We’re nearly halfway through 2020, “a year that will live in infamy.” Global pandemic, check. Community discord, check. Economic recession, check. Denominational decline and debate, what’s new. Upcoming presidential election, (insert choice of words here).
While many wish to reboot 2020 or time jump to 2021, I’d like you to see how God is at work through the churches of GTBN and across Southern Baptist life. It’s time for some good news.
Pending Executive Board approval, GTBN will soon celebrate two new church plants! Providence Church in Beaumont, led by Church Planter Brian Allen, is the first daughter church from Cornerstone Church Mid County. Brighter Day Ministries, led by planting pastor Darrell Anderson, is a new work now partnering with Gateway Baptist in Port Arthur, and will begin soon meeting in their facility.
As I’ve shared my involvement in recent weeks with Central City Baptist in Beaumont, helping them assess their future, to date four GTBN congregations have expressed interest in partnering to revitalize this congregation!
The Network continues resourcing Cross Media Ministries and the New Covenant Church in Haifa Israel, providing crucial funding at a time when government policies have hindered their work making disciples among Arab peoples.
GTBN continues efforts to strengthen churches in Belize through ministry training and completion of church facilities.
During the COVID 19 pandemic, through our partnership, pastors and ministry staff have worked together to adjust ministries, develop alternatives, and restore public gatherings.
Nationally, the International Mission Board celebrated sending 61 new missionaries across the world. You can view the virtual sending celebration here.
In the midst of COVID, Disaster Relief ministries from both state conventions responded to Onalaska (including a team from Calvary SETX), among other places. Apparently the weather doesn’t wait for pandemics to pass. Praise God for volunteers who go.
And so far, for the year, GTBN finances remain “in the black”. While giving to the Network declined during the season when churches were not meeting, conservative spending and God’s provision have allowed ministries to continue unhindered. I’m grateful to the Lord for His provision, and for your church’s continued investment in our shared ministry.
I’m sure I’ve left something out, but here’s what you need to see. In the midst of community unrest, pandemic, denominational debate and political uncertainty, God continues His work through the cooperation of your church and mine. While the crises of 2020 are all genuine concerns worthy of response, they cannot impede the mission of God, especially when God’s people remain engaged with the mission.
I’ve said it before. We’re better together.
If you agree, like the post and share. Leave a comment to share what we can celebrate about God’s activity through your church.
Until next time!
Bro. Jim