JOURNAL OF THE BAPTIST MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION OF MISSISSIPPI

www.msbaptist.orgMarch 1, 2016 VOL. 70 NO. 5

From BMAA MissionsThe 2016 Asia-Pacific Missionary

Care Conference in San Pablo, Philip-pines, was held February 5-9. Sevencountries were represented by forty-four missionaries and their families:Burma-Myint and Mal Aung, Ramaand Lahlmu Bochung; Cambodia-Johnand Louela Page; China-Dar Li, theJohnsons, the Andersons, Jojo,Radarlyn, RJ, DJ, and Jaja Vallejera;India-Jeremiah, Abigail, Evan andEthan Shetti; Prashant, Golda, Joannaand Jason Prakash; Laos-Joy Vargas;Philippines-Danny and Rita Ballard;Sam, Dawn, Tristan, Zane, and SethFreeman; Fil, Lisa, and JustineKakilala; Doug and Diane Lee; DoyleMoore; Vincent and Maraya Ferrer;Thailand-Brandon, Brittney, and JosieLingle.

According to Assistant Director Sa-rah Hamilton, the mission statement ofBMA Missionary Care “is ongoing prepa-ration, equipping and ministry to mis-sionary personnel so they may be fruit-ful in life and ministry.”

2016 Asia Pacific Missionary Care Conference attendees pose for a picture on the last day.Continued on page 2

BMA Pastors: Free Confidential Help is AvailableA typical day in the life of a pastor

may consist of listening to a hurtingwidow, counseling a marriage in crisis,comforting children in the aftermath ofdivorce, and arbitrating a dispute be-tween family members.

After a long day of shepherding, whowill pastor the pastor? To whom can hebring his problems? Confidentiality pro-hibits him from discussing matters withother church members and most pas-tors often want to protect their wivesfrom the drama.

For this reason, pastors are often theloneliest people in the church. They findthemselves without anyone with whomthey can share their pain and struggles.Many pastors long to have someone who

will listen and understand where theyare coming from.

If they don’t find someone to speakwith, they will likely face burnout. Manywill leave the pastorate all together or

grow calloused toward the ministry.Sadly, these pastors don’t suffer alone.

The isolation felt by pastors can spreadto the home. Wives begin to feel thattheir husbands are married to the church

instead of to them.Children feel ne-glected as their fa-ther spends moretime with otherfamilies and lesstime at home.

DiscipleGuidewants to help pas-tors and their fami-lies receive the helpthey need. Pastorsmay call 844-877-

4BMA between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CSTMonday through Friday for free, confi-dential help. This new partnership withFocus on the Family will provide atrained specialist for every caller. Eachspecialist has vocational ministry expe-rience so they understand where pas-tors are coming from.

The help line is available for all BMApastors and their wives to discuss anyissue ranging from dealing with a diffi-cult church member, pornography, ad-dictions, anxiety/depression, personalmarriage issues, parenting, etc.“Our goal,” according to DiscipleGuideExecutive Director Scott Attebery, “is togive pastors resources to help themprevent pastoral burnout, familystruggles, and destructive behavior.That benefits everyone –the pastor, hisfamily, and the church.”

Missionary Care - A Priority and Personal Ministry

2 March 1, 2016 • Mississippi Baptist

The Vallejera children, RJ, DJ and JaJa

Missionaries who attended BMA Seminiary pose for a picture.

Missionaries Dar Li, Louela Page, SamFreeman, Lisa and Fil Kakilala and Dannyand Rita Ballard pray after an eveningservice

Missionary Care From page 1

Sarah explained that “MissionaryCare Conferences fulfill that missionstatement through gospel worship,teaching and fellowship. During wor-ship time, missionaries had a chance torevel in the beauty of the gospel andrespond in praise. Gospel teaching fromGod’s Word emphasized prayer, lifematters, field ministry, effective com-munication and family worship. Lastly,gospel fellowship was enjoyed whenbrothers and sisters of the body of Christencouraged each other, prayed for oneanother and shared what it is to live outthe gospel in a foreign land. Each aspectof the conference is intended to help

them see and savor Jesus who is thecenter of the gospel, because he is theGood News that they first embracedand now gladly share with the nations.”

The four night, five-day event tookplace at the Rizal ReCreation Center, aChristian campground and conferencecenter, and began with a “Get to KnowYou” session followed by a message onthe theme of “Prayer,” which was con-tinued each of the remaining threenights. Each morning there werebreakout sessions and each afternoonincluded free time, giving missionariesa chance to get to know each other, thecounselors in attendance, BMA staff

members and lay leaders.Director Jerry Kidd said, “Our prayer isthat we can encourage and strengthenmissionaries so they can spread thegospel as effectively as possible, to asmany as possible, for as long as possible.Conference attendees told us they weren’tsure at first about the conference, butonce it was over, they realized it wasexactly what their entire family needed.Another attendee commented, ‘Beforethe meeting, I didn't realize that I was

so dry spiritually. The preaching, teach-ing and singing truly renewed my spirit.’When I asked the children what theyenjoyed the most, one of them replied,‘the kids' Bible study.’”

If you would like to encourage andpray for these and other missionaries,be sure to order your Missionary PrayerCalendar at bmamissions.org, whereyou will find their contact information.Missionary Care Conferences are fi-nanced through the Missions generalfund, which anyone can give to at thesame website. Please pray for these andall missionaries on World Missions Day,Sunday, February 28.

Missionaries Wife’sFather Dies

by Larry GeraldsonOur hearts go out to Mrs. Yasmine

Marroquin, wife of the Manager of BMAof Mississippi Hispanic Missions, Bro.Estuardo Marroquin, who unexpect-

edly lost her father. Missionary familiesare often separated, by some distance,from their immediate family. MsYasmine's immediate family is in Gua-temala. When the call came that he hadsuffered a stroke, she was able to travelto and be there when that momentcame. Please pray for Mrs. Yasmineand her family during this time of loss.

Yasmine Marroquin's father

Larnelle Harris to Perform at BMAA National Meeting in GatlinburgLegendary vocalist Larnelle Harris

will perform at 3 p.m. on Wednesday,April 27, at the BMAA National meet-ing in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. BMAApresident Jason Aultman explains, “Ibelieve our people will be blessed andencouraged by Larnelle’s powerfulvoice and inspirationalministry.”

The only person inhistory to be a memberof the Gospel Music Hallof Fame, the AmateurRadio Hall of Fame andthe Kentucky Music Hallof Fame, Larnelle Harrisis admired by fans andpeers alike for his ma-jestic tenor voice.Larnelle has become theepitome of talent andintegrity in a career thatspans over three de-cades and includes nu-merous accolades forhis music including fiveGrammy Awards, eleven Dove Awards(three of which were for Male Vocalistof the Year), and a Stellar Award among

other honors. He has garnered nine-teen #1 radio singles and countless topten hits. Songs such as "How ExcellentIs Thy Name," "I Miss My Time withYou," "I've Just Seen Jesus," plus manyothers including his signature song,"Amen" are now considered modern

classics. From the White House

to the danger zone ofthe Thirty-eighth Par-allel, Larnelle has im-pacted audiencesacross the globe withhis music and minis-try. He was the firstChristian artist to per-form inside the Krem-lin after the fall of theSoviet Union. He is oneof a handful of celebri-ties to receive the AdCouncil's Silver BellAward for Distin-guished Public Servicein recognition of his

song "Mighty Spirit" as the theme songfor the longest-running Public ServiceAnnouncement in television

history. Larnelle was recently honoredby his home state of Kentucky with theGovernor’s Lifetime AchievementAward in the Arts, making him the firstChristian artist to receive the honor.

Larnelle continues to tour world-wide, with recent dates at CarnegieHall and in Paris, France. He performedfor the National Day of Prayer event inWashington D.C. in May of 2015 andwill sing for the United Nations Am-bassadors later in the fall. In additionto his numerous solo dates, Larnellealso travels with various multi-artisttours including this fall’s CompassionInternational Savior Tour, the GaitherHomecoming tour, the God of All Glorytour, and the Sandi Patty & Friendstour, the latter of which CCMMagazine reviewed and described Har-ris as having a “larger-than-life stagepresence with impeccable vocal prow-ess.”

The BMAA national meeting beginsMonday, April 25, and will concludeon Wednesday, April 27. For moreinformation, including a list of officialhotels, visit bmaamerica.org/nationalmeeting.

Vocalist Larnelle Harris

3March 1, 2016 • Mississippi Baptist

COMMISSION ONSenior Adults4226 Highway 15 North, Laurel, Mississippi 39440 Kenneth Flynt

Director

"The King is Coming" this will be our theme for this coming South MississippiSenior Adult conference on Tuesday, March 22nd at Big Creek Baptist Church.The church is located about 10 miles west of Laurel on Highway 84 West.Preaching, Singing and Laughter will be enjoyed by all.

It would be a good gesture if churches would pay the $15 registration fee forher seniors who will be attending.

It would be very helpful if each church would call in the number attending.Numbers for the South Conference to be called are 601-763-8100 (Big CreekBaptist Church) between the hours of 8:00 am - 12:00 pm and 601-428-8616 (KimParker, BMA Mission Office) between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:30 pm.Numbers for the North Conference will be given at a later date.

Door prizes will once again be given with special recognition for the oldest manpresent and the oldest woman present. The church with the highest attendancewill also be recognized. It promises to be a great day. Big Creek Church isworking hard making preparations to host this meeting. The $15 registrationfee will cover the catered noon mea,l provided by Mac's Fish of Hattiesburg. Bro.Brian Atwood, pastor of Campground Baptist Church in Gulfport, will bring ourmorning message. The Gather Homecoming Choir will meet for the afternoonservice. Also, the Southern Strings Dulcimer Group will take part in themorning service. Local talent from our churches will be used and if you will takepart, come prepared to do so.

The North Mississippi Senior Adult Conference will be held on Tuesday, May10th at East Fulton Baptist Church in Fulton. A detailed report will come at alater date.

Mark your calendar and encourage others to attend with you. It will be aglorious time for God's children to meet together again. See you at Big CreekMarch 22nd, registration at 9:00 am and the program for the day begins at 9:30am.

Once again let's fill the sanctuary at Big Creek for this once a year gatheringof our senior saints. It will be a great day!

Senior Adult Conferences Approaching

CHURCH NEWS IN BRIEF

Riverside Sets Revival ServicesRiverside Baptist Church of Ellisville

will hold revival services March 13-16,2016. Bro. Justin Rhodes, pastor of BigCreek Baptist Church, will be preaching.Sunday worship services will be at 11:00a.m. and 1:30 p..m. Lunch will be servedat the church. Services Monday throughWednesday will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Pastor Medrick Savell and the mem-bers request your prayers and invite yourattendance. Let us pray for real revival inthe Lord's churches in America and othercountries.

East Central Association reportby Rayburn Freeman, Asst.Reporter

The East Central Association met atZion Rest Missionary Baptist Church inFebruary. Missions Director LarryGeraldson and two of our state mission-aries were present. Bro. Danny Bartlettreported by letter and Brethren Bob Burchand Bobby Elliot reported on their work.

Bro. Paul Lee reported on the Prisoner’s

Bible Crusade and shared how someprisons for women are asking for helpwith bibles and literature. Bro. KennethFlynt, Director of Senior Adult Ministryreported on his work and urged atten-dance at the South Conference at BigCreek Baptist Church on March 22nd. Wealso appreciate Zion Rest Baptist Churchfor hosting this meeting and say thanks tothe ladies who did a wonderful job in foodpreparation and serving.

Oak Grove To Meetby Ed Steele, Reporter

The Oak Grove Missionary Baptist As-sociation will meet with Westover BaptistChurch in Hattiesburg at 7:00 p. m. onMarch 17. The time for food and fellow-ship will be prior to the start of themeeting so the messengers from eachchurch need to remember to arrive early.The serving will probably begin shortlyafter 6:00 and messengers can enter andeat on their arrival. Their fellowship hallis located in the basement of the church.

Missionary News From Dominican Republicby BMA Missionary Jesse Hales

After filling out reports for the office I realized how helpful it is for me to stop andreflect on what has happened in the ministry. You’re a vital part of our ministryso I wanted to also encourage you with this reflection. Our ministry is encouraging,coaching and training other leaders. The only way I know to see if this is beingsuccessful or not is to look at the ministries of those we are ministering to. Noteverything we tried to do this past year has been successful, but through God’s help,your prayers and a lot of work on the part of those we minister to, God has done greatthings here.

In 2015 two different ministries to children and youth were started. The first isa children’s program in Bienvenido. They meet in the carport of the parsonage belowthe church. They have packed out the little carport and just bought about 40 morechairs, because more kids are still coming. The second is the multi-church outreachto a juvenile detention center. At the last meeting we had 5 of the youth comeforward and ask for God’s forgiveness. Beyond these 2 ministries several peoplecame to Christ in the evangelism ministry in Sanchez and the church there hasgrown because of it. Also, the children’s program that Rebecca is working with rightnow has seen new life and has become an encouragement even to people outside ofthat ministry.

These are just a few highlights of the things we get to see and be a part of all thetime. I don’t share these with you to say look what we have done, because that isnot true. I share this to say God has been working here and that is in large partdue to your prayers and support of this ministry and the people here. Be encouragedand know that God is using you to make a difference. Thank you!!

Reaching out to the Dominican Republic

The Five Problem People in EveryChurch and How to Deal with Them

Conflict is difficult –especially in churches. Yet every pastor must deal withdifficult people who frequently create problems for the congregation. But how arepastors supposed to talk to difficult people? When does a pastor approach a difficultperson? How is the gospel seen when dealing with a difficult person?

For the March 2016 Tuesday Talks, DiscipleGuide Church Solutions DirectorTodd West will discuss five problem people found in most churches and share ideasfor dealing with them peacefully. Todd will draw on pastoral experience as headdresses gospel-centered measures for solving issues while helping the problempeople grow in Christ.

Tuesdays Talks is released the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. Eachwebcast covers a wide variety of subjects that seek to strengthen the church andequip pastors. Tuesday Talks can be seen on DiscipleGuide’s Facebook page and atBMALife.com/tv. You can also follow along with each broadcast on DiscipleGuide’sTwitter (@DiscipleGuide). If you miss a Tuesday Talks or want to see a previous one,visit disciplegiude.org/tuesdaytalks.

Future 2016 Tuesday Talks webcasts include:“Delicate Souls: Responsible Child Evangelism” with David Moore“Should I Have a Membership Class?” with Adam Thomas“Cultural Shifts Every Church Must Be Prepared For” with Brandon Cox“Responsible Sermon Prep: Because Souls are at Stake” with Dr. Joel Slayton“Becoming a Community Church” with Brett LesterMore information on each Tuesday Talks will be made available on DiscipleGuide’s

Facebook page and at discipleguide.org.

4 March 1, 2016 • Mississippi Baptist

Opinion PageJournal of the Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi

Don Brown - EditorDon Brown

www.msbaptist.org

Sofilthy's Atticby Barbara White

Don J. Brown, EditorE-Mail - editor@msbaptist.orgWeb site www.msbaptist.org

USPS 353-960P.O. Box 8181

Laurel, Mississippi 39441-8000

Phone 601-426-3293

PRICE$20.00 Per Year by Mail

$15.00 Per Year by EmailCHURCH PLAN

$ 1.30 Per Month per Family

Published on the 1st and 15thof each month by the Baptist Mis-sionary Association of Mississippi.Periodical postage paid atHattiesburg, Mississippi 39402.

Postmaster: Send addresschanges to the Mississippi BaptistPaper, P.O. Box 8181, Laurel, MS39441-8000.

Baptist MissionaryAssociation of Mississippiwww.bmaofmississippi.com

DEPARTMENTS & COMMISSIONS

Mississippi Baptist PaperP.O. Box 8181, Laurel, MS 39441

601-426-3293

Southeastern Baptist College4229 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440601-426-6346

State Youth Department4226 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440662-397-6832

Baptist Children's Home118 Lowe Rd., Laurel, MS 39443

601-426-3928

Missions & Revolving Loan Fund4226 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440601-428-8616

Commission on Senior Adults4226 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440601-729-2613

History & Archives Commission4229 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440601-729-8098

Moral ActionP.O. Box 88, Mantachie, MS 38855

662-282-7425

STUFFEvery spring I start stirring my stuff. There is closet stuff, drawer stuff,

attic stuff and kitchen stuff. I separate the good stuff from the bad stuff,then I stuff the bad stuff anywhere the stuff is not too crowded until Idecide if I will need the bad stuff.

When the Lord calls me home, my children will want the good stuff, but the bad stuff,stuffed wherever there is room among all the other stuff, will be stuffed in bags andtaken to the dump where all the other people's stuff has been taken.

I have a special closet built so I have a place for all the stuff too good to throw awayand too bad to keep with my good stuff. You may not have this problem, but I seemto spend a lot of time with stuff....food stuff, cleaning stuff, medicine stuff, clothes stuff,and outside stuff. Whatever would life be like if we didn't have stuff?

Now there is all that stuff we use to make us smell better than we do. There is stuffto make our hair look good. Stuff to make us look younger. Stuff to make us healthier.Stuff to hold us in, and stuff to fill us out. There is stuff to read, stuff to play with, stuffto entertain us and stuff to eat. We stuff ourselves with stuff.

Well, our lives are filled with stuff....good stuff, bad stuff, little stuff, big stuff, junkystuff, everyone's stuff. Now when we leave all our stuff and go to Heaven, whateverhappens to our stuff won't matter. We will still have the good stuff God has preparedfor us in Heaven.

NASHVILLE (Baptist PressNASHVILLE (Baptist PressNASHVILLE (Baptist PressNASHVILLE (Baptist PressNASHVILLE (Baptist Press)—”Risen,” a film that tells of Jesus’ resur-rection from the eyes of an unsavedsoldier who participated in His crucifix-ion, opened in first place at the box officeamong new wide releases the weekendof February 19–21, Box Office Mojoreported.

The movie grossed an estimated $11.8million, well ahead of its nearest com-petitor among new releases “The Witch,”which took in $8.68 million. Among allfilms at theaters, Risen brought in$4.015 million to place second on open-ing night February 19 behind theblockbuster “Deadpool,” but over theentire weekend finished a distant thirdto the comic book fantasy, which rakedin an estimated $55 million.

Risen was also a crowd pleaser, gar-nering a CinemaScore of A- in ratingsreceived from moviegoers on openingnight, and is anticipated to remain intheatres through Easter, March 27.

Movieguide gave the film four stars,its highest rating, but advised discre-tion for older children

The PG-13 film is endorsed by lead-ing Baptists and others.

“Risen is one of the most high quality,historically accurate, and spiritually

provoking moviesyou will see,” FrankS. Page, presidentand CEO of theSouthern BaptistConvention Execu-tive Committee,said. “It will speakto audiences of ev-ery age. I encour-age everyone to seethis film.”

Johnny Hunt,pastor of First Bap-tist Church ofWoodstock, Ga., and former presidentof the Southern Baptist Convention,called Risen “a must-see for pastors andtheir congregations.”“Risen is intriguing in that we all won-der what the response of the religiousestablishment of Jesus’ day would havebeen after His death and resurrection,”Hunt told Baptist Press. “Risen beingfiction simply imagines what mighthave been.”

Producer Mickey Liddell and direc-tor Kevin Reynolds said they worked toremain true enough to Scripture toplease the faith community, but dra-matic enough to entertain unbelievers.

“We don’t really want to tell anyonewhat they should believe,” Reynoldssaid. “People can use this film as avehicle to examine their own spiritual-ity, or just enjoy the story purely froma cinematic standpoint.”

The lead character Clavius is a fic-tional Roman military officer but thefilm includes biblical characters includ-ing Jesus, the disciples, Mary Magdaleneand Pontius Pilate. Movie promotersnoted the movie strives to achieve his-torical accuracy.

Risen drew an audience predomi-nantly of 25-year-olds and above, butJosh Griffin, high school pastor atSaddleback Church and founder ofDownloadYouthMinistry. com, recom-mends the film for teenagers as well asadults.

Affirm Films, a division of Sony Pic-tures, has distributed top faith-basedfilms including the Kendrick Brothers’“War Room” and “Courageous.” Risenministry resources include a church kitwith customizable sermon outlines,outreach resources including postcards,door hangers and bulletin inserts, and anovel from Bethany House Publishers.

Risen takes first place in new releases

South MississippiSenior Adult Conference

Tuesday, March 22nd9:30 A.M.

Big Creek Baptist ChurchSoso, Mississippi

5March 1, 2016 • Mississippi Baptist

Serving Christ With a Biblical World View In A Christian Atmosphere

Danny Pitts - President4229 Highway 15 North, Laurel, Mississippi 39440, (601) 426-6346

SoutheasternBaptist College

Danny Pitts

40 Years of MinistryOn February 29th, your president celebrated his 40th anniversary in the

ministry. Actually the leap year made the day to appear only ten times duringthat span. Bro. Arthur Smith, who is now with the Lord, was my pastor whenthe call was announced and approved by Calvary Baptist Church in Purvis. Mywife and I had joined the mission with a small group meeting in the Smith’shome. We saw the mission grow to over 100 in Sunday School and construct abuilding for worship.

The exciting experiences of seeing God work in such a great way continuesto shape the Lord’s ministry in me to this day. If you have ever witnessed Goddo incredible works, you know that He can do such marvelous things again. Iwanted to express my appreciation to several men whose influence continues toimpact me. Although I could include others, I must list Arthur Smith, my dad,Grover Laird, and the teachers at BMA Seminary when I attended. Thank youvery much. Your dedication several decades ago is still making a difference inmany lives today.

Good CitizenshipRecognized

Each year the faculty and staff atSoutheastern choose a young manand young lady for the CitizenshipHonor Roll. The ones chosen this yearas the good all-around citizens oncampus were Josh Daniels andLindsey Walker. Josh will graduatein May with a Bachelor’s Degree, andLindsey will complete her Associate’sDegree in Business. We appreciateboth of these who are outstandingChristians and set a great examplefor everyone at our school.

The BMA of America Theological Seminary Trustees met recently in Jacksonville,Texas for their regular February meeting. During the meeting they were able toview the copy of the Torah that was recently donated to the Seminary. BMATS isthe recipient of two copies of the Torah. One is located at the Arkansas Campus alongwith the one on the main campus in Jacksonville.

Seminary Trustees View Torah

Arkansas Church Seeking PastorLandmark Baptist Church in England,

Arkansas, is seeking a pastor. Resumesmay be sent to: Pulpit Committee, P.O.Box 177, England, AR 72046.

Church Seeks Music DirectorLebanon Baptist Church is in need of a

part time music director. This personwould be over leading worship serviceSunday morning and night, as well asdoing cantatas and other special music.We are looking for someone who is ableto incorporate both hymnals and contem-porary style music. All interest personswho have questions or would like to sendtheir resume may do so by emailing AdamParker at parkeradam288@gmail.com.

Full Time Student Pastor NeededParsonage Provided

Vardaman Street Baptist Church334 S. Vardaman St.Wiggins, MS 39577

601-928-3943Please send resume to

vardamanstreetba@bellsouth.net

Ministry Positions

Wished I Looked Like Thatby Dr. Travis Plumlee

NOTE: Travis Plumlee wrote for this publication for a number of years. From time totime we will share some of his work with our readers. Plumlee passed away this pastJanuary.

Travis Plumlee

You know we are the most critical ofour own self. We know our self verywell. We have stood in front of themirror many times. We know all of ourphysical flaws. And sometimes we lookat others with envy wishing we could beas nice looking as they are. I don’t knowwhy God did not give us the ability topush on certain parts of our body andmove muscles and skin to certain otherparts of our body to shape us like weneed to be. Can you imagine standing infront of a mirror and pushing a littleless here and a little more over there.Done. Now that looks better. Ha.

And it doesn’t stop with our looks.Many people see others who have biggerhomes or nicer cars and wished theycould live there or drive a car like that.Still others see a family with whatappears to be perfect acting childrenwho are all smartly dressed and walk-ing in a row and wished their kids actedlike that. The list is endless. You canspend your whole day looking at otherswith envy and wished you had some-thing they had. Not only is envy a sin,but it is a total brain drain. It serves nopurpose and has no redeeming emo-tional assets to it. It leaves you discour-aged, defeated and feeling unworthy.Stop that!

Comparing ourselves to others is sin-ful because it means we are not thank-ful to God for what He has given us. God

loves you just the way you are. Hedoesn’t want everyone to look the sameor be the same. God doesn’t need aworld full of children who look and actperfectly. Heneeds some kidswho play in themud so they willgrow up and notbe afraid to gettheir handsdirty doing workfor Him. Heneeds some kidswho don’t dressin designerclothes so they can grow up and do hardmanual labor and sweat a little for Hisglory. You really deflate yourself whenyou are unsatisfied with what God hasblessed you with.

As a therapist I learned many yearsago to not wish I had things that otherpeople have. You can take the mostperfect looking person: rich, beautifulface, happy little family and think toyourself, “Ah, wished I could be likethat.” But you don’t want what theyhave. I counsel these people.

They come into your office and youmight think at the surface they don’thave any problems and then you arestunned to hear what they tell you.Please don’t envy them. If you keepwishing you could be like them God justmight allow you to have what theyhave. Trust me. You don’t want whatthey have. A friend once went to churchand saw this couple walking by. Thewoman was very beautiful on the out-side. The woman also was a great cook.He watched the couple walk by and thensaid, “Wished I had a wife like that.” Ididn’t respond. But I thought to myself,“No you don’t. I have had both of themin counseling and believe me, you suredon’t want her for a wife.”

Everybody has issues. We wearmasks out in public. But there is notone single person or one single familythat does not have problems and issues.That’s why we should just all gather inthe altar and pray for one another onSunday morning. Why do so many sitout there in the pews and act like theyor their family have no issues? If thatwere true, then why did Jesus have to goto a cross and die for you? No perfectpeople. Only sinners saved by Hisgrace.

The problem goes deeper than justwishing you had something that you seein other people. It is a wrong behaviorbecause it shows your lack of gratitudeto God for how He made you. It shows

continued on page 6

6 March 1, 2016 • Mississippi Baptist

Girls Missionary AuxilliaryState Youth Auxiliary Director

Beth Caldwell166 Twin Creek Rd,Lucedale, MS 39452

601-947-6011

State GMA PromoterBecky Farmer

464 Churchwell RoadHattiesburg, MS 39401

601-596-1005becky@southforrest.org

Sunbeam Update and Resource Informationby Sherry Laminack

National Sunbeam PromoterGreetings from the Sunbeams of the BMA. Our National Sunbeam Project is

Shepherd Bags. We collected $5,552.00 for the year 2014-2015. Trophies were givento each Sunbeam group that contributed $500.00 or more and certificates were givento each group that contributed $100.00 or more. The Sunbeams thank Arkansasgrandparents who gave $1,000.00 of this total.

Please accept my challenge. If 50 Sunbeam groups would contribute $200.00 tothis Project, we could reach our goal of $10,000.00. EIM reports that one in threebags results in the salvation of a soul. Please join us in this project and help carrythe Gospel to lost souls.

If you would like to give a memorial to honor someone, this project would be anexcellent way to do so. I will acknowledge the memorial to the family. Please sendinformation necessary for the appropriate acknowledgment.

Please make your checks payable to National Sunbeam Project and mail themto: Sherry Laminack, 1047 Maple Ridge Drive, Greenwood, AR 72936

The Sunbeam lesson plans and visual aids are available to download fromDiscipleGuide. The Flicker, Ray 1, Ray 2 and Beam 2 visuals are now available incolor. The Beam 1 and Beacon visuals will be available in color soon. All of thismaterial is free of charge. If you would like more information about the Sunbeammaterial, please contact me at jaslaminack@cox.net and I will be happy to share thisinformation with you.

Please pray that the Sunbeams of the BMA will be able to reach their goal of$10,000.00 for the Shepherd Bag Ministry. We are excited to have a part inspreading the Gospel and souls being saved.

Sunbeam Groups to receive trophy:Sunbeam Groups to receive trophy:Sunbeam Groups to receive trophy:Sunbeam Groups to receive trophy:Sunbeam Groups to receive trophy:Pleasant Springs Baptist Church, McCaskill, Arkansas ......................... $500.00Denver Street Baptist Church, Greenwood, Arkansas ............................. $715.00Big Creek Baptist Church, Soso, Mississippi ......................................... $1,000.00Myrtle Springs Baptist Church, Quitman, Texas .................................... $950.00North View Baptist Church, North Little Rock, Arkansas ...................... $752.00

State Galilean Camp Nearby Mark Jones, State Galilean Promoter

The Mississippi Galilean Camp is approaching fast. Our camp will be March 18-19, 2016, at Camp Garaywa in Clinton. Our camp pastor this year is Bro. WesleyMartin and our theme is "EXAMPLE", taken from I Timothy 4:12.

The cost of camp is $60 and we need those attending to preregister. Please dothis by March 11. I have mailed letters to all the church that normally come tocamp, if your church wants to come, or did not get a letter, please contact me at662-231-1435 or by email at stonwall@yahoo.com.

Would love to have all Mississippi Galileans there.

Daniel Springs Encampment UpdateGetting Ready for Summer 2016

The last few months have been filled with a lot of phone calls, planning andassessing where the campground needs the most work. Since we have so manybuildings and so much equipment, it is sometimes hard to find a starting place. Overthe last year, God has continued to bring part-ners in ministry to the camp and it is really ex-citing to host groups that come and invest their re-sources, time, energy and help.

In December, we hosted a small winter re-treat that we hope will grow larger each year.Worship was led by Aaron Greenwood and some ofour summer staff re- turned to lead breakoutBible study sessions and recreation. The focus ofthe retreat was on ser- vice, so we were blessedto have the Student Min- istries from Union HillBaptist Church in Brownsboro, Texas, andCalvary Baptist Church in Fairfield, Texas, comeand serve by helping with the start of the main tab-ernacle remodel. They, along with our mainte-nance worker Benjie Russ, were able to take down the ceiling panels and insulation.This allowed us to get a closer look at the metal roof and supports and opened oureyes to some major repair needs that we were not able to see with the drop ceilingin place.

In February, the Louisiana Tech Association of Baptist Students (ABS) came andspent several days working at the camp. During their three days, they were ableto accomplish many things. They demolished three of the open-air tabernacles alongwith framing and pouring the concrete footings for the new tabernacles that willreplace the ones torn down. They replaced wood on the outside of the cafeteria andcovered area by the snack bar and power washed areas in preparation of paintingand resealing countless windows all over the campground. The students were alsovery helpful with the continued work on the main tabernacle. They removed themetal ceiling grid that was still hangingfrom the drop ceiling and helped preparethe metal roof and beams for the spray-in foam insulation that will be finishedlater this spring.

We were also thankful to have RickCheeks, Howard Mount, Bob Hart andArt Leyva from the Mt. Olive BaptistChurch in Scurry, Texas, here duringthe same time as the Louisiana TechABS Team. This group of men is part ofthe Missions Committee that has beenworking with the camp since September2015 in preparation of their church’smission trip. Mt. Olive will be bringinga larger group in March for a week.These men have been vital in preparing for groups like the ABS team and otherswho want to plan trips to help at the camp. They have already reached out to manychurches asking for help with manpower and also finances to accomplish much-needed repairs and replacement of things that were just worn out. Because of theirhelp in bringing awareness and helping with contacting other churches, we haveteams coming both the weeks of March 7 and March 14, 2016.Daniel Springs is a valuable place for the BMA. To ensure future generations theopportunity to experience the greatness of Daniel Springs, more work needs to bedone. Call us at 1-903-685-2433 or e-mail jason@danielspringscamp.com to schedulea time for your church to come help us get ready for Summer 2016.

a restless spirit of discontent in you.Embrace Philippians 4:11. Learn to bein a state of contentment whether youare rich or poor. You are always richevery day of your life if God is yourFather. Start acting like who you reallyare – royalty to a kingdom that willnever end.

Embrace Hebrews 13:5 and just becontent with such things as God hasgiven you. Try focusing your mentalenergy on counting your blessings in-stead of spending your mental energyon comparing yourself to others.

Don’t want what others have. Wantwhat God has blessed you with and becontent. I am happy with what God has

Plumleefrom page 5

given me. If God wants to give me adifferent look, or more of something,then He will give it to me because myFather has my best interest always inHis heart. I am content. There may bericher people out there, there may bepeople with a higher position of author-ity out there, but no one is richer thanme or has more power than me. I havethe power of God residing in me. I ama joint heir with Jesus to the riches ofheaven. My Father owns it all and Heis giving it all to me. I walk through lifewith my head held high, abounding inthe knowledge that He will give to Hischildren generously and meet all theirneeds.

You only beat yourself down and getdepressed when you look at others aroundyou and wished you had what they did.Listen. Those perfect looking kids atchurch are probably heavily medicated.Get over it and grow on!

7March 1, 2016 • Mississippi Baptist

ArmidilloI've never been very fond of the arma-

dillo. I'm not sure why, other than itwas just one of those things in life thatyou don't like for any particular rea-son. If I pondered realhard, I could prob-ably come up withcold, hard evidenceto support my dis-dain of the ar-mored beast, but Ireally don't wantto put that muchthought into anarmadillo. As it is, just writ-ing about one is pushing the bound-aries.

As a teenager, my next door neighborand I would travel to some property

bordering the Tickfaw River just outfrom Montpelier, Louisiana. We woulddrive through the fields to gain access to

the river, and generally, onthe way, we would encoun-

ter an armadillo or two.For all of you extreme

animal lovers, youmay want to skipon to another ar-ticle, because thismay offend you. Igrew up in an agewhere we weren'tso sensitive, but I

understand there may be some readersthat were given trophies for participa-tion. Anyway, as per our usual custom,a .22 caliber rifle was always at hand.

(Again, this was in a day and age wherewe carried guns in our vehicles wher-ever we went, even school, and nobodywent nutso and shot up everyone.) Ar-madillos, however, were always fairgame. If you shot one in the head witha .22, he would jump about five feet inthe air. If you shot it with a 30.06, hejust laid there.

On one such trip down the river, wenoticed a pair of the critters diggingaround in a pasture someone had ran-domly placed along our river. Dutycalled us to exterminate the creatures,but our only weaponry was the paddleswe used to propel our canoe. In thosedays, the fashion for country raisedboys was no shirt, cut off jeans, andboots; maybe a hat. We proceeded tochase the armadillos across the field inour country attire, while simultaneouslytaking whacks at them with the paddles.They are tougher than you think. The

From The Mindof Chuck Lee

Lee pastor's Pine GroveBaptist Church, Purvis.He may be reached by emailat leecharles47@yahoo.com

cows soon joined in the revelry, which,in turn, caught the attention of thefarmer.

Once we explained to him what wewere doing, he allowed us to resume ourfishing trip. He didn't like armadilloseither. I still can't help but wonderwhat he was thinking when he saw twohalf naked teenage boys running throughhis field swinging paddles at a couple ofarmadillos. But then again, that was ina different day and age.

by Joe McKeever

Editor’s Note: After reading this articleI think it could valuable both to the pastorsearch committee and the man who isbeing interviewed. A careful reading andcontemplating the process could be ben-eficial to the local church.

After the committee has grilled thepastoral candidate and the tables areturned, what information should hewant from them?

Here’s the situation. You, the pasto-ral candidate, are sitting in a room witha committee of anywhere from 6 to 20people. They have spent the eveningtossing questions, real and theoretical,at you. You are drained and everyone isready for the evening to end.

But not yet. Finally, the chair says,“And pastor, is there anything you wouldlike to ask us?”

You bring out your list.Now, if everyone has been sitting for

an hour or more, you might want tosuggest a stand-up break before youstart. That signals them that this isimportant too, just as critical as whatwent before, and that they should not beexpecting to (ahem) get out early. (Afterall, there is no guarantee you will everhave another visit with these folks.Even if nothing comes from this inter-view, your questions could help themlearn how pastors see this process.)

In most cases, this is a briefer periodthan their interview with you, usuallyno more than 30 minutes. Make thequestions clear and ask for clarifica-tions on responses you do not under-stand. Always remember that open-ended questions, those that allow forthoughtful responses, are always best.

Your questions for the PSC will fallinto two categories: Those to be asked ofthe chairman/leadership in private and

those laid before the entire committee.What questions would you ask the

chairman in private? Answer: Thingsthat might be considered embarrassingor presumptuous or of a private nature.If the church has come through a splitor if they fired the previous pastor, thisis better dealt with in a one-on-one withthe chair than in the entire group. Byasking it to the entire committee, yourun the risk of opening an old wound orreviving a previous division. Ask it inprivate.

If the pastor candidate has some-thing in his life that might beconsidered a deal-breaker (“I’m di-vorced” or “One ofmy children isgay” or “Our sonis in prison”),these are bettershared in private.Then, when he/she thinks it’s ap-propriate, thechair can informthe full commit-tee.

I suggest every-one keep notes. The min-ister in particular shouldscribble quick notes on whatis said and transcribe theminto longer, fuller reports onreturning to his room. No one shouldtrust their memory on these matters.So much is said, much serious and somein jest, some implied and some explicit,which will be forgotten within hours.Write it down.

Possible questions the minister willwant to put before the pastor searchcommittee include….1) What are the 3 most important1) What are the 3 most important1) What are the 3 most important1) What are the 3 most important1) What are the 3 most importantthings you want from your pastor?things you want from your pastor?things you want from your pastor?things you want from your pastor?things you want from your pastor?

Get ready for their answers to be allover the map. Most committees havenot talked this out, and their expecta-tions are as scattered as thecongregation’s are. Nevertheless, jotdown their answers. Then, considerpointing out to them the wide variety oftheir answers and how this is typical ofcongregations and they should neverforget this. Then, make whatever pointyou wish about this, if any.

2) What is your church’s position2) What is your church’s position2) What is your church’s position2) What is your church’s position2) What is your church’s positionon (fill in the blank; some issueon (fill in the blank; some issueon (fill in the blank; some issueon (fill in the blank; some issueon (fill in the blank; some issue

important to you personally)?important to you personally)?important to you personally)?important to you personally)?important to you personally)?This could be a question on doc-trine, a denominational contro-

versy, some issue in their com-munity, divorced deacons,

divorce itself, homosexu-ality, entrenched

leadership (i.e.,treasurer ordeacon chair-man who hasheld the sameposition for 30years), the pas-tor knowing

how much peopleare contributing and

who is tithing, and such.You could go anywhere with

this question, but should limit it toone or two issues of great weight to you.

3) Does your church provide (blank)3) Does your church provide (blank)3) Does your church provide (blank)3) Does your church provide (blank)3) Does your church provide (blank)for the minister and his family?for the minister and his family?for the minister and his family?for the minister and his family?for the minister and his family?

This might be a housing allowance orhealth care, expenses for the wife toaccompany the pastor to the annualdenominational conference, a pastorium(manse), etc. In most cases, this willhave already been made clear to you.

4) Which translation of the Bible4) Which translation of the Bible4) Which translation of the Bible4) Which translation of the Bible4) Which translation of the Bibledoes your church use?does your church use?does your church use?does your church use?does your church use?

You’re looking for stumps in this fieldyou may be asked to plow. If you areKJV only and the people are using manymodern translations–or if the oppositeis the case–you need to know this goingin. What you do with the information isup to you.

5) Has the church ever given a5) Has the church ever given a5) Has the church ever given a5) Has the church ever given a5) Has the church ever given apastor a sabbatical (a few weeks offpastor a sabbatical (a few weeks offpastor a sabbatical (a few weeks offpastor a sabbatical (a few weeks offpastor a sabbatical (a few weeks offto rest or study or travel or visitto rest or study or travel or visitto rest or study or travel or visitto rest or study or travel or visitto rest or study or travel or visitother churches)?other churches)?other churches)?other churches)?other churches)?

Over a ministry of a half-century, Ireceived this twice and the benefitscontinue to this day. I recommend itstrongly, both for the church (in manycases, they will get a new pastor fortheir investment) and for the minister,who needs the break. The church shouldcontinue all salary and benefits andcover expenses for ministers who fill induring the preacher’s absence. A vision-ary congregation will do this. Churchesthat do not do this have usually neverbeen asked to do so or shown the reasonsfor the practice.

6) How does your church expect the6) How does your church expect the6) How does your church expect the6) How does your church expect the6) How does your church expect thepastor to dress, both for Sundaypastor to dress, both for Sundaypastor to dress, both for Sundaypastor to dress, both for Sundaypastor to dress, both for Sundayservices and during the week?services and during the week?services and during the week?services and during the week?services and during the week?

When I began pastoring in the early1960s, ministers wore suits and ties 6days a week. These days, in most of thechurches where I preach, almost no oneis wearing a tie. A new pastor needs toknow the expectations of the members.

7) Has your church ever had to7) Has your church ever had to7) Has your church ever had to7) Has your church ever had to7) Has your church ever had todiscipline a member? If so, I’d likediscipline a member? If so, I’d likediscipline a member? If so, I’d likediscipline a member? If so, I’d likediscipline a member? If so, I’d liketo hear about it. If not, why not?to hear about it. If not, why not?to hear about it. If not, why not?to hear about it. If not, why not?to hear about it. If not, why not?

This is a big deal with many minis-ters and not so much with others. Ineither case, you would like to know theanswer to this question.

continued on page 8

20 questions a pastoral candidate should ask a search committee

8 February 15, 2016 • Mississippi Baptist

8) How is your church different8) How is your church different8) How is your church different8) How is your church different8) How is your church differentfrom the others in your city?from the others in your city?from the others in your city?from the others in your city?from the others in your city?

You would like to hear that theyknow precisely the role the Holy Spirithas called them for and that they arefilling it. How they answer this ques-tion will say volumes about themselves.

9) Is your church open to change?9) Is your church open to change?9) Is your church open to change?9) Is your church open to change?9) Is your church open to change?Can you give me an instance oneCan you give me an instance oneCan you give me an instance oneCan you give me an instance oneCan you give me an instance oneway or the other?way or the other?way or the other?way or the other?way or the other?

10) What would be my biggest10) What would be my biggest10) What would be my biggest10) What would be my biggest10) What would be my biggestchallenge as your pastor?challenge as your pastor?challenge as your pastor?challenge as your pastor?challenge as your pastor?

11) How are decisions made around11) How are decisions made around11) How are decisions made around11) How are decisions made around11) How are decisions made aroundhere?here?here?here?here?

This is a loaded question. Few thingswill affect your ministry more thanknowing how this church does its workand makes crucial decisions. Pay closeattention to responses. If possible, aftersomeone answers it, ask, “Does every-one agree with that?” and wait for re-sponses.

You need to know what you are walk-ing into.

12) What in particular made you12) What in particular made you12) What in particular made you12) What in particular made you12) What in particular made youinterested in me as a candidate?interested in me as a candidate?interested in me as a candidate?interested in me as a candidate?interested in me as a candidate?What is your biggest concern aboutWhat is your biggest concern aboutWhat is your biggest concern aboutWhat is your biggest concern aboutWhat is your biggest concern aboutme?me?me?me?me?

This concerns their expectations andwill reveal how much or how little theyknow you.

13) Is the pastor free to make13) Is the pastor free to make13) Is the pastor free to make13) Is the pastor free to make13) Is the pastor free to makemistakes? Or are the expectationsmistakes? Or are the expectationsmistakes? Or are the expectationsmistakes? Or are the expectationsmistakes? Or are the expectations

through the roof?through the roof?through the roof?through the roof?through the roof?In college football, if the new coach

follows a fellow who had not won a gamein five years, the expectations are lowand he is free to try different things. If,however, he is following Nick Saban atAlabama, the expectations are sky highand almost no allowance for failure isgiven. They expect to go undefeated andwin the national championship everyyear. In the same way, a new pastorwill want to know if he has time and begiven the latitude to try things, some ofwhich will not workout.

14) Does your14) Does your14) Does your14) Does your14) Does yourchurch work withchurch work withchurch work withchurch work withchurch work withothers in the com-others in the com-others in the com-others in the com-others in the com-munity? Give memunity? Give memunity? Give memunity? Give memunity? Give mean instance or two.an instance or two.an instance or two.an instance or two.an instance or two.

A negative answerto this is not a deal-breaker, but will re-veal how much workthe new pastor has ifhe is to lead the mem-bers to become teammembers with othersof the Lord’s family.When the Lord saidwe would be knownby our love, He was not referring only tothe members of our particular flock. Nochurch can win a city alone.

15) How are newcomers assimi-15) How are newcomers assimi-15) How are newcomers assimi-15) How are newcomers assimi-15) How are newcomers assimi-lated into your church family?lated into your church family?lated into your church family?lated into your church family?lated into your church family?

20 questions from page 716) Would you describe your church16) Would you describe your church16) Would you describe your church16) Would you describe your church16) Would you describe your churchas more “risk taking” (daring) oras more “risk taking” (daring) oras more “risk taking” (daring) oras more “risk taking” (daring) oras more “risk taking” (daring) or“care taking” (cautious)?“care taking” (cautious)?“care taking” (cautious)?“care taking” (cautious)?“care taking” (cautious)?

17) A question about “fit.” What17) A question about “fit.” What17) A question about “fit.” What17) A question about “fit.” What17) A question about “fit.” Whatkind of pastor do you tell friendskind of pastor do you tell friendskind of pastor do you tell friendskind of pastor do you tell friendskind of pastor do you tell friendsyour church needs?your church needs?your church needs?your church needs?your church needs?

This is a great question. The answersyou receive will tell you what expecta-tions you are up against.

18) What challenges is this con-18) What challenges is this con-18) What challenges is this con-18) What challenges is this con-18) What challenges is this con-gregation facing at the moment?gregation facing at the moment?gregation facing at the moment?gregation facing at the moment?gregation facing at the moment?In the next 5 to 10 years?In the next 5 to 10 years?In the next 5 to 10 years?In the next 5 to 10 years?In the next 5 to 10 years?

You’re trying to uncover hidden agen-das. Until now, the snow job the com-mittee has done on you (I say with the

greatest of admira-tion–lol) would havemade the chamber ofcommerce proud. Butnow, you will find thata huge plant in thecity has announcedplans to move toMexico and manychurch members willfind themselves un-employed. Or, youmay learn that theAir Force Base nearthe church is closingnext year. Or, thatthe church is locatedon a toxic land fieldand needs to relocate.(These are actual

things we have heard in such situa-tions.)

19)What is the best thing this19)What is the best thing this19)What is the best thing this19)What is the best thing this19)What is the best thing thischurch has done in the last fivechurch has done in the last fivechurch has done in the last fivechurch has done in the last fivechurch has done in the last fiveyears?years?years?years?years?

You should get several answers tothis. After the first enthusiastic re-sponse, say, “Anyone else?” And wait forit.

The answers will reveal the heart ofthese people and may tell you volumesabout what makes the congregationtick.

20) Finally, consider making your20) Finally, consider making your20) Finally, consider making your20) Finally, consider making your20) Finally, consider making yourlast question some version of this:last question some version of this:last question some version of this:last question some version of this:last question some version of this:“What question did you expect“What question did you expect“What question did you expect“What question did you expect“What question did you expectfrom me tonight that I did notfrom me tonight that I did notfrom me tonight that I did notfrom me tonight that I did notfrom me tonight that I did notask?”ask?”ask?”ask?”ask?”

This is a variation of a techniqueused by Bill Cosby and Art Linkletter intheir (old) television work with chil-dren. At some point during the pro-gram, they would sidle up to the kidsand say, “Hey, what did your mothertell you not to say on television?” Theanswers were often hilarious.

Okay. Now….Okay. Now….Okay. Now….Okay. Now….Okay. Now….You certainly will not want to ask all

those questions, but just the few thatseem more appropriate. I suggest tak-ing your complete list of questions intothe meeting with you, and through theevening, mark off those that are an-swered earlier while circling the onesyou definitely intend to ask when giventhe opportunity.

Never forget that asking questions isan art.

When you ask something, phrase itsuccinctly and shut up. Do not continuetalking and offer alternatives and ex-planations and end up answering ityourself. The ability to ask a good ques-tion is a wonderful talent to possess.

God bless you. I hope things work outfor you.

No Help For The Bakers?(OneNewsNow.com)(OneNewsNow.com)(OneNewsNow.com)(OneNewsNow.com)(OneNewsNow.com) Texas lawmakers might be unable to act fast enough tolegally help owners of an East Texas bakery.

Edie and David Delorme own Kern's Bake Shop in Longview, Texas, where theyrefused to service a same-sex "wedding."

The offended men said they felt "dehumanized" by the rejection, the far-leftHuffington Post reported.

As Christians, the Delormes say using their skills to celebrate a relationshipforbidden by God is not a fit for them.

Jonathan Saenz of Texas Values says the couple also refuses to do alcohol-relatedcakes and other orders they find objectionable.

Those refusals are similar to a Kentucky t-shirt shop owner, who refused to maket-shirts for a homosexual parade. A judge ruled the owner did not refuse to serve thecustomers based on their sexual orientation but objected to the message of theproduct they requested.

Saenz, Jonathan (Texas Values)“I don't think the government should force peopleto be part of a particular event or ceremony when their particular products are beingshowcased in a way that violates their faith,” says Saenz “That's clearly what'shappening here.”

While Texas has a religious freedom law, it's not clear that the measure wouldprotect the Longview couple. As a result, Saenz says action is needed, and not justfor Texas bakers.

“(It’s needed) for business owners, for adoption agencies, for foster care and faith-based entities,” says Saenz. “We've seen them in other parts of the country, and thefolks that want to redefine religious liberty have made it clear that they want to tryand change things and attack people's religious freedom in the state of Texas.”

While Saenz wants the Texas legislature to act, it will be months before thathappens. The legislature will not convene for the next session until next year.

Zechariah RogersMy name is Zechariah Rogers. I am available for preaching opportunities or pastoral

work as the Lord leads. I am currently attending Southeastern Baptist College workingon a Bachelors in Christian Ministries. My home phone is 769-301-5004 and my cellphone is 662-372-5730.

John MillerBro. John Miller is available for pulpit supply. He has served BMA churches since 1984

and with the last 20 years in the Petal, Mississippi area. He served at Parkway Churchand Corinth Church. He may be reached at 601-545-7179.

AVAILABLE FOR SERVICE

South MississippiSenior Adult Conference

Tuesday, March 22nd - 9:30 A.M.

Big Creek Baptist ChurchSoso, Mississippi