WASHINGTON (RNS) — A large survey on American attitudes toward homosexuality reveals mixed feelings about gay rights, with Americans saying states should not be forced to recognize same-sex unions, but also saying gay couples should have access to federal spousal…
Volunteers from Alexandria church refurbish Eagle Eyrie
ALEXANDRIA — When thinking about spreading the gospel, a trowel and potting soil would not typically come to mind; but these were among the tools used by a mission team from Plymouth Haven Baptist in Alexandria when they spent a…
Religious people make better citizens, but youth are increasingly secular
WASHINGTON (RNS) — First, the silver lining: people of faith are better citizens and better neighbors, and America is “amazingly” religious compared to other countries, Harvard University professor Robert Putnam said. Now, the cloud: young Americans are “vastly more secular”…
From the Eastern Shore to Cumberland Gap
STAFF CHANGES • Michael Dyer, to Fairview Church, Martinsville, as pastor. • Mike Morrison, to Middle Cross Church, Blue Ridge Association, as its first pastor. • Bill Alphin, to Westhunt Church, Richmond, as interim pastor. • Greg Sink, resigning as…
Financial management grads cite spiritual, as well as financial, gains
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP) — Completing an in-depth study of biblical financial management not only dramatically improves a person’s financial position, but it also benefits their walk with Christ, family relationships and contribution to church life, according to research recently conducted…
Those in need find assistance at churches’ Saturday Free Market
RICHMOND — A crowd gathers on Saturdays before the doors open at 10 a.m., eagerly anticipating what will be found on the tables and racks inside. Some waiting outside will immediately head for the clothing department. Others are hopeful to…
For financial guru Dave Ramsey, sour economy has an upside
EDMOND, Okla. — In a gloom-and-doom economy, Christian financial guru Dave Ramsey fashions himself as a prophet of hope. Part stand-up comedian, part economics professor, Ramsey built a multi-million-dollar business by dispensing simple financial advice: Live on a budget. Don’t…
Those in need find assistance at churches’ Saturday Free Market
RICHMOND — A crowd gathers on Saturdays before the doors open at 10 a.m., eagerly anticipating what will be found on the tables and racks inside. Some waiting outside will immediately head for the clothing department. Others are hopeful to…
Pakistan-Taliban fighting creates 2.2 million refugees
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (BP) — An estimated 2.2 million people have been driven from their homes by fighting in Pakistan's Swat Valley — raising the specter of a humanitarian crisis rivaling the refugee exodus during the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, relief…
HERITAGE: A good place
The yellow line which runs down the middle of State Street in Bristol is the boundary between Virginia and Tennessee. The street itself has had a renaissance with attractive plantings and interesting shops and restaurants now occupying formerly empty buildings….
Baptists minister to war victims in Sri Lanka
WASHINGTON (ABP) — Sri Lanka’s government has declared victory in its 26-year civil war, but a resulting humanitarian crisis is far from over. Leaders of Sri Lankan Baptist Sangamaya (Union) handed out water, milk, footwear and other supplies to about…
VIRGINIA BRIEFS
Ministry assistants at conference. The Baptist Ministry Assistants of Virginia attended the National Association of Southern Baptist Secretaries Conference at Ridgecrest Conference Center April 22-25, held to observe the 25th anniversary of the national association. The theme was “Great is…