The Baptist General Association of Virginia is an association, not a hierarchy. There is no subset or division within the BGAV entrusted with the responsibility to make sure all theological actions or expressions of congregations comprising the association correspond to a particular creed or statement of faith. Each church within the BGAV is autonomous.
The responsibility and privilege of ordaining individuals resides with the local congregation who, after searching their own hearts and the heart of the candidate, believe God has indeed called this person to serve in an ordained role. The responsibility and privilege of selecting church staff members is left to the discretion, wisdom and spiritual insight of the congregation with whom that staff member will serve. Neither matter is the prerogative of the BGAV,
The move to disassociate Ginter Park Baptist Church is the action of a hierarchical organization and not an associational organization. The decision is an affront to Baptist polity.
All of us within this association would be better served to have a considered, thoughtful spiritual discussion about matters that have the potential to divide us. Perhaps if we would listen to each other we might hear the voice of God. Perhaps we might come to believe we are all God’s children, all members of the association called the Kingdom of God.
Michael Catlett recently retired as pastor of McLean (Va.) Baptist Church.