Recent surveys document that Americans as a whole — not just presidential candidates — are becoming increasingly less knowledgeable about Christianity and Scripture, and religion in general. If you are tempted to laugh — or even gloat — because Donald Trump put money into an…
Missional focus will assuage congregations’ fears, ministers say
By Jeff Brumley Declining memberships and contributions, shuttered sanctuaries and surging megachurches have generated a lot of fear in U.S. congregations. The problem is that fear is a turnoff to those that struggling churches hope to serve, M. Craig Barnes,…
Baptist journalists want answers about IMB layoffs
Two recent Baptist state newspaper editorials say Southern Baptist leaders aren’t being forthcoming enough about changes affecting the International Mission Board. Two Baptist state newspaper editors criticized the Southern Baptist Convention International Mission Board for lack of transparency after they…
FBC Huntsville announces pastor nominee
A prominent Cooperative Baptist Fellowship church in Alabama will vote on a new pastor Feb. 7. A pastor search committee at First Baptist Church in Huntsville, Ala., is recommending Travis Collins, a veteran pastor now serving on staff with the…
Missional focus will assuage congregations’ fears, ministers say
Declining memberships and closing churches have led some congregations to react with fear, which in turn is a turnoff for potential members, a Christian leader says. Declining memberships and contributions, shuttered sanctuaries and surging megachurches have generated a lot of…
Despite decline, religiously affiliated remain devoted, says survey
By Jeff Brumley While the number of Americans who profess faith is in steady decline, there is evidence suggesting a steady devotion among those who remain religiously affiliated, new research shows. “Among the roughly three-quarters of U.S. adults who do claim…
CBF to vote on new plan for funding global missions
Proposed changes to CBF governing documents include revisions to a 25-year-old open meetings bylaw. The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship General Assembly will vote on a proposal to support the long-term presence of field personnel through its annual offering for global missions….
Former congressman heads Feed the Children
Former Congressman J.C. Watts takes over today (Feb. 1) as president and CEO of Feed the Children, a nonprofit relief ministry based in Oklahoma City. Watts, an ordained Baptist minister who served four terms in the House of Representatives representing…
Arguments set for religious challenge to Obamacare
Faith-based groups ranging from Catholic nuns to the Southern Baptist Convention will argue March 23 that an accommodation to require contraceptive coverage doesn’t adequately safeguard their religious liberty. The U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments March 23 in appeals…
Despite decline, religiously affiliated remain devoted, says survey
The Pew Research Center says that while religious affiliation continues to decline, dedication remains strong among those who are affiliated with religious groups. But those who coach and lead congregations say declining attendance remains a troubling trend. While the number…
Youth emerges from foster care to build life, help others
By Aimee Freston Courtney Greer is determined. She’s responsible, mature and hardworking — characteristics not often found in a 19-year-old, but after spending eight years in the foster care system, Greer was forced to grow up a bit faster than most…
Florida pastor named president of Northern Seminary
By Robert Dilday A pastor who for nearly 20 years has led Baptist churches in the South will take the helm of Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in suburban Chicago, the school’s board of trustees announced Jan. 29. William D. Shiell,…