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Articles by Amy Hacker
Your Voice: It's a relationship, not a check list
“As the saying goes, ‘missions exist because worship does not.’ So we do this because there are people in our cities, in our communities, in our neighborhoods who do not worship Jesus,” said Josh Warren, BSU director of Mississippi Delta Community College, of a recent outreach effort in the Delta region. “Adoniram [Judson’s] son Edward once said, ‘If you succeed without suffering, it’s because others suffered before you.
The Inspirations Quartet coming to Henagar on Nov. 10
Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief efforts wrapping up in Florida Five weeks after Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida, Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief teams are packing up to come home. Pastoral wellness expert offers 3 tips for ‘restored souls’ Tim Dowdy said every pastor identifies with God’s call to Jeremiah: “Go where I send you, and speak what I Mother’s sewing legacy leads to changed lives Myra Thomas said her mama left a big legacy.
SCWC Notable Book Awards competition accepting submissions from Christian authors
Trunk or Treat at Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, promises lots of candy The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, is hosting the second annual Trunk or Treat on Oct. 30 from 5 New curriculum ministers to adults with disabilities, their families Andy is the kind of guy everyone enjoys being around.
New curriculum ministers to adults with disabilities, their families
Andy is the kind of guy everyone enjoys being around. When he enters a room at Longview Heights Baptist Church in Olive Branch, Mississippi, everyone knows he’s there. Andy loves people, and people love Andy. An illness when Andy was young left him with brain damage, which means a typical adult Sunday School classroom would not meet his needs. That’s one reason Longview Heights developed Sunday School classes for people with disabilities.
Curriculum ministers to adults with disabilities, their families
Andy is the kind of guy everyone enjoys being around. When he enters a room at Longview Heights Baptist Church in Olive Branch, Mississippi, everyone knows he’s there. Andy loves people, and people love Andy. An illness when Andy was young left him with brain damage, which means a typical adult Sunday School classroom would not meet his needs. That’s one reason Longview Heights developed Sunday School classes for people with disabilities.
Great American Family streaming service offers something for everyone
GenSend leaders advise tackling tough topics through lens of Scripture The Apostle Paul might have been writing to the church at Ephesus when he advised believers to “be careful then Silly song ‘Gobble Gobble’ serves as bridge to gospel Christian musician Matthew West has won multiple Dove Awards and an American Music Award and was nominated for five Grammys.
Southcrest Baptist Church, Bessemer, to host Holy Destiny gospel trio
When the U.S. Supreme Court in June overturned Roe v. Wade and sent abortion oversight back to the states, Alabama
Valleydale Church welcomes new creative producer
Jared Wilks is the new creative producer for Valleydale Baptist Church, Birmingham. The son of a pastor (Bill Wilks, NorthPark Baptist Church, Trussville), Wilks dedicated his life to Jesus after high school while serving at a Colorado camp. He studied communications and film at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He took a semester off his junior year to lead worship at a Colorado church.
Wilton Baptist Church, Montevallo, celebrates 138th homecoming
Wilton Baptist Church, Montevallo, celebrated its 138th homecoming and also paying off its mortgage note Sept. 25. In January, the church had started a Burn the Note drive to pay off its $45,000 balance. Guest speaker Dave Roper delivered the homecoming message with special music by Latter Rain Trio. After the service, everyone gathered at the front of the building and circled around the cross.
Your Voice
Cullman pastor, wife killed in Oct. 26 car crash Charles H. Johnson, pastor of Missionary Grove Baptist Church in Cullman, and his wife, Connie, died Oct.
Theology 101 - The Spirit of Giftedness
Last week, Theology 101 focused on Galatians 5:22 which directs us to seven basic qualities of the spiritual fruit the Holy Spirit seeks to produce in believers. This fruit has to do with the persons we are, such as joyous, loving and kind. The Bible also directs us to what it terms gifts of the Spirit. These gifts have to do with the service the Holy Spirit desires to enable in believers. A basic passage about the giftedness the Spirit enables is 1 Corinthians 12:1–11.
State convention annual meeting set for Nov. 15-16 in Birmingham
Rick Lance said the Alabama Baptist State Convention annual meeting every November is like a family gathering. And this year, that gathering is kicking off a year of celebrating 200 years of being a family. “We want to highlight the cooperative ways we are working together to fulfill the Great Commission through God’s people who are the local church, through state convention entities and through the ministries of your Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions,” said Lance, SBOM executive director.
Parkview Baptist Church, Decatur, celebrates 75th anniversary
Parkview Baptist Church, Decatur, celebrated its 75th anniversary Sept. 25 with preaching by pastor Jimmy Meek. Congregational singing was led by Tyler King, minister of music, and the Parkview praise team. The church’s choir also shared special music. “We wanted to emphasize the main thing: Jesus and His faithfulness,” Meek said. “We want to continue to be on mission for Jesus in the future.” Member Christina Hayden presented a plaque on behalf of the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission.
Wayside Baptist, Alexander City, celebrates 75th anniversary
Heroes of the Faith: The Venerable Bede — ‘Father of English History’ The Venerable Bede or St. Bede (672–735) was the greatest of the Anglo-Saxon scholars. His best-known book was “The Ecclesiastical First Baptist Church Prattville welcomes new communications director Lauren Matson is the new communications director of First Baptist Church Prattville.
Hurricane cleanup still massive effort in Florida
ALCAP sells building, relocates office space to better steward organization’s mission Alabama Citizens Action Program has a new home as of early October. The state Baptist entity recently sold its building Family responds after arrest of Alabama Baptist pastor on child sex abuse charges The family of Alabama Baptist pastor Ken Daniel has responded following his Oct.
Bible Studies for Life Sunday School Lesson for October 30
By Rony Kozman, Ph.D. Assistant professor of Biblical Studies, Samford University Study God’s Word 2 Timothy 2:14–19, 22–26 Be diligent in studying God’s word. (14–15) In 2 Timothy, Paul instructs and exhorts Timothy about his ministry of the gospel. He exhorts Timothy to remain faithful to the gospel he received from Paul and to transmit and entrust that same message to faithful people who will then in turn teach others.
Explore the Bible Sunday School Lesson for October 30
By Robert Olsen, Ph. D. Associate Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile The Sin Harvested Hosea 10:5–15 False religion (5–8) The prophet Hosea continues in his condemnation of Israel, the northern kingdom. Israel had erected two golden calves as gods when Jeroboam became the first king of the northern tribes.
College students encouraged to nurture spiritual growth and discipleship
As a young man, Cliff Knight set two alarm clocks to wake him up early for a quiet time with God. More than 40 years later, the associate pastor and minister to families at Lakeview Baptist Church in Auburn now awakens “at the crack of dawn” naturally to engage his mind and heart with the Lord. Not every believer is an early riser, but that’s not the point. Developing spiritual disciplines can increase contentment and help believers find God in everyday habits.
How young adults can discern, nurture a ministry call
Connor was a popular high school senior in Decatur interested in joining a discipleship group at Chick-fil-A led by his student minister. At first he didn’t take it seriously. But a pep talk from then-student minister Larry Hyche changed everything. Connor began to grow spiritually. Then he went to college and started discipling others. Finally, a summer working at a Christian camp convinced Connor he was called to ministry. Today he is a campus minister in South Carolina.
First Baptist Church Ashville welcomes interim pastor
Ken Alford is the interim pastor of First Baptist Church Ashville. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Troy State University and master of divinity and doctor of ministry degrees from Southwestern Seminary. He began pastoral ministry in 1981, and he served churches in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Georgia prior to his retirement from full-time ministry in August 2020.
Ridgecrest Baptist Church in Trussville welcomes new pastor
Jamie Walley is the new senior pastor of Ridgecrest Baptist Church, Trussville. He originally served as student and missions pastor of Meadow Grove Baptist Church, Brandon, Mississippi, for 15 years. He also was interim student pastor of Pinelake Church, Madison, Mississippi. He most recently was pastor of First Baptist Church Florence, Mississippi. He is currently a student at Spurgeon College, Kansas City, Missouri. He and his wife, Stephanie, have four children.
Explore the Bible Sunday School Lesson for May 15
Dr. Ben Stubblefield Visiting Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile OBSERVING 2 Thessalonians 2:1–12 I wonder if Paul ever thought, “How many times do I have to go over this?” Although he gave a clear word regarding the end times in 1 Thessalonians, it seems the church remained highly perplexed and hyper focused on the issue. Thus, Paul again writes to help give them some clarity.
ERLC explainer on the Supreme Court draft opinion leak
Healthy mother-daughter relationships begin and end with grace What goes into a healthy relationship between a mother and daughter? Grace. Lots of grace. What goes into that? Keep 4 ways church branding will evangelize the community By Mark MacDonald church branding strategist and consultant Church branding can help evangelize the community if done properly.
Muslim husband beats, stabs Christian wife on Easter
Judson College archives donated to Samford’s Special Collection for preservation The historical archives of Judson College in Marion will be safe, preserved and accessible going forward, according to officials at Bible Drill carries on through pandemic Over the past two years, COVID-19 has had a major impact on many ministries, including Bible Drill.
Helping high school students remain spiritually connected after graduation
High school seniors need help navigating the multitude of changes headed their way. They will soon enter the work force, take a gap year or continue their education through a trade school, community college or four-year university. They probably feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety about the transitions ahead. Unfortunately, while pursuing these future endeavors, even students who have experienced a strong connection to their local church may struggle to maintain that in the next stage of life.
Theology 101 - God’s Vineyard
The Bible presents a variety of images or analogies of God’s people. They are viewed as His field and flock, as well as His building and household. This week we consider the people of God as His vineyard. Such was one of the images used to refer to God’s Old Covenant nation Israel, voiced in Isaiah 5:7: “For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel.” Jesus is on record in Matthew, Mark and Luke speaking His well-known parable about workers in a vineyard.
Caregiver support groups offer safe place to share, find encouragement
Stress tops mental challenges pastors face, study says In the current fast-paced, high-pressure American culture, pastors are stressed and they know that needs to change, a recent study Rashional Thoughts: Community news, media outlets keep professional efforts alive Recent conversations with students studying journalism and mass media give me hope.
Rashional Thoughts: Community news, media outlets keep professional efforts alive
Islamists kill 12, targeting Christians in DRC KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo — Islamists recently killed at least 12 people in the Democratic Republic of the ‘WM-Who?’ conversation shares how WMU remains vital aspect of church life Connie Dixon’s hometown in New Mexico has about 200 people, and she’s been part of the same church her entire Fulani kill 92, kidnap 60-plus in Christian villages ABUJA, Nigeria — Militants killed about 92 people and kidnapped more than 60 in one week...
Islamists kill 12, targeting Christians in DRC
KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo — Islamists recently killed at least 12 people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in an ongoing assault against Christians. Allied Democratic Forces, which are aligned with the Islamic State, raided Masambo village in North Kivu province April 3. At least a dozen were slain, reports the relief group Barnabas Fund. The attack is part of a continued onslaught against Christians in North Kivu and Ituri provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
‘WM-Who?’ conversation shares how WMU remains vital aspect of church life
Connie Dixon’s hometown in New Mexico has about 200 people, and she’s been part of the same church her entire life. She’s been just as dedicated to missions discipleship resources provided by national Woman’s Missionary Union. She started in Mission Friends as a preschooler, grew up through Girls in Action and Acteens, became a missions leader in her church and served 13 years as executive director of New Mexico WMU. There’s one big reason why WMU is so important to Dixon.
Fulani kill 92, kidnap 60-plus in Christian villages
ABUJA, Nigeria — Militants killed about 92 people and kidnapped more than 60 in one week in the predominately Christian villages of Nigeria’s Plateau State. On April 10, militants raided 10 villages that are mostly Christian, slaying at least 80 people and abducting more than 60, reports the relief group Barnabas Fund. Several communities were burned. One mother and her children ran five hours in the dark to take refuge in neighboring Bauchi State.
Explore the Bible Sunday School Lesson for May 8
Dr. Ben Stubblefield Visiting Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile Enduring 2 Thessalonians 1:3–12 Thankful (3–4) I like all good church music, but I’ve still got a special place in my heart for a Sunday choir. The music is always uplifting, but the thing I like most about our choir is that I know the faithfulness of the people singing.
Bible Studies for Life Sunday School Lesson for May 8
Will Kynes, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Biblical Studies, Samford University WATCH FOR CHRIST’S RETURN Matthew 24:23–31 When times get tough, people long for a hero, a savior to deliver them from affliction. The recent war in Ukraine, for example, catapulted Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, onto the world stage. However, no human, even one as brave and resolute as Zelenskyy, can bear the weight of our ultimate hopes for justice and divine blessing. There is only one true Messiah.
Persecution of Afghan Christians continues following Taliban takeover
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom says Christians and religious minorities face increased persecution in the aftermath of U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Lecrae building 'bridge' between church, culture through music
The music of Christian hip-hop artist Lecrae and his label Reach Records may not yet be in your church hymnal, but that doesn’t mean you haven’t heard it — especially if you have youngsters in the house. Reach Records’ music was featured in the 2021 Netflix hit family movie, “Blue Miracle,” then in the 2022 science fiction series “Raising Dion” (Season 2). It also was included in the NBA-centric video game “2K20,” one of the most popular titles for PlayStation and Xbox platforms.
Gamer logs prayers of believers; authors explore who Jesus is
Decurion: Called to Be a 21st Century Warrior Mark Randall Covenant Books Alabama author Mark Randall has envisioned a story with a video game premise he presents as a spiritual warfare illustration. In this imaginative work of fiction, a talented young gamer, Jay, is unexpectedly transported to another realm where he is standing in a mission control room with a replica of Earth in view.
Local church bringing people to Christ through basketball, disc golf
The significance of sports, recreation and overall physical health probably goes without saying, but when those important aspects of life are connected to a deep desire for spiritual health, churches can make a real impact for Christ. CrossPoint Church in Trussville is meeting just such a need through a ministry where physical fitness and spiritual fitness meet. That type of outreach can have a big impact, which is what the church is seeing.
About 65 Christians slain, 145-plus abducted in Nigeria
ABUJA, Nigeria — Terrorists and extremists in Nigeria continue their onslaught against Christians, killing at least 65 people and abducting more than 145 in March. On March 24–25, Muslim Fulani herdsmen and terrorists raided communities in Kaduna state, killing an estimated 50 Christians and abducting about 100, reports Morning Star News. The Rev. Felix Fidson Zakari, a priest, was kidnapped at gunpoint.
Birmingham author explores motherhood during a pandemic in 'More than a Mom'
Each year on Mother’s Day, moms are honored for all they do for their families. Flowers, cards and restaurant visits are abundant. But how are these extraordinary women taking care of themselves? What are ways mothers can model self-care, for themselves and the families they love? Kari Kampakis explores these questions in her latest book, “More Than a Mom,” released April 5.
Rashional Thoughts: Share your story and help us celebrate what God is doing among His people
Feedback to the March 31 Rashional Thoughts editorial “How are you sensing God leading you to make a difference?” came quickly, and each message continues to warm my heart. Sharon shared how God is impressing on her some ideas for an affordable community-based, ministry-focused laundromat setting. She said she would like to explore what might actually be possible. Melissa noted how she keeps a stash of clean clothes in her classroom for students who need something fresh to wear.
Bethlehem Baptist Church in Linden hosts retirement reception
Bethlehem Baptist Church, Linden, will host a retirement reception for its pastor May 22, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Pastor Daniel Gandy has served the congregation for 34 1/2 years.
North Gardendale Baptist Church welcomes new pastor
Sammie Reid is the new pastor of North Gardendale Baptist Church. He previously served at Mount Zion Baptist Church, Warrior; Zola Baptist Church, Warrior; Mount View Baptist Church, Hayden; and Gethsemane Baptist Church, Hayden. He holds a master of divinity degree from Luther Rice Seminary. He has two sons and six grandchildren.
Smithville Baptist Church hosts annual car show
The idea that believers are members of God’s family, who make up His household, shows up in several places in
West Jefferson Baptist Church welcomes new student minister
Chris Stephenson is the new student minister of West Jefferson Baptist Church, Quinton. He has spent 15 years serving as youth pastor at Mount Philadelphia Baptist Church, Cordova; New Beginnings Community Church, Graysville; and Bethel Baptist Church, Dora. He also is the principal of Sumiton Middle School in Walker County. He previously served as an assistant principal, teacher and coach. Stephenson and his wife, Candice, have four children.
Blountsville Baptist Church hosts Blount County Youth Rally
Blount County Youth Rally will be May 15 at Blountsville Baptist Church, beginning at 6 p.m. featuring Scooter Kellum, youth ministry strategist at the State Board of Missions, and singer-songwriter Tori Parris. This event is sponsored by Friendship Association.
Theology 101 - God’s Household
Your Voice 5 things to consider during recruiting season in student ministry By Hunter Smith Student minister, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Huntsville How to be the best advocate for your child As a mom of three children, I have found myself having many interactions over the years with various professionals within Jacksonville Community Center hosts Gospelfest The second annual Jacksonville Gospelfest is May 21 at the Jacksonville Community Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Southside Baptist...
Southside Baptist Church welcomes new interim pastor
Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist welcomes new bivocational pastor Trey Kincer is the new bivocational pastor for Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Collinsville.
Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist welcomes new bivocational pastor
Trey Kincer is the new bivocational pastor for Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Collinsville. He holds a bachelor’s degree in agriscience education from Auburn University and is agriscience teacher and Future Farmers of America advisor for Cherokee County High School. He previously served as pastor for New Bethel Baptist Church, Collinsville, and youth pastor for Lake Martin Baptist Church, Dadeville, and Moon Lake Baptist Church, Mentone. He is married to Allison.
Baptism at beach brings scrutiny from Chinese authorities
First person: How to navigate conflict well By Ken Allen Director of LeaderCare for the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions Part 1: An Overview of Conflict All things North Alabama highlighted in new book Connie Pearson has always enjoyed travel — across her native Alabama, during her time as a missionary and as a Pisgah Baptist Church welcomes new pastor Jim Lee, 79, is the new pastor of Pisgah Baptist Church, Selma, where he has been serving as interim since Elam Baptist Church honors...
All things North Alabama highlighted in new book
Connie Pearson has always enjoyed travel — across her native Alabama, during her time as a missionary and as a writer and author. Now she’s sharing that love with fellow travelers in a book, “100 Things to Do in Huntsville and North Alabama Before You Die.” The book covers a lot of ground — food and drink, music and entertainment, sports and recreation, culture and history, and shopping and fashion, all available in northern Alabama.
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