A Baptist minister is confronting pandemic-induced poverty, widespread despair and menacing drug cartels by putting refugees to work baking and selling pizza in Mexico. Lorenzo Ortiz, who directs three shelters for refugees in communities that border the U.S., has launched…
Study: Most Americans have an affinity for spiritual beliefs
Surveys have reported on the decline of religious engagement in the United States for decades, but a new study suggests there may be more to the story if the question turns to spirituality. Newly released research by the Fetzer Institute…
The ‘new sanctuary movement’ shifts gears in Trump context
There is something liberating for Serena Buckner about shielding immigrants from persecution by the federal government, even if it means running afoul of the law. What would be scary about the sanctuary movement instead is inspiring because it’s a way…
Transitions for the week of 9-25-20
Please submit transitions — including staff changes, ordinations, anniversaries or deaths — to Barbara Francis. This page will be updated bi-weekly. STAFF CHANGES Ryan Busby, to First Baptist Church, Danville, Va., as senior pastor. He comes from the pastorate of Bosqueville…
Despite Trump crackdown, Americans still positive toward immigration
Despite drastic reductions in legal immigration to the United States under the Trump administration, Americans continue to express positive attitudes about immigrants and the benefits of welcoming these newcomers. New data from Gallup finds the United States among the “most-accepting…
New book recalls story of challenging mandatory chapel at U.S. military academies
David Vaught went to the U.S. Military Academy in 1965, war raging at home and abroad, to defend the Constitution. Fueling his patriotism was a deep-seated Baptist faith imbued with a passion for the First Amendment. But those values led…
CBF-endorsed chaplain promoted to rear admiral
Navy Reserve Capt. Terry Eddinger will reach a career milestone Oct. 4 when he is promoted to the rank of rear admiral. This also will be a landmark for the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship as Eddinger is the first CBF-endorsed military…
Historically Black college welcomes white pastor with passion for racial justice
When Chris Caldwell thinks about student housing and food services, his pondering goes deeper than the mere campus amenities that concern administrators at most colleges. “We have many students who are insecure in terms of their housing, and we have…
Summer youth ministry was definitely different but still happened
Summer usually is a high-water mark in youth ministries — a time of long hours but tremendous growth. Summer allows youth ministers to spend more time with students, going on lunch outings or to the movies, and traveling for hours…