LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (ABP) — Messengers to the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Nov. 7-9 passed seven resolutions, including ones opposing casino and lottery gambling, the sale of beer on college campuses, and homosexual activism.
The 939 messengers also called for their leaders to increase their support for the Cooperative Program, Southern Baptists' unified budget. Every Southern Baptist and Arkansas Baptist elected leader and official should promote the Cooperative Program “with vigor and intentionality on a consistent basis,” the resolution said. A recent nationwide task force concluded financial support of the denomination is lagging.
Messengers also took the first step in granting agency status to the Baptist Assembly at Siloam Springs, Ark. Once completed next year, the transition would create a board of trustees elected by the convention and permit the assembly to solicit donations from individuals and foundations.
In the peaceful, non-controversial meeting, the convention adopted a no-growth budget of $19.7 million that includes $8.3 million (42 percent) for Southern Baptist Convention causes.
Messengers elected Harry Black, associational missionary for the Washington-Madison Baptist Association, as convention president. Chuck McAlister, pastor of The Church at Crossgate Center of Hot Springs, was elected first vice president. And Danny Johnson, associational missionary of the Pulaski Baptist Association, was selected as second vice president.