April 3, 2020 I want to continue to highlight financial resources that are available for the churches during this crisis that is both economic and epidemic. Last week, I mentioned two kinds of assistance available through MMBB: Premium Continuance and Emergency Assistance. The first relieves the expense of the monthly premiums the churches pay for […]
April 7, 2020 Dear Pastor and Church Leaders, Thank you for your creative ministry. I am deeply impressed by the skill level, care, and foresight you are providing to your congregations and friends. For many of us, the learning curve is steep. By God’s grace and the help of family and friends, we’ve been able […]
April 7, 2020 For many of us, the anticipation of a government check brings some welcome relief to unemployment, cut wages, or other hardships faced during this pandemic. For some of us, it provides great opportunity to support others and to give to the ministries we love. My first concern is that for those who need […]
VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 4/1/20)—On April 1, 2020, American Baptist Churches USA Acting General Secretary Dr. C. Jeff Woods published a letter to American Baptists with information about available COVID-19-related assistance. Read the letter below. April 1, 2020 Dear American Baptist Family: As the effects of COVID-19 continue to be realized across the globe, our […]
VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 4/6/20)—American Baptist Women’s Ministries (ABWM) collectively raised $12,000 to assist Ministerios de Mujeres Bautistas de Puerto Rico (Baptist Women’s Ministries of Puerto Rico) with relief efforts for women and children impacted by the 6.4 and 5.9 magnitude earthquakes that shook Puerto Rico in early January. Gina Jacobs-Strain, executive director, noted, “The […]
The Generosity Project is a collaborative effort between ABCUSA, regions, and local congregations. The Generosity Project aims to help pastors re-frame the conversation around stewardship and generosity in their congregations. Bi-monthly blogs help support new growth and understanding as we deepen our ministry and discipleship. Relationships matter in every area of ministry, but they are particularly […]
April 7, 2020 My Resurrection Sunday memories are filled with images of extravagant meals, dressing extra fancy to go to church, and seeing not only Easter lilies, but also people who hadn’t been to church since Christmas. It was a joyous time of celebration that was cloaked in predictability, celebration, and security. I treasure these […]
VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 4/3/20)—American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) convened a National Emergency Roundtable yesterday with American Baptist partners as a first step in responding to the coronavirus pandemic by sharing information about needs of American Baptists—members, pastors and churches—and available resources to meet those needs. Participants included the National Executive Council, the Regional […]
In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Baptist World Alliance is issuing an invitation to Baptists worldwide to join in a 24-hour prayer marathon kicking off with an open call at 9:15 a.m. EST on Monday, March 30, 2020. We invite you to join us for the launch call as well as sign up […]
VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 3/27/20)—On March 27, 2020, Acting General Secretary Dr. C. Jeff Woods published a letter to American Baptists with a message centered around supporting churches, pastors and regions in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Read the letter below. Dear American Baptist Family: Thank you for sharing your prayers, litanies, and resources during […]
