Greater Liberty Baptist Church is accepting resumes at this time for any candidates who are interested in pastoral leadership, ordained, and Baptist minister that demonstrates a committed life to God that reflects the qualities listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7, to pastor our church. All interested candidates, please submit a current resume to:

The Pulpit Search Committee
Greater Liberty Baptist Church
330 Chestnut Street
Lexington, KY 40508.

The church will not be responsible for travel expenses.

Resumes must be received no later than May 31, 2015.

Any questions, please contact The Pulpit Search Committee at (859) 252-2495

Elliott, Pastor Melford J.,

51, transitioned to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday May 10, 2015.

He served as the proud Pastor of The Greater Bethel Baptist Church in Akron, OH for over fourteen years.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend for 31 years, Jacqueline Elliott; sons, Earnest Maxwell (LaTonya) and Melford Elliott; his mother, Annie Christine Elliott-Summers; sisters Mary Ann Clark-Bivens (Bill), Ruth Caffey (Darrell) and Angela Elliott, brother William Nash (Vanessa); three grandchildren, Christopher Maxwell, Jazmine Collins and Tiffany Cone; one great-grandson, Isaiah Maxwell and special godson, Jewan Surles III; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral is noon Saturday at King Solomon Missionary Baptist Church, 1620 Anderson Street, burial Green Meadows Cemetery, visitation 10 a.m. – 12 noon Saturday.
– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/louisville/obituary.aspx?pid=174851888#sthash.xFHPEPND.dpuf

April 21, 2015

Greetings,

The Pastoral Search Committee, representing the membership of Second Baptist Church in Dowagiac, Michigan, is seeking a Pastor, called by God to serve as the spiritual leader of the congregation.  We seek a visionary with strong leadership skills who will preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, teach sound Bible Doctrine, engage in Pastoral Care Ministries, and provide spiritual leadership, development, and training.

Second Baptist Church has been a pillar in Southwest Michigan for the past 147 years.  During that time, this congregation has accomplished many tasks and led even more souls to Christ.  We would like the Pastoral Candidate to hold the potential of continuing on in this tradition…and much more!

Overview of Position and Responsibilities:

The Pastor is the spiritual leader of our flock; therefore, applicants must fulfill the requirements of a Pastor, teacher, leader, and caregiver.  The Pastor must be called by God, and the ideal candidate for the position of Pastor is one who:

• Teaches, preaches and leads the church toward continued spiritual growth.
• Serves as a model leader in worship, evangelism, discipleship, stewardship, missions, and ministry.
• Interacts effectively with our multi-generational congregation.
• Has a deep desire to serve.
• Enables persons to learn and understand deep spiritual truths.
• Builds relationships in which people are connected and care for one another.
• Provides leadership, a clear vision, and a compelling plan for the future of the church.
• Lives a lifestyle characterized by moral integrity.
• Demonstrates an understanding of church management.
• Provides Pastoral Counseling.
• Performs other duties that may be required.

The following duties are the ultimate responsibility of the Pastor but may be shared or delegated to others:

• Preach and teach the gospel by preparing and delivering relevant spirit-filled sermons.
• Plan and conduct the worship services
• Lead in administering the Holy ordinances of Baptism and Communion
• Lead and teach Bible studies and classes
• Provide Pastoral ministry to those experiencing illness, bereavement, or incapacitation or other conditions.
• Officiate at funerals, weddings, and baby dedications.

Qualifications

• Candidate must be filled with and led by the Holy Spirit.
• Candidate’s personal character and financial standing must be above reproach both inside and outside the church.

Page 1 of 2

Candidate should:

• Be born-again, baptized believer in Jesus Christ with qualities and characteristics reflected in

1Timothy 3:1-7, Galatians 5:22-23 and Malachi 3:10.

• Be a Licensed/Ordained Minister in accordance with Baptist Doctrine and Procedures.
• Demonstrate sound knowledge of Biblical Doctrine.
• Be a visionary, strategic thinker and planner with sound judgment and discernment.
• Must be ethical, possess strong faith, integrity, and dedication, and live a lifestyle that reflects God.

The Application Process

Pastoral candidate should submit the following information:

• Cover Letter
• Current resume with a summary of any relevant ministry, professional and educational experiences
• Copies of awarded degrees from Accredited Institutions (if applicable)
• Copies of ministerial license and ordination certificate
• Letters should be from Clergy(2) , Lay person(1) and a personal reference from someone

who knows you well.

Please mail the required documents above to:

Second Baptist Church

Attention:  Pastoral Search Committee

P.O. Box #892

Dowagiac, MI 49047

Or email to secondbaptistdowagiac@yahoo.com

The appropriate information from all interested and qualified persons should be received before May 31, 2015.

If you have any questions please email to secondbaptistdowagiac@yahoo.com

Yours in Christ,

Second Baptist Church

Pastoral Search Committee

203 S. Paul St. ~ Street Address

P.O. Box #892 ~ Mailing Address

Dowagiac, MI 49047

Email: SecondBaptistDowagiac@yahoo.com

“Holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.” Titus: 1-9 (NKJV).

Christian Fellowship of Love Baptist Church

Detroit, Michigan

PASTOR JOB DESCRIPTION

Christian Fellowship of Love Baptist Church of Detroit, Michigan established in 2006 is seeking a spirit filled licensed Ordained Baptist Minister to serve as a full time Pastor for our congregation.

Christian Fellowship of Love Baptist Church

In a tragedy that has been well documented in the media, the Reverend Clementa Carlos Pinckney, senior pastor of the historic “Mother” Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Charleston, South Carolina, will be laid to rest today at 11:00 a.m. Several news organizations, including PBS.ORG will be live-streaming/broadcasting the service. The President of the United States, Barack H. Obama, will be delivering the eulogy. 

The official obituary:

 Funeral Services for The Honorable Reverend Clementa Carlos Pinckney will be held Friday, June 26, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the T.D. Arena at the College of Charleston, 301 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina, with burial in the St. James A.M.E. Church Cemetery, 5344 Highway 41, Marion, South Carolina.

Senator Pinckney will lie in state in The Rotunda of the South Carolina State House, Columbia, South Carolina, on Wednesday, June 24, 2015, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. He will also be viewed on Thursday, June 25, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the St. John A.M.E. Church, 2740 Tillman Rd., Ridgeland, SC. A family visitation will be held Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church, 110 Calhoun St., Charleston, SC. Leevy’s Funeral Home, Columbia, SC is in charge of arrangements.

The Honorable Reverend Clementa Carlos Pinckney, was born on July 30, 1973, the son of Mr. John Pinckney and the late Theopia Stevenson Aikens of Ridgeland, South Carolina, and was educated in the public schools of Jasper County. He departed this life on Wednesday, June 17, 2015, along with eight other saints of God, studying the Word of God at the Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church, in Charleston, South Carolina.

The Honorable Reverend Pinckney graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Allen University, Columbia, South Carolina. While at Allen University, he served as freshman class president, student body president, and senior class president. Ebony Magazine recognized the Honorable Reverend Pinckney as one of the “Top College Students in America.” He earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina and a Master’s of Divinity degree from the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, South Carolina. The Honorable Reverend Pinckney was actively working on a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Reverend Pinckney answered the call to preach at the age of thirteen and received his first appointment to pastor at the age of eighteen. He loved the Lord, the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and the people of God. He served the following churches: Young’s Chapel A.M.E.-Irmo, SC, The Port Royal Circuit-Beaufort, SC, Mount Horr A.M.E.-Yonges Island, SC, Campbell Chapel A.M.E., Bluffton, SC and also served as the Presiding Elder of the Wateree District. He was serving with distinction as the pastor of the historic Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church in Charleston, South Carolina at the time of his untimely death.

The Honorable Reverend Pinckney was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1996 at the age of twenty-three. In the year 2000, at the age of twenty-seven, he was elected to the South Carolina State Senate. He was the youngest African-American in South Carolina history to be elected to the South Carolina State Legislature. He represented Jasper, Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, and Hampton Counties. As a community servant, he served on the Board of Directors of Southern Mutual Church Insurance Company and was a distinguished member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

The Honorable Reverend Clementa Carlos Pinckney leaves behind: his beloved wife, Jennifer Benjamin Pinkney; daughters, Eliana Yvette and Malana Elise Pinckney; his maternal grandmother, Gracie S. Broome, of Mullins, South Carolina; his fathers, John Pinckney and Lyneair Aikens, Sr., both of Ridgeland, South Carolina; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank Bejamin and Cleo M. Benjamin, both of Jackson, South Carolina; six siblings: Ralph Stevenson, of Lacey, Washington; Carmelleana Dupont, of Ridgeland, South Carolina; Kenya (Arica) Pinckney, of Grafenwoer, Germany; Lyneair (Lynea) Aikens, Jr., of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; Johnette (Dexter) Martinez, of Irmo, South Carolina; Marvin Aikens, of Savannah, Georgia; one brother-in-law, Eric (Leila) Benjamin; his grand aunts Lee and Louise Pollins, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; his grand aunt and uncle, Donald and Emma Stevenson, of Ridgeland, South Carolina; four long-time friends who were as close as brothers, the Reverend Dr. Kylon Jerome Middleton, the Reverend Chris Vaughn, the Honorable Reverend Joe Neal, and the Honorable Gerald Malloy; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

– See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/thestate/obituary.aspx?n=clementa-carlos-pinckney&pid=175147838#sthash.MYC5vfwy.dpuf

The First Baptist Church of Lexington, North Carolina has officially opened its pastoral search process. First Baptist is seeking a pastor who will serve as the spiritual leader and overseer of the church and demonstrate the qualities of I Timothy 3.1-7 and Titus 1.5-9.

The church was organized in 1867 and continues to thrive today. Worship, outreach and community involvement are a few of its strengths. The membership consists of approximately 430 members.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of five years pastoral experience.
• Candidate should be married.
• Should have at least a Bachelors Degree; Masters Degree is preferred.
• Starting salary will be determined based on educational level and experience.
• Each candidate must consent to a criminal and background check.
• Candidate should be able to effectively preach the Gospel, but also possess effective people skills.

These qualifications are preferred, but interested persons who do not meet all of these qualifications may still to apply!
All interested persons should mail a resume’ or curriculum vitae, along with a recent preaching video and three references to:

First Baptist Church
P. O. Box 589
Lexington, NC 27293

ATTN: PASTORAL SEARCH COMMITTEE

Any materials received after July 31, 2015 will not be considered.

Vacant Pulpit – Ebenezer Second Baptist Church

Lincoln Heights, Ohio (suburb of Cincinnati) 45215

Submission Deadline: August 31, 2015

Vacancy Announcement: Transitional Interim Pastor Position available

Ebenezer Second Baptist Church is seeking nominations and applications for the position of a Transitional Interim Pastor. This individual shall be called by God to be the spiritual and administrative leader of the congregation until the search for a Pastor is complete. The transitional interim pastor is responsible to God and the Church to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, to preach and teach the Bible, to promote Christian leadership and to engage in pastoral care of the congregation.

The Transitional Interim will be accountable to the church through the deacon body and cannot be a candidate to become the pastor of the congregation. He will serve until either the church calls a new pastor or the congregation deems his services no longer needed. He will assist the Pastor Search committee upon request, which may include training and consultation; however he must neither interfere with nor unduly influence the work of the committee.

Ebenezer Second Baptist church was organized in 1928 by Bishop H. Smith. The church grew greatly over the years and has moved from its original location at Dorothy St. & Lockland Rd to its current location of 10054 Dixie Court in Lincoln Heights, Ohio. Ebenezer has been blessed to have had only eight pastors in its 87 year history.

Today, Ebenezer Second Baptist church has limited ministries to serve the many needs of the members and the large African American community that surrounds the church.

Our mission is to exalt the Savior, to edify the saints, to evangelize sinners, and to elevate society.

Our congregation believes the successful transitional interim candidate must possess the following qualifications:

• Must be ordained and knowledgeable in the Baptist doctrine
• God fearing and devoted in the ministry
• A spirit filled speaker and presenter of the Gospel 1Timothy 3:1-7 & Titus 1:5-9
• Able to provide a teaching and learning experience to the congregation
• Skilled in church management and supervision
• Demonstrate visionary leadership to grow church membership
• A capable counselor
• Interested in youth and senior oriented programs
• Possess strong written and oral communication skills
• Value interpersonal relationships with the various ministries of the church
• Aspire to establish, foster and maintain a strong sense of community
• Recognize and actively promote the gifts and talents of the church body
• Be above reproach in personal character and financial standings both  inside and outside the church
• The equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered on an individual basis.

The preferred candidate will have obtained a degree from an accredited college or university; and have experience as an Associate or Assistant Minister, with related progressive experience and/or training.

The ideal candidate will have seminary training and be committed to continuing education to maintain and enhance ministerial and management skills.

Interested applicants should submit the following:

1. Cover letter
2. Updated resume (detailing listing of ministerial and pastoral experience and accomplishments)
3. Picture
4. Media sample of a sermon presented within the past three months
5. Copies of diplomas, degrees, ministerial license, ordination certificate with the appropriate seal
6. Four references – 2 from a Pastor/Clergy, 1 Lay person, 1 Personal

Completed application packets must be received by August 31, 2015 to be considered.

Submit to:

Ebenezer Second Baptist Church – Pastor Search Committee

10054 Dixie Court

Lincoln Heights, Ohio 45215

Attn: Search Committee

by Robert Earl Houston

A buzz, a very annoying and disturbing buzz, has been created by the producers and crew of a proposed television series entitled, “So, You Think You Can Preach?”

Some of us are not amused.

The premise of this television series is to take ministers and have them compete before a panel of preachers (what preacher in his or her right mind that would participate on either side of the table is mind-boggling) and then, in reality television fashion, moves on to “the next round.”  The “big win” includes the opportunity to preach in a mega-pulpit (at least one) across the country (mind you, a mega-church in the USA is 2,000 members or more). It’s been called, by it’s hosts, as a “family show.”

Really?  This show should be shut down.  My problem with this is more theological.

First, What Signal Are We Sending To Young Preachers? It is bad enough that we’ve got a generation of preachers that run the gamut from gifted and skilled to uncommitted and untrustworthy. We are now telling young preachers, you no longer need the counsel and confines of your pastor and home church; You don’t need Elijah anymore; You don’t need a practicum of learning in a smaller, friendlier environment anymore; You don’t need personal interaction with your shepherd in a field anymore; You don’t need study you need style; You don’t need an outline you need a helluva close; You don’t need meat when gravy will fill a belly. We are saying now that your business card and marketing skills are more important than your apprenticeship and training. There is no way a pastor who really cares about his or her associate ministers would allow them to participate in this foolishness. Conversely, as Dr. Tolan Morgan once stated, this is a generation of preacher that not only has no father in the home, they reject having one in the pulpit.

Second, What Signal Are We Sending To Church Members? The “television-cation” of the black church is disturbing. This show, obviously targeted at the black church, is another device to make fun or poke fun or misinterpret the church. When you watch movies, the preacher is preaching while the choir stands throughout the sermon, or the preacher is some fried-chicken eating, Cadillac driving, individual with issues; They make fun of our shouts; They make our psalmists into artists; They take handfuls of preachers and lift them up as if they are the rule and not the exception; and our precious members come to church to hear our choirs compared to what they just heard on Sunday’s Best; they hear our preachers with the scenes from “The Real Preachers of (location)” still within their conscious; they watch our worship while Medea and ‘dem still dance like sugar plums in their heads. Our presentation to our church members should be that our worship is sacred and not stupid; That it’s spirit driven and not performance driven; And that we are not in a contest with each other in the spreading of the gospel.

Third, What Signal Are We Sending About Mega-Churches? Ahhh . . . the prize! We want these young, unseasoned, unproven, preachers to “win the opportunity” to preach at a mega-church – when the truth of the matter is that less than 5% of all churches are in the mega-church category. So, let’s say “Minister M.M.” wins the competition and preaches at a “mega church” . . . then what? OK, you’ve got that on your resume – but so what? Churches don’t look for pastors because of where they preached, they look for pastors because of WHO CALLED THEM to preach. I have applauded (and have dear friends) who pastor larger congregations, but I equally applaud (and have dear friends) with those men and women who pastor congregations, in the words of Dr. M.V. Wade, Sr. “they may not be mega, but they’re major.” The goal of young preachers is not to set your sights on being a mega-pastor, the goal is to be a servant.

I call upon my fellow pastors, denominational leaders, and the Body of Christ at large to insist that your sons and daughters in the faith refuse or recant their participation. The harm that this show will create is not worth it to the body of Christ. And then, let us get back to doing what the Lord called us to do – ministry that matters.

Rev. Dr. J. Carlton Allen passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2015 at the age of 71.

Longtime community leader and San Antonio pastor preached the gospel of Jesus Christ over 55 years and for over 48 years, Allen has been pastor of New Mount Pleasant Baptist Church at 1639 Hays St.

Allen, 71, gave his first sermon as a 16-year-old before a reported 300 people at Greater Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Galveston. His late father pastored that church.

After attending Bishop College in Dallas, Allen filled several leadership roles in the National Baptist Convention of America, Incorporated International and locally in the Baptist Ministers Union of San Antonio.

He’s been chairman of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Commission, been inducted into the Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers at Morehouse College in Atlanta, and is in the Who’s Who In Black San Antonio.
Funeral services are as follow, as announced by the Church:

As we mourn the passing of our beloved Senior Pastor Doctor J. Carlton Allen, Sr., we thank God for his life and legacy.

Viewing will be as follows:

Thursday, August 27th from 4pm-8pm at the New Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 1639 Hays Street, San Antonio, Texas 78202.

Interment: Meadowlawn Memorial Park Cemetery

ADDED INFORMATION at 9:07 p.m. EST

Arrangements entrusted to Lewis Funeral Home, 811 S W W White Rd, San Antonio, TX 78220 (210) 227-7281. http://www.lewisfuneralhome.com

Doctor John Carlton Allen, Sr.
December 7, 1943- August 23, 2015

Doctor J. Carlton Allen, Sr, was born in Galveston, Texas to the parentage of the late Reverend Felder and Anjell Allen, and accepted the call to the ministry in August 1960, at Greater Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, in Galveston, Texas, Reverend F.A. Allen, Pastor.

Doctor Allen is a product of Bishop College, Dallas, Texas

Doctor Allen enjoyed forty-eight years of Pastoral Leadership at the New Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, San Antonio, Texas and fifty-five years of a national preaching ministry.

Doctor Allen was married to the late Alice Marie Geters Allen for forty-nine years who he loved and cherished.

He leaves: Three sons, Reverend Renard Darnell, Sr. (Debra), John Carlton II (Yvella), and Reverend Joel Christopher (Jacqueline), four grandchildren Reverend Renard Darnell (Jasmine), Dominique Ulishas, John Carlton III and Jordan Chere, and three great-grand children, Kennedy Anjell Denise, Renard Darnell, III. and Sydney-Marie.

A viewing will be held Thursday, August 27th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the New Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 1639 Hays, San Antonio, Texas, 78202.

The Celebration of Life will be held Friday, August 28th at 11:00 a.m., at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 1001 North Walters, San Antonio, Texas, 78202. Doctor Kenneth R. Kemp, Pastor.

Servant of God WELL DONE!!!

Local Arrangements by Mainland Funeral Home, La Marque, Texas

Please see the Pastoral Search Announcement below:

M. Ollie Baptist Church

by Robert Earl Houston

A tall cedar has fallen on the preaching landscape of the United States, as the Lord has called home his servant, the Rev. Dr. Gardner Calvin Taylor on Easter Sunday, April 6, 2015. He was 96 years old.

Dr. Taylor was world-reknown for his preaching gifts and was dubbed “The Dean of American preaching” by Time Magazine.  He was born June 18, 1918 and graduated from Leland College and Oberlin Graduate School of Theology.

He was called a “National Visionary” by the National Visionary Leadership Project for “his use of metaphor, dramatic timing and biblical truths to weave a seamless narrative in his sermons exhibit(ed) his mastery of the technical aspects of preaching that have inspired both laymen and clergy alike. Many have been entranced and transformed by Taylor’s oratorical gift.”

Dr. Taylor was the only child born to Reverend Washington and Selina Taylor in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His father died when he was 13, however, he influenced his son’s preaching style.  As a young man, he had hopes of becoming a lawyer and it wasn’t until he survived a serious car accident that he experienced his call to ministry and realized God’s claim on his life.

Instead of attending the University of Michigan Law School, he went to Oberlin in 1937 where he met his wife Laurabelle Scott. They married in 1940 and had one daughter.  While in school, he pastored Bethany Baptist Church in Oberlin from 1938 to 1941; the Beulah Baptist Church, New Orleans, LA, 1941-1943; the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Baton Rouge, LA, 1943-1947. In 1948 he became pastor of Concord Baptist Church at the age of 30, which at the time had 5,000 members. By the end of his tenure, church membership exceeded 14,000. Under his leadership, the church build a home for the aged, organized a fully-accredited grade school and developed the Christ Fund, a million-dollar endowment for investing in the Brooklyn community.

As a denominational leader he sought the presidency of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. He ran against the incumbent president, Dr. J.H. Jackson, who had differing views about the Civil Rights movement led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his supporters, of which Dr. Taylor was one. Following very controversial proceedings, Dr. Jackson was declared president and in Cincinnati, the other faction organized that Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc.  Several years later, Dr. Taylor became President of the Convention and was honored as the President Emeritus unto the time of his passing.

He received numerous awards and honors including the Presidential Medal of Freedom presented to his by President William Jefferson Clinton.

He served as the senior pastor of Concord  for 42 years and retired 25 years ago in 1990. He was in demand as a preacher world-wide and authored several books, include the six-volume series, “The Words of Gardner Taylor.” HIs wife Laura Bell passed away on February 5, 1995.  He later married Phillis Strong. His daughter is Martha Taylor Lacroix.

I had the privilege to serve as the Webmaster of the Progressive National Baptist Convention during the 50th Anniversary of the Convention in Washington, DC, and Dr. Taylor was present at the Convention. He gave words of wisdom and I stood there in awe as he sat in his wheelchair and dispensed wisdom to a crowd that was completely in awe and in silence, soaking up his wisdom. He shared a great line: “Some young pastor asked me Dr. Taylor what should be my goal as a young pastor? I looked at him and said, live to be an old pastor.”

At the time of his passing he was residing in Raleigh, North Carolina with his wife Phillis. I wrote this on Twitter: “Dr. Gardner Taylor was to preaching what paint was to Picasso, what a needle was to a record album, and what a lyric was to a song.”

HOMEGOING ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN ANNOUNCED AS FOLLOWS:

Thursday, April 9, 2015
Christian Faith Baptist Church, Raleigh, North Carolina
Viewing 6 – 8 p.m.

Sunday, April 12, 2015
Concord Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York
Wake 5 – 8 p.m.

Monday, April 13, 2015
Concord Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York
Viewing 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Homegoing Service 11:30 a.m.

Sources:
– Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc.
– Wikipedia
– National Ministries.org
– YouTube
–  National Visionary Leadership Project

by Robert Earl Houston

Often times, we in the modern church have a tendency to celebrate only the successful.

We celebrate and program those of “mega status” and we celebrate (rightfully) their accomplishments. The crowds. The traffic. The lights. The celebrity of it all.

However, I think we do ourselves a disservice when we celebrate the celebrities of the Kingdom and overlook those who are in the trenches, below ground, who may not have the five star worship experience – but they are solid in the faith.

For years I attended the WHW and E.K. Bailey Conferences which are mostly populated by pastors and ministers who are not household names to the nation, but they are household names in their communities. Some of them pastor and work full-time jobs. Some of them pastor in cities with less than 500,000 in populations. Some (like me) are in a “in-between” community – it’s not the city, but it’s not the rural area.

But all of us have to prepare sermons each week. All of us have to prepare Bible Studies each week. All of us have to visit the sick and shut in. All of us have to burn midnight oil and balance the life of ministry, family, and at the same time maintain a balance focused.

There are pastors and ministers that you’ve never heard of that can “preach the horns off a billy goat.” My former pastor, Bishop Darryl S. Brister used to say that “most preachers are just one exposure away from greatness.” I honor today those who are not in the mega churches but their pulpits are major, in the words of Dr. Melvin Von Wade, Sr.

There are pastors and ministers that are theological geniuses, counseling experts, entrepaneurs extraordinaire, gifted teachers, with congregations of less than 150, who won’t ever make it to TBN or BET. They won’t be on the Preachers of Multnomah County or the Preachers of Fox County or the Preachers of Abilene, but they are solid, solid preachers.

I’ve pastored two congregations in very large cities – Porltand and San Diego; Served a congregation on staff in Nashville. I’ve pastored in a large city – Fresno; and now I pastor in an “in-between city” albeit a state capital city – Frankfort, Kentucky; There is a dynamic in all five cities – there are preachers of every stripe, talent, gift and ability. Some of who pastor congregations that are not large in membership, but the pastoral preaching and teaching they receive is off the charts.

So, while we celebrate those on thrones, I pray we celebrate those in trenches.

YOUR COMMENTS ARE WELCOMED.

Dr. Samuel E Thornton Detroit, MIchigan

by Robert Earl Houston

Dr. Samuel Eugene Thornton, 90, went home to be with the Lord on April 22, 2015.  He served as pastor of the Derrick Memorial Baptist Church for over 35 years until his health failed.

Dr. Thornton leaves to cherish his memory: Wife, Helen Thornton; Son, Pastor Matthew J. (Nell) Thornton; Daughters, Veronica (Ronald) Thornton-Littleberry, Monica (Patrick) Holiday-Goodman; 16 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Final arrangements entrusted to the Barksdale Funeral Home, 1120 E. State Fair, Detroit, Michigan 48203.  Fax: 313-368-7428.

Homegoing Services have been scheduled as follows:

PUBLIC VISITATION – Friday, May 1, 2015
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Derrick Memorial Baptist Church
2048 East Seven Mile
Detroit, Michigan

FAMILY HOUR – Friday, May 1, 2015
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Derrick Memorial Baptist Church
2048 East Seven Mile
Detroit, Michigan

FAMILY HOUR – Saturday, May 2, 2015
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Derrick Memorial Baptist Church
2048 East Seven Mile
Detroit, Michigan

HOMEGOING SERVICE – Saturday, May 2, 2015
11:00 a.m.
Derrick Memorial Baptist Church
2048 East Seven Mile
Detroit, Michigan

INTERMENT – Evergreen Cemetery, Detroit, Michigan

MEMPHIS – For the last two days, I have had the privilege of attending the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., the “mother convention” of the African-American Missionary Baptist world. NBCUSA was birthed in 1880 (which is the date also accepted by two other national conventions). This year’s session was the first annual session under the leadership of Dr. Jerry Young from Jackson, Mississippi.  I have a few observations on the meeting:

First, I was VERY IMPRESSED by the quality and depth of the President’s Annual Message. Dr. Young gave a dichotomistic presentation – he began by introducing his family, his church family, paid homage to the past presidents on the platform (Dr. W.J. Shaw, Dr. Julius Scruggs). In a very classy moment, he saluted those men who were his opponents for the Presidency last year and called their efforts as “offering themselves to lead the convention.” He called out their names and it was a great moment. His annual message was a classic. He dropped nuggets while casting the first portion of his vision for the NBC. Paramount in this year’s message was the call to unity and even suggesting that those states with multiple NBC Conventions would consider pooling their efforts. He envisioned State Conventions as identifying themselves with the convention (i.e., “The Arizona National Baptist Convention”) which drew applauds of approval by the body. His call for unity was heard loud and clear and he embraced denominationalism and wants the convention to think in those terms. His call for the convention to stop “sheep shuffling” (transfer growth). Notable quote: “We’ve gone from 280 churches to 11 per 100,000 people in the last 100 years.” He suggested that we don’t have too many churches – we need more churches planted.

Secondly, the Convention had great attendance numbers. The Memphis location was ideal for those not only flying but also driving (preferred method by many). The weather was, for the most part, pleasant (except for Wednesday when it rained cats and dogs). Memphis is a tourist town – from the Lorraine Motel to Graceland to many great restaurants, etc. The local newspaper, the Memphis Commercial-Appeal reported that 50,000 persons were in town for the convention and not to mention, Memphis is an NBC city.

Third, I admired the diversity of the programming. There were preachers of all ages that participated on the program and in auxiliary settings. It was good to see a move to inclusiveness of ages and that went from the sessions even to late night service. I’m not a fan of conventions that bring in a multiplicity of guest preachers and never utilize their own – and that’s all three levels – District, State and National. In this session there were no “guest preachers” because of the depth of the bench of the NBC.

Fourth, the young preachers are back. I’ve been at a few of the sessions in the last few years, but this year it just looked like there were more younger preachers/pastors that were in attendance. As a side note, I had the opportunity to talk with a few of the younger pastors and some who even took photos with me (I guess I really am 55 now – smile). The only way the conventions will survive is when you can look at in the audience and see a kaleidescope of preachers of all ages. Otherwise, the next session could be the last session of a convention body.

Conclusion: The NBC is in the midst of a new day experience. They are envisioning an exceptional future. Congratulations to President Young and his team. The Convention will meet in Birmingham, AL January 11-14, 2016 for the Mid-Winter Board Meeting; 111th Annual Session of the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education will be in Tampa, FL June 20-24, 2016; and the 136th Annual Session will be in Kansas City, MO, September 5-9, 2016.

Let me also thank all of the pastors, preachers and laypersons who came up to me and expressed their appreciation for the Wire, the Sermon Sharing Service, the Vacant Church List, and were genuinely concerned about my health. Thanks be to God for everyone who said “I’ve been praying for you.” It touched me greatly and I’m very appreciative.

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

FULL TIME SR. PASTOR

NEW CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH

3975 Concord Avenue – Detroit, MI  48207

Email Address:  ncbcpastoralopening@comcast.net

New Calvary Baptist Church of Detroit, Michigan , organized in 1949, is seeking a full time Sr. Pastor who is called by God.  The Senior Pastor must be a spiritual and administrative leader of the congregation.   We are currently accepting applications for this position through October 31, 2015.

Principal Pastoral Duties:

• Preaching and teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ
• A Pastor with strong leadership skills to grow church membership and the proficiency to resolve disagreements
• Actively participate and provide a spiritual vision to increase attendance in Church School, Bible Study, Prayer meeting Evangelism and Community Outreach
• Design and implement plans to educate and involve new members in ministries of the church
• Establish educational and other programs for the development of the children, youth, seniors and adults of the church
• Officiates weddings, funerals and baby dedications
• Administer the Ordinance of the Lord’s Supper; support and commit to the Church’s mission statement and By-laws
• Conducts Quarterly Business meetings
• Meets regularly with Deacons and Trustees
• Meets monthly or as needed with the Church Musician

Pastoral Qualifications:

• Biblical knowledge and belief in prayer
• Clear understanding of the Baptist Church Doctrine
• The ability to communicate effectively God’s Word with textual scripture
• A gifted teacher who enables persons to learn and understand deep spiritual truths
• An effective communicator of well-prepared sermons
• Must have a clear vision for the future of the church
• Ability to work with and lead Deacons, Trustees and all Ministries of the Church
• Ability to mediate and resolve conflict easily
• Develop relationships within the congregation that promote compassion and love
• Foster collaboration with all types of Christian churches
• Ability to be specifically focused on and engage with both the youth and senior members of the church
• Demonstrate community involvement

HOW TO APPLY:

All interested and qualified persons must submit an initial candidate package consisting of the following documentation:

• Completed New Calvary Baptist Church Pastoral Application
• Current Resume
• Cover Letter
• Copy of ministerial license and ordination certificate
• Copy of degree(s)
• Recent color photograph – “Head Shot” (Format: JPEG 5×7 or 8×10)

Entire application package must be typed in the format as presented (fill-able PDF provided) and submitted to ncbcpastoralopening@comcast.net.   Only one submission will be accepted.  Incomplete packages will not be considered.    Deadline for submission has been extended to October 31, 2015.

No phone calls will be accepted

All information submitted will be treated as confidential.  Additional information may be requested and/or required.

FINAL CANDIDATES MUST CONSENT TO:  REFERENCE CHECKS, AN EDUCATION/CREDENTIAL VERIFICATION, A CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECK, A DRUG TEST AND A CREDIT AND FINANCIAL HISTORY REVIEW.

Originally published in the National Baptist Union-Review:

The Star of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church of Ossining, NY is presently accepting applications for the position of pastor. The Church was organized November 12, 1890, and has a rich history of doctrinally sound preaching, teaching, youth ministry, and community involvement. Star of Bethlehem serves approximately 250 members. The church seeks to continue to build upon their rich legacy with a pastor who exemplifies the principles outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.

Pastor Qualifications
– Be an ordained Baptist minister
– Believe and adhere to the practice of Baptist doctrine, ordinances, and polity
– Have a master’s degree form an accredited seminary or college
– Have at least five years of pastoral experience in congregational preaching and teaching, administrative and organizational leadership in a church setting, and strong community involvement.
– Be a visionary leader who will grow the church membership that is rooted in the Word of God
– Promoting ministering to the social and spiritual needs of a diverse community
– Have strong written and oral communication skills
– Be able to apple principles of financial management
– Possess strong interpersonal skills
– Embrace the vision for the Body of Christ and engage others in the achievement of common goals
– Be goal-oriented and have a progressive attitude
– Be experienced in leading ministry teams as well as participating within those teams

Submission: The following must be submitted by September 30, 2015:
– Completed application and recent color photo
– Cover letter and resume
– Copy of ministerial license and Certificate of Ordination
– Published works (if applicable)
– CD of or link to recent sermon

Submission and Contact Information:
Star of Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church
Attention: Pastoral Search Committee
PO Box 532
Ossining, NY 10562
E-Mail: starofbethlehem.pulpitcommittee@gmail.com

Originally published by the National Baptist Union-Review