By Vicki Brown Passion and conviction often direct a Christian in choosing public servants. Economic concerns, social-justice issues, foreign policy or a host of other issues can be of primary concern. Suppose Candidate A’s approach on one issue matches, but…
Bearing false witness still a sin, even in campaign season
By Ken Camp When a politically volatile email arrives warning Christians about some elected official’s action or some candidate’s position that sounds so horrible it’s hard to believe—don’t believe it, some pastors suggest. And for heaven’s sake, don’t forward it….
Head of Baptist medical/dental group stepping down
By Bob Allen Dr. Fred Loper is stepping down May 31 as executive director of the Baptist Medical Dental Fellowship to become medical director of a local charitable Christian medical clinic in the Oklahoma City area. Fred Loper Loper, formerly…
Shepherd’s Clinic provides service to working poor
By Alice Horner It’s Tuesday afternoon in what at first looks like a typical doctor’s office. Phones are ringing and copiers beeping. Then there is something different: laughter. Employees and patients are really enjoying themselves. Welcome to Shepherd’s Clinic, a…
Minister says ‘personhood’ bill violates separation of church and state
By Bob Allen A Baptist minister said Feb. 28 that Oklahoma’s proposed “personhood bill” would violate religious freedom because it makes a particular theological view of when life begins the law of the land. Bruce Prescott, executive director of Mainstream…
Union’s impact on life leads retired pastor to collective bargaining table
CBF council member hurt in wreck
A By Bob Allen North Carolina pastor is recovering from injuries received in an accident while returning home from last week’s meeting of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Coordinating Council. Roger Gilbert, pastor of First Baptist Church in Mount Airy, N.C.,…
Baptist Standard Publishing launches test phase of FaithVillage site
Associated Baptist Press The website is a new ministry of Baptist Standard Publishing, parent company of the Baptist Standard. The 123-year-old organization will continue to publish the newspaper and its digital news products. FaithVillage.com will provide Christian community and an…
Shepherd’s Clinic provides service to working poor
BALTIMORE (ABP) — It’s Tuesday afternoon in what at first looks like a typical doctor’s office. Phones are ringing and copiers beeping. Then there is something different: laughter. Employees and patients are really enjoying themselves. Welcome to Shepherd’s Clinic, a…
Faith leaders condemn Franklin Graham for questioning Obama’s faith
By Bob Allen Heads of four historically black Baptist denominations joined other faith leaders Feb. 28 in an open letter condemning recent comments by Franklin Graham questioning whether President Obama is a Christian. Signed by leaders of the Progressive National…
Are mainline splits a new Reformation or old news?
NEW YORK (RNS) — There’s a popular saying in church-planting circles: It’s easier to make babies than to raise the dead. That principle applies to denominations as well, said Paul Detterman, who helped found the Evangelical Covenant Order of Presbyterians…
Are mainline splits a new Reformation or old news?
NEW YORK (RNS) — There’s a popular saying in church-planting circles: It’s easier to make babies than to raise the dead. That principle applies to denominations as well, said Paul Detterman, who helped found the Evangelical Covenant Order of Presbyterians…