News

Few pastors throw their hat into a political race. But many engage in politics in other ways, both in the public square and in church sanctuaries.

“Ministry is not a vocation, it’s not an occupation, it's a calling,” states a senator from Oklahoma. Others see running for office as part of the process of living out their faith.

American Baptist Churches of the Great Rivers Region (Missouri and Illinois) upended the traditional tithe of 10 percent by giving 90 percent of a recent bequest to the denomination’s International Ministries for overseas missionary work.

Churchnet directors elected Brian Ford as the organization’s executive director-elect and named longtime staff member Brian Kaylor as associate director on Sept. 10 during their annual retreat at Windermere Baptist Conference Center, according to a news release.

The Missouri Baptist Foundation lost its final appeal Sept. 20 in the legal action filed against it by the Missouri Baptist Convention 14 years ago. As a result, current trustees will be required to surrender governance to MBC-elected trustees.

As a young man, Robert L. “Bob” Perry wanted to be an architect, but he believed his Ozark upbringing made that dream impossible. Instead, his Ozark qualities have made him an architect of leadership foundations for church leaders and a promoter of following dreams.

As a large group of Americans, the so-called “Baby Boomers,” have impacted U.S. society, culture, politics and religion for decades. With the oldest members of that famed generation now turning 70, the Baby Boom generation is poised to leave another mark as they redefine what senior adults look for in life and from churches.

Thanks to medical advancements — along with some other factors — people are living longer.

For those 85 and older, the expected number will more than triple. Because of this increased lifespan, churches will likely find a growing number of senior adults in their communities. 

As the director and founder of Safe to Sleep, Romona Baker (left), a former public school teacher and member of University Heights Baptist Church in Springfield, sometimes describes her directorial position like a roller-coaster ride, but there is no doubt that she is God’s person for the demanding ups and downs.

Communications Assistant Jan Conley, who joined Word & Way’s staff 18 years ago, has left to accept a position with the Cole County Collector of Revenue In Jefferson City, Mo.