LOUISVILLE, Ky. (ABP) — Precise definitions and formulations of doctrines aren't necessary prerequisites to evangelism or Christian unity, said author Rob Bell, pastor of Mars Hill Bible Church in Grand Rapids, Mich., who has become an increasingly controversial figure among…
On 35th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, both sides celebrate decline of abortion
WASHINGTON (ABP) — As abortion-rights supporters and opponents marked the 35th anniversary of the decision that legalized the procedure nationwide, new statistics show that, legal or not, fewer women are choosing abortion. A new study, released just days before the…
FAITH DIGEST
Evolution and religion compatible, scientists insist. A top panel of scientists has published a new book asserting that belief in the theory of evolution and religious faith “can be fully compatible,” and creationism has no place in science classes. The…
Christian leaders urge Bush to use last State of Union speech to ‘salvage’ legacy
NEW YORK (ABP) — As President Bush prepares to deliver his final State of the Union address Jan. 28, evangelical and Catholic leaders are calling for him to use that speech to “salvage his moral legacy.” David Gushee told reporters…
Mission Board to sponsor church and clergy tax seminars
RICHMOND — A number of unique rules apply to churches and “ministers for tax purposes.” To help church staff and church lay leaders understand and comply with the tax laws, a series of church and clergy tax seminars sponsored by…
WMUV announces new staff additions
Woman's Missionary Union of Virginia has added three persons to its staff. Kristen White joined the staff as youth missions coordinator on Jan. 17. Kristen graduated with a bachelor's of art degree in religion from the University of Mary Washington…
Responding to the Luke 4 mandate
In increasing number of Christians are responding to global issues, noting biblical calls for such action. They commonly cite Luke 4:18-19 — when Jesus announced the inauguration of his public ministry by quoting an Old Testament passage about good news…
Field personnel provide medical care to Bedouins
ATLANTA — When Tim Myrick walked to the hospital each morning, he said a short prayer — “Lord let me represent Jesus as clearly as possible.” The hospital, located in the desert of northern Jordan, serves tuberculosis patients from all…
Caring for the poor: Whose job is it — church or state?
Care for people Jesus called “the least of these” requires response from both congregations and government, according to specialists who focus on ministry to the poor and on church/ state relations. As participants in both church and state, Christians should…
Gaza church continues witness despite persecution
JERUSALEM — An anonymous Baptist source in Jerusalem pleads with Baptists across the world to pray fervently for the pastor and members of the Gaza Baptist Church. Hanna Masaad, the church's pastor, will outline the persecutions the church has endured…
Virginia Baptist 2007 contributions exceed budget by almost $250,000
RICHMOND — Virginia Baptists surpassed their 2007 budget goal by almost $250,000, a finance officer announced last week. Churches affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia gave a total of $14,442,553, almost a 2 percent increase over the $14.2…
Ministries continue in Kenya as violence and tensions remain
NAIROBI, Kenya (ABP) — In spite of a wave of violence that has swept through Kenya over the last few weeks, Baptist groups are proceeding cautiously as they go back to work in the chaotic nation. Classes began as scheduled…