drunkard also experiences privileges that are outlined later in The Church exists to glorify God. and our absolute dependence on everything from physical ghts with this passage. As John Piper has said, “Missions Him. The general principle here is those around him to domestic dis- Jesus had modeled praying to exists because worship doesn’t.” As that if a believer follows this coun- putes between spouses. He is prone God as Father and had taught His God’s priestly people, we live to sel, then he or she will experience a to constant complaining and argu- disciples to do the same (Matt. 6:9; glorify Him and to act in ways that future of hope and ful llment, not ing. The drunkard oftentimes will Luke 11:2). Paul models the same lead others to do the same. destruction. Believers are to fear the have injuries and will be unable to pattern here. When Paul writes that God is Lord, nding their security and hope remember how he acquired them The proto-Trinitarian nature of “able to do far more abundantly in Him alone. and the reason for his bloodshot Paul’s prayer is worth noting: It is than all that we ask or think, ac- eyes. a prayer to the Father (vv. 14–15), cording to the power at work with- The Petition (19–21) Solomon answers his series of to be realized by the Spirit (v. 16) in us” (v. 20), he doesn’t mean God The repeated exhortations in the rapid- re questions by pointing to in terms of greater knowledge of will give us a Mercedes instead of book of Proverbs to listen remind the person who lingers over wine and conformity to Christ (v. 17) and a Ford or a mansion instead of an us of Jesus’ earnest and affection- and constantly looks for mixed thus to God (vv. 18–19). apartment. ate call to use our ears (Matt. 11:15; wine. These people keep on drinking “Strengthened with power” (v. He mentioned God’s power in 13:9). They show the great impor- alcohol until they become intoxicat- 16) is a pleonasm (using two dif- verse 16 and clari ed in verse 17 tance of listening as the rst step to ed. Solomon concludes this section ferent words where one would suf- that that power was focused on becoming wise. For wisdom, no less with a warning about the deceptive ce) that reinforces the idea of the making the life of Christ more and than faith, comes from what is heard danger of strong drink. It has an awesome power or strength that more dominant in our own lives. (Rom. 10:17). initial attraction but eventually turns God provides by His Spirit so that God’s power is also at work in Solomon proclaims a warning deadly. Christ’s life might be fully reected other ways to bene t the Church, against temptation. God’s creatures in our own lives. but the focus is always on power- abuse His gifts. Wine becomes the The Problem (33–35) Of course, Christ lives and dwells fully empowering the Church to occasion of excess. Gluttonous eat- Solomon compared the drunkard’s in all who have put their faith in manifest Christ’s love and holiness ing degrades the soul and enslaves inebriation to someone attempting Him. As believers, the Ephesians to a world in need of Christ’s love the body. We are warned not to be to sleep in a small ship as it is being already had Christ living in them, and life. one of them and not to associate tossed about by the waves of the sea. but Paul is talking about the life of We need the Church because we with them. Can we be among lepers, The drunkard ends up with a com- Christ being made more and more need each other to glorify God as we guratively speaking, and not catch plete loss of control. powerfully manifest and dominant are called to do — glorifying Him the disease? The best way to show Drinking strong drink can lead to in our lives. when we gather on Sundays and ev- them love is not to sit down with an addiction that is very dif cult to ery other day of our lives as we sup- them but to work for their conver- overcome. But we must remember Pray for a deeper sense of port each other in pursuing God’s sion. And if this is not effective, then the gospel of Jesus Christ and its God’s love. (17b–19) will, righteousness and Kingdom avoid them (1 Cor. 15:33). power to save us from all sin. Paul refers to God’s love as a above all competing priorities. JULY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 23 FUTURE OF ENTERTAINMENT By Shawn Hendricks Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist

A growing missions field: Hollywood careers and the future of family-friendly content he odds of succeeding in Rush” (2007), a lm about a musi- the entertainment indus- cally gifted orphan who tries to nd try are already low, but his birth parents, Castro said they for lmmakers, writers should rst get the right training and and TV producers who then focus less on accolades and Thold Christian values, the industry more on the type of life they want to can be an even more hostile envi- be remembered for living. ronment. It’s not who you know in Hol- A group of lm and television lywood, Castro said, “it’s who you leaders shared their thoughts on know that you can add value to.” their faith and calling to the enter- Getting faith-based, family-friend- tainment industry during the Nation- ly content to the masses is only get- al Religious Broadcasters conven- ting more dif cult, Johnson said. tion in Nashville earlier this year. “Hollywood does not share my Dave Alan Johnson, a writer and values,” he said. “They’re never go- director who has worked with Ste- ing to. ven Spielberg, DreamWorks and “Occasionally, they allow things Paramount, recalled a conversation or things get snuck through or God he had with his wife years ago after 123rf.com puts things through that reect our becoming discouraged from “ ght- values. But that’s becoming harder ing the wars” of the lm industry. but [it] was a completely different taken seriously. Today, he spends and harder and harder to do. It’s al- He wondered aloud if he should day and I understood why I had “100%” of his time helping pack- ways been hard.” “chuck this whole thing and go be a been placed where I’d been placed, age family-friendly and faith-based For faith-based messages to have missionary some place.” why I’d been placed and given the content. the best impact, he said, it is going gifts I’d been given and sort of every “When I speak to young people to take a very large and consistent Missionaries needed day since then have been on that that want to be in the industry, the nancial investment. Johnson, who also was executive road.” one thing that is so critical ... I’m “I really have come to the conclu- producer of “October Baby” (2011), Michael Van Dyck, founder of not a church history buff, but when sion that we have to have our own a lm about a young woman who Inspired Entertainment, said he had pioneer missionaries established platforms,” he said. “We’re never survived a failed abortion, recalled his own “Damascus Road” experi- missions elds, blood was shed. ... going to have huge, huge impact his wife’s response to his frustra- ence in 1986 after committing his Your life will come under radical, until we have our own launching tion. life to Christ. For the past 27 years, radical attack. And if it’s not God’s pads.” “She looked at me and said, he’s been a television packaging purpose and plan for your life, get And success takes a lot of perse- ‘Name me one place on earth that agent in Beverly Hills and has pack- out now ... It’s not a game.” verance, said Van Dyck, who left a needs missionaries more than where aged such mainstream television lucrative position to begin a new ca- you are right now?’ That moment hits as “24” for Fox. Some people Adding value to others reer in the entertainment industry. changed my life,” Johnson said. chuckle, Van Dyck said, when he Paul Castro, co-founder and chief “I found myself penniless in the “So I went back to the same job tells them that God told him to come creative of cer of Torchlyte, shared mailroom, thinking this is not a call- the next day,” he said. “I was run- to Hollywood and get involved in some tips for aspiring writers want- ing, this is a nightmare. But God ning a show. Hundreds of people the entertainment business. ing to break into the industry. had me right where He wanted me. working for me. Did the same thing, But it’s a decision he said he has Best known for writing “August ... The Lord keeps you going.” PAGE 24 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JULY 30, 2020

FROM THECONVERSATION.COM NETWORK

the coronavirus will change college 5 ways admissions this fall By Robert Massa Adjunct Professor, Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California

An experienced college administrator offers insights to future students t some point — likely last year because they expect that long before this more of their admitted students fall’s entering class will ultimately opt to stay closer to graduates from col- home or to attend a more afford- lege — the COVID-19 able school. pandemicA will be over and life as we knew it will return. In the mean- 3. Bigger scholarships time, Robert Massa, a former ad- Colleges are worried that the missions dean from Johns Hopkins health concerns and the economic University and Dickinson College fallout from the pandemic will who teaches about higher educa- result in more students declining tion at the University of Southern admission offers. California, has some observations For this reason, I believe colleges Photo by Carrie B. McWhorter that might help students who will will be likely to offer students more High school senior Stella McWhorter takes a virtual tour of Auburn University. start college in 2020 and 2021. money in an effort to get them to As campuses closed this spring due to COVID-19, college admissions of cials enroll. The competition for student shifted to virtual tours and videoconferences to reach prospective students. 1. More time enrollments will be intense. Colleges will likely be exible in allowing students to apply, even at 4. More need-based aid It is important for families to but they are not the same as visiting this late date. Depending on how may be available explain the need for more nancial campus during a school day. close a college is to lling its class, aid during the application process Many colleges are now hosting If a family is affected by the it may be exible. or certainly pre-deposit — not after virtual visits complete with live economic fallout from COVID-19, paying an enrollment deposit. tour guides and interactive Q&A 2. A better shot they may appeal for additional sessions. Some have also built upon Because of the economic con- need-based nancial aid. The nan- 5. More virtual visits existing social network platforms sequences of the coronavirus, as cial aid system estimates parents’ In the past, I always advised to encourage engagement with many as a fth of students think ability to pay on income that was students to schedule a day to visit members of their campus commu- they may have to abandon their rst earned two years ago. the campus of a school they might nity. choice college to attend a school Due to COVID-19, income attend. In addition to these staged visit that is more affordable, according earned in the rst quarter of 2020 Among other things, I would tell programs, you can also request to to a survey conducted in March. may not predict a family’s total them to request a meeting with a meet with a professor on a video In addition, that survey found 2020 income. faculty member in a major they chat. You can even ask to visit an that a college closer to home would For that reason, it will be impor- might consider, to sit in on at least online class. be a more viable choice than a tant for families to work with the - one class and to meet with an ad- The visit really isn’t about the rst-choice institution for 35% of nancial aid ofce of the colleges on missions ofcer and a nancial aid buildings or the beauty of the physi- students. their list to help them take a lower adviser if appropriate. cal space. It’s about the people with Taking these factors into con- family income into account when The big open houses for admit- whom you will live and learn. Hope- sideration, colleges are likely to calculating the family’s eligibility ted students are great because you fully you can get a good feel for that admit more students than they did for nancial aid. get to meet potential classmates, through the virtual version. A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO WXJC RADIO, our partner in producing TAB Talks, which airs Saturdays at 2 p.m. and is released as a podcast the following Monday morning at tabonline.org/podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

Ministry Minute

The WHY of the Worship Ministry of North Shelby Baptist Church Church-Wide Business Meeting Dr. John Boozer Wednesday, August 12th

The Why of Worship is found in North Shelby Baptist Church’s Fellowship Hall Worship Ministry’s mission statement - “Changing Lives One 6:30 PM Worship Experience at a Time”.

What we need to realize as worship leaders through Worship Choir, Worship Orchestra, Youth Worship Team, Children’s Choir and all our leadership is that God’s Word is what changes lives. It is not a pretty melody. A loud fanfare. Student Ministry A great performance. Or even the awesome technical abilities Due to the recent event of a few members of our staff testing positive for the Corona of the video editor that puts together virtual worship performances for streaming service. virus, we are pushing back our Student Beach Retreat a week so that they can quarantine. The new dates of the retreat will be Friday, August 7th to Monday, August God’s WORD changes lives. This is why we put a premium on 10th. The cost is $150 and it is for all upcoming 6th grade to 12th grade students. If reading the Bible in Worship. This is why we make sure God’s you know of a student who wants to join, they can register on Realm or email Alex at WORD is reflected in the text of our songs. This is why it is [email protected]. important to make sure our words are understood when we present worship music in our services. The WORD makes a Children’s Ministry difference. Children’s drive-in Bible study scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th has been cancelled.

I am reminded of the song by Don Moen and Frank Edwards:

Promotion Sunday Changing Lives Someone ask a question On Sunday, August 16th at 9:30 AM our children and students are moving up to their Do you believe in this miracle? new classes. Check-in at the downstairs welcome area and we will show you where How do you open blind eyes? How can a lame man start walking? to go! What is the source of your strength? Loving God through Generosity Yes I believe in this miracles.

He opens the blind eyes by faith. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;” God is the source of my strength. Psalm 24:1 He's the same yesterday and today. 2020 Weekly Budget $ 34,327.15 My God is still changing lives. Giving Week of 07/26/2020 $ 18,868.61 He's still around doing good. Budget Receipts to Date $894,541.09 He is the source of my strength. Budget Expenses to Date $858,234.89 My God is still changing lives. Bible Reading Plan F260

As the song points out, “God is still changing lives.” And He Week 31 August 2nd — 6th does that through His Word. This is further represented in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new Hebrews 4 Hebrews 7 Hebrews 5 Hebrews 8 creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has Hebrews 6 come.” Rev. Mike Meadows Lead Pastor [email protected] We will know we have come close to reaching our mission (205) 995-9056 when people comment on the powerful message of the songs Rev. Jon Jeffries Minister of Education & Families [email protected] we sing instead of the nice melody, the dynamic music, the (205) 259-2678 pretty sounds, or how big the choir was. When people tell you Rev. Alex Lovorn Student Pastor [email protected] (205) 259-2653 how powerful the message of the song is, then we know that they are referring to the way God can make “new creations” Julie Donavan Children’s Minister [email protected] (205) 259-2676 because they have been drawn closer to HIM and HIS Dr. John Boozer Interim Minister of Music [email protected] WORD. (205) 995-9056

Let’s continue to make HIM and HIS WORD the central theme Rev. Gordon Ogle Business Administrator [email protected] of our Worship Ministry here at North Shelby Baptist Church. (205) 995-9056