ABA Meeting - Thursday Morning

The session was opened with song, Scripture reading, and prayer. Vice President Bro. Darrel Owens gave opening remarks and called for the report of the Baptist Sunday School Committee. The report was read and adopted.
The Business Manager, Bro. Wayne Sewell, gave the report concerning the business aspect of the operations in Texarkana. Various items were noted in these reports such as price adjustments, new equipment, sales in the Bookstore, 2011 VBS information, Spanish literature, etc. A motion and second was made to adopt the report. The motion passed.
Nominations were received for position of Business Manager. Wayne Sewell was nominated and elected.
The Editor-in-Chief, Bro. Larry Clements, gave the report concerning the literature aspect of the Baptist Sunday School Literature. An overview was given of VBS materials, the new Chosen studies, Sunday School material, Baptist Training Course materials, etc. A motion and second was made to adopt the report. The motion passed.
Nominations were received for position of Editor-in-Chief. Larry Clements was nominated and elected.
A motion and second was made to implement a 5% increase in literature prices. The motion passed.
A special prayer was held for the Business Manager, Editor-in-Chief, Baptist Sunday School Committee, and those who work in the Bookstore in Texarkana.
The proposed writers for all literature were given. All nominations were listed and approved by the messenger body. Due to the list of names, that information will be listed later.
Bro. Wayne Sewell addressed a question concerning equipment acquisition.
The election of the Baptist Sunday School Committee was brought forth. The list of those serving on the committee were given. Bro. Allen Hagood nominated Bro. Chad Graves in lieu of his own place. The nomination passed. Bro. Shipp nominated Bro. Ledbetter in lieu of his own place. The nomination passed. No other nominations were made. The 16 brethren that were listed were approved by the messenger body to serve on the Baptist Sunday School Committee for the coming year.
The new Standing Mission Committee gave a report from last night’s meeting. The report was adopted.
The following brethren were nominated for the 2011 Annual message: Billy Daniels, Carroll Kinley, Kirk Parnell, Paul Roberts, Bobby Sparks. Bro. Paul Roberts was elected. Bro. Bobby Sparks will serve as the alternate.
The following brethren were nominated for the 2011 Missions message: Caleb Wood, Gene Ray Ward, Livingstone Lambert, Bill Pennell, Jerry Baker, Stephen Massey, Kyle Lewallen, Mark Thornton, Walt Embry, Jason Palmer, Glenn Knight. Bro. Livingstone Lambert was elected. Bro. Caleb Wood will serve as the alternate.
The following were elected as officers for 2011:
President - James Calhoun
Vice-Presidents - James Crain, Darrel Owens, Joe Morrell
Recording Secretary - Terry Parrish, Lonnie Wiggins
Parliamentarian - David Robinson
Asst. Parliamentarian - David Butimore
Music Directors - Daniel Clark, Bill Crouse, Mike Paulk
The newly elected Baptist Sunday School Committee gave their report from this morning’s meeting. The report was adopted.
Director of Meeting Arrangements - Edgar Sutton
After closing remarks, the 2010 National Messenger meeting of the American Baptist Association was adjourned with a Scripture reading and prayer. (No afternoon session will be held due to all business being addressed by the end of the morning session.)

ABA Meeting - Wednesday Evening

The evening session was opened in song, Scripture reading, and prayer. After some remarks from President Copeland, the choir sang several songs of praise to the Lord. Bro. Edgar Sutton then brought forth the recommendations for the 2014 meeting place: Jacksonville, Florida; Lexington, Kentucky; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Daytona Beach, Florida. By vote of the messenger body, the 2014 meeting place will be Grand Rapids, Michigan. (The 2011 meeting place is St. Louis, Missouri. The 2012 meeting place is Fresno, California. The 2013 meeting place is Dallas, Texas.)
An announcement was made that all church letters must be received by July 30th in order to be included in the 2010 Yearbook.
A special Missions presentation (approximately 30 minutes) was then given. It was an incredibly moving, encouraging, and challenging presentation. Please pray for these men and their families as they serve the Lord around the world! A special prayer and missions offering was received after the presentation.
Bro. Alvin Dickerson, Missionary to Scotland, brought the evening message.
After the message, a few minor items of business were addressed and then the session was closed in prayer. Exhibits will remain open until 10:30 pm. Tomorrow’s morning session will begin at 9:15 am.

ABA National Meeting - Wednesday Afternoon

The proposed amendment to the Mission Policy was taken back up and voted upon. The amendment passed.
The Camp Report was given with Bro. Doug Curtis and Bro. John Pino giving reports about each camp. The report was adopted. The Camp Trustees were voted in with no change to the committee.
The Chaplaincy Report was given and adopted by the Messenger body. A call was made for more chaplains from the ABA. At this point, the ABA has 4 chaplains serving in the U.S. Military: 3 in the Army and one in the Navy. There are 4 seminary students enrolled in the Chaplain program of the U.S. Military. When these men finish their training, the ABA will be blessed with 8 chaplains serving in the U.S. Military. The ABA chaplaincy commission was asked by the U.S. Government for its opinion regarding the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. The following paraphrased resolution gives the summation of their response.
Paraphrased Resolution - Whereas on January 27, 2010 the President of the United States asked for the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy along with House approval and soon vote in the Senate, and whereas such a repeal would directly impact chaplains and their religious beliefs; and whereas such implications would directly violate the First Amendment rights of those chaplains and their denominational beliefs; etc.; be it further resolved that the ABA Chaplaincy opposes such a repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy; and whereas a copy of this resolution be sent to President Obama, Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, other such officials, and churches involved.
America the Beautiful was sung in response with a moment of silence to following. A special prayer was offered by one of the ABA Chaplains.
A motion and second was made for a special page of memoriam be given for Bro. Jearl Smith in honor of his service to the ABA Chaplaincy Commission.
The Chaplaincy Commission of Jearl Smith, Herbert Kitchens, Clyde Duncan, John Saunders, George Garner was given. Bro. Jearl Smith’s position is open because of his death. Bro. Charles Law was nominated for the position of Bro. Jearl Smith. This substitution was approved. The new Chaplaincy Commission of Herbert Kitchens, Clyde Duncan, John Saunders, George Garner, and Charles Law was approved.
The History and Archives Committee report was given and adopted. The History and Archives Committee has produced a special DVD of PDF files for all minutes from 1905-2009. The DVDs are available at the ABA meeting for $10. Afterward, the DVDs will be available through various committeemen and the bookstore in Texarkana but for a slightly higher price. The files are in PDF searchable format by topic and keyword. This is the first such compilation of minutes from the old General Baptist Association and the American Baptist Association.
Bro. Don Britton received a special recognition and award from the History & Archives for his commitment to the research, preservation, and study of Baptist history. Bro. Britton thanked the committee and the Messengers for such an honor.
Donald Britton, Michael Thompson, Larry Butte, Terry Parrish, Robert Ashcraft, Philip Pevehouse, and Larry Crouch currently serve on the History and Archives Committee. The same men were elected to serve on the committee for the 2010-2011 service year.
A motion and second was made to provide a page in the yearbook in honor of Bro. Leroy Polk due to his many years of service before his passing.
Law Enforcement Chaplains, Enrollment & Finance, Memorials, and other reports were given and adopted.
The Memorials committee honored the many brethren who have passed on to their reward in glory with a moment of silence.
The Resolutions Committee presented a resolution of thanks to the city of Charleston, WV, its representatives, local news affiliates, staff of hotels, convention center, and other business, the host pastors, host churches, and various other persons for their warm welcome and gracious help. This resolution was adopted with a standing vote.
Other report such as the National Women’s Auxiliary Report, National Music Director’s Report, Youth Report, and MBSF Report were given and adopted.
The meeting was adjourned until 6:30 pm.

ABA National Meeting - Wednesday Morning

The meeting began with Scripture, prayer, and various thoughts at 9:15 am. Bro. Stewart was called upon to read the minutes from yesterday’s meeting.
Bro. Ray Brooks, questioned the practice of the Standing Missionary Committee writing a church requesting for any name or request to be withdrawn for Missionary support. The concern is that such a practice may lead to further control or influence by the committee. The issue of concern refers to a divorced man serving as a Missionary supported through the office of Secretary-Treasurer. This issue is not addressed by the Mission Policy of the ABA.
A motion and second was made to approve the report of the Mission Committee meeting yesterday.
Nominations were made for the position of Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. Bro. Randy Cloud was nominated. Bro. Cloud was approved.
Nominations were taken for the Standing Missionary Committee (a committee of 25). Due to the amount of names and substitute nominations, no list will be given at this time.
Bro. Randy Cloud gave recognition to those who had served for many years: Bro. Charles Murphy (15 years) and Bro. Billy Sheppard (27 years).
All Missionaries supported through the office of Secretary-Treasurer of Missions in Texarkana were asked to come on stage for a special time of prayer.
Following the prayer, the Mattingly Family sang a special.
The following items were removed from the table to be considered as further items of business.
A motion and second was made for the recommendation of Bro. Kuk to be considered at this time. The motion carried. Bro. Kuk was added to the list of recommended Missionaries.
A motion was made by Bro. Murphy to take off a number of names (5-6) from the table to be considered for recommendation at this time. A second was made, and the motion carried. The Missionaries were added to the list of recommended Missionaries.
A motion and second was made for the recommendation of Bro. Leonel to be considered at this time. The motion carried. Bro. Leonel was added to the list of recommended Missionaries.
A motion and second was made for the recommendation of Bro. Roberts to be considered at this time. The motion carried. Bro. Roberts was added to the list of recommended Missionaries.
A motion and second was made for the recommendation of Bro. Ellery Mejia to be considered at this time. The motion carried. Bro. Mejia was added to the list of recommended Missionaries.
A motion and second was made for the recommendation of Bro. Williams to be considered at this time. The motion carried. Bro. Williams was added to the list of recommended Missionaries.
A motion and second was made for the proposed change to the Mission Policy to be removed from the table. The motion carried. (Discussion ensued but a vote was not taken due to a motion being made to adjourn. There was a second, and the meeting was adjourned until 1:20 pm.)

The exhibits will open at 11:40 am and be open until 1:15 pm. They will be open again this afternoon from 4:30-6:20 pm and tonight from 9:40-10:30 pm.

ABA National Meeting - Tuesday Afternoon & Evening

Tuesday Afternoon - 1:30 pm

Due to the Mission Committee business being handled so quickly in the morning session, no afternoon session of the Mission Committee was convened. An afternoon workshop, “World Missions Focus,” was held from 3:00-5:00 pm and was directed by Lynn Raburn. Four speakers were given approximately 30 minutes each to address different topics.

Tuesday Night - 6:30 pm

(Exhibits officially opened at 4:15 pm and remained open until 6:20 pm.)

The 2010 National Messenger Assembly of the churches of the American Baptist Association was officially opened. The evening began with a musical prelude followed by Scripture reading and prayer. After the prayer, the messenger body enjoyed the presentation of colors and the National Anthem. A prayer followed this patriotic time. A welcome to the city of Charleston, WV was given by the city representative with a response given by an ABA messenger. The proposed agenda was presented and adopted. Bro. Copeland (Texarkana) gave the President’s Address. Bro. Terry Parrish (Bryant, AR) gave the annual sermon. Following the sermon, the congregation was led in a hymn. Following the hymn any necessary business was addressed.
A motion and second was made to set aside part of the Mission Policy in order to consider Bro. Kuk in a subsequent session. The motion carried. The same motion was made for the following brethren: Bro. Ronaldo (spelling?); Bros. Ellery Mejia, Gomez, Hernandez, Castillo, Rodriguez and one other; Bro. Roberts; and Bro. Williams.
A motion and second to amend the Mission Policy was approved to be tabled until a subsequent session. According to the messenger giving this amendment, this is done to clarify a section of the Mission Policy.
Bro. Edgar Sutton presented the following locations as proposed meeting sites for 2014: Jacksonville, Florida (June 17-19); Lexington, Kentucky (June 17-19); Grand Rapids, Michigan (June 17-19); and Daytona Beach, Florida (June 24-26, 2014). A vote will be taken by the messenger body in the Wednesday evening session to decide at which site the 2014 meeting will be held, Lord willing. A question was raised concerning cities with international airports versus regional airports.
The 2011 meeting will be held in St. Louis, Missouri, Lord willing.
The meeting was closed with a Scripture reading and prayer.

Exhibits and booths remained open until 10:30 pm.

ABA National Meeting - Tuesday Morning

The Past President’s Breakfast, and the National Women’s Auxiliary Officers Breakfast both began at 7:00 am. The National Music Leaders Workshop began at 7:45 am, the National History and Archives Committee began at 8:00 am, the MBSF Council Workshop began at 8:00 am, and the Baptist Sunday School Committee began at 8:30 am. The ABA Camp Workshop began at 9:00 am.

The Camp Workshop began with Bro. Doug Curtis giving opening remarks and an opening prayer. After prayer, introductions were given. Bro. John Pino, superintendent of Pine Springs Baptist Camp (owned by the churches of the ABA), Laneville, TX, spoke about the needs and projects of that camp. As of now, the attendance at Pine Springs is higher than last year. Bro. Doug Curtis, superintendent of Bogg Springs Baptist Camp (owned by the churches of the ABA), Arkansas, spoke about the needs and projects of that camp. Other regional and local camps represented by their superintendents spoke concerning their needs and future goals. Questions and comments were fielded from those gathered.

The National Youth Meeting began at 9:30 am, and the National Women’s Auxiliary Workshop began at 10:00 am. The Missionary Committee meeting began at 10:00 am in the Coliseum.

Bro. Vance Nutt opened the Missionary Committee meeting. Bro. Randy Cloud reported on the Missionary Share Time held last night. There were 87 Missionaries sharing words about their respective works representing 17 countries and 26 states. Bro. Roger Stewart called the meeting to order and had the roll call. Bro. Cloud read the Report of the Secretary-Treasurer of Missions for the fiscal year of 2009-2010. For the fiscal year 2009-2010, $2,456,784.14 was given to help the missionaries preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Approximately 632 churches and individuals send mission offerings monthly to the office of Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. (Many, many churches send offerings directly to the sponsoring church instead of sending it through Texarkana.) The Thanksgiving Mission Offering was $283,642.06. For the past year, missionaries reported 15, 950 professions of faith, 3,605 baptisms, and many churches being established in Africa, Philippines, Mexico, Indiana, Georgia, and Wisconsin.
At the messenger meeting, 162 Missionaries will be recommended by sending/sponsoring churches to the messengers for financial support through the office of Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. (This does not include many late forms received.) These Missionaries represent 25 states and 24 foreign countries. (This is but a limited number of Missionaries representing the ABA. Many Missionaries are sent out through individual churches, local association, and state associations. At this time, a complete number of Missionaries sent out by ABA churches is unknown.)
With the monthly mission offerings currently averaging $184,000, and if no raises are approved for the missionaries for the 2010-2011 associational year, the mission offerings would need to increase $13,000 per month or 7% to meet the monthly pay out. (This does not include the requests received late.) If a 3% raise is approved for the full-salaried missionaries, the monthly mission offerings would need to increase $21,000 or 10% above the current monthly mission offerings of $184,000. The balance in the Mission Treasury at the end of May 2010 was $658,594.95.
Full salary is $3,346.00 per month for Interstate Missionaries. This does not include housing, gas, health, and other various allowances and support from sponsoring/sending churches.
The report was adopted by the Committee. A question was asked as to whether or not the information could be given for the late forms received, so information could be gathered before the evening meeting. Information was given to the committee.
Minutes from the Pre-Association Standing Missionary Committee in Texarkana in May were read. The newly recommended Missionaries were then covered. Bro. John Claypool and Bro. Danny Fudge are newly recommended Missionaries for Interstate on Designations.. Bro. Jay Ross is a newly recommended Missionary for Foreign on Salary. Bros. Albert Cabando, Javier Moreno, Dan Pettersen, Deepak Shankar, and Jose Zamarripa are newly recommended Missionaries for National on Salary. Bros. Mark Deleverio and Furlong Usher are newly recommended Missionaries for National on Designated Funds. Re-recommended Missionaries were covered.
Bro. Jeremiah Carson and his sponsoring church withdrew his re-recommendation.
Bro. David Law and his sponsoring church withdrew his re-recommendation for Interstate on Designations due to a “drop in missions giving due to him being divorced.” (He was approved at last year’s meeting with discussion. His divorce occurred before he was saved.)
All newly recommended Missionaries were approved. A motion was made and seconded that no raises be granted for those on salary.

All re-recommended Missionaries were approved except for those previously withdrawn and/or the following: Candelario Espinosa (withdrawn); Esteban Uc Kuk (withdrawn).

The meeting was adjourned at 11:30 am.

2010 ABA Messenger Meeting - Monday Night

The welcome was given to the messengers at 6:30 pm in the reception room for the 85th Annual Messenger Meeting of the American Baptist Association.

The Missionary Share Time began at 7:00 with the invitation given for any Missionary, Missionary Helper, or Church representative to present God’s work in their respective location. Each Missionary was allotted two minutes for their brief presentation. Local, Interstate, Foreign, and National Missionaries, etc. gave updates, announcements, and words of thanks to those present. Many gave reports of great success and churches being organized around the world. Others gave reports of needs for money and delay of churches being organized because of financial needs. The Share Time ended at approximately 9:30 pm.

The Schools Meeting (this is comprised of ABA Seminaries within the United States) began at 7:30 pm. The next ABATS (American Baptist Association of Theological Schools) meeting will be March 10-11, 2010 in Somerset, Kentucky. Currently, there are 23 schools within the ABATS fellowship in the U.S. Foreign schools are not represented in this group. The minutes and financial reports were given and adopted from the last meeting. Various business was discussed. The meeting ended at approximately 9:00 pm.

All meetings were adjourned. Various breakfast meetings will be held tomorrow morning beginning at 7:00 am. Other workshops and committee meetings will begin at 8:00 am.

(If any of the above information is incorrect, please contact me, and I will make the necessary changes.)

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Thursday Afternoon

The afternoon session began at 1:30 pm with a motion and second to add the Doctrinal Statement to the Articles of Agreement. The motion failed.

Nominations were then taken for the annual sermon to be presented at the 2010 Messenger Meeting to be held in Charleston, WV. The following men were nominated: Barry Carter, Philip Wysocki, David Proctor, Gary Copeland, Terry Parrish, and Gary Woodard. Bro. Terry Parrish was elected as the speaker with Barry Carter as the alternate.

Nominations were taken for the missionary sermon to be presented at the 2010 Messenger Meeting to be held in Charleston, WV. The following men were nominated: Alvin Dickerson, Randy Cloud (he asked for his name to be withdrawn and it was), Jeremy Valladares, Rusty Seer, Ernie Lawson, Mike Raines, Bro. G. (spelling the name is impossible from me - he is from Lithuania though), Marcus Nyenehtue, and Eddie Williams. Bro. Alvin Dickerson was elected as the speaker with Eddie Williams as the alternate.

Nominations were taken for the following offices:

President - Roger Copeland (elected).
Vice-Presidents (three to be elected) - Darrel Owens, Jim Crain, James Calhoun, Gerald Cummings (he asked for his nomination to be withdrawn and it was). Bros. Owens, Crain, & Calhoun were elected.
Recording Secretary (two to be elected) - Lonnie Wiggins, Terry Parrish, Mike Yoho. Bros. Wiggins and Parrish were elected.
Parliamentarian - David Robinson, David Butimore. Bro. Robinson was elected.
Asst. Parliamentarian - David Butimore (elected).
Music Directors (three to be elected) - Steve Albritton, Bill Crouse, Mike Paulk (all elected).
Director of Meeting Arrangements - Edgar Sutton (elected).

A motion and second was made for the salaries of the Recording Secretary, Director of Meeting Arrangements, and the Assistand Director of Meeting Arrangements to stay the same. The motion passed.

The ABA Credit Union Report was given and approved.

A motion and second was made to remove the Doctrinal Statement Amendment from the table. The motion failed.

A motion and second was made to removed the ABA Credit Union Report from the book. The motion passed.

Due to the meeting being through early, a motion was required for final adjournment. A motion and second was made to that effect. All in favor were asked to stand and thanks was given in prayer for the success, unity, and love demonstrated in the meeting.

The 2009 ABA National Messenger Meeting dismissed at 2:45 pm on Thursday, June 25, 2009.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Thursday Morning

The meeting was opened at 9:30 am with song, Scripture, and prayer. The Enrollment and Finance Committee gave their report. There were 1094 churches reported as of June 25, 2009. (More churches may be added up until July 15, 2009.) There were 956 messengers in attendance with an estimated 1,544 visitors in attendance. An estimated total of 2,500 people were in attendance at the 2009 Messenger Meeting. Missions giving totaled over $10,000,000 for 2008-2009 year (Many churches did not report a missions total, so this number will be much higher.) A motion and second was made to adopt the report. The motion passed.

The minutes of the Sunday School Committee were read and approved. The Business Manager report was given. A motion and second was made to approve the report. The motion passed. Pictures were shown of a new press installed in Texarkana. The Editor's report was given. A motion and second was made to approve the report. The motion passed. Information was given concerning the 2010 VBS, the "Chosen" home Bible study materials, the "Jerusalem Priority," and other new materials coming soon. Research is also being done on the feasibility of a college and career (or young adult) curriculum.

A motion and second was made to increase the price of literature by 5%. The motion passed.

A motion and second was made to give the writers a 10% raise. The motion passed.

A motion and second was made to give the Business Manager and Editor-In-Chief a 3% raise. The motion passed.

A motion and second was made to establish an equipment acquisition fund by charging an additional 5 cents on every item sold. The motion passed.

A motion and second was made to give the Secretary-Treasurer of Missions a 3% raise. The motion failed.

The writers for next year were presented and approved. The Sunday School Committee was presented and approved.

Miscellaneous reports were given. The meeting adjourned at 11:30.

The exhibit hall and booths were open from 11:30 am-1:20 pm.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Wednesday Morning

The morning session began with a musical prelude followed by Scripture reading and prayer. It was announced that Bro. Livingstone Lambert, Missionary to Tanzania, would not be able to be present and deliver the Missionary Sermon. Alternate, Bro. Carrion, will speak in his place.

Bro. Darrel Owens opened the Missions Meeting and Bro. Randy Cloud gave the Sec-Treas. of Missions report. A motion was made and seconded to adopt the report. It passed.

A plaque was given to Mrs. Wayne Harper in memory of her husband who served on the Missionary Committee until the time of his death. A standing ovation was given to show the messenger's appreciation for his service.

A motion and second was made to show appreciation to Bro. Cloud, Sis. Cloud, and Sis. Bull by standing ovation. The motion passed.

A short Missions video was shown.

The minutes from Tuesday's Missions Committee Meeting were read and adopted.

A separate vote was called for on Bro. John Steich. It was reported that the mission he is at practices open communion. There was much discussion concerning this issue and a vote was taken. The vote to take him off the list failed.

A separate vote was called for on Renato Rambaoa. It is reported that of the $700 monthly payout some of that money is being used to support ministry expenses. There was much discussion concerning this and the motion to reduce his salary to $500 per month passed. He will stay on the list.

There was no further discussion and the Missions Report was approved.

Nominations were taken for the Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. Bro. Randy Cloud was the only person nominated. He was approved.

The Standing Missionary Committee was elected.

Charles Murphy was replaced by Larry Albritton.
Billy Shepard was replaced by Robert Myers.
Wayne Harper was replaced by Eddie Addison.
Charles Moore was replaced by Kirk Pirnell.

The Committee now consists of the following individuals.
Larry Albritton, Paul Vance, Robert Myers, Roger Stewart, Jerry Baker, Curtis Brown, Edwin Button, Danny Carter, Jim Crain, Billy Daniels, Victor Guzman, Eddie Addison, Jim Jones, Don Justice, Charles Kennedy, Buel Lewallen, Kirk Pirnell, George Moore, Vance Nutt, John Sanders, John Schmid, Bryan Sellers, H. H. Strickland, Jewel Vance, Robert Williams.

A motion was made and seconded to remove the following individuals from the table (These were individual motions were made individually but will be listed together for sake of space.): Stacy Irwin, Marco Mejia, Bro. Corbales (spelling?), David Law. All motions passed.

Stacy Irwin was approved for full salary.
Marco Mejia was approved for full salary.
Bro. Corbales (sp?) was approved for $1,200 per month.
David Law was approved for designated funds.

Bro. Owens informed the messengers it was time for adjournment. Any other mission business would be brought forth in the afternoon session (1:30 pm).

The exhibits were opened from 11:30am-1:15 pm.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Wednesday Afternoon

The afternoon session began with discussion on Bro. Moreno.

A motion and second was brought forth to prohibit any missionary that has been divorced and remarried from receiving any support from the office of Secretary-Treasurer in Texarkana. MUCH discussion ensued and a motion to postpone the previous motion was made. A second was heard and MUCH discussion pertaining to the motion of postponing the previous motion was heard. After some time, a call for a vote was made. The motion for postponement passed 310-245. (This means that the original motion is dead and will not be reconsidered in this meeting.)

A special in song was given.

A motion and second was made to make additions to the statistical report for missionaries (churches started, churches disbanded, missions started, missions disbanded, etc.).

The Camp Trustees report was given and approved. Camp Trustees were elected. Bro. Pevehouse replaced Mike Raines. The Camp Trustees are as follows: Gene Smith, Bro. Pevehouse, Marion Reed, Rick Whicker, Mark Harris.

A resolution concerning Camp ownership was removed from the table. A motion was made and seconded to transfer ownership to Arkansas (Bogg Springs) and to Texas (Pine Springs). Discussion ensued with a vote being taken. The motion was defeated.

The following items are listed but not given full detail due to them being items of usual business.
Report and Election of Chaplaincy Commission.
Report and Election of History and Archives Committee.
Law Enforcement Chaplains Report.
MBSF Report.
Music Director's Report.
Ladies' Auxiliary Report.
Other Miscellaneous Business.

The meeting was adjourned to be reconvened at 6:30 pm.

The exhibits were opened from 4:15-6:20 pm.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Wednesday Evening

The meeting reconvened at 6:30 pm with a music prelude followed by devotional and prayer. A special time of music (30 minutes) was given by the Messenger Choir. A motion was made and seconded to accept nominations for the 2013 meeting place with a vote being taken until there was a clear majority. Rogers, Arkansas, Springfield, Illinois, and Dallas, Texas were the places pre-selected as meeting venues. Two complete votes were taken before Dallas, Texas was chosen by a vote of 676 to 458.

The Mission Committee Presentation gave wonderful words of encouragement to all and ended with the 191 Missionaries and their families supported through the office of Secretary-Treasurer standing at the front of the building. (The line of Missionaries and their families stretched from one end of the building to the other.)

At 8:20 pm, Bro. Carrion, Mexico, brought the annual Missionary sermon. Following the sermon, announcements were made. $10,933.75 was received in the special Missionary offering received Wednesday evening. Scripture and prayer were given and the meeting adjourned at 9:15 pm.

The exhibits opened from 9:15-10:30 pm.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Tuesday Evening

The evening's activities began with a musical prelude followed by a Scripture reading and prayer. After prayer, the Springfield, Missouri Veterans presented the colors. The assembly sang the National Anthem and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Bro. John Saunders, Colorado, led in a prayer for our nation and churches.

The messenger assembly was then welcomed by the Host Pastors and representatives from Springfield. A gracious response was given and the 2009 ABA National Messenger Assembly was officially convened. Bro. Edgar Sutton presented the proposed agenda which was adopted. President Roger Copeland was introduced followed by County Avenue BC choir specials. Bro. Copeland's presidential address was entitled "Revive Us Again" (Psalm 85:6). (The full address will not be posted until a later date. It can also be found in the 2009 Yearbook.)

Revive Us Again - Psalm 85:6

I. Recognition of the Past - vss. 1-3
A. Remember the favor of God - vs. 1
B. Remember the forgiveness God supplies - vss. 2-3

II. Request for the Present - vss. 4-6a
A. One source of revival - vs. 4
B. One prayer to pray - vs. 6a

III. Restoration for the People of God - vss. 6b-8
A. A rejoicing people - vs. 6b
B. A people at peace with the Lord and His people - vs. 8

A motion was made and seconded for the message to be printed in the yearbook. Motion passed.

The speaker for the annual sermon, Bro. Robert Myer, Maryland, was introduced by his son. Special music was presented by Gail Holt. Bro. Myer's sermon was on "The Amazing Providence of God."

The Amazing Providence of God - Romans 8:28

I. Biblical Examples of God's Providence
A. Joseph
B. Esther
C. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego

II. Some Examples of God's Providence in the Present Age

III. What Can We Expect in the Future Concerning God's Providence

A motion was made and seconded for the annual sermon to be placed in the yearbook. Motion passed.

President Copeland then called for the following committees: Enrollment & Finance, Resolutions, Memorials, Tellers.

A motion was made to set aside Article 1, Section 2 of the Missions Policy concerning the following brethren: Stacey Irwin, Javier Moreno, David Law, Bro. Corales (sp?), Marco Mejia. All motions were seconded and passed. (These motions were in effect tabled until Wednesday morning's session when they will be taken off the table.)

A resolution concerning Bogg Springs and Pine Springs being given to Arkansas and Texas churches respectively was presented and approved. This motion being tabled will be brought forth at a later date.

An amendment to Article 7, Section 2 (or 7?) and Article 9, Section 1 failed to pass.

An amendment to Article 3, Section 1 passed and was tabled until a later date.

An amendment to the Doctrinal Statement (two new statements) was passed and laid on the table until a later date.

An amendment to the Missions Policy brought forth by Bro. Brooks failed (a 2/3 vote was needed and was not achieved).

The meeting was then adjourned (9:15 pm) until Wednesday morning at 9:15 am.

Following this session, the booths and exhibits were opened.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Tuesday Afternoon Part 2

Following the afternoon session a special workshop, World Missions Focus, was held in the John Q. Hammons room of the University Plaza Hotel. The workshop was sponsored by Faith Baptist Church-North Little Rock as a part of Lynn & Brenda Raburn's World Missions Ministries. The meeting was co-hosted by East Somerset BC, Faith BC-Cabot, and Flatwoods MBC.

Bro. Dean Grigsby welcomed those in attendance and introduced the workshop and speakers. Bro. Rusty Teer, Thailand, spoke on "The Myth of The Hungry Heart." Bro. Daren Clements, Asia, spoke on "The Myth Of The Closed Door." Bro. Joel Cobbs spoke on "The Myth Of The Finished Task." Bro. Alvin Dickerson, Scotland, and Bro. David Helmick, Kosova, led in prayers for world evangelism. Bro. Randy Cloud, ABA, concluded and led in an invitation time of prayer. Music was provided by Precious Seed and Shawn Crane.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Tuesday Afternoon

The National on Salary (cont.) had the following discussion concerning: Bro. Solomon Travilla (cont.), Bro. Emmanuel Tejada, Bro. Solomon Travilla, Bro. Renato Rombaoa, Bro. Marcus Nyenehtue, Bro. Espinosa. Some discussion pertained to basic questions, others towards doctrinal issues, while some pertained to salary. The National on Salary were approved. The National on Designations were approved with the exception of Javier Moreno who was removed because of a change in location. He will be brought forth to be added again at tonight's meeting. The Missionary Helpers were approved.

During the afternoon session, questions arose concerning the authority of the Sub-Committee and certain other motions. Bro. David Smith also made a motion to add some statistical requests to the missionary form. This motion was called out of order by Bro. David Robinson, Parliamentarian, because the motion would have to be made at tomorrow's meeting.

A motion and a second was made to adjourn. Motion passed.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Tuesday Morning

The Missionary Committee meeting opened at 10:00 am with a welcome, specials in song, and a devotional by Bro. Billy Shepard of Texas. Following the opening remarks and ceremony, Bro. Randy Cloud brought the annual report of the Secretary-Treasurer of Missions for the fiscal year of 2008-2009. (The following is but a synopsis of the entire report. The entire report will be posted at a later date.)

For the fiscal year 2008-2009, $2,499,210.41 was given to help the missionaries preach the gospel of Jesus Christ (through the office of Secretary-Treasurer in Texarkana). Approximately 640 churches and individuals send mission offerings monthly to the office of Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. The 2008 Special Thanksgiving Mission Offering totaled $263,337.48. The Thanksgiving Offering was received from 29 states and 3 foreign countries.
For the past year, the missionaries have reported 22,605 professions of faith, 5.062 baptisms, 57,053 visits made, 55,945 personal presentations of the gospel, 17,661 sermons preached, and 16,321 lessons taught. Self-supporting churches have been established in Africa, India, Germany, Philippines, Mexico, Costa Rica, Texas, and Colorado. Missionary Joel Cobbs reports 24 churches organized in Africa. Missionary James Taylor reports the organization of one church in Africa. Bro. Sankya reports 3 churches organized in India. One church has been organized in Germany with many organized in the Philippines, etc.
185 missionaries will be recommended for support through the office of Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. These missionaries are serving the Lord in 26 states and 31 foreign countries. If all of the Interstate, Foreign, and National Missionaries are approved as recommended without any raises, the monthly payout will increase approximately $9,500.00. With any raise, the payout will, of course, increase. The balance in the mission treasury at the end of May 2009, was $683,383.19.

A motion was made and seconded for the report to be approved. The motion passed. A motion was made and seconded for no pay raise to be given to the missionaries this year due to economic issues. The motion passed. The minutes of the sub-committee meeting held in May was read and adopted.

The moderator, Bro. Charles Murphy of Texas, called for a vote on the newly recommended missionaries for interstate on salary. A note was made that Daniel Tijerina's sponsoring church withdrew his name. The vote was taken and the missionaries approved (Bro. Larry Frye and Bro. Danny Young). A vote was then called for on newly recommended interstate on designations. Bro. David Law's name was withheld from the voting due to a change in location. His name can be brought up at the Tuesday evening meeting for addition to the list. The vote was taken and the missionaries approved (Bro. Alan Schoeff, Bro. Kelly Stringer, Bro. Caleb J. Wood). A vote was then called for newly recommended foreign on designations. The vote was taken and the missionaries approved (Bro. David Bostick, Bro. Wally Mann). A vote was then called for newly recommended national on salary. The vote was taken and the missionaries approved (Bro. Romeo Dizon, Bro. Orlando Lastimosa, Bro. Fernando Pangilinan, Bro. Boyet Ricafrente). A vote was then called for newly recommended national on designated funds. The vote was taken and the missionaries approved (Bro. Aaron Teck). A vote was then called for newly recommended missionary helpers. The vote was taken and the missionary helpers approved (Bro. John Claypool, Bro. Roy Walls).

The following contains the re-recommended missionaries (which will not be listed individually except for cases of a separate vote being called). The Interstate on Salary missionaries were approved with the exception of Tom Patterson. His name was removed because he is now pastoring a church. The Interstate on Designations were approved. The Foreign on Salary were approved. The Foreign on Designations were approved. The National on Salary section had the following discussion concerning: Bro. Solomon Travilla. The meeting adjourned at 11:30 and was to reconvene at 1:30 pm.

ABA Messenger Meeting 2009, Springfield Missouri - Monday

The activities started at 6:30 pm at the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center. At 7:00 pm, the Missionary Share Time started and lasted to almost 9:30 pm. Each Missionary was given two minutes to share the work with which they are involved. The American Baptist Association of Theological Schools (ABATS) also met on Monday evening. The meeting began at 7:30 pm with most of the schools represented. The minutes from the January meeting held at Heritage Baptist Institute were read. A further informational report was given by Bro. Carl Fitzgerald, President of Heritage Baptist Institute, stating the goals of the January meeting and workshops. Each school representative was given an opportunity to give an update concerning the state of their respective school.

More information will be posted following the sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Day 4 - Report B

1:30 PM:

The session began with music and prayer and contained reports from the National Music Director's Association, the National Women's Auxiliary, and the Resolutions Committee. A standing vote of thanks was shown for the city of Spokane and its hospitality.

The following were elected as officers for 2008-2009:

President - Roger Copeland

V.P.s - Calhoun, Crain, and Owens

Speaker - Robert Myers

Alt. Speaker - Barry Carter

Missionary Speaker - Livingstone Lambert

Alt. Missionary Speaker - Carrion

Music Directors - Paulk, Albritton, and Crouse

Director of Mtg. Arrangements - Eddie Sutton

Asst. Dirs. of Mtg. Arrangements - Neal Sutton, Jerry Grimes

A standing vote of appreciation was given for now past president, Bro. Neal Clark, who served as president of the ABA for the last two years

All salaries were kept the same (as were the salaries for the Secretary-Treasurer of Missions, Editor-in-Chief, and Business Manager).

With a few closing remarks from the officers and other individuals, the 83rd messenger meeting of the churches of the American Baptist Association ended. Pray was offered for God's blessings upon every one's travels, upon their churches, and upon the work accomplished in Spokane.

Day 4 - Report A

9:15 AM:
The meeting began with Scripture, prayer, and music. The Editor-In-Chief and the Business Manager of the Baptist Sunday School Committee gave their reports which were adopted. A motion was made to increase the literature price by 7%. An amendment was made to that motion to increase the literature price by 10%. The amendment passed and the overall motion passed. This price effect will take place starting in the Winter Quarter (according to my understanding). A motion was made and seconded to authorize the SS Committee to increase the price of the literature throughout the year as the economy dictates. After some discussion, the motion failed. The SS Committee then recommended the writers for the coming year. The motion was passed (the office in Texarkana can provide you with the names). A motion was made for the Business Manager in conjunction with the SS Committee to produce a general financial report in basic format for information purposes of the messengers. The motion failed. (The Committee does produce an annual Auditor's Report available to everyone.)

Bro. Eddie Sutton spoke concerning the annual meetings and the hotel reservations. The attrition rate was very high this year and almost cost the association quite a bit of money. He encouraged all messengers to realize the business aspect of the association meeting.

The session adjourned for lunch at 11:30.

Day 3 - Report D

6:30 PM:

The session began with music, prayer, and a devotional. Music included many specials and a choir presentation. Following a short presentation, Fresno, California was chosen as the meeting place for 2012. (Springfield, Missouri will be the location for the 2009 meeting.)

The Memorial Committee spoke concerning all pastors that had passed away since we last met. Five past presidents of the ABA passed away last year. Combined, these men had over 320 years of ministry experience. A short presentation was given in remembrance of these men.

Following this presentation, the Missions Presentation was given by Dr. Randy Cloud. The missionaries, joined by their families onstage, were presented to the Messenger Assembly (194 missionaries through the office in Texarkana). An offering was then received ($6,003.83) while the 2009 VBS material was presented and the Olympic Bible project was presented.

At 8:50 PM, Bro. Jason Rigby, missionary to Chehalis, WA, brought a missionary sermon from 2 Timothy 3:15-17. We were dismissed at 9:30 PM.

Following the dismissal, Jen and I went to the Exhibit Hall to pick up more information concerning the 2009 Springfield, Missouri arrangements, etc. After speaking with fellow pastors concerning various business, Jen and I met up with Bro. Lynn Raburn and his wife, Brenda at approximately 10:30 PM. (It was such a joy to visit with them!) Finally, at midnight, Jen and I return to the hotel room and start finishing things up for the day.

Day 3 - Report C

1:30 PM:

The afternoon session began with prayer, music, and a devotional. The Youth Campgrounds Report was read and approved. The camp managers for Bogg Springs and Pine Springs spoke to the report. The camp trustees were re-elected.

The Chaplaincy Report was read, spoken to by various chaplains and military officials, and addressed by former chaplains. The report was then approved. "America The Beautiful" was sang and then a special time of silence was observed followed by a prayer of blessing for our military.

The History & Archives report was read, spoken to, and then approved. Bro. Terry Parish was honored for speaking at a 2007 celebration honoring Baptists in America ("300 Years of Baptist Associations in America"). He spoke concerning the legacy of Landmarkism in America at this event.

The Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Report was read and approved. The MBSF report was read and approved. The National Youth Meeting Report was read and approved. The ABA Credit Union Report was read and approved.

The Enrollment & Finance Committee reported 640 churches pre-registered with 150 registering at the meeting for a total of 790 churches sending in letters of association (very low number this year). $80,113 was given towards the meeting expense and $11,923 towards the Missions Committee expense. There were 356 Messengers pre-registered with 275 registering at the meeting for a total of 621 (very low numbers as well). [Total attendance will be determined after the Wednesday night service.] $10, 376,574.95 was given to mission work this year throughout various mission programs.

The Exhibit Hall has over 100 booths (low numbers again) containing ministry, mission work, publishing house, music, etc. information.

Day 3 - Report B

9:15 AM (cont.):

The meeting was very calm with no missionary brought up for a separate vote. (The questions concerning Bro. Jeremiah were answered yesterday and not brought up again.) Bro. Randy Cloud was re-elected as Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. The amendment proposed by Heritage MBC was taken off the table and will be referred to the churches of the ABA for the next year. At the meeting in Springfield, Missouri, this item of business will then be debated and voted on. (I have a copy and will discuss it later.) The second amendment to the Missions Policy of the ABA proposed by Pine Crest in Georgia was voted down and not taken off the table. (I have a copy and will discuss it later.) Later, a motion was made and seconded to report in the mission booklet the number of professions, baptisms, and amount of sponsoring church's support sent through Texarkana for each missionary. This motion failed. The session adjourned after a few other items were handled. After the session, we walked to Chili's for a quick lunch and then headed back for the afternoon session.