The scene looked the same, just as it does every Sunday: We thanked God for the gifts of the table. Together, we sang “The Sanctus,” and then the celebrant spoke of Scripture — when, at the Passover meal, Jesus takes…
How Mainline Protestant churches are addressing Christian nationalism
In this politically fraught time, communities of faith have a unique opportunity to speak truth into the chaos. This necessarily means addressing the religious nationalism that burst from the shadows into public view on January 6, 2021. Regardless the outcome…
When white male pastors challenge Black female leaders
Supporters of the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists expressed surprise and shock when leaders of the American Baptist Churches in the USA recently sent a cease-and-desist letter asking to be removed as a “partner” on AWAB’s website. The original…
ABCUSA sends ‘cease and desist’ letter to AWAB
The president of the American Baptist Churches USA has sent a cease-and-desist letter to the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists demanding AWAB remove the ABCUSA logo from its website as well as any “partnership” language related to the denomination….
Call to prayer issued for minority religions in Republic of Georgia
American Baptist leaders in Wisconsin have launched a prayer and social action campaign to support beleaguered faith, humanitarian and LGBTQ groups in the Republic of Georgia. The effort follows the May passage of a law requiring Georgian organizations that receive…
ABC Chicago adopts resolution calling for Gaza cease-fire
American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago unanimously adopted a resolution May 18 calling for an end to genocide in Gaza, the end of Israeli occupation of Palestine and an immediate cease-fire and rebuilding of Gaza. The Chicago group is the…
An interview with Gina Jacobs-Strain, new general secretary of ABCUSA
Editor’s note: Gina Jacobs-Strain, newly called general secretary of American Baptist Churches USA, spoke with The Christian Citizenabout her plans and hopes for the denomination and the challenges she anticipates in her new role. This interview is republished by BNG…
Gina Jacobs-Strain named general secretary of ABCUSA
Gina Jacobs-Strain has been named general secretary of the American Baptist Churches USA for a three-year term beginning Feb. 1, 2024. She will follow C. Jeff Woods, who has been serving as intentional interim general secretary since 2019. The general…
American Baptists reaffirm and celebrate women in ministry
Editor’s note: This article has been expanded and updated from its original version. The board of directors of American Baptist Home Mission Societies issued a statement June 24 saying it “wholeheartedly affirms women pastors.” And last week’s biennial meeting…