DALLAS — In a growing number of Baptist churches, new arrivals learn an important lesson early: Membership has its privileges, but it also has its responsibilities. “We want to create a culture of discipleship here,” said John Wilson, minister of…
Study finds limits to Willow Creek’s success model
CHICAGO (RNS) — Willow Creek Community Church, the suburban Chicago megachurch that has become a model for some of the nation's largest churches, started more than a quarter-century ago by asking the question: Why don't people go to church? Now,…
Virginia Baptist woman donates RV to VBMB’s disaster relief ministry
RICHMOND — While John McCracken prepared his will, he told his wife, Dorothy, “If you can sell the RV, fine. If not, give it to the Baptists.” After John went to be with the Lord two years ago, Dorothy half-heartedly…
Petersburg Sunday school class brings home soldier from abroad, to delight of wife and kids
PETERSBURG — Most Baptist churches discourage deceit, but Immanuel Baptist Church in Petersburg celebrated subterfuge on Sunday, Dec. 13, when it brought one of its members home from Germany to surprise his wife and family. Photo by Kimberly Carter Alicia…
New registration process for 21-C to provide ministry profile
RICHMOND — Online registration holds many benefits for meeting planners and attendees — it's easy and efficient for both parties and it has the ability to gather information that benefits both. So it is with this year's registration for 21-C…
EDITORIAL: To release the oppressed
Can Christians close their eyes to the needs of others and still claim to be fully devoted followers of Jesus? Can Christians observe the strong inflicting pain on the weak and not feel the pain themselves? Can they remain only…
SECOND OPINION: Tips for successful tax filing
According to some estimates, two out of five Americans procrastinate when it comes to filing their tax returns. But experts agree that early preparation for the upcoming tax season is best. Here are some tips to aid in preparing 2007…
What remains
The souvenir booklet from the dedication of the building was fittingly lavish for a church edifice which rivaled any house of worship in America. Exactly a century ago, in 1908, the Second Baptist Church of St. Louis, Mo., then the…
OUT LOUD
“Ultimately, it is Muslims who must excise the scourge of radicalism from Islam. From within. We can help by behaving like the generous, just and benevolent society moderate Muslims once considered us to be.” Oliver “Buzz” Thomas The minister and…