How viable is a political party with the word “atheist” in its name? Troy Boyle, a corporate legal representative for a finance company, thinks very viable. Last March, he and a friend founded the National Atheist Party, which they believe…
Online Sunday school class offers ‘easy-access study’
RICHMOND, Va. — On a recent Sunday morning at First Baptist Church in Richmond, Va., conversation was lively as members of a Bible study class explored the day’s Scripture passage from the Gospel of Luke. But of the 15 people…
HERITAGE: Turning on the porch light
“ … If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed!” (John 8:36) ‘Negro Adam” — property of Thomas Dodson — was the first black who can be documented in one of the church records at…
EDITORIAL: The source of Pewboy’s depression
Pewboy slouched and stared at his blank computer screen. He was attempting the dangerous practice of psychological self-diagnosis when his thoughts were interrupted by his constant companion and friend, Altarego. Altarego: You know, they have come up with incredible speech…
OUT LOUD
“It’s a yeasty time. Christianity is being reinvented. My guess is that it will get smaller for awhile. Many churches built in the religious boom years of the last century will close. There will be tensions between experimenters and traditionalists….
OPINION: Memorable Sunday school teachers
As the New Year begins I would like to start off by thanking all those who work with children. Whatever the job might be at the local church — whether it is Sunday school or Wednesday nights or whatever the…
HeraldBeat
Transitions ON THE MOVE Fred Hardin Jr., to Fuller Memorial Baptist Church, Martinsville, Va., as pastor. Paul Batson, to Nobles Chapel Baptist Church, Sims, N.C., as pastor. Brian Harfst, resigning as pastor of Antioch Baptist Church, Unionville, Va. David Anthony,…
VITAL SIGNS: Critical questions for 2012
If there is one recurring theme to the conversations I have regularly with clergy, lay leaders and denominational employees, it is viability. In a myriad of ways, people are asking viability questions about ministry, congregational life, finances, staff models, facilities,…
HeraldBeat
Transitions ON THE MOVE Fred Hardin Jr., to Fuller Memorial Baptist Church, Martinsville, Va., as pastor. Paul Batson, to Nobles Chapel Baptist Church, Sims, N.C., as pastor. Brian Harfst, resigning as pastor of Antioch Baptist Church, Unionville, Va. David Anthony,…
TRENDING: Recalibrating invitation and challenge
Let’s begin 2012 with these words from a Virginia Baptist friend and active leader in her church: “Recently, at the conclusion of our worship, I left with an empty feeling. There was nothing wrong with the service at all. It…
HeraldBeat
Transitions ON THE MOVE Fred Hardin Jr., to Fuller Memorial Baptist Church, Martinsville, Va., as pastor. Paul Batson, to Nobles Chapel Baptist Church, Sims, N.C., as pastor. Brian Harfst, resigning as pastor of Antioch Baptist Church, Unionville, Va. David Anthony,…
Sunday school both modern and evolving institution
Sunday school plays such an important role in Baptist life a typical churchgoer might be tempted to think it always has been around. In fact, it is a relatively modern and evolving invention. While some debate its origins, most credit…