Search Results

by Rob Freshour HIGHLAND, MI – As is probably true for you and yours, one of the most anticipated and cherished celebrations in our family is Thanksgiving Day. Hours and sometimes days of travel and cooking are dedicated to our annual gathering, and especially to the time we share around the table. Still weeks away from Thanksgiving Day 2021, I am already longing for that sacred time of feast, fellowship, and family. One moment in particular captures my heart, the moment before we dine when we circle the table with testimonies of gratitude. Those precious few minutes are a tradition that Donna and I long to see kept and treasured by each family member. For those fleeting moments the drawbridges are down, and passage to each person’s heart is happily open to receive the grace, mercy, and love God has so richly showered upon us all. So, I have been asking: “What am I thankful for this year?” A medical missionary worked among a people with an unusual, but devastating, malady. Seems all the people of that region were afflicted by a disease that caused them to become gradually blind as they matured. The doctor studied the problem, and developed a treatment that stopped the disease. As the people would leave the clinic, assured they were no longer fated to lose their sight, they would express their gratitude saying, “I will tell your name!” With that refrain, I offer an early draft of my Thanksgiving Day table testimony this year: Because You have forgiven and set me free forever from my sin, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because You have graced me with a godly wife who completes me, a prayer warrior devoted to Your pleasure in my life, our marriage, and Your mission, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because You have given me the greatest opportunity to express what You are like by making me a dad five times, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because You have shown me how great, deep, and full of passion is Your Father-love, and have brought me to wholly new, deeper levels of prayer by my ache for our two prodigal children, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because You have given me a front-row seat in the painful, beautiful work You are doing in our now-divorced, broken, and blossoming daughter’s life, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because You have afforded me the privileged opportunity to show our grandchildren, now growing up in our home, that no matter what trauma they endure, we – their Momma and Bomma and Boppa and You, Lord – will always love them, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because You are never taken aback – not by COVID, not by human insolence and rebellion in all its crass manifestations today or ever, but Your purpose always prevails, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because Your call is irrevocable, Your Plan A (there is no Plan B) is still to invite us with our faith family to partner with You to populate Heaven with our families, friends, neighbors, and the nations, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because You have lavished at least 22,000 new daily mercies on me since my birth, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” Because we are almost Home, “Lord, I will tell Your name!” ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rob Freshour joined the BSCM-Church Growth Ministries Team in 2002. In 2006, he went to pastor one of our Michigan churches. Today, Rob shepherds the Highland Community Church in Highland. #NOVEMBER21

by Ken Hale HASTINGS, MI – I once heard someone quote, “Thanklessness breeds bitterness”. That’s an interesting statement. He went on to explain that if we are not grateful for what we have, we will become bitter for what we don’t have. As I think about the month of November, it always brings a time of reflection and being thankful for all the areas in which God has blessed my life. I have been so blessed by our Creator and all He has done and provided for myself and my lovely bride. So, with that said, I want to share with you my attitude of gratitude and being thankful for what He has allowed to come into my life. The Apostle Paul said in Philippians 1:3, “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.” (NASB) – With this verse in mind, I would like to recall moments that have happened in my personal life recently. This past week I had the privilege of attending a Refocus group at Bambi Lake. All I can say is WOW! How God worked in those sessions and in our meeting was totally radical! First of all, I am so thankful for the group of men that were there. I saw pastors not afraid to tear down the walls of their lives and share some of the hurts that we go through as pastors and family men. To leave our “Messiah Complex” at the door and not be afraid of what others might think was such a blessing. I am so thankful, that as men would need prayer, we would gather around our brother and lift him up in prayer. There was such a sweet presence of Jehovah. Second, while I was there, I had a medical issue that required transportation to the E.R. For the folks at Bambi and for Bro. Mike Durbin, I am eternally grateful for you being with me and making sure that everything was alright. It’s not easy getting up at 11:30 p.m. to help a pastor brother and then get the call to come at 3:30 a.m. to pick him up. Brother Mike, thank you for your servant heart. Next, I am so thankful for opportunity I get to pray for our Associational Pastors every Sunday. To be able to pray for these men each week is a blessing. I am appreciative of the fact that these servants of the Most-High God preach the Word each week for His honor and glory. I am truly thankful for the leadership of the BSCM. Where there has been a need or concern, they have always been there, not only as someone to encourage, but just being a brother in Christ. Thanks guys! There are so many areas in which I am grateful in how God has blessed but there is one more item of thanks I want to share. Without the love and support of my wonderful wife, Carol, I would not be the man I am today. Proverbs 31:10, “An excellent wife who can find? For her worth is far above jewels.” As men in ministry know, serving is just as hard on our spouse as it is on us. My wife is my cheerleader, my coach, my listening ear, but most of all she is my prayer warrior. Yes, I am extremely thankful for my bride and the beautiful times that we share together. In the end, you could say I am truly blessed of God and give Him thanks for those He has brought into my life to encourage me in the work of the Lord. May each of you have a glorious time of Thanksgiving this year. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ken is the pastor of Community Baptist Church of Hastings. He also serves as moderator of the South-Central Baptist Association. #NOVEMBER21

by Rick and Cindy Truesdail Hello, MI COMers! Fall Rally is already behind us and the holidays are approaching fast! Do not be so “sale-shopping minded” that you pass up this month to pause each day to be thankful for all that God has blessed you with. “For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” Psalm 100:5. Amen. We were more than excited to have several newer members of MI COM to come to Bambi Lake Baptist Camp to work and get to know everyone. What a great joy to have young families, retired couples and single adults as a part of our family. We are a well-rounded group of ages and backgrounds, which makes a wonderful fellowship as we share what God has done in our lives as well as what He is doing today. We were so blessed to have a concert by TJ and Helena Witherell. This young lady has a beautiful voice and as a team, these two people love to minister for the Lord any way they find an open door. Larry and Mary Allen, our newest members, came and he was able to share his testimony of God’s miraculous hand in his medical journey just this year. Jon and Brandi Dyke – and their four lovely daughters – were a joy to work with and see these littler ones participate and enjoy the mission. Terry Simmons joined us here for the first time and worked tirelessly to take care of anyone who would let her do so. And of course, we bumped shoulders all week with SBC MI Disaster Relief Chainsaw Team and got to know many of them better. If you didn’t make this work week, be sure to watch for the Spring Rally 2022 dates and plan to be here then! We could go on and on how wonderful the week was, how blessed we all were, and how thankful we were to meet many needs of Bambi Lake Camp as we worked to clean up and close for the winter. Thanks to everyone who came out! Sharing Christ as We Go, Rick and Cindy MI COM Ladies’ Sewing Event Saturday, November 13, 2021, at 11:00 am – 4:00 pm At Heritage Baptist Church, 5199 E Hill Rd, Grand Blanc, MI 48439 Things you can bring: Your sewing machine and sewing supplies. Cotton, flannel, and fleece materials Christmas cotton materials We will make: Youth bags, pillows, Christmas Stockings, ornaments, and non-sew throws for the foster and refugee children at Bethany Christian Services in Grand Rapids. Baby burp pads and bibs for mothers who opt to keep their baby at Pregnancy Resource Center in Flint. Lunch will be provided. 2022 COM National Rally June 7-9, 2022 North Florida Fairgrounds Tallahassee, FL This will be the Golden 50th Anniversary of Campers on Mission. "Renew in 2022" will be the theme. Mark your calendars, start saving your money for travel, and be ready to register when it's available. More information will follow as we get it over the next few months. Bambi Lake Camp Work Week and Fall Rally October 18-23, 2021 For more information, contact Rick and Cindy Truesdail. Phone: (810) 869-4716 Email: michigancampersonmission@gmail.com Website: www.michigancampersonmission.org Facebook: Michigan Campers on Mission Update on Jachin ABC Youth Program Jachin Baptist Church invited us to an Open House to view the finished project. The house is completed and ready to go to auction at a reasonable price to a family who can enjoy it and help improve this neighborhood. Article from our MI COM Member Excited to be part of Michigan Campers on Mission family by TJ and Helena Witherell We greatly enjoyed our time at the Fall Rally at Bambi Lake Camp, we met so many wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ. One of our favorite things about traveling is all the wonderful people you meet along the way. Helena was able to learn how to sew and what a blessing this was as she has always wanted to learn how to do that. Everyone was so kind as we served, it was a blessing to us to be able to be part of Campers on mission, we are thankful God led us to this group and are excited for what the future may hold. God Bless TJ and Helena ABOUT THE AUTHOR TJ is a minister, Helena sings. They are fulltime RVers in a 43’ tour bus, from the Kalamazoo area. They seek opportunities to minister in churches around Michigan and share the Good News in word and song. Article from our MI COM Member Larry Allen: God is so good! I'm here this week with Michigan Campers on Mission helping get the camp ready for winter. I'm so grateful for all of you have prayed for me and those of you who still are. I spent the morning installing new hangers for life jackets at the beach. Also I am thrilled to be getting opportunities to tell God's story.... Having a great time with the Michigan Campers on Mission here at Bambi Lake Campground. Helping get the place ready for winter. Spent the morning removing cattails from lakeshore at the end of the Monster Hill tubing run. Ruth Farwell: Yes, I’m back at one of my happy places working with Campers on a Mission and Disaster Relief. Monday... Tuesday, finishing touches cleaning and organizing the boat house, getting things ready for winter. Jerry Pipher: Last week here at Bambi Lake we were blessed with a group from the Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief and the Michigan chapter of Campers on Missions. The two groups teamed up and joined the staff here at Bambi to erase a large number of projects on the “Fall clean up” list. These tasks included cleaning the beach and boat house areas, dropping and removing a number of dead / dying trees, winterizing cabins / cottages and the campground, sewing curtains for some of the cabins, laundry and even going to one of the neighboring churches to do some work. One of the other tasks was to feed these fine folks (about 50) during the week. The meals were prepared, served and of course cleaned up with members ( who were appreciated more than they will ever know )of the three groups along with myself. Terri, Kim, Gina and Linda were a great help in the kitchen. Thanks again ladies. The one common thing that brings these groups together to serve in whatever manner it might be is Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Not all of the tasks that were completed last week were the most enjoyable to do but they were done with the thought in mind that we were serving Our Lord in hopes that others may have the opportunity to experience the forgiveness, love and grace that Our Lord has shown us through our relationship with Him. Thanks again to Campers on Missions and Disaster Relief. Note: When volunteer missionaries work for the Lord, it is rewarding and fun! We don’t do it for money or fame, but for His glory! CHAPLAIN'S CORNER I think Campers on Mission is a team sport—well, let’s say a team effort. I say this after reading the Book of Nehemiah, where after a little coaxing from the man, the Israelites together said: “Let us arise and build” (2:18). I like that word us, don’t you? It goes right along with we and our—words representing group action. And moving along in the chapter we see wonderful phrases repeated over and over again: phrases like “next to them” and “next to him” and “after him”—again, phrases indicating group action with people working together to do something good, specifically, building and repairing the wall around Jerusalem. And they achieved that amazing goal in only 52 days, baffling all their enemies and naysayers. Why? Because they simply “had a mind to work” (4:6). They embraced the task and persevered through every encumbrance. So, I just want you to know how much I thank God for giving folks like you a mind to work alongside one another to accomplish even little things ... To the Praise of His Glory, Chaplain Chip PRAYER REQUEST & PRAISE REPORT Prayer Requests Pray for Tim and Gayle Jones. Both are hospitalized with Covid and pneumonia. They tested positive and were unable to attend the Fall Rally Praise Report God’s presence was all around us and the Disaster Relief Chainsaw Team at Bambi Lake and we accomplished much to His glory. “If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.” 1 Timothy, 4:6, 8-10 NIV If you have a prayer request or a praise report, please share it with us and we will post it on the website and include it in our monthly newsletters. MI COM TEES & HATS For Sale We have fun things and essentials for you to let others know you are a MI COMer!!! We encourage you to wear the tees whenever you are working or on a COM event. Tees are printed on the front and the back Patches are iron-on or easy to sew onto your shirts or jackets Key Chains are plastic on metal holder Hand-held fan is paper on wooden handle Hats are gray with embroidered logo, adjustable Lapel Pins are easily attached to a suit jacket or coat. Stickers to put on notebooks, computers, etc. Pens to accent your writing Contact Cindy for your purchase. MI COM OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE BOARD Presidents/Project Coordinator: Rick & Cindy Truesdail Vice-President/Project: Tony Morningstar Hospitality/Food Coordinator: Kim Norrington & Maria Hannuksela Sewing Project Coordinator: Cindy Truesdail & Terry Simmons Cleaning & Beautification Coordinator: Sharon Hessling & Ruth Farwell Secretary: Brandy Dyke Treasurer: Gary Hannuksela Chaplain: Pastor Chip Collins Historian: Cindy Truesdail Disaster Relief Liaison: Warren Hessling Keep checking at our online Website and Facebook for announcements! Website: www.michigancampersonmission.org Facebook: Michigan Campers on Mission For more information, contact: Rick & Cindy Truesdail Phone: (810) 869-4716 Email: michigancampersonmission@gmail.com #NOVEMBER21

by Send Relief and IMB staff As thousands of families are arriving at the U.S. border with Mexico after fleeing their home countries, many are facing devastating economic crises and violent political unrest. Because of the current worldwide refugee crisis and global pandemic, it has become more and more difficult for them to find shelter, food and clean water along the border as they eagerly await news about receiving asylum. The International Mission Board and Send Relief are partnering with the National Baptist Convention of Mexico and local churches near the Southern border of Mexico to help provide food, shelter and showers to thousands of families in Tapachula, Mexico, just north of the border of Guatemala. As additional needs arise, volunteer opportunities for this location will be posted on Send Relief’s volunteer webpage. Send Relief is also working with the organizations listed below to ensure that refugees have access to essentials and hear the gospel message of Jesus after their grueling journeys: El Buen Samaritino Migrante Rooted in Deuteronomy 10:18’s encouragement to imitate Christ in loving the foreigners among us by giving them food and clothing, El Buen Samaritino Migrante is a nonprofit organization that serves between 150-250 people on the border every single day. In addition to their everyday distributions, staff also rent three homes to families in transit who are awaiting their documentation. City Church Del Rio Led by Missions Pastor Shon Young, the border ministry at City Church Del Rio is faithfully serving nearly 100 people a day by providing food, clothes, hygiene kits and the use of a shower trailer to refugee families in need of respite. Iglesia Bautista Horeb On a weekly basis, the volunteers from Iglesia Bautista Horeb serve over 600 families through food distributions and senior citizen service projects. Often, these volunteers meet newly arrived families at the bus station as their first point of contact, offering phone calls to family members and prayer over the next steps in their difficult journeys. El Paso Migrant Center Launched as a collaborative effort of Baptist churches, the migrant center offers wrap-around services for families in need of physical and spiritual refreshment. Staff offer personalized assistance to help translate paperwork and navigate language barriers in immigration documentation, as well as showers and packages of basic necessities. If you would like to give to families in need on the border or are interested in serving to help this vulnerable community, you can email sendme@sendrelief.org or visit sendrelief.org for more information. #NOVEMBER21

By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, TN – Pastors faced increased stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, as churches were frequently forced to adapt overnight. More felt their role was overwhelming at times, yet very few pastors decided to actually leave the ministry in recent years. A new study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research found close to 1% of evangelical and historically Black Protestant senior pastors step away from the pulpit each year—a rate statistically unchanged from a 2015 Lifeway Research study. “COVID-19 was neither a small nor short-lived stressor for pastors,” said Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research. “Many have speculated that pastors have been opting out of the pastorate as a result. That is not the case. They are remaining faithful to the calling at levels similar to those seen before the pandemic.” Coming and going The August-September 2021 study, sponsored by Houston’s First Baptist Church and Dr. Richard Dockins, surveyed more than 1,500 pastors serving in both evangelical and historically Black Protestant churches. Many have speculated that pastors have been opting out of the pastorate as a result of COVID-19. That is not the case. They are remaining faithful to the calling at levels similar to those seen before the pandemic. — @smcconn Around 1 in 6 pastors (17%) started at their current church during the pandemic years of 2020-2021. Half of the senior pastors facing the ministry upheaval brought on by COVID-19 were new to their role, as 51% are serving in their first church as senior pastor. More than 1 in 3 pastors (37%) say they were the senior leader of their church 10 years ago. Among those congregations that had a different pastor in 2011, most of the previous pastors are now either retired (30%) or pastoring another church (28%). In that time frame, some stepped away from the pulpit for a different ministry role (13%) or are working in a non-ministry position (8%), according to the current pastor. Combined, those two groups who leave the pastorate before retirement reveal an annual pastor attrition rate of around 1.5%. “COVID-19 is not the only pressure pastors face nor is it the most likely reason pastors from a decade ago are no longer pastoring,” said McConnell. “Baby Boomer pastors are reaching retirement age, and while many continue pastoring for years afterward, retirement is still the most common reason a pastor from 2011 is not pastoring a decade later.” Thinking of their predecessor in cases where that person is working outside the pastorate, current senior pastors are most likely to say the previous pastor left due to a change in calling (32%), church conflict (18%), burnout (13%), being a poor fit with the church (12%), or family issues (10%). Fewer point to a moral or ethical issue (8%), an illness (5%), personal finances (5%), or a lack of preparation (3%). Regardless of how the previous pastor left, the vast majority of pastors feel confident in their position. Nine in 10 pastors (90%) say they are sure they can stay at their current church as long as they want, including 60% who strongly agree. Church conflict While only 15% of pastors a decade ago have left the pastorate and fewer than 1 in 6 pastors say conflict drove that pastor from the pastorate, many pastors have experienced conflict in their church. Among the pastors surveyed who pastored a different church previously, almost half (47%) say they left their last church because they took it as far as they could. Another third (33%) say their family needed a change. A quarter say there was conflict in the church (25%). More than 1 in 5 points to the church not embracing their approach to pastoral ministry (22%) or having unrealistic expectations of them (21%). Another 18% admit they were not a good fit for the church. Few say they were reassigned (14%) or asked to leave the church (10%). 7 in 10 pastors say they dealt with conflict at their previous church, including 39% who say they experienced a significant personal attack. Even if conflict didn’t cause them to leave their last church, most pastors (69%) say they dealt with some type of conflict there. More than 1 in 3 say they experienced a significant personal attack (39%), had conflict over proposed changes (39%), or were in conflict with lay leaders (38%). More than a quarter ran into disagreements over expectations about the pastor’s role (28%) or their leadership style (27%). Fewer experienced conflict over doctrinal differences (12%) or politics (8%). “Churches are groups of people, and even like-minded people do not always get along,” said McConnell. “It would be naïve to think a church would not experience disagreements. The important thing is whether that church maintains unity and love for each other as they navigate those differences or stoops to personal attacks as many pastors have experienced.” Their previous experience with conflict leads 4 in 5 pastors (80%) to expect they will have to confront it in their current church in the future. As part of this preparation, 9 in 10 say they consistently listen for signs of conflict in their church (90%) and invest in processes and behaviors to prevent it (89%). Ministry and family stresses Direct conflict with churchgoers is not the only type of issue pastors face in their ministry. They often feel overworked and overloaded as individuals and worry about the toll their work may take on their family. Most pastors say they are on-call 24 hours a day (71%) and their role is frequently overwhelming (63%). Half of pastors (50%) say the demands of their job are often greater than they can handle. Many say they feel isolated (38%) and face unrealistic expectations from their church (23%). One in 5 pastors (21%) admit they frequently feel irritated at their church members. “The impact of the pandemic may be most noticeable in pastors’ increased agreement that the role of being a pastor is frequently overwhelming, which jumped from 54% in 2015 to 63% today,” said McConnell. “But there has also been a shift in how some pastors think about their work. Fewer pastors agree they must be ‘on-call’ 24 hours a day, declining from 84% to 71%. Perhaps even more telling, the majority of pastors (51%) strongly agreed with this expectation in 2015, while only a third (34%) strongly feel this obligation today.”\ Pastors are more likely today than in 2015 to say their role is frequently overwhelming (63% to 54%) but less likely to say they must be "on-call" 24 hours a day (84% to 71%). Almost all evangelical and Black Protestant pastors are married (95%), and their role as spouse, and often parent, has the potential to conflict with their role as church leader. Most, however, feel that serving in vocational ministry has been good for their family. More than 9 in 10 pastors say their spouse is very satisfied with their marriage (96%) and enthusiastic about life in ministry together (91%). A similar percentage (94%) consistently protect time with their family. Most pastors have been able to take a week’s vacation with their family last year (83%) and plan monthly date nights with their spouse (66%). As a result, few say their work keeps them from spending time with their family (31%), and even fewer feel their family resents the demands of pastoral ministry (19%). Still, 2 in 5 pastors say they are often concerned about their family’s financial security. It is more common for a pastor to be worried about their own finances than to report declines in giving at their church. — @smcconn “Fewer pastors are concerned about their family’s financial security—41% today compared to 53% in 2015,” said McConnell. “This decrease in the number of pastors stressed over their personal finances may be due to increased generosity in their church or financial stimulus checks from the government. It is still more common for a pastor to be worried about their own finances than to report declines in giving at their church.” Pastoral encouragement While families may provide some added stress and responsibilities for pastors, they are also one of the sources of encouragement and support. They are also a channel through which a congregation can care for their pastor. Nine in 10 pastors (90%) say their family receives genuine encouragement from their church. Close to 9 in 10 (86%) feel their church gives them the freedom to say no when faced with unrealistic expectations. While few say their church has a plan for the pastor to periodically receive a sabbatical (32%), almost 9 in 10 say they have a day to unplug from ministerial work and have a day of rest at least once a week (86%). “The difficult moments and seasons pastors face require ongoing investment in their spiritual, physical and mental well-being." — @smcconn Pastors are also leaning on others for support and encouragement. Most say at least once a month they openly share their struggles with their spouse (82%), a close friend (68%), or another pastor (66%). Others say they are able to speak with lay leaders in the church (42%), a mentor (40%), another staff member (35%), a Bible study group in their church (23%), or a counselor (9%). “The difficult moments and seasons pastors face require ongoing investment in their spiritual, physical and mental well-being,” said McConnell. “Most pastors and churches have practices that help the pastor in these ways, but there are often missed opportunities to encourage, build up and avoid misunderstandings.” For more information, view the full report and the 2021-2015 comparison report. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Aaron Earls is senior writer/editor of LifewayResearch.com. Methodology The study was sponsored by Houston’s First Baptist Church and Richard Dockins, MD. The mixed mode survey of 1,576 evangelical and Black Protestant pastors was conducted Aug. 17–Sept. 15, 2021, using both phone and online interviews. Phone: The calling list was a random sample, stratified by church membership, drawn from a list of all churches in all evangelical and Black Protestant religious traditions except Southern Baptists. Online: The email list was a random sample drawn from all Southern Baptist congregations with an email address. Invitations were emailed to the pastor by Lifeway Research followed by one reminder. Each survey was completed by the senior pastor, minister, or priest at the church contacted. The completed sample is 1,576 surveys (1,000 phone, 576 online). Responses were weighted by region, church size and denominational group to more accurately reflect the population. The sample provides 95% confidence that the sampling error does not exceed plus or minus 2.7%. This margin of error accounts for the effect of weighting. Margins of error are higher in sub-groups. Comparisons are made to a phone survey of 1,500 evangelical and Black Protestant pastors conducted by Lifeway Research March 5-18, 2015. The 2015 Pastor Protection study was sponsored by the North American Mission Board and Richard Dockins, MD. #NOVEMBER21

by Tony Wolfe GRAPEVINE, TX – More times than I can count over the past several weeks, I’ve heard talk of frustration and disappointment from my SBC brothers and sisters. Pastors, lay leaders, church members, denominational employees. “In all my years, I have never seen it as bad as this,” one seasoned pastor lamented. In no way would I pretend to minimize the significance of this delicate hour. Our cooperative mission hangs on the threads of a worn fabric. This fabric has been donned by many a Southern Baptist generation, teased and tried through the decades. Never has it been as tightly pulled at the seams as it is today. Or has it? In 1929, the messenger-elected Southern Baptist Home Mission Board, prayed, deliberated and contentiously maneuvered through one of the most trying seasons of denominational life. In the SBC Annual, they reflected with humility and somberness: “The new Board had but little more than organized and started out with its year’s work when it found itself face to face with a colossal disaster… if in anything we have failed, we earnestly hope that our brethren will be as charitable in their judgment of us as they would wish us to have been to them, if they had been burdened with the responsibility which we have had to carry through this eventful year.”[1] The trustees faced the scandalous 1928 defalcation by C.S Carnes, who embezzled more than $900,000 from the Cooperative Program. It was a public relations nightmare that threatened the viability of the entire Convention’s ongoing cooperative ministry. “We did our best to serve in this critical hour,” they continued. “Furthermore, if we are wise, we will capitalize this disaster, and profit by all the mistakes that led up to it, in such a way as to make our future program more thoroughly intelligent and efficient.” Leaders left office. Friendships were severed. Finances were dreadful. Distrust was high. Morale was low. The future was unclear. For the next 10 years Southern Baptists prayed fervently, gave sacrificially, and gathered hopefully. In the late 1930s, after a decade of continued cooperation through the most disastrous of circumstances, the Holy Spirit saw fit to breathe on the denomination again: the ‘40s and ‘50s saw the greatest evangelistic growth the Convention had ever known. Great Commission Baptists, we have been here before. Not in the exact same scenario, of course, but in the same state of mind: divided, distrusted, disheartened. God does not, and never did, need this Convention of churches to accomplish His Great Commission. Despite ourselves, He saw fit to invite us into His plan for worldwide Gospel advance. He saw fit to breathe on our method of missiological cooperation so that the nations might know and worship the one true God through repentance from sin and faith in Jesus Christ. Our grandfathers and grandmothers leaned on these characteristics during their season of refinement and revision. They are what we need to get us through. Prayer We must regain a posture of prayerful humility before God as individuals, as churches, and as a Convention. No one has the answers for the unique trials we face in this season. There are no experts. No proven strategies. No methodological assurances. We are at our best, as we always have been, when we are a praying people. Humility Our hearts are stained with sin and pride. The world watches and Satan laughs while we are filled with anger, gossip, manipulation, division, unforgiveness, arrogance, and selfish pride. Social media is a tool we could have used for the advancement of the Gospel. Instead, we have used it for the tearing down of one another. Repentance is in order. God will not despise a broken and contrite spirit. Rather, He will resist the proud and give grace to the humble. Leadership In this season we need servant-hearted leading voices who are bridge-builders and peacemakers – such are blessed of God and will be called His sons. Those denominational servants who excelled in their calling have always been those who lived with integrity while undergirding the work of the churches with diligence. They build bridges. They keep peace with an attitude of gratitude that God would consider them worthy in Christ to descend to a denominational office, washing the feet of Christ’s Bride across tens of thousands of her local expressions. Time To move through conflict and turmoil toward an even brighter day, we must afford each other, and our Convention as a whole, the grace of time. Southern Baptists have made some reprehensible mistakes through the decades. However, given the grace of time, the prayer and humility of the saints, and the long-suffering of servant-hearted leaders, God has seen fit to restore and reignite our Great Commission cooperation again and again. What is tangled takes time to straighten. What is broken takes time to repair. What is divided takes time to heal. Sacrifice “We must not lose the things we have already wrought through the mercies and power of God… we must do our best to bring them to a full reward,” wrote L.R. Scarborough, the great champion of Southern Baptist denominational cooperation. He urged the Convention in 1925 to faithfully and sacrificially give toward the missional endeavors to which they had already committed themselves. Missionaries were promised salaries. Seminary students were promised scholarships. Churches were promised assistance. Humanitarian organizations were promised funding. Even through many years of recovery after the Carnes scandal, Scarborough remained a steady voice for the cooperative funding that undergirded their missional strategy. The First-Century Macedonian churches call to us still with a reminder that when God’s people are in their most desperate hours, they are in their most sacrificial disposition. Cooperation The Baptist Faith and Message 2000 calls cooperation a “spiritual harmony” by which the churches endeavor to secure “the great objects of the Kingdom of God.”[2] Now looking back across the bridge of time, let us agree with our brothers and sisters of a previous generation: “If we are wise, we will capitalize this disaster, and profit by all the mistakes that led up to it, in such a way as to make our future program more thoroughly intelligent and efficient.” Let’s follow their lead. Let’s pray fervently, give sacrificially, and gather hopefully while we work to become the Convention God intends us to be. [1] Annual of the Southern Baptist Convention Nineteen-Hundred and Twenty-Nine, accessed October 22, 2021 (Nashville: Southern Baptist Convention, http://media2.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/annuals/SBC_Annual _1929.pdf), 269-270. [2] Baptist Faith and Message 2000, accessed October 22, 2021 (Nashville: Southern Baptist Convention, https://bfm.sbc.net/bfm2000/#xiv-cooperation). ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tony Wolfe is associate executive director of the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention. #NOVEMBER21

by Brandon Porter and Jonathan Howe NASHVILLE, TN (BP) – Pastors and other leaders across the Southern Baptist Convention are voicing their frustration about the lack of progress of the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee’s work toward an independent third-party investigation of issues related to sexual abuse. The EC is currently in the midst of its second seven-day extension to finalize an agreement with a special Sex Abuse Task Force who has been charged with overseeing the investigation by Guidepost Solutions, the organization conducting the investigation. While a virtual meeting is anticipated early next week, no announcement has yet been made. Many of the statements released have been on official letterhead or have been accompanied by official communications from state or associational leaders. The theme among them all: requesting the SBC Executive Committee to fulfill the will of the messengers. Former EC leaders SBC Executive Committee president emeritus Morris Chapman issued a statement Thursday (Sept. 30) evening—a rarity for the former Southern Baptist president (1990-1992) and EC president (1992-2010)—saying the Cooperative Program “will only ever be as strong as the trust our churches have in the administration of those funds by the entities they own as their sole member.” Chapman went on to say that “the Executive Committee must prioritize every effort that maintains the sacred trust of the churches and their messengers.” Former EC chairman Stephen Rummage, pastor of Quail Springs Baptist Church in Oklahoma, tweeted his affirmation of a statement from Oklahoma leaders adding “We need transparency and accountability posthaste.” Ernest Easley, another former chairman and retired pastor, reminded current members that they have “been given a sacred trust to follow the marching orders from the SBC messengers.” Easley also called them to “march and stop eroding the trust” that they had been given. SBC seminary presidents On Sept. 28 and 29, the presidents of the six SBC seminaries took to Twitter to express their frustration and desire for the EC to “honor the will of the messengers” after a motion was passed at the 2021 SBC Annual Meeting calling for the investigation. Albert Mohler, president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., said, “But if the authority of the Southern Baptist Convention means anything, it means that the only real decision is how to comply fully with the mandate of the messengers, not whether.” Mohler went on to say it must not be a matter of sentiment, but a matter of action, “and time has run out.” Danny Akin, president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., tweeted throughout the five-hour EC virtual meeting Tuesday (Sept. 28). In one of the tweets he said, “The EC should absolutely honor the will of the messengers of the SBC in June. That goes without debate in my mind.” Adam Greenway, president of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, released a thread of 12 tweets he said he took “no joy in typing.” He wrote: “I believe there is a crisis of confidence facing the @SBCExecComm right now. There must be a path that will clearly and unambiguously fulfill the direction of the messengers. But it seems something must give. No more deferrals/delays. Let’s get this right and get it done.” New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary President Jamie Dew wrote: “Like other entity leaders, I have been reluctant to address the situation over the sexual abuse task force and the executive committee. But this has devolved into a full-blown crisis and I urge the @SBCExecComm to follow the clear directive of the messengers of the SBC21.” Calling for immediate action, Jeff Iorg, president of Gateway Seminary in Ontario, Calif., said, “…two things are clear. First, the messengers intended a full investigation of the EC on these matters. Second, trust is eroding every day that investigation is hindered. Despite the significant legal issues being debated, the EC must find a way to fulfill the directive of the convention – without further delay.” Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, shared a video clip of him speaking at the end of the seminary’s Wednesday (Sept. 29) chapel service where he outlined the issues and instructed students on how they could pray for leaders and encourage EC members to follow the will of the messengers. He also tweeted, “It’s an extraordinary step for an SBC leader to speak publicly about matters before other SBC ministries, but these are not ordinary times. That’s why I share this sentiment & have communicated so publicly the last 48 hrs. EC, I’m praying for you. Let’s get this right – & fast.” Local pastors In South Carolina, 25 pastors issued a letter to the SBC EC on Thursday (Sept. 30) calling on them to waive attorney-client privilege or face consequences. Their churches are many of the top CP-giving churches in South Carolina. In 2020, collectively, the churches gave more than $3.8 million through the Cooperative Program. The pastors, including EC board members Dwight Easler and David Sons, said if the EC fails to comply, they will lead their churches “to consider how to reallocate funds away from the Executive Committee while continuing to fund the cooperative mission and education endeavors that have always made Southern Baptists great.” Task force vice chairman Marshall Blalock was also among the signatories. In Texas, 32 pastors from the Southern Baptists of Texas and the Baptist General Convention of Texas released a letter Sept. 30 to the EC imploring them to “Waive attorney-client privilege.” EC members Chris DuPree and Jared Wellman were included in those signing the letter. More than two dozen Tennessee pastors—including Grant Gaines, the maker of the original motion—released a statement calling for the waiving of privilege. The statement also said that not doing so would lead them to have “unprecedented conversations” with their churches regarding stewardship and cooperation. Kentucky pastors issued a statement through the state convention in conjunction with executive director-treasurer Todd Gray saying that they “stand definitively behind the messengers” and “echo the disappointment” expressed by other state conventions over the lack of swift action. Nearly 50 pastors from Mississippi stated that anything short of following the will of the messengers will be a “severe breach of Baptist polity and will display a complete lack of Christ-like compassion for the victims of sexual abuse.” Maryland-Delaware pastors expressed grief “that more than 100 days have passed since the Convention without any serious effort of the President and Chief Executive Officer to lead the Trustees to act swiftly and in accordance with the will of the messengers.” Statements from pastors in Indiana, California, Louisiana, Georgia and Alabama have also been posted. Resolutions On Sept. 28, the officers and trustees of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan passed a resolution calling on the SBC EC to follow the will of the messengers. Tim Patterson, executive director of the BSCM, said the group plans to take the resolution to the convention’s annual meeting in November. The lead team of the Jacksonville (Fla.) Baptist Association also posted an approved resolution on Twitter calling for SBC EC to follow the will of the messengers. State conventions In Florida, Tommy Green, executive director-treasurer of the Florida Baptist Convention, released a letter to pastors via social media Sept. 30. In it he said, “I join with you in deep concern and frustration over the recent activities of the Executive Committee in reference to the directive of the SBC Messengers. My prayer is that this matter will be resolved quickly.” Green said, “I have received inquiries in reference to Cooperative Program giving. The question focuses on – Can we bypass an SBC entity with our CP gift? The answer is that the Florida Baptist Convention exists to serve the churches of the Florida Baptist Convention. If a church instructs us in their giving to not fund a certain part of the total CP program, we will do exactly what the church requests. You can communicate this desire in your CP remittance sheet that we receive with your CP gift.” Todd Unzicker, executive director-treasurer of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, also released a letter to the SBC EC on Sept. 30. He wrote, “To date the SBC Executive Committee has not agreed to follow the expressed will of the messengers. This resistance has damaged trust within our family of churches, and far worse, has devastated survivors of sexual abuse.” Oklahoma interim state executive director Joe Ligon shared the concern of Oklahoma Baptists in a letter to churches and pastors stating that “Oklahoma Baptists affirm the will of the messengers regarding this motion.” Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama State Board of Missions, wrote, “We have the highest level of frustration I have ever witnessed in the life of the SBC.” He went on to say, “I trust and believe that by the end of the next SBC Executive Committee meeting on Tuesday, October 5, the wishes of the SBC messengers will have been honored.” Jesse Ricones, executive director of the SBC Hispanic Council, released a statement on behalf of the group urging the EC “to comply with the clear and precise directive that was approved, almost unanimously”. Statement released from the SBC EC The SBC EC released a statement Sept. 30 saying, “The Executive Committee is committed to fulfilling the will of the messengers including by granting appropriate access to investigators to the documents and information they request to do their work. There is no attempt to defy the messengers or hide information from investigators.” They wrote, “The SBC Executive Committee leadership also appreciates the continued engagement & active interest of Southern Baptists nationwide in this process. However, we are concerned that too many of the statements issued reflect disinformation, half-truths, and mischaracterizations of the motives and actions of the Executive Committee.” The spokesperson for the EC said, “We are confident that the intent of the messengers to the 2021 annual meeting can be accomplished without risking unnecessary damage to the Southern Baptist Convention.” On Sept. 28, the EC voted to extend discussions between the EC officers and the Sexual Abuse Task Force for seven days. The full statement from the SBC EC is below: “With one collective voice our Convention is expressing its concern for victims of sexual abuse and that is a very good thing. The SBC Executive Committee leadership also appreciates the continued engagement & active interest of Southern Baptists nationwide in this process. However, we are concerned that too many of the statements issued reflect disinformation, half-truths, and mischaracterizations of the motives and actions of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee is committed to fulfilling the will of the messengers including by granting appropriate access to investigators to the documents and information they request to do their work. There is no attempt to defy the messengers or hide information from investigators. The Executive Committee has been working to get the Task Force to consider a process that will be thorough, transparent and allow for the full truth to the published. We are confident that the intent of the messengers to the 2021 annual meeting can be accomplished without risking unnecessary damage to the Southern Baptist Convention. For instance, the Task Force admits their process may cause the loss of the Convention’s insurance. Our prayers are for an outcome which meets the needs of the Convention to know the full truth and allows our trustees to fulfill their fiduciary duties, in compliance with the law. We hope for an ultimate decision which merits the vast majority of the Board’s support so that all Southern Baptists can be confident in the final product. Those who appeal alone to divine intervention to protect the Convention also wear safety belts when they drive and insure their vehicles and their homes.” —SBC Executive Committee Spokesperson ABOUT THE AUTHORS Brandon Porter serves as Associate Vice President for Convention News at the SBC Executive Committee Jonathan Howe is vice president for communications at the SBC Executive Committee. #OCTOBER21

by Staff PLYMOUTH, MI – The officers and Board of Trustees of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan (BSCM) unanimously passed a resolution calling on the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) to waive attorney-client privilege in connection with an investigation into how the Executive Committee handled sexual abuse allegations. At the Annual Meeting in June, SBC messengers voted for a third-party investigation into the allegations. SBC President Ed Litton appointed a seven-member task force to work with Guidepost Solutions to conduct the investigation. The Executive Committee has declined the request of the Task Force to waive attorney-client privilege and allow the Task Force access to all pertinent materials. In an opening statement to the BSCM resolution, the Board says, “We are disappointed and saddened that this resolution had to be produced in the first place.” The resolution calls on the EC to waive the attorney-client privilege “so that a thorough and transparent investigation can take place.” Tim Patterson, Executive Director of the BSCM, said the group plans to take the resolution to the convention’s Annual Meeting. The BSCM resolution joins a chorus of SBC entities, state conventions, and denominational leaders all calling on the EC to fulfill the will of the messengers. The entire opening letter is as follows: September 28, 2021 The officers and the Board of Trustees of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan have unanimously and enthusiastically approved the attached resolution, calling on the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention to follow the will of the messengers regarding the waiving of attorney-client privilege so that a thorough and transparent investigation can take place. We are disappointed and saddened that this resolution had to be produced in the first place, and have prayed (and will continue to pray) that those who have been elected by the messengers to serve the churches of the SBC will do the right thing. We want to be clear that we unequivocally stand with the abused and cry out for justice to be done (Amos 5:24). Soli Deo Gloria, Roy Henry, President Ed Emmerling, 1st Vice-President Roland Caldwell, Sr., 2nd Vice-President Jerome Taylor, 1st Recording Secretary Dr. Michelle White, 2nd Recording Secretary The Board of Trustees of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan To read the entire resolution, CLICK HERE. #OCTOBER21

by Phil Wallin MONROE, MI – There has been so much discussion about the current atmosphere of our society and the negative perception it creates in our hearts, not only as believers but leaders of the church. As I write this to you, there are several difficulties that enter my mind. The 20-year anniversary of 9/11, nearly two years of COVID-19, the conclusion of the war in Afghanistan, and growing anger and intolerance in America. However, I want to encourage you to keep your eyes on the prize. Jesus has not changed, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is in control of all things, and our job is to continue to serve His plan and purpose for our lives. The words of Jesus from the Gospel of John 4:35 come to mind, “Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” It is important whenever we face difficulties that we focus on the priority. God’s priority for us is found in the great commission and the great command. We are to go into all the world and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded us. Also, we are to love the Lord with all our heart and love our neighbors as ourselves. In these two passages, the purpose and mission of the church are summed up and must be our priority as believers/ leaders of the church. One of the things we have done at Faith Baptist Church during the ever-changing church environment, is develop an Outreach Team. We are a team of leaders and lay members with a goal of having an impact on our community. The team has eight members however, everyone is invited to participate because I believe involvement is investment. We meet once a month to brainstorm, establish quarterly outreach events, and work out logistics. Our summer events were a huge success ranging from ideas such as: collecting backpack supplies for the homeless, a motorcycle rally for crisis pregnancies and a barbecue for first responders. I am excited because there is a growing enthusiasm among our church for doing little things that have a big impact. I am not suggesting that everyone should do what Faith Baptist Church is doing. What I am suggesting is that we all focus on what Christ has called us to do. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the minutiae of the world let's become overwhelmed by this amazing God we serve. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, and not grow weary by what is taking place around us. Let’s stand as brothers and sisters in Christ and work together, not allowing little things to divide us and keep our eyes on the priority. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Phil Wallin is the lead Pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Monroe. He has served in several roles on the local church level; Director of Missions, Deacon, Men’s Ministry leader, Church Planter and Associate Pastor. #OCTOBER21

by Tim Patterson PLYMOUTH, MI – Twenty months! That is the very least number of months we here in the good ol’ USA have been dealing with a very difficult and deadly viral epidemic that has turned into a global pandemic. Person after person has contracted and sadly many have succumbed to, the reactionary ravages of this disease. COVID-19 does not kill an individual, but the way our bodies react to it does; the subsequent infections and organ failures that accompany this vicious little crown of a virus. By the grace of God and a very good vaccine, Sabrina and I have not contracted this bad bug. We have been as cautious and careful as we could be and followed the appropriate protocols. To say the least, we are most grateful. I know what it is like to have pneumonia, which is one of the deadliest attributes of the COVID infection. It is no fun! A few years back I encountered the gnarly nemesis called pneumonia, and to this day remain susceptible to this kind of lung infection. There I was, minding my own business when it began to take over. I had felt fatigued for a few days, but other than that I was fine. A little tightening of the chest and just a slight elevation of my body temperature was all that I noticed. Then within just a few hours, my lungs were congested, fever was rising, and I felt like I had been in an inordinate encounter with a Mack truck and lost. I had pneumonia and didn't know it. I thought it was just a slight case of the flu that was going around, and I would be over it in a few days. As you may know, pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by a wide variety of agents, including viruses, bacteria, micro-organisms know as Mycoplasma and Rickettsia, and some fungi. Inflammation also occurs with the inhalation of various dusts or gases and with the aspiration of food or stomach acid. The pathological process usually begins with the irritation of lung tissue. The walls of air sacs (alveoli) that compose one’s lungs, swell, or are destroyed, and plasma, red blood cells, and white blood cells from lung capillaries fill the alveolar spaces. The portion of the lung involved becomes relatively solid and basically is rendered temporarily nonfunctional. The once soft and pliable tissues that transfers oxygen to the blood become hardened sacks of gunk filled (medical term lol) balloons. Typical symptoms include fever, chills, cough, chest pain, increased production of sputum, sweating, aching, expectoration of blood, and difficulty in breathing. How I contracted this case of pneumonia is still a mystery to me. I didn't go out looking for it, nor did I invite it to invade my body and incapacitate me for more than a week. Was there something I was doing that created an atmosphere that was conducive for this infection to take root? Had I defied some of the basic laws of good health and placed myself in jeopardy? I doubt that I will ever know for sure the direct cause, but this I do know, the results were the same. I was eventually suffering the ravages of this very uncomfortable invader and unless personal physician had intervened, with the proper treatment, the outcome could have been fatal. Sin has many of the same characteristics that influenza or pneumonia possess. It comes into the life of every man, woman, boy and girl in much the same way as does a physical disease, but unlike pneumonia, it does not attack the body, but it attacks the soul and spirit. All mankind has been infected with sin and the source and vestiges of sin is always within us. It is just waiting for the best (or might I say worst) atmosphere in which to grow. Just as our bodies are covered and filled with bacteria and viruses, so are our souls with sin. If left untreated by our Great Physician, then we will eventually succumb to its fatal infection. Had I not chosen to go to my physician for treatment when I did, it is questionable as to whether I would be breathing the air of this world today. It may be that you do not notice the effects of the infection of sin in your life but believe me; it will one day take its toll. It will eventually kill you. I strongly advise you to make an appointment with the Good Doctor who will be able to heal you from all your souls’ diseases. And the good thing about this Doctor is that there are no lines in which to wait, He’s always in, and His services are free. What a deal! ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tim Patterson is Executive Director/Treasurer of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. Elected unanimously in May of 2015, Patterson formerly served for 9 years as pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Fla. He also served as trustee chair and national mobilizer for the North American Mission Board. #OCTOBER21

by Dr. Tony L. Lynn PLYMOUTH, MI – I hope your late spring, summer, and early autumn has gone as well as mine. Once again in my role, daily, I get to see the Lord do amazing things that make me smile, even laugh, with joy during my morning quiet times. Here are six advances that have taken place during the past five months. Because you pray, provide support, and participate these advances are happening because of what you do through your local church; so, thank you for what you do for the Lord. Ryan Cabildo in Wayne Church planter, Ryan Cabildo, passed NAMB assessment and is in the early stage of launching Lanterns Church in Wayne, Michigan. His sending church is Mile City Church, Plymouth. Cabildo is creating a launch team while refining the preparations that go into starting a new church. I love it that Cabildo is launching where he spent most of his lifetime. He is a creative with a warm heart who always has time to listen to those in need. Zac and Emily Zielinski in Flint Church planter, Zac Zielinski, and his wife Emily passed NAMB assessment and are in the early stage of launching a church plant in Flint, Michigan among university students while serving as a campus pastor in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Their sending church is Grumlaw Church, Grand Blanc & Hartland, Michigan. They are inviting people to join their launch team. I remember the moment when I knew Zac had been overcome with the calling to plant a new church. He attended the Send Network Gathering at Mile City Church back on March 17. At the close of the final part of that inspiring day, Zac was exiting the day’s events and I felt compelled to stop and ask, “What has this day meant to you?” Zac responded, “I think God is calling me to plant a church.” Little did I know that Zac and Emily were already pressing into the calling with the counsel of their pastor, Shea Prisk. Henry and Lily Zual in Kentwood Church planter, Henry Zual, and his wife Lily passed NAMB assessment and have planted Chin Mission Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan. His sending church is Falam Christian Church of Indianapolis, Indiana. The people on this church plant are from Myanmar (Burma) where warlike conditions threaten the lives of their family members and friends, daily. Twice with no success during these past two years, Burmese pastors in Michigan invited me to take mission trips to Myanmar to share the Good News of Christ and to develop believers. Pray fervently for our brothers and sisters who face a sorrow we do not understand. On a brighter note, a former missionary with the International Mission Board, who speaks the language of the Burma people, is on staff in a North American church and has agreed to come visit the three Burmese congregations we have in Michigan. I cannot wait until I see the faces of the Burmese people in Michigan shine with smiles because someone who learned their language 15 years ago is here to help us help them. Nathan and Alison Sharpe in Adrian Church planter, Nathan Sharpe, and his wife Alison passed NAMB assessment and launched Catalyst Church, Adrian, Michigan on Sunday, September 12, within a community they believe is underserved and in need of more witnesses for Jesus Christ. Their sending church is Redemption Church, Grandville, Michigan. Nathan and Alison already share a lot of life with their community. Nathan is a well-loved coach and teacher in a nearby school. The church plant is the result of a collaboration between wise people who had building and property, but needed spiritual leadership. After spending launch Sunday with the congregation, I can sense the unity among the people and the pursuit to see people become devoted followers of Christ. David and Stefanie Livingston in Ann Arbor Church planter, David Livingston, and his wife Stefanie passed NAMB assessment and are conducting autumn vision tours while creating a core team for a new church plant among the students at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Their sending church is Doxa Church, Madison, Wisconsin. I already participated in one of the early vision tours and found I was surrounded by young adults on the threshold of post-university careers who were putting their careers on hold to devote the next 2-3 years of their personal lives to launching a new church in Ann Arbor. I know it sounds crazy, but I have already witnessed a success using this strategy in East Lansing. Austin and Lesley Wadlow in East Lansing Church planter, Austin Wadlow, and his wife Lesley along with people of The Commons Church, East Lansing, a two-year old church, are celebrating remarkable growth and inspiring professions of faith in Christ. One September Sunday was dedicated to hearing about life changes and witnessing the baptisms of those who have trusted in Christ. The young church plant created a second Sunday morning service with a total morning attendance of 455 people; however, what is equally as important is that almost everyone has registered to join discipleship groups which is a primary focus of the church’s purpose. This church plant is exploding with growth on 7 acres with a 20,000 square foot building that was gifted to them for $1 because the senior citizens of that existing church wanted to share their lifelong legacy with the vibrant ministry of The Commons Church. As you can see, I serve the Lord, the BSCM, and the Send Network with joy because my days are filled watching the testimony of God’s love for the peoples of Michigan. I am always available to talk if you want to find your place in planting churches everywhere for everyone. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Tony L. Lynn is the State Director of Missions for the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. Before coming on staff at the BSCM, Tony served as lead pastor for more than six years at Crosspoint Church in Monroe, Michigan. He and his wife, Jamie, also served with the International Mission Board in Africa and in Europe. #OCTOBER21

by Mike Durbin PLYMOUTH, MI – God is re-fueling pastors across Michigan as they reach out to strengthen and encourage one another in the Lord. The Pandemic has been a challenging time for those in positions of spiritual leadership, but Michigan Baptist pastors have served the Lord and His church well. They have reached out to one another for prayer, fellowship, accountability, and direction as they have served through this unique season. They are living out the spiritual truth that “iron sharpens iron.” Approximately 35 pastors are engaging monthly in five “Be The Church” Cohorts, 55 ministry couples gathered in three Refresh Pastor/Wife Retreats, and 11 pastors started the re:Focus journeys together. Pastors are impacting pastors! Here are several testimonies! Be The Church Cohorts “I have been part of a “Be The Church Cohort” with four other pastors since June 2021. We meet monthly and rotate churches, so we can see each other’s ministry context. During the 90 minutes that we are together, our BTC cohort strives to be more than pre-assigned discussion points. We check up on each other’s families. We listen to what is going on in each ministry. We pray for and encourage one another. Our BTC cohort breathes life and energy into me. In my first year of ministry, a few decades ago, a veteran pastor told me “Every pastor needs a pastor”. My BTC cohort serves as the pastor this pastor needs in his life. I am very thankful for men that I meet with monthly” (Chris Peoples, Trinity Baptist Church). Refresh Pastor/Wife Retreats “My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our time at the Refresh Pastor/Wife Retreat, even with our newborn tagging along. While there was no cathartic moment, it was nice to get away and just spend time together as husband and wife. While Tim Dowdy gave some great spiritual reminders and did a great job offering encouragement, the refreshment really came from spending time together in Frankenmuth, getting to meet other pastors and wives and learning about their families and ministries, and the love we felt from Sabrina and Shar loving on our little one so that we could enjoy the dinner. Over the past few years, the BSCM has offered other events like this along with pastor and wife date nights. While these are small events and only comprise a day or two out of the year, they are meaningful and refreshing. This is one other way that Michigan Baptists is saying, “we see the work you’re doing, we know it can be difficult, but you’re valued and appreciated.” That goes a long way in refreshing the soul. So, from my wife and I, thank you Michigan Baptists for loving on pastors and their wives. Thank you for investing in our ministry and in our marriage through opportunities like this. Thank you for ministering to us so that we can continue to minister to those that God has entrusted to us” (Jonathan Turner, Clinton Baptist). Re-Focus “I had the opportunity to attend the re:Focus Retreat at Bambi Lake. I must say that this has been a helpful tool for me as a pastor. I came away from the retreat with three definite areas that encouraged me as a pastor. 1. We were asked about our trust level with God; 1being the lowest and 10 being the highest. As I took inventory of myself, I realized my trusting God for everything was not where I wanted it to be. I have shared this with my wife, and we are now trying to trust God in the simplest of everything. Trusting Him in everyday life whether big or small, trusting Him for everything instead of trying to manufacture it up myself. 2. Challenged in my personal goal. What do I want to see more of in my life? My personal goal became to know Jesus more in my everyday life. Philippians 3:10, "That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death;" To know Him more I needed to spend more time with Him and less time with everyday distractions. As a pastor it is easy to get distracted by others and their needs. I have tried to spend more time in prayer and focusing on what God can do. As a result, He has become more precious to me in my everyday life. 3. Given the book "The Me I Want to Be", by John Ortberg. Part 5 of this book is "deepening my relationships." Chapter 15 is, “Try Going off the Deep End with God.” This chapter has really encouraged me to spend more time in earnest prayer, and getting into a deeper relationship with God. Powerful and life changing. I believe as a result of just the first re:Focus, God has enriched my life and through prayer God has been changing things for His good in His church. I am eagerly looking forward to God speaking in our next retreat about Redefining” (Ken Hale, Community Baptist Church) Pastors are reaching out to each other across Michigan, demonstrating once again that we are stronger together. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mike Durbin is the State Evangelism Director for the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. Before joining the state convention staff, Mike served as Church Planting Catalyst and Director of Missions in Metro Detroit since 2007. He also has served as a pastor and bi-vocational pastor in Michigan, as well as International Missionary to Brazil. #OCTOBER21