Gay marriage OK in Oregon county_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

Gay marriage OK in Oregon county

WASHINGTON (ABP)–Oregon's most populous county began issuing marriage licenses to gay couples March 3, marking the latest incident of local officials following the lead of San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom in allowing the practice.

Two gay men and two lesbians wed each other at a hotel in downtown Portland.

A majority of Multnomah County commissioners reportedly decided to proceed after the county's attorney issued an opinion that such marriages would not violate state law.

Oregon is one of 13 states with no laws on its books defining marriage as between a man and a woman.

The Federal Marriage Amendment, currently making its way through both houses of Congress, would ban marriage and “the legal incidents thereof” to same-sex couples nationwide.

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee's subcommittee on the Constitution, convened a panel March 3 to discuss the broader topic of whether recent judicial decisions made such an amendment necessary to “protect” the institution of heterosexual marriage.

In his opening statement, Cornyn said the amendment was necessary because “activist judges like those in Massachusetts, California and elsewhere” are presenting “a clear and present danger to traditional marriage laws across the nation.”

But the subcommittee's ranking minority member, Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.), said that was a “gross mischaracterization of the judicial landscape.”

Referring to the constitutional amendment ratification process, he continued: “I simply fail to see how it is more democratic to have three quarters of the states decide this issue for Massachusetts than to let the people of Massachusetts–or Wisconsin, for that matter–decide this for themselves.”

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Regional convocations for Hispanic laity seek to inspire, train and equip_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

Regional convocations for Hispanic
laity seek to inspire, train and equip

By Orville Scott

Texas Baptist Communications

TYLER–About 200 East Texas laymen and pastors were challenged at Hillcrest Hispanic Baptist Church recently to join hands and hearts with others in missions and ministries to reach an estimated 7 million Hispanics in Texas.

The meeting is one of a series of regional Hispanic Convocations of the Laity being held across the state this year under sponsorship of Varones Bautistas (Hispanic Baptist Men), said Eli Rodriguez of Dallas, statewide coordinator for the sessions.

Besides making men aware of the evangelistic challenge, the meetings train them to start new churches and Brotherhood and Royal Ambassador chapters in churches, Rodriguez said.

The first convocation Jan. 17 drew 65 men to Dickinson in Southeast Texas.

Similar regional meetings will challenge and train Baptist men March 27 at First Mexican Baptist Church, Fort Worth; April 24 at the Baptist University of the Americas, San Antonio; May 22 at Bethania Baptist Church, Austin; July 31 at a site to be arranged in West Texas; and August 28 at First Mexican Baptist Church, Lubbock.

For the second year in a row, a statewide Convocation of Hispanic Laity will be held Oct. 15-16 at Highland Lakes Camp and Conference Center at Spicewood near Austin, Rodriguez said.

Keynote speaker for the convocations, Alcides Guajardo of Mineral, president of the Hispanic Baptist Convention of Texas, urged laymen and pastors to share their faith through personal evangelism and missions ministries.

He said the fast-growing Hispanic population of Texas, which has surpassed the 7 million mark, is expected to increase to more than 50 percent of the state's population by the year 2013.

In a special meeting with pastors, Guajardo stressed the necessity of training laypeople to reach their communities for Christ.

Javier Rios of Dallas, president of Varones Bautistas, told the group: “God has sent a vision to make us aware of the evangelistic needs and opportunities across our state.

“Varones Bautistas are responding with joy and dedication as they train to reach the state for Christ.”

The training of men to share their faith actively is gathering steam, said Ray Carrillo of the Hillcrest Church, one of the coordinators for the East Texas convocation.

“They're learning how to establish Brotherhood and Royal Ambassadors chapters and help their pastors grow churches.”

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Texas Baptist Forum_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

TEXAS BAPTIST FORUM:
Gratitude to Jews

I'm neither anti-Semitic, nor do I have animosity toward the Jewish people regarding Christ's death.

To lay blame on anyone is to say that his death was a mistake. Not only was it not a mistake, it was prophecy, and there was no way around it. Our sins, particularly those of Gentiles, could have never been pardoned in any other fashion. God allowed his chosen people to carry out a task for which they would forever be ostracized, persecuted and, in some cases, killed, for their role. That God trusted the Jews to carry out this task is a testament to his love for his original “chosen people.” Sometimes, you have to be the heavy to accomplish the tough tasks.

E-mail the editor at marvknox@baptiststandard.com

Still, I don't get the anti-Semitism aspect (of the accounts of Christ's passion). Christians owe the Jews an enormous debt of gratitude for bringing on God's kingdom, through Jesus Christ, and for playing a part in building the bridge that allows redemption for the “un-chosen people.”

The alternative for a Christian is this: Christ never would have been crucified, our sins would not have been pardoned and the entire non-Jewish population would be forever separated from God.

Christians who blame Jews are misguided and ignorant of Scripture. The fact that you are a Christian was only made possible by the role of the Jewish and Roman leaders of that time. Besides, God doesn't make mistakes.

Mark Clark

Flower Mound

Weep for crucified

Wearying are all these depictions of the suffering of our Lord, whose dying and death are “performed” in plays, cantatas and now by one big film.

All this is so tiring to my senses and sensibilities. These “performances” miss the point. That is, that Jesus is being oppressed, tortured and murdered every single day in the lives of millions upon millions of the naked, sick, hungry and thirsty of our world.

Did he not tell us ever so plainly that he was embodied in all those who suffer in our time?

While the church has “performed” its ritual of remembrance of the “passion of Christ” throughout her history, innumerable souls have tasted real torture and very real death.

Have we in the church, perhaps, been more concerned with our dramatic “performance” than with the plight of those whom Jesus said he was to be?

Oberammergau's power of performance continued to flourish during the Nazi regime, when Jews were being dragged away by the millions to death camps.

Let us weep for Jesus, yes, but let us also weep for those who are being crucified this very day.

Al Staggs

North Richland Hills

Us vs. them

I appreciate very deeply Bob Casey's fasting and prayers for the Southern Baptist Convention in its efforts to abandon the Baptist World Alliance (Feb. 23).

He was not allowed to address the SBC Executive Committee. How like another “executive committee” that plotted to exclude Christ and would hear only testimony it wanted to hear.

It's clear the SBC enjoys exclusiveness while the BWA's view and goal is inclusive.

I love the song from my childhood, “'Tis a loving Father calls the wanderer home: Whosoever will, may come.” Inclusive!

By following arrogant and aloof leadership, we subtly become arrogant and aloof. This convention, whose agenda of “us” and “them” is all-consuming, has dogged too many humble and contrite of heart for it not to be clear. We can't say to the Lord, “I didn't know,” because we know!

Pastors and church members, what will we do?

Suzy Fuller

Tyler

Women speak out

Do I understand correctly that the most outspoken opposition to the withdrawal of the SBC from the BWA came from women? (Jan. 26)

Do these women not understand “intimidation,” “job security,” “ladder-climbing”? And what about their future retirement and health insurance? Are they not like so many “little old retired missionary widows” who really believe that if they speak out and say what they think about actions within their denomination that their benefits might be discontinued?

An SBC name change won't change the heart, and the heart seems to be diseased with the quest for control.

Domination, not denomination, has become the goal of many who have been entrusted with the future of the soon to be “former” SBC.

Ann Moore

Foley, Ala.

Hospital chaplains

The Southern Baptist Convention North American Mission Board has issued an opinion that the role of professional hospital chaplain is now something other than that of pastor (Feb. 23). That seems to nullify any value of an SBC endorsement. How can NAMB hope to provide spiritual support to pro-

fessional hospital

chaplains while denying who we are and what we do?

Professional hospital chaplains preach, teach, counsel, comfort, offer spiritual direction, lead the ministry of staff and volunteers, and officiate at the Lord's Supper and weddings and funerals.

I am chaplain in a children's hospital; no church pastor faces more poignant questions of the goodness of God or addresses a congregation hungrier for a word of mercy from a loving God.

The pastoral work of hospital chaplains is too difficult alone. We are finite, fallible people who depend on the prayers, strength and encouragement from other members of Christ's body, including our endorsing agency. Baptists have sent us out to be pastor in some

of the most challenging settings imaginable. We are honored to serve our Savior and the church.

Thanks be to God for the Baptist General Convention of Texas, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and other Baptist endorsing bodies who celebrate the pastoral identity of hospital chaplains and hold the ropes of prayer for us. May God be glorified and the love of God revealed in all we say and do.

Ann Miller

Fort Worth

Women pastors

Southern Baptists claim an allegiance to the Bible, but we share little detailed discussion of disputed interpretations in a manner that is free of political baggage for fear of being labeled liberal or fundamentalist.

I have exchanged several letters with SBC leaders on the biblical basis for the prohibition of women pastors in the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message. (The letters can be seen at www.mainstreambaptists.org/news.htm.)

If one interprets 1 Timothy 2:12 as being intended for all churches for all time, then one cannot rationally consider 1 Corinthians 11 to be unique to New Testament times or places, because Paul gives a very similar theological/historical justification for both. No one had answers for this or other specific comments, but they were not comfortable overturning 2000 years of Christian tradition on this issue.

I value tradition, but we are Baptists. Church tradition is not our final authority; it is no substitute for rigorous Bible study. If the Baptist Faith & Message committee developed carefully reasoned answers to legitimate criticisms of their interpretation on women pastors, they would not share them with me.

I would like to repeat my question to SBC leaders: If prohibition of women as pastors is the only reasonable interpretation of Scripture, why not publish a careful study of the matter, including specific refutation of the many criticisms that have been raised by Baptists and others, including staunch conservatives like James Dobson?

Steve Pruett

Bossier City, La.

Politicos' Bibles

Maybe we're looking at the wrong thing: Instead of the politicos' statements of faith, we ought to examine their Bibles.

Marv Knox told about one whose Bible has Job in the New Testament (Jan. 26), and we have an incumbent whose Bible says, “Do unto others before they do it to you” and “Be no respecter of persons unless he can contribute to your campaign.”

We just need to judge their talk in light of their walk. I would prefer a politician who did not brag about his faith but showed concern for and worked to help the meek and downtrodden. WWJVF: Who would Jesus vote for?

Carroll Johnson

Douglassville

Marriage amendment

George W. Bush has offered his support for a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage. Many conservative evangelicals have already bought into this idea. I suggest we don't.

First, we consider the example of Jesus, the Great Physician, spending his time loving and including people the Religious Right of his day sought to treat as second-class humans. He didn't condone their actions but did not deny them the rights and dignity all God-made humans deserve.

Second, we decide not to take the first step toward becoming like Calvin's Geneva, which punished those who attempted suicide, and the Puritan colonies, where the witch hunts occurred.

Third, we ask why our leaders single out homosexuals if the concern is the sanctity of marriage. Homosexuality presents no danger to heterosexual marriage. Why not seek initiatives that seek to limit divorce and require people to take marital vows seriously? Otherwise, we're nothing more than homophobes.

Fourth, we ask if the president has ulterior motives. He displeased conservative evangelicals by saying Christians, Jews and Muslims all worship the same God. His reasons for entering Iraq have crumbled. He trails the Democratic front-runner in the polls, and most Americans oppose gay marriage. He needs the votes!

Let us follow Christ in loving the marginalized. Coercion and manipulation is no way to share the gospel of Christ.

J.D. Allen

McGregor

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Oath trumps court order, Moore claims_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

Oath trumps court order, Moore claims

By Robert Marus

Associated Baptist Press

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (ABP)–Attorneys for Alabama's former chief justice have asked for his reinstatement, claiming Roy Moore did not commit an ethical violation when he defied a federal court's order last year.

Moore's attorneys said he was bound by his oath of office not to follow the federal court's order.

“There comes a time when an order is so morally unjust that you shouldn't follow it,” attorney Phillip Jauregui said, according to the Montgomery Advertiser. “Chief Justice Moore didn't take an oath to support a regime of judges; he took an oath to uphold the Constitution.”

In August, Moore refused to comply with a federal judge's order to remove a two-ton granite monument to the Ten Commandments from the rotunda of the state's judicial headquarters building. Moore had overseen the monument's installation in the building's rotunda in 2001.

Two federal courts ruled that the monument violated the First Amendment's ban on government establishment of religion. After the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Moore's appeal, District Judge Myron Thompson ordered the monument removed.

Moore's colleagues on the Alabama Supreme Court then suspended him from office and allowed workers to move the monument to a non-public area of the building. On Nov. 13, the state's Court of the Judiciary removed Moore from office permanently. They ruled unanimously that he had violated judicial ethics by defying the order.

Moore argued that complying with the order would have violated his oath of office. That oath to uphold the Alabama and federal constitutions required him to “acknowledge God,” he said.

Alabama law allowed Moore to appeal his removal to the state Supreme Court. His former colleagues recused themselves from the case, allowing Alabama Gov. Bob Riley to appoint a special judicial panel to preside over Moore's appeal. The panel, made up of seven retired judges from around the state, heard oral arguments in the case Feb. 25.

Alabama Assistant Attorney General Charles Campbell told the court that Moore's case was cut and dried. “This case is about three things–a judge, a court order and a judge's decision to intentionally violate the law,” the Advertiser quoted him as saying.

The court has not set a deadline for issuing its ruling. Moore has said he would appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court if he loses.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




On the Move_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

On the Move

Ronnie Aubrey to Trinity Church in Reno as pastor.

bluebull Jekabs Bikis to First Church in Richardson as pastoral intern.

bluebull Ken Cannon to First Church in Paris as associate pastor for pastoral ministries, outreach and singles. He had been church administrator there.

bluebull Tiffany Cohner to Adamsville Church in Lampasas as minister of youth.

bluebull Jim Cragg to First Church in Denison as senior adult and education minister.

bluebull Charles Cruce to Tulsa Metro Association in Tulsa, Okla., as executive director from Lamar Church in Arlington, where he was pastor.

bluebull Rick Davis has completed an interim pastorate at Northside Church in Victoria.

bluebull Brian Durr to First Church in Bay City as minister of youth/outreach.

bluebull George Easter to New Hope Church in Vernon as pastor. He had been minister of education there.

bluebull Carey Gable to Levita Church in Gatesville as pastor.

bluebull Jonathan Godfrey to Trinity Church in Gatesville as interim minister of music.

bluebull Dan Harrison to First Church in Paris as minister of education/administration from Deermeadows Church in Jacksonville, Fla., where he was associate pastor and minister of education and administration.

bluebull Gene Hendrix to First Church in Shreveport, La., as minister of Christian formation and administration from First Church in Abilene, where he was pastor for discipleship, development and administration.

bluebull Brandon Hitt to Iola Missionary Church in Iola as youth minister.

bluebull Jeff Howard to First Church in Richardson as youth intern.

bluebull Jeff Huckeby to First Church in Earth from Pecan Grove Church in Oglesby.

bluebull Jim Humphries has completed an interim pastorate at First Church in Canton and is available for interims, supply or missionary speaker. He can be reached at (903) 881-0231.

bluebull Rick Kosanovic to Midway Church in Springtown as youth minister.

bluebull John Lay to First Church of Urbandale in Dallas as minister of education from Bethlehem Church in Farmersville.

bluebull Lee McCullough to Walnut Springs Church in Walnut Springs as youth minister.

bluebull Gilberto Medina to Primera Iglesia in Elgin as pastor.

bluebull Basilio Montez Jr. to Iglesia Tierra Santa in Cameron as pastor from Primera Iglesia in Cameron.

bluebull Moises Padilla to Primera Iglesia in Goldthwaite as pastor.

bluebull Jarred Parnell to Rosedale Church in Austin as pastor.

bluebull Harvey Patterson to First Church in Mobeetie as pastor.

bluebull Jim Poe has resigned as pastor at Peniel Church in Greenville.

bluebull Velma Porraz to Primera Iglesia in Austin as assistant pastor.

bluebull Houston Prewitt has resigned as youth minister at Northside Church in Highlands.

bluebull Jim Puckett to North McKinney Church in McKinney as interim pastor.

bluebull Brad Reedy to First Church in Longview as minister to single adults/young married adults from Norwood Heights Church in Palestine, where he was associate pastor for youth and music.

bluebull John Mark Robinson to First Church in Canton as pastor.

bluebull Gary Samford to First Church in Lyons as pastor.

bluebull Bob Sexton to County Line Church in Bullard as interim pastor.

bluebull Tom Slavin to First Church in Cherokee as minister of youth.

bluebull Rick Spencer to Fellowship Church in Liberty Hill as interim pastor.

bluebull Henry Swofford to Living Faith Church in Austin as pastor.

bluebull E.J. Tyson to New Hope Church in Oklahoma City as pastor from New Hope Church in Vernon.

bluebull Jason VonWachenfeldt to Mountain Church in Gatesville as youth and children's minister.

bluebull Bryan Williams to Second Church in Pasadena as youth minister.

bluebull Keith Woolf has resigned as pastor at First Church in Needville.

bluebull Mike Wyatt to Memorial Church in Marshall as interim pastor.

bluebull Scott Zbylot to Calvary Church in Rosenberg as minister to students and family.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




‘Passion’ too intense for most young children, ministry leaders suggest_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

'Passion' too intense for most young
children, ministry leaders suggest

By John Hall

Texas Baptist Communications

Christians may want everyone to hear the gospel, but parents should be wary of letting their younger children view Mel Gibson's “The Passion of the Christ,” according to faith leaders.

Christian leaders are cautioning parents to use discretion when determining whether or not their children should see the film, which graphically depicts Christ's brutal last 12 hours on earth that led to his crucifixion and resurrection.

Many Christians are calling the R-rated film too explicit for young children and teens. Phil Boatwright, who reviews movies from a Christian perspective on moviereporter.com, calls the crucifixion possibly “the most believable death scene ever to be placed on screen.”

The violence is not only bloody but also prolonged, said Leighton Flowers, youth consultant for the Baptist General Convention of Texas. The demonic also is portrayed vividly.

The brutality is more agonizing for Christian children because they are seeing someone they love persecuted for the length of the movie, Flowers said.

The film could give some young children nightmares and flashbacks, said Bill Maier, vice president and psychologist-in-residence for Focus on the Family.

The movie is not suitable for many children under the age of 10, leaders said. Parents should strongly consider whether or not to allow anyone under 15 to see it in the theater.

“It's too much for little kids,” Boatwright noted.

Generally, parents need to know what is appropriate for their children when determining if they should see the movie, Flowers said.

They must understand their children's tolerance for violence and ability to understand what they are seeing.

“It's hard to pick a cut-off date because each kid is at a different point in maturity and exposure to violence,” Flowers said.

If parents are having trouble deciding whether a child should see the film, Maier encourages them to see the movie before their youth do. Adults also can choose to purchase the video of the movie at a later date and show it to their children when appropriate.

“Parents are the guardians, gatekeepers of their child's media experience,” he said.

Maier also urged parents to attend the film with their children rather than letting them go with a youth group or friend. This allows families to discuss the movie and any emotions they are feeling immediately after the show.

Tommy Sanders, minister of childhood education at Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas, said the same standards that are applied in teaching the gospel to younger children should be applied to the movie.

Bible study teachers should be careful not to over-emphasize the brutality of the persecution of Christ, because it can leave them fearful, Sanders said. Younger children need to hear the message of hope in Christ clearly. The brutality of Jesus' sacrifice is more appropriate for older youth.

The movie can invigorate the faith of mature teens, leaders said. The depiction helps viewers understand the painful sacrifice Jesus made for humanity's sins.

“It is brutal, but there is a difference between 99 percent of (movie) brutality and this brutality,” Boatwright said. “This brutality shows what Christ went through on our behalf.”

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Quilting bee-lievers at First Baptist Church in Plano_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

Quilting bee-lievers at First Baptist Church in Plano

By George Henson

Staff Writer

PLANO–Needle and thread can be prime tools for ministry, Margaret Shafer believes. And she is teaching women both inside and outside her church to use them.

Several women in Shafer's Sunday school class at First Baptist Church of Plano approached her nearly four years ago about teaching them to quilt. She agreed but thought it would be a short-lived venture once they discovered how time-consuming the work was.

The quilters at First Baptist Church in Plano created a quilt to commemorate their church's 150th anniversary. Margaret Shafer leads both groups. (George Henson Photos)

“I didn't think they were too serious, quite frankly,” she admitted.

Apparently they were. Each week, 29 women meet for fellowship and to waork on their quilting projects. Not all the women are from Shafer's Sunday school class anymore, or even from her church. In fact, the group now boasts participants from six denominations.

All share not only a joy of quilting, but also a desire to minister. Each year, the group makes quilts for a Hispanic mission church.

“We decided that making something we could share with others was something we wanted to do–something we needed to do,” Shafer said. She acknowledges that it was a year after the group started before they took up the mission project.

“We weren't sure we were good enough. But I don't think there is anything they won't try now,” she said.

In addition to expanding their project line to include handbags and vests, as well as quilts, they also have adopted new ministry projects.

The First Baptist quilting group is helping the Red Hat Quilting Club, a new ministry Shafer started at an assisted-living facility. She teaches more than a dozen women at Plano's Life Care Center to make quilts for themselves and a large one to auction. Each participant in the club wears a distinctive red hat of her own choosing.

Since arthritic hands no longer allow the members of the Red Hat Quilting Club to maneuver a needle and thread, the women who meet at First Baptist Church cut out cloth in shapes for them and apply a backing to make them iron-ons.

In February, for instance, various-sized hearts became the pads for the hands and feet of teddy bears. While Shafer provided the shapes and an example, members of the Red Hat Quilting Club applied them where they liked, making each one unique.

Scoring the backing with a hat pin and peeling it from the fabric also provides therapy for hands and fingers.

Red Hat Quilters at the Life Care Center in Plano (above) take the same pride in their handiwork as do the quilters at First Baptist Church in Plano.

In addition to cutting out the shapes for their older friends, the First Baptist quilters also stitch around the edge of each square and do any sewing that is needed, such as fastening button eyes onto teddy bears.

“These ladies put a lot of time and effort into things they'll never see,” Shafer said. “They are just so willing to give of their time and money for these ministry projects, it's wonderful.”

The First Baptist quilters are glad to help the Red Hat quilters create things they can be proud of, said Celia Price, a charter member of the church-based quilting group.

“I have a dad who died in a nursing home, and my mom is borderline ready. You just come to a point in your life where you realize you won't always be able to do all you want to do, and you need to help others while you can,” she said.

Barbara Roberts, another member of First Baptist, came to the club because her mother-in-law had made the top of a quilt featuring a donkey. Roberts wanted to finish the quilt but didn't know how.

She finished that project long ago and now is happy to help others the way she was helped.

“It's good to know that you can help someone too,” she said. “I could be in that home some day–we might all be there–and it's nice to be able to help them make something pretty.”

Margaret Shafer goes to the Life Care Center of Plano each month to teach residents how to make quilting squares that are put together and finished by the the quilters at First Baptist Church of Plano.

While the women are glad to help the Red Hat quilters and make the quilts for the Hispanic mission, they particularly are proud of what they refer to as “the quilt”–their first major project.

In March 2001, the women were asked to create a quilt for First Baptist Church's 150th anniversary that August. Shafer looked at old photographs of the church's various buildings and drew sketches for each square. She also drew pictures of the various churches First Baptist in Plano had started as missions. She then included drawings of the church's stained glass windows.

The 15 women then involved each took squares. When combined, their work became the church's sesquicentennial quilt.

“These ladies just took those drawings of mine and went to work on them, and what we wound up with is just beautiful,” Shafer said. The quilt hangs in the church's welcome center as a commemoration of the church's history.

Teaching women to quilt has been one of great joys of Shafer's life.

“It's the most satisfying thing I've ever done to see these ladies develop in their skills to the point that they have,” she said.

Shafer's gift just keeps on giving, Price added.

“You can't keep this kind of thing to yourself. My husband keeps asking me, 'When do we get to keep one?” she said with a smile.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Twister wrecks Seymour church gym_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

Twister wrecks Seymour church gym

A tornado destroyed the gym at First Baptist Church in Seymour shortly after noon March 4. Marion Fonville, director of missions for Salt Fork and Red Fork Baptist associations, said the facility was the only known church damage, although the storm inflicted considerable damage on local businesses. No injuries were reported.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Show Christ’s love by working to renew communities, student leaders told_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

Show Christ's love by working to renew
communities, student leaders told

By John Hall

Texas Baptist Communications

SHREVEPORT, La.–Christians can pull the United States out of societal decline by reaching out to their neighbors as Christ would, a community renewal activist told student leaders.

Civilizations rise and fall, and the United States is on the downhill side of its prestige, said Mack McCarter, founder and coordinator of Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal.

Social injustice is on the rise, life is being devalued, and corporate ethics are fading, he said. Americans increasingly are becoming socially dysfunctional as they become disconnected, he observed. Growing up, he knew everyone on his block, but now people do not know the names of their neighbors.

“We can e-mail our friends in Berlin but don't know who is living and dying three doors down from us,” said McCarter, who recently spoke at a Christian Association of Student Leaders meeting, sponsored by Texas Baptist Leadership Center and the Baptist General Convention of Texas institutional ministries section.

But Christians bring hope of societal renewal, he insisted. Believers can reconnect society one person at a time by showing the love of Christ.

When individuals show that caring spirit, friendships begin to emerge, McCarter said. Through friendship, lines of communication are established, and compassionate relationships develop.

“It isn't Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal that's the answer,” he said. “It's the love of Christ.”

The Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal effort uses a three-pronged approach to reconnecting the citizens of Shreveport and Bossier City. About 12,000 people are volunteer members of a “We Care Team.” These individuals sport “We Care” bumper stickers on their cars and pins on their shirt collars that make “caring people” more visible. Team members commit to care for others in their daily lives.

McCarter and his staff also recruited about 500 “Haven Home” leaders, who are committed to making friends in their neighborhoods and teaching others how to build relationships. Volunteers also hold parties in their homes to bring communities together.

A wave of individuals volunteered to move into high-crime, low-income neighborhoods to completely rebuild a caring community.

These Internal Care Unit members work to establish trust with adults by first caring for their children.

The effort is working, McCarter said. Crime dropped 42 percent in the community. Attitudes are changing.

The Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal effort is one model being studied by the BGCT City Core Initiative.

Individuals are getting trained by community renewal staff and using it across the country. Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal staff members are using a government grant to demonstrate their model can work nationwide.

Demonstration projects are under way in Austin and in Abilene, where Hardin-Simmons University is involved.

Other demonstrations are taking place in Baton Rouge, La., and Knoxville, Tenn.

McCarter used a recent Christian Association of Student Leaders meeting at Hardin-Simmons University to encourage nearly 200 young people to incorporate community renewal principles into their lives.

The more people that are actively sharing God's love, the greater impact this model will have, McCarter said. Love leads to relationships.

And when a believer has been properly equipped, relationships lead to disciples, he added. Disciples can change the world.

“The ultimate goal is to be faithful to God speaking to us through his Son,” McCarter said.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




TBM names Smith executive director, agrees to work with SBTC on disaster relief ministry_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

TBM names Smith executive director,
agrees to work with SBTC on disaster relief ministry

By John Hall

Texas Baptist Communications

AQUILLA–Texas Baptist Men's board of directors named an executive director, signed an agreement to work with Southern Baptists of Texas Convention-affiliated disaster relief units and outlined the group's new meeting schedule.

At a Feb. 26-28 board meeting at Latham Springs Baptist Encampment, retired pastor Leo Smith was elected unanimously as executive director. Smith, who has served in various TBM positions for more than 35 years, had been interim executive director since Jim Furgerson retired from the post in spring 2002.

“I am very humbled by your trust and want to pledge to you, and under God, that I will do all I can to hear his voice and lead Texas Baptist Men in a way that glorifies him,” Smith said, fighting back tears.

“You're Texas Baptist Men. You're the guys who do the work. I want to do like Bob (Dixon, longtime TBM director) says–turn you loose to do what God has called you to do.”

Kevin Walker, TBM president, reported Smith was the unanimous nomination of a committee that studied the organization's history and purpose while prayerfully determining the proper candidate.

“We continue to see God's hand at work,” he said.

Smith accepts the position as Texas Baptist Men attempts to work with volunteers from churches affiliated with two conventions–the Baptist General Convention of Texas and the SBTC–while retaining its unique connection to the BGCT.

In recent years, Texas Baptist Men adopted a fraternal relationship with the SBTC that enables cooperation between TBM and men from churches related to the breakaway convention. At the same time, Texas Baptist Men has continually reaffirmed its “unique” relationship with the BGCT, the primary source of the men's group's funding.

During the February meeting, Smith signed an agreement with the SBTC to outline how TBM will work with disaster relief units owned by SBTC-affiliated churches and associations.

Under the agreement, TBM is the organization the Southern Baptist Convention North American Mission Board calls to minister in large disasters. In turn, TBM can call on SBTC-affiliated units to work under direction of TBM leaders.

Each group can determine if it wants to participate in a particular relief effort.

“The purpose of the document is to grow the kingdom,” said Gibbie McMillan, liaison between the SBTC and Texas Baptist Men. “It is not about names.”

In addition to the agreement with the SBTC, the board voted to explore partnerships with South Africa, England and “cowboy churches” in Texas. The group also is continuing efforts in China, North Korea, Canada and Nicaragua.

The board of directors also responded to a requested study of when TBM should meet by outlining a new meeting format. The TBM board voted to have only one board of directors meeting a year, tentatively to be held in the spring.

TBM will hold seven additional events around the state, including rallies at the BGCT and SBTC annual meetings.

TBM will continue having a booth at both meetings and will participate in breakout sessions as asked. Smith said the changes will give TBM more visibility around the state.

“The direction I sense the Lord moving is getting us out to the churches,” Smith said.

The organization will continue following its current meeting schedule of one yearly convention and board of directors gathering in conjunction with the fall BGCT annual meeting and a spring board of directors meeting until 2005.

In other business, the board of directors voted to hire Don Gibson to serve as men's ministry director on a contract basis as the personnel committee continues looking at the position.

The group also is petitioning the SBC International Mission Board for a missionary to direct TBM work with Hispanic churches.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Texas Tidbits_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

Texas Tidbits

Dennehy case against Baylor dismissed. McLennan County's 19th Judicial District Court entered an order dismissing all claims against Baylor University by Patrick Dennehy Sr. individually and as a representative of the estate of his son, a former Baylor basketball player. Baylor University issued a public statement saying: "The court's ruling followed well-established law that a university has no legal duty to prevent one of its students from committing a criminal act while off the premises at an event not sponsored by the university. Baylor deeply regrets the tragic and untimely death of Patrick Dennehy Jr. but is gratified that the court has clearly ruled that neither Baylor nor its representatives were responsible for this unfortunate event."

Hardin-Simmons receives foundation grants. The Shelton Foundation of Abilene has awarded Hardin-Simmons University $900,000 for two projects. The university received a $450,000 grant to help establish and fund a Neighborhood Enhancement Center for four years. The center will be responsible for the oversight of programs aimed at improving the overall appearance and quality of life in the neighborhood near the campus. It will include Habitat for Humanity projects, a literacy program, a volunteer program for teenagers and establishment of a Friendship House aimed at community renewal. Another $450,000 grant will enable the school to build an effluent water pipeline and use the reclaimed water for irrigation on the campus.

ETBU names student life director. Tony Davis has been named director of student life at East Texas Baptist University. He succeeds David Brooks, who was promoted to vice president for student services. As director of student life, Davis will be responsible for supervising resident directors of student housing, enforcing university disciplinary policies and overseeing the school's computer identification access system. Davis served previously as manager of technical services with ETBU physical facilities.

HPU teacher named educator of the year. The Texas Educational Theatre Association recently named Nancy Jo Humfeld of Howard Payne University 2004 educator of the year for colleges and universities. She is the chair of the department of communication and theatre at HPU, where she has taught since 1986. Humfeld has been listed in "Who's Who Among Teachers In American Colleges and Universities" four times, nominated as a Piper Professor at HPU in 2001-02, and designated as the Distinguished Alumni Ambassador from East Texas State University in 1995.

ETBU sets nursing conference. "Celebrating the Spirit of Nursing" is the theme of an April 16-17 conference at East Texas Baptist University for licensed nurses and nursing students. Eileen Zungolo, dean of the Duquesne University School of Nursing in Pittsburgh, Pa., will deliver the keynote address. The conference marks the 10th anniversary of the first graduating class from the ETBU nursing department, and it concludes with a reunion barbeque for graduates of the nursing program. For more information, call (903) 923-2210.

Drumwright lecture held at Truett. Margaret Mitchell, associate professor of New Testatment at the University of Chicago Divinity School, was the featured speaker at the inaugural lecture for the Minette and Huber Drumwright endowed colloquium in New Testament studies. The lecture, co-sponsored by the Baylor University religion department and Truett Theological Seminary, was held March 4 at Truett Seminary's Piper Great Hall.

DBU academic counselor honored. John Humphreys, academic counselor in Dallas Baptist University's College of Adult Education, received the Advisor of the Year award. Students nominate advisors for this award by writing a short essay about their advisor, explaining why he or she should be honored. Students submitted nearly 200 nominations.

HSU receives historic preservation award. Hardin-Simmons University earned the Historic Rehabilitation Award from Preservation Texas for its Caldwell Fine Arts Building. The building, constructed in 1923, underwent a three-year renovation and restoration.

Newport Foundation conference set. The John P. Newport Foundation will hold the Ultimate Questions National Leadership Conference April 29-30 at First Baptist Church in Arlington. More than 40 speakers, including Frank Newport, editor-in-chief of the Gallup Organization, and Russell Dilday, former president of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, will explore contemporary theological, ethical and philosophical questions. For more information, call (210) 846-4192 or visit www.newportfoundation.com.

UMHB seeks provost. The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor has formed a search committee to fill the position of provost and vice president for academic affairs. Clarence Ham, retired dean of the education school and acting vice president for academic affairs, is chair of the search committee, which hopes to fill the office no later than July 1. The provost will be responsible for the academic leadership of the university, including coordination of the work of schools, deans and related academic departments on both undergraduate and graduate levels; curriculum and program development; development of an academic budget; developing applications for appropriate external funding for academic programs; and faculty development in both teaching excellence and scholarship. The provost will participate in strategic planning for the university, serve as liaison with academic accrediting agencies and function as the chief administrative officer in the absence of the president. For more information see umhb.edu/employment.

DBU receives grant. Dallas Baptist University recently received a $100,000 grant from the Hoblitzelle Foundation to help fund the Ebby Halliday Center on the DBU campus. This building will serve as a multi-purpose meeting facility located at DBU's new Colonial Village apartment complex. Incorporated in the 1950s, the Hoblitzelle Foundation was established as a charitable trust in 1942. Since its inception, the directors have been able to approve more than 2,200 grants, investing millions in social service, cultural, educational, medical, preservation and civic organizations of Texas.

HPU to host genealogy workshop. Howard Payne University's Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom will host a genealogy workshop March 27, exploring topics ranging from genealogy research and oral history to document and photo preservation. The workshop will feature Shelly Henley Kelly, archivist at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, home of the Johnson Space Center History Collection, and genealogy expert Marilyn Maniscalco Henley from Austin. The workshop is sponsored by the Walter M. and Evalynn Burress Chair of Genealogy and American History. The event is open to the public. For more information, call (325) 649-8700.

Hardin-Simmons recognizes couple. George and Fay Van Devender were honored by the Hardin-Simmons University Former Faculty, Staff, Administration Fellowship. He received the former faculty member of the year award, and she was honored posthumously as former staff member of the year. Van Devender taught for 17 years in the English department before retiring in 1992. Mrs. Van Devender was on staff for 16 years as executive secretary.

Family endows UMHB scholarships. Two presidential scholarships were endowed recently at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Paul and Lucia Tipton established a scholarship in memory of their son, Troy McClure Tipton. The other was established by the estate of Shelley Ann McClure, sister of Lucia Tipton and Alan McClure. The Troy McClure Tipton Presidential Endowed Scholarship will benefit students majoring in exercise and sports science who plan careers in coaching. The Michele (Shelley) Ann McClure Presidential Endowed Scholarship will benefit communications and performance studies majors.

ETBU brochure wins award. East Texas Baptist University received a Silver Addy award from the East Texas Advertising Federation for its brochure promoting Tiger Day, an event where prospective students and their families are invited to tour the ETBU campus.

UMHB wins advertising award. The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor received a bronze award in the 19th annual Admissions Advertising Awards competition. The university received a bronze medal in the outdoor ad competition for its billboard on Interstate 35, north of Belton. UMHB was competing against other colleges and universities nationwide with an enrollment of 2,000–4,999 students. J.B. Herrmann Co. of Temple designed the award-winning billboard for UMHB.

UMHB prof joins international board. Diane Howard, performance studies and communication professor at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, has been invited to join the international board of directors of the National Association of African American Studies and its affiliates: the National Association of Hispanic and Latino Studies, the National Association of Native American Studies and the International Association of Asian Studies.

Hit band headlines Wayland concert. Contemporary Christian band Casting Crowns, best known for their hit song, "If We Are the Body," will headline a concert at Wayland Baptist University March 26. The concert at 7:30 p.m. also will feature Jeff Deyo, former lead singer for Sonicflood. Casting Crowns recently was nominated for four Dove Awards by the Gospel Music Association. Tickets to the concert are $10 each, available at the Wayland bookstore, in Lubbock at Mardel and Family Christian Stores, and in Amarillo at LifeWay and Family stores. The concert is scheduled in conjunction with Wayland's Big Weekend, the annual college preview event for high school juniors, seniors and college transfers. Cost is $20, which includes a concert ticket and meals for the weekend. For more information, call (806) 291-3500.

BGCT staff member honored. The Christian Stewardship Association named Terry Austin stewardship professional of the year. He serves as director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas personal stewardship office. The 1,800-member interdenominational group based in Indianapolis honored Austin for his work promoting biblical stewardship through education during the past year, according to Scott Prissler, CSA president. Austin, a graduate of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Wayland Baptist University, has helped author numerous stewardship materials, led seminars and assisted Texas Baptist churches with building campaigns. He also was pastor at First Baptist Church in Morse. He and his wife, Sharon, are members of First Baptist Church in Keller. They have three children–Jeremy, Matthew and Andrew.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.




Together: BGCT will honor churches’ decisions_30804

Posted: 3/05/04

TOGETHER:
BGCT will honor churches' decisions

Since New Testament times, churches have met human needs and responded to missions challenges through cooperation. This principle has been imbedded in the heart of churches since the Apostle Paul gathered offerings to help the Jerusalem church through days of persecution and hunger.

Baptist churches in America, however, were so committed to local-church autonomy that they were slow to see how they could combine resources to accomplish more for God than they could do alone. Slowly but surely, Baptists began to see how they could pool their mission offerings and do together something necessary and good for God's work.

The Cooperative Program came into existence as state conventions agreed to work with the Southern Baptist Convention in raising funds for missions, evangelism, Christian education and benevolence. Since 1925, the Baptist General Convention of Texas has been a generous contributor–often the most generous of any state convention–to Southern Baptist ministries across the nation and world.

CHARLES WADE
Executive Director
BGCT Executive Board

Some have suggested the BGCT no longer “pass through” contributions from our churches to the SBC. This suggestion has been made often through the years, even before I became executive director, but it has never gained wide support from our leaders or our churches.

I would not be in favor of such a decision. I believe that how the local church wants to contribute its Cooperative Program mission dollars is up to the local church. If a Texas Baptist church wants to give through the Texas Adopted Budget plan, 79 percent of its Cooperative Program dollars will be used to fund BGCT ministries, missions and institutions, and 21 percent will be used for worldwide programs as the local church directs. The BGCT is bound to honor the local church's decision.

If a local church wants to direct Cooperative Program dollars by another percentage distribution between Texas Baptist causes and the SBC or the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, or if it chooses to increase contributions to BGCT worldwide mission causes, it is free to make that determination, as well.

Some faithful Texas Baptists have suggested the BGCT stop processing worldwide missions gifts because they are distressed over decisions made by the SBC. They are hurt when the SBC dismisses seminary faculty and leaders without finding them guilty of heresy, releases missionaries because they will not sign a creed presented to them, refuses to endorse chaplains because they are women and falsely charges the Baptist World Alliance with “aberrant theology” and “anti-Americanism” as an excuse to pull away from the world Baptist family which we helped to found 99 years ago.

Increasing numbers of Texas Baptist churches are making the decision to channel their missions giving away from the SBC. But many churches want to continue supporting Southern Baptist ministries and missions. I doubt even Solomon could figure out a plan for cooperative giving that would satisfy all our Texas Baptist churches. Perhaps in the future we will again be able to gain a consensus that will satisfy almost all of our churches. Until then, the right thing to do is to give churches the freedom to find prayerfully and together the best way for them to give.

The BGCT has stood consistently on the side of local churches. We will honor your decisions. We will send your mission dollars exactly where you instruct us to send them. We will try to give you information and options so you can make the best decision possible, but we serve you and will help you do what you believe is right.

We are loved.

News of religion, faith, missions, Bible study and Christian ministry among Texas Baptist churches, in the BGCT, the Southern Baptist Convention ( SBC ) and around the world.