FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (ABP) — The financial future of denominational organizations like the Southern Baptist Convention could be in jeopardy if they do not recognize and adapt to changes in the church and the broader culture, David Schmidt told a gathering of state Baptist executives and editors in Ft. Lauderdale Feb. 15-18.
Schmidt, a financial consultant and author of Choosing to Live: Financing the Future of Religious Body Headquarters, talked about growing challenges to the Cooperative Program, the SBC's central funding channel for national and international ministries.
The percentage of church budgets given through the Cooperative Program has been in a period of decline for some time, Schmidt said. Weak discipleship, a “radically local” church mindset, a self-absorbed culture, growing church costs, a loss of denominational loyalty, and competition from other charitable organizations are among the factors exerting downward pressure on cooperative giving, Schmidt said. Denominational turf wars and infighting also discourage giving, he said.
In sessions for state executives only, Schmidt discussed ways the Cooperative Program might be adapted or “re-invented” in response to contemporary and future needs. Schmidt said denominational leaders are “in denial” if they don't recognize that a new approach is needed, according to a meeting participant.
Pat Terry, a Samford professor who teaches nutrition and dietetics, spoke to the editors about healthy eating and healthy living. The editors also held roundtable discussions for professional development.
Trennis Henderson, editor of the Western Recorder of Kentucky and president of the Association of State Baptist Papers, challenged editors to think about the state of their own ministry pilgrimage, and the state of ASBP.
As a Christian journalist, he said, he cannot effectively serve anyone without fairly serving all. As individuals, editors should seek to make a positive difference in other people's lives, he said.
ASBP, now in its 110th year, is one of the most diverse groups in Baptist life that meets for fellowship, Henderson said. Different theological and political perspectives challenge the fellowship, he said, leaving editors to choose whether they will work to build or erode fellowship. Henderson challenged editors to become prayer supporters and encouragers of each other.
There is no guarantee that we can live in peace with all, Henderson said, but we can do our part. Citing Paul's admonishment in Rom. 12:18: “As much as it depends on you, live at peace with all men,” Henderson challenged editors to work together to find common ground.
In business matters, the state executives installed Jack Kwok of Ohio to serve as president. ASBP members installed John Loudat of New Mexico as president and elected William Perkins of Mississippi as president-elect.