A Baptist minister is confronting pandemic-induced poverty, widespread despair and menacing drug cartels by putting refugees to work baking and selling pizza in Mexico. Lorenzo Ortiz, who directs three shelters for refugees in communities that border the U.S., has launched…
COVID-19 sidelines pastors serving along the border
A surge in coronavirus infections along the U.S.-Mexico border is impacting the ranks of clergy who minister to refugees, immigrants and other at-risk groups. Aid organizations and news outlets have consistently reported especially high COVID-19 rates in parts of Mexico…
Q&A with Elket Rodriguez about COVID-19 and border ministry
What a time for attorney Elket Rodríguez to start a new job advocating for immigrants along the U.S.-Mexico border on behalf of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and Fellowship Southwest. That was on March 2 — just days before the coronavirus…
For truth-tellers, tragedy and redemption are wrapped up in July 17
Today, July 17, marks the anniversary of one of the darkest moments in Baptist history. But as with so many events in the Christian saga, God worked with those who love God to turn darkness into light and to redeem…
Effort grows from saving seminary to saving Logsdon’s legacy
An ecumenical network is taking shape to preserve the heritage of Logsdon Seminary after it is closed next year by Hardin-Simmons University.
At home or detained, immigrants face extra challenges in time of pandemic
“There are other ways that they can allow people to move about in their communities, to go home and isolate with their families and shelter in place.”
David Wilkinson, BNG executive director and publisher since 2008, to retire June 30
“David helped BNG stay true to its mission and deliver quality content for our readers. His integrity and leadership have positioned BNG for a bright future.”
Religion Notes: Baylor’s $100 million gift, CBF aiding Harvey victims and the Alliance battles racism
Baylor lands huge donation for campus life An anonymous donor has pledged $100 million to Baylor University to be used for philanthropic purposes, the Waco, Texas institution has announced. The gift described by the university as “transformational” will boost its…
Religion Notes: New CBF leader headed for Texas; GWU elects new president
The new executive director of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship will tour parts of Texas during his first week on the job. Paul Baxley is to address meetings in Dallas, Fort Worth, Waco, Austin, San Antonio and Houston March 20-22, Fellowship…