ECON rescheduled for March 9
LITTLE ROCK – Following a January weather cancellation, the Evangelism Conference (ECON) has been rescheduled for March 9 as a one-day gathering designed to encourage and equip
February 13, 2026
LITTLE ROCK – Following a January weather cancellation, the Evangelism Conference (ECON) has been rescheduled for March 9 as a one-day gathering designed to encourage and equip
From planning to follow-up, Arkansas Baptists’ block party workshops are helping churches transform fun neighborhood events into meaningful ministry.
You are invited to join pastors, church staff, missions leaders, and everyday church members for a practical, inspiring day focused on helping your church move from interest
Spring offers a natural moment for churches to re-engage their communities with intentional gospel focus. The Spring Outreach Strategy is designed to help churches move from prayer to action to celebration. This Spring Outreach Strategy is built around four connected components—each simple on its own, but powerful when practiced together: Who’s Your One, Serve Local, Big Day, and Statewide Baptism Sunday.
Scheduled March 7 at Immanuel Baptist Church and the City Center in Little Rock, Lead Defend and Lead Defend Foundations equip the next generation to
Adapted from the Fall/Winter 2025 edition of the Ouachita Circle “I love Chapel.” I overheard one student say this to another as we walked into Jones Performing Arts Center on
Religious freedom is not a “side issue” to Christian higher education. It is the soil in which Christian belief, scholarship, worship, discipleship, and service can flourish unconstrained and without reprisal. When
CABOT, Ark. – Worship leaders, musicians, and media teams from across the state are invited Saturday, Feb. 21, to First Baptist Church in Cabot for the Arkansas Baptist Worship Conference, a
Due to a forecasted weather system expected to impair travel across Arkansas, the Statewide Evangelism Conference (ECON) scheduled Jan. 26-27 has been canceled. “This decision was not
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Baptists’ giving through the Cooperative Program topped $2.4 million in December – marking the third-highest month since 2016. The $2,436,069 million given in December 2025
Newly appointed missionaries share a little of their testimony and work they will do with more than 13,000 Southern Baptist messengers and their guests on
Tim Noel, Director of Church Partnership & Mission Advancement Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries On multiple occasions, I have shared that I love history, especially the
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. –Arkansas Baptists are invited to gather Jan. 26-27 at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock for the annual Arkansas Baptist Statewide Evangelism Conference (ECON). This free, two-day
My husband, Robbie, is always on the lookout for “good wood.” On our drives outside of town, he often points to places where he can find dead pine logs that render hearts rich with
Neftali Alverio Jr., vice president of Technology and Digital Innovation at Lifeway, speaks next to Dr. Katie Fruge, director of the Center for Cultural Engagement and The
In November, Fellowship Southern Baptist Church merged with First Baptist Church in Hardy, keeping the First Baptist name and heritage. (Submitted) The Rocky Bayou Baptist Association (RBBA) is
By Emily Smith, ABSC Abuse Prevention + Response Consultant I’m sure you’ve seen the commercial of the first-time mom whose stroller is completely loaded down with everything imaginable
Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Executive Director Dr. Mark Dance has officially kicked off his Arkansas Baptist Listening Tour, meeting with leaders in the Washington Madison and Great
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) is hosting an AI Conference to discuss best practices for Artificial Intelligence (AI) usage in the church on Dec.
Loyd and his wife, Rebecca, visit with guests at his retirement celebration. Staff photo by Mary Alford FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – After 45 years of faithfully
Church and community partnerships are vital to the mission and ministry of Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries (ABCFM). These relationships have allowed us to expand into a statewide ministry, providing trusted, affordable counseling through more than 45 church-based locations. Our Markham Central office, now serving as our statewide hub, was once a church campus gifted to ABCFM. Church partners have also made it possible for us to offer private foster care across Arkansas, opening Christ-centered homes for children during their most vulnerable seasons.
The Missions Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention recently partnered with the churches of the Red River Baptist Association to hold the annual Fall
It’s fall, and Arkansas Baptist churches across the state are celebrating the season and sharing the love of Jesus with their neighbors. They’re planting seeds of the Gospel through fall festivals, trunk-or-treat events, and other seasonal activities.
The 2025 Pastors’ Conference was held Monday, Oct. 20, at First Baptist Church in Russellville.
(Submitted) There is a new executive director at Camp Siloam. Camp Siloam Board of Trustees Chair Bobby Clark made the announcement Tuesday during the Arkansas
Messengers raise ballots during the 2025 ABSC Annual Meeting. (Cassidy Higgins/ABSC) RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas Baptists gathered in Russellville Oct. 20-21 for the 172nd Annual
RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Since January, a network of Arkansas Baptists has been prayerfully and diligently constructing a strategy on church revitalization – Renew Arkansas. Arkansas
Ladies fellowship Monday during the Ministers’ Wives Conference. (Cassidy Higgins/ABSC) RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Ministers wives from across the state on Monday had the opportunity to
Moises San Martin speaks to attendees of Mission Connection event on Sunday evening before ABSC Annual Meeting. RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas Baptists on Sunday had the
Warrior in prayer. Friend. Mentor. Encourager. Spiritual giant. Biblical scholar. Those are just a few of the words used to describe Bro. Don Moore, who
A rendering of the future FBC Batesville church building. (Submitted) BATESVILLE, Ark. –First Baptist Church in Batesville recently celebrated the groundbreaking of its new 26,000-square-foot
LITTLE ROCK – Anyone hungry to be in the presence of the Lord is invited to a night of worship and prayer on Nov. 9
Pro skateboarder, Jud Heald, a special guest at a One Day skate park activity in Silver City, talks with three skateboarders about competing for prizes.
POCAHONTAS, Ark. – Current-Gaines Baptist Association (CGBA) celebrated the 50th anniversary of the merger of two Baptist associations – the Gainesville Baptist Association and the Current River
JONESBORO, Ark. – Hundreds of Arkansas Baptists could be found ministering to the community throughout the Jonesboro area on Saturday, Oct. 4, as they participated
College students gathered at Camp Paron recently for a BCM Fall Retreat. (Submitted) PARON, Ark. – More than 300 college students gathered this past weekend,
Laura Bramlett has been named the next Arkansas Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) executive director.
Cory and Stephanie Epps lead worship during the 2025 Arkansas Baptist Women Conference. More than 1,000 Arkansas Baptist women gathered Saturday, Sept. 20, at Geyer
RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The 172nd Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will take place Oct. 20-21 at First Baptist Church in Russellville.
When it comes to church finances, trust is everything. Every dollar given in tithes, offerings, or designated gifts is an act of worship, and our
Chris and Jordan Drye pray with their son, Landen, at Sunday evening’s prayer gathering. (Staff photo by Mary Alford) WHITE HALL, Ark. – For the
Acts 4:20 says, “As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” That is the theme for this year’s Dixie Jackson
Camp Paron hosted an ABSC Hispanic Church Planting Retreat in August. By Andrew Campbell, Camp Paron Manager PARON, Ark. – We had a fun but
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Baptist Women are invited Sept. 20 to Conference, a one-day event designed to equip and encourage women of every generation
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. –Multiple pastors, church planters, and lay leaders gathered this past weekend at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building for Heart and
(Photos by Luke Dawson) DAVIS, Okla. – More than 100 college students from across Arkansas recently traveled to the Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center near
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) met Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the Convention office in Little Rock.
PARON, Ark. – Hispanic church planters gathered over the weekend, Aug. 15-16, at Camp Paron for a spiritual retreat, where they were refreshed and re-energized
During the 2024 Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Annual Meeting, messengers gave final approval of a recommendation from the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws Committee
Each August, the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) provides an opportunity for its Board of Directors to experience, in-person, the work and ministry of the agencies
Dr. Mark Dance has been selected as the next executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
Volunteers came together at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention office on Monday to pack materials for churches to use to promote the annual Dixie Jackson Arkansas Missions Offering (DJAMO).
Newly appointed missionaries share a little of their testimony and work they will do with more than 13,000 Southern Baptist messengers and their guests on
The Prayer Gathering has gone regional with two locations this year. “For the last 11 years, Arkansas Baptist ministers and staff have gathered in Little
Over the past years, I have served as a trustee for the Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. Nominated by our Association and
Photos by Alex Blankenship/ABSC We joyfully concluded an incredible week of JoyWorks and PraiseWorks camp on Friday, July 18, 2025. This year, over 900 campers—from
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Missions Team has hosted six Medical + Dental Clinics so far this year, resulting in more than 50 professions
Arkadelphia, Ark. – Super Summer Arkansas recently wrapped up on the campus of Ouachita Baptist University, where numerous students made life changing decisions for Jesus.
A camper cheers as her group enters for lunch on Wednesday, June 25, during Super Summer at OBU. (Mary Alford/ABN) Arkadelphia, Ark. – Hundreds of
Participants of Engage Missions Camp serve at a local food bank. (Alex Blankenship/ABSC) PARON, Ark. – More than 100 students and adults gathered at Camp
Students use Legos to build something related to a Bible verse, Matthew 5:1-2, during Building Foundations at FBC Mena. (Screenshot) MENA, Ark. – Located in
I was having a conversation with a friend in our church years ago. The church was looking to change Sunday morning worship times. Our purpose
Earlier this month, I was encouraged after attending the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting in Dallas as it served as another reminder of the Lord’s
When it comes to church finances, being clear, honest, and organized isn’t just good business; it’s a reflection of our faith. Churches are entrusted with
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) volunteers quickly responded to provide aid in McCrory on Monday, June 16, after a widespread outage left many in the
DALLAS – A quick response kitchen trailer of the Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) was a prominent sight this week in the exhibit hall of
We live in a time that often emphasizes individual success, personal achievements, self-interests, and self-centered feelings. There is a constant urge to prioritize personal goals
DALLAS, Texas. – Thousands of Baptists gathered in Dallas, Texas, this week for the 2025 Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting & Pastors’ Conference. As of
Paragould pastor Laramie LeQuieu will be nominated to serve as president of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) during the Annual Meeting set for Oct.
ENGAGE Missions Camp is set for June 16-20 at Camp Paron. The camp combines biblical teaching, worship, evangelism, fun, and fellowship with hands-on ministry opportunities
Submitted photo shows downed trees, damage to structure. As Arkansas continues to get hit with severe weather, Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) continues to serve
LITTLE ROCK – More than 400 people from 54 churches spent Saturday, May 17, at the Little Rock Zoo having fun and learning about missions
Kibler Baptist Church in Alma celebrated 24 baptisms on 2025 Statewide Baptist Day. (Facebook) Arkansas Baptist churches reported a 14.5% increase in baptisms last year
MCGEHEE, Ark. – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) recently deployed to McGehee to assist with the recovery of homes flooded on April 5 following torrential
Pastor Ryan Scantling visits with Rhonda and David Graham, associational missionary, while Pastor Laramie Lequieu and Bobby Thomas, Arkansas Baptist Foundation president, visit in the
GOULD, Ark. – Seventeen inmates at the Varner Unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections, a high security prison in Lincoln County, donned caps and
By Ryan Ropp, LCSW, ABCFM Director of Connected Families “God in His holy dwelling is a father to the fatherless and a champion of widows.
Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him,
More than 70 Arkansas Baptists recently gathered in central Arkansas on May 1 for an Abuse Prevention + Response Conference hosted by the Arkansas Baptist
We at the Arkansas Baptist Foundation are seeing a rise in a troubling trend: check fraud. In recent months, there have been increasing reports of
SEARCY, Ark. – Arkansas Baptists gathered in Searcy on Sunday to celebrate what God is doing around the state. Arise, an Arkansas Baptist State Convention
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Annual Meeting will feature a new schedule this year. On Tuesday, April 29, the ABSC Executive Board approved a
The team prays over a pastor in the Dominican Republic. (Submitted) A team of Arkansas Baptists recently traveled to the Dominican Republic where they made
Thank you! Those two words were drilled into my brother and me by our parents. Yes sir, no sir, yes ma’am, no ma’am, please, and
One of the most common phrases I hear from Arkansas Baptists about their finances and estate planning is some version of “I don’t need to
This article first appeared in the Spring 2025 edition of Arkansas Baptist Life. The word “camp” evokes images of long summer days in a wooded
SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Communications Team won a grand prize award as well as 14 other awards in various categories
VBS is a timeless tool to intentionally reach your church and community with the Gospel. Studies show that we are in a crisis of evangelism.
This article first appeared in the Spring 2025 edition of Arkansas Baptist Life. It was written by Emily Smith, ABSC Abuse Prevention + Response Consultant.
LITTLE ROCK – The Operating Committee of the Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) is beginning its search for the next executive
Hannah Lasley poses for a photo with students during a recent vision trip to Liberia, West Africa. (Submitted) Eleven Arkansas Baptists from three different churches
Each spring for the past 16 years, student groups from across the state have come together in April for a weekend of missions and ministry
Lightstock photo April is Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time for churches to come alongside vulnerable families with hope, support, and action. The Arkansas Baptist State
LITTLE ROCK – Aubrey Lee, an 11th grader from Grandview Baptist Church in Berryville, has been involved with Bible Drill for nine years. Bible Drill
From Texarkana to Jonesboro, Arkansas Baptist Women’s (ABW) Ministry Network Gatherings will take place on Thursday, April 24 in regional areas around the state. The gatherings
I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for the work of Dr. Rex Horne. Serving in the role of Chair of the
This coming Sunday is Easter Sunday. As I have grown older, my perception and understanding of Easter has grown dramatically. This article will focus on
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Evangelism + Church Health Team is welcoming two new members to its service to Arkansas Baptists. On Wednesday, April
Osceola Area team missionaries canvas a neighborhood. (Facebook photo) Cross Church middle school students from all three campuses recently traveled to Mississippi County for a
Dr. Rex Horne is beginning the process of transitioning out of the role of Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) executive director. During the Operating Committee
More than 200 Arkansas Baptist college students from around the state recently traveled to Panama City Beach, Florida, to spend their spring break serving others
More than 200 volunteers from at least nine churches came together on Saturday, March 22, to orchestrate a block party at Abundant Life Christian Baptist
At Williams Baptist University, we are breaking new ground in Christian higher education with the launch of a new Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Business. Starting
As a licensed professional counselor, I am frequently asked the question, “How do I get my teenage daughter/son to talk to me?” During the season
Arkansas Baptists, ages 20-32, are invited to the Young Adults Conference April 11-12 at Cross Church Pinnacle Hills in Rogers. The event is designed to
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention’s Spring Outreach Strategy kicked off Sunday as pastors were invited to share the message of John 3:16 on March 16.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) volunteers have spent the week serving as the hands and feet of Jesus in Northeast Arkansas. Severe storms swept through
Sending church representatives attend a workshop during the Send Network Assessment Retreat in Little Rock. (Mary Alford/ABN) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Church planting candidates gathered
By Heather Maino, LCSW, Director of Counseling, Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries Struggle is real! God is real! How do we struggle with addiction,
217 newly endorsed church planters gathered at Send Network Orientation at the North American Mission Board (NAMB) building in Alpharetta, Ga., last week. The diverse
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) volunteers have deployed to northeast Arkansas following the severe storms that swept through the area Friday evening into Saturday. The
(Submitted) While the flood waters may have receded, the effects and need for aid remain in areas of Kentucky and West Virginia that were left
Students encourage one another at Lead Defend 2025 in Little Rock. (Photos by Cassidy Higgins/ABSC) LITTLE ROCK – More than 1,900 students, young adults and
A new Arkansas Baptist cowboy church is taking shape at the corner of Highway 52 and Highway 425 in Hamburg. The idea for White Horse
Worship leaders attend a Worship Leaders Roundtable on Feb. 27 in Conway. (Cassidy Higgins/ABSC) Worship leaders recently gathered in Conway for a regional Worship Leaders
HEBER SPRINGS, Ark. – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) recently partnered with Mountain Top Cowboy Church in Heber Springs to host a Medical-Dental Clinic
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) has an upcoming training scheduled for March 15 at Nettleton Baptist Church in Jonesboro. The training provides an opportunity to
Patrick Henry, Treasurer/CFO, Arkansas Baptist State Convention As we begin the third month of the year, church leaders find themselves in a unique financial season.
Arkansas Baptist churches are invited to participate in the Arkansas Baptist State Convention’s Spring Outreach Strategy, a comprehensive initiative designed to help churches engage their
Arkansas Baptists gathered for an Abuse Prevention + Response Conference on Feb. 10 at First Baptist Church in Fayetteville. An event of the Arkansas Baptist
JoyWorks and PraiseWorks worship arts camps have become powerful equipping tools for the state as children and students are discipled as the next generation of
More than 100 Arkansas Baptist women’s ministry leaders on Saturday gathered at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention in Little Rock to be encouraged and refreshed in their leadership journeys
Photos by Kerry Rodtnick BENTON, Ark. – More than 200 students gathered at First Baptist Church in Benton Jan. 31 to Feb. 1 for PraizFest
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The 2025 Lead Defend apologetics conference is just around the corner. Lead Defend and Lead Defend Foundations are scheduled March 8 at Immanuel Baptist
LITTLE ROCK, Ark – Tim Wicker has been named director of Send Network Arkansas. Wicker, who most recently served as the Arkansas Baptist State Convention
Several Arkansas Baptists gathered at Williams Baptist University on Saturday, Feb. 1, for EQUIP, a conference designed to encourage, strengthen, and equip leaders in their ministry.
Sermons from the Evangelism Conference are available on the ABSC website.
“Then he [Jesus] said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few. Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to
As Ouachita Baptist University has posted its highest spring headcount in more than 30 years, the continued enrollment growth reflects Ouachita’s commitment to being academically
Arkansas Baptists filled The Venue at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock on Monday as they gathered for a pre-con workshop held prior
A group of Arkansas Baptists recently traveled to South Florida where they visited with and heard the hearts of church planters.
Perception Artist Sean Emory trains adult church volunteers on how to share the gospel. (Alex Blankenship/ABSC) VILONIA, Ark. – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) recently
Campus ministers from community colleges and smaller college campuses around the state gathered in Little Rock this weekend to attend the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Community College Winter Workshop.
Arkansas Baptist women’s ministry leaders on Feb. 8 are invited to be encouraged and refreshed in their leadership journeys. At Leadership Collective, a one-day
Prior to the annual Arkansas Baptist State Evangelism Conference (ECON) on Monday, Jan. 27, Lee Strobel will lead an apologetics study, focusing on defense of
Editor’s note: 3:16 on 3/16 is part of Arkansas Baptists’ Spring Outreach Strategy. Click here for more information on the four components of this strategy
Students and leaders from the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith BCM pose in New York during Christmas break mission trip. Photo submitted Ministry didn’t
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers are ready to serve. (Photo submitted) Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) is serving up warm food and God’s love to
Lightstock image Editor’s note: Heather Noel, Arkansas Baptist Children and Family Ministries director of communications, contributed the majority of this article. At Arkansas Baptist Children
New year’s resolutions have been around as long as the new year has been observed I imagine. We make them, break them, laugh, and write
Whether full-time, bi-vocational, or volunteer, EQUIP Conferences are designed to encourage, strengthen, and equip leaders in their ministry. The first EQUIP Conference of the year
David McKinney and Cross Church Worship lead in worship in this photo from 2023. Our annual Arkansas Baptist State Evangelism Conference (ECON) promises to be
A group of University of Arkansas Baptist Collegiate Ministry (UA BCM) students recently served in the Marion and West Memphis area for Christmas in the
Arkansas Baptists have a lot to look forward for 2025. A few events to mark on the calendar are: Evangelism Conference The 2025 Statewide Conference
From the deployment of Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief’s first all-women chainsaw unit to the new Missions U training, Arkansas Baptists had a lot of news to share in 2024.
CONWAY, Ark. – Conway Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) students were treated to pancakes, a hug and an encouraging word on Monday, Dec. 9, as they
Central Baptist Church in North Little Rock Pastor Wyman Richardson, right, prays during a missions trip to Swerve Church in Brooklyn, New York. (Submitted). The
LITTLE ROCK – Morgan Fulcher has joined the Evangelism + Church Health Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) as the new children and
Annual events are most times anticipated, though some are dreaded. I will not get into tests, physicals and maybe a few difficult family situations. Let’s
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) has finalized regional training events for 2025. Trainings will be: ABDR extends the love of Christ to disaster survivors by
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its regularly scheduled Quarterly Board Meeting on Thursday, November 14th at the Arkansas Baptist
Crosses carved in a stump serve as a reminder. Photo from ABDR Facebook Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) recently wrapped up a five-week deployment to
Each year, churches from across Arkansas gather their students for a weekend of worship and worship equipping. We will gather on the campus of First
Shown left to right, Jay Ham, Joe Day, Rick Miller, Lisa Miller, James Kendig MCGEHEE, Ark. – In May 2023, Rick Miller was asked by
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will
Sen. Eddie Joe Williams introduces Varner Unit Field Minister Andre Dunn during Tuesday’s building dedication. (Photos by Mary Alford/ABN) GOULD, Ark. – It was a
A woman sits in her new car in Valdosta, Georgia. (Submitted) The men’s ministry at Hot Springs Baptist Church on Tuesday, Oct. 29, delivered five
ABSC Sexual Abuse Response and Resource Team (SARRT) Chairperson Christa Neal speaks Wednesday during the 2024 Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. (Photo
ABSC officers Wade Totty, Brad Lewter, and Laramie Lequieu elected to serve a second term. Photo by Cassidy Higgins LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Baptists gathered
LITTLE ROCK – In his message to Arkansas Baptists at the 2024 Pastors’ Conference, the Rev. Fred Luter Jr. reminded pastors of the transforming power
Cliff & Cinthy Case speak to Arkansas Baptists on Sunday evening. (Photo by Mary Alford) LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Baptists on Sunday had the opportunity
Together, unity, and other synonyms are words often used in many ways in life. Athletic teams, political parties, churches, and conventions come to mind. I
We are grateful for the opportunity to continue to SERVE Arkansas Baptist churches and ministries, ADVISE in areas where our staff are gifted and equipped,
LITTLE ROCK – Patrick Henry has been named the chief financial officer of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) effective Oct. 16. The ABSC Executive
ABSC Mission Assistant Team Leader Clint Ritchie shares the most important aspect of One Day at the pre-event leadership banquet. Photos by Mary Alford JACKSONVILLE,
Photo by Mitch Pinion, NAMB ROGERS, Ark. – Send Network Arkansas hosted its first Sending Church Lab on Oct. 2 at the Arkansas Baptist State
Arkansas Baptist messengers and church members are invited to enjoy dinner with Arkansas Baptist State Convention Executive Director Dr. Rex Horne in a new event
Volunteers are shown packing dishes after a recent flooding incident. Photo submitted. The Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) box ministry based out of Baring Cross
The Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will take place at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church October 22-23. This is a pivotal
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) has deployed teams to Georgia in response to the widespread damage from Hurricane Helene. Hurricane Helene made landfall in the
ABSC Church Planting Team Leader Vince Blubaugh speaks at the Send Network Arkansas Assessment Retreat held Monday and Tuesday at Indian Springs Baptist Church. (Photo
After 10 years of serving as the women’s ministry specialist for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC), Andrea Lennon has accepted a new position with Lifeway Christian Resources.
LITTLE ROCK – The 171st annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will take place on Oct. 22-23 at Geyer Springs First Baptist
Revival is happening on college campuses across the nation, including in Arkansas.
Comprised of ministers of music/worship leaders, directors, accompanists, choir leaders, pastors, staff members and staff spouses from Arkansas Baptist churches across the state, the group ended its previous season with a stop at the White County Fair on Sept. 9.
Photo by Cassidy Higgins LITTLE ROCK –Arkansas Baptists gathered at The Summit Church in Little Rock on August 26 and 27 for the 11th Annual Statewide Prayer
ABSC Executive Board meets Tuesday at Camp Paron. (Photo by Cassidy Higgins) PARON, Ark. – Tuesday’s meeting marked a first for the Executive Board of
Prayer. What comes to mind? Intercession? God the Father who loves us and is all powerful, has all knowledge and is ever present? Jesus Christ
Each August, the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) provides an opportunity for its Board of Directors to experience, in-person, the work and ministry of the agencies
For just over a decade, I have had the privilege of serving on behalf of Arkansas Baptists in churches and on college campuses across the
The Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) serves Arkansas churches by reaching next generation leaders with the Gospel.
As summer vacation winds down our attention and our calendars turn to the start of a new school year. It’s also that time of year
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – From Baptist Campus Ministry (BCM) leaders to ministry assistants, the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) in recent months has welcomed a
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Missions Team recently partnered with Grace Cowboy Church in Warren to host a Medical-Dental Clinic on July 13.
Imagine the lives that could be changed if we all fully embraced our faith and walked accordingly.
The worship arts camps have become powerful equipping tools for the state as children and students are discipled as the next generation of worshipers and worship leaders.
MOUNTAIN HOME, Ark. – When disaster strikes, Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) volunteers are quick to mobilize and offer the help, healing, and hope of
A Sunday School class from Geyer Springs First Baptist Church recently made personal summertime gift baskets for the families at Desired Haven Family Care in Little Rock and Monticello.
This special day for Arkansas Baptist Women provides powerful worship, dynamic speakers, and meaningful times of connection that will bless, challenge, and equip you!
Throughout the week, 819 students made life-changing decisions for Jesus, including 188 recorded salvations.
This summer at Tech BCM we mobilized 23 students. That is nearly 40% of our average attendance for BCM serving at camps, on mission trips, and in local churches.
Tragedy struck the small town of Fordyce on Friday, June 21.
Where is my mission field? This was the question students and adults from across the state and Missouri explored last week at Camp Paron as
As a part of the Arkansas Baptist family, when you ask, we will help.
New beginnings can be tough. Here are some ways you can help keep high school graduates connected to God.
I will begin by saying that these “keys” are pointed more for campus-based ministry; however, these can prove to be helpful to church based collegiate
See additional photos below. (Photos by Mary Alford, ABN staff) INDIANAPOLIS – Thousands of Baptists gathered in Indianapolis this week for the 2024 Southern Baptist
Attending all the sessions and listening closely to what the speakers had to say were eight New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary students in Dr. Mark Tolbert’s special event class offered in conjunction with the conference.
BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. – A new associational missionary is at the helm of the Mississippi County Baptist Association. William Vassar began his role on May 13,
When we’re hurt, we have to heal, and healing involves honesty, dedication, vulnerability, and giving grace to ourselves. It’s a process full of ups and downs.
Leading a college ministry is one of the greatest privileges in the world, and I truly believe the college campus is the most strategic mission field on earth.
Please continue to pray for those impacted as they navigate the days ahead and for all Disaster Relief volunteers.
This Sunday, June 2, has been designated on the Southern Baptist Convention calendar as a special day to recognize and raise awareness of Disaster Relief ministries.
Six college students are interning this summer at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention with the Evangelism + Church Health Team and the Arkansas Baptist Foundation.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Baptists are invited to a state reception on Monday, June 10, during the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) 2024 Annual Meeting
Fifty-six salvation decisions were made Saturday, May 4 in Trumann during Trinity Baptist Association’s “T-BA” Day, an annual one-day local missions event.
Approximately 100 men and boys from around the state gathered for a day of fun, fellowship and worship planned just for guys.
The real secret to Camp Siloam is the partnership with Arkansas Baptist churches to bring kids out of their normal scenery and to a place where they hear the good news of Jesus. We partner together for the glory of God and to reach the next generation for Christ. That is why camp matters. It brings glory to God.
Jesus is still doing this work. He is redeeming and restoring families through the hard work of foster care, and I believe He is calling all of us to be involved.
We are what we celebrate, and for the Foundation’s 75th anniversary we wanted to celebrate God’s people, specifically the Foundation’s staff and board members as well as God’s provision as we continue to serve Arkansas Baptists.
The Missions Team is always looking for new ways to assist our churches in equipping God’s people to be involved in God’s mission of making disciples who make disciples.
Leaders will make or break a ministry. They will determine who comes and who does not come. They will set the pace for your ministry in many different ways.
Arkansas Baptists gathered at First Baptist Church in Monticello on Sunday for ARise, an Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) event to come together in different regions across the state to celebrate God’s work.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) is deploying to Hot Springs in the wake of Tuesday night’s storms.
Collierville, Tenn. – More than 700 Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) leaders from across the country gathered last week at Collierville First Baptist Church in Tennessee
Multiple Arkansas church planters, pastors and leaders gathered in Little Rock recently for the annual Hispanic Family Conference at Iglesia Bautista Roca Fuerte.
Pray that out of your church the Lord will call out workers. Our churches and communities have a great need for God called servant leaders.
Thank you, Arkansas Baptists, for allowing us to serve you these last 75 years.
The ABSC Communications Team picked up a total 11 awards — five of them first place — in the 60th Wilmer C. Fields Awards Competition.
Kelly King offers words of encouragement to women’s leaders. (Staff photo by Mary Alford) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Women from across Arkansas gathered in Little
The Board of Trustees at Williams Baptist University approved the budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year Tuesday, April 16.
The Arkansas Master’Singers, in collaboration with the Williams Singers, are set to take the stage for a concert Thursday, April 18, at 7 p.m. at Manley Chapel on the campus of Williams Baptist University.
Ministries that consistently see people respond to the Gospel have a culture in which calls for response are frequent in sermons, in personal conversations, and the personal witness of the ministry leader(s).
Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Children’s Specialist Emily Smith is transitioning to a more dual role on the executive team, placing further focus on abuse prevention and response.
During the past four years, the number of worship studies majors has grown from fewer than 10 to more than 30.
The Bible teaches we were created to work.
Pastors and church leaders from across the state gathered at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention on Tuesday for the first of two Renewing the Church Summits.
The Aussiedoodle is the first therapy dog in ABDR history.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) does more than just respond to disasters.
Leadership Collective is a one-day workshop designed for Women’s Ministry leaders in Arkansas that will take place at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention on Saturday,
More than 1,800 students, young adults and church leaders converged in Little Rock on Saturday for the 2024 Lead Defend apologetics conference.
With a beautiful setting situated in Paron, Arkansas, at the edge of the Ouachita National Forest just 25 miles from Little Rock, it is the perfect place to host many different types of groups and events.
Celebrations of significant events and experiences are important.
We know that hindsight is 20/20, but looking back on what God has done should embolden us in our ministry today.
Steven McClatchy, LPC, Living Well Counseling, Sherwood There are those in our midst dealing with some deep wounds they need help with but are unaware
The ultimate reason we serve locally is to intentionally move people from the pews into the lives of the people in their communities to build relationships, share the Gospel, and call people to place their faith in Jesus.
Arkansas Baptists have proven that they believe in the power of cooperative missions and that they believe in the importance of working together to reach the lost right here at home.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention is welcoming several new hires.
Lead Defend is a leadership and apologetics conference for high school and college students and young adults of Arkansas, while Foundations is aimed at students in grades 6-9.
The fruit of a daily intentional personal relationship with Jesus is the renewing of our minds and the ability to discern what pleases God.
Remember the big picture and focus on the beauty of God’s love and His power. Worship and praise Him.
The next Prepare and Protect Training is scheduled from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Feb. 29 at the ABSC building in Little Rock.
I consider myself a “both/and” kinda person and don’t get stuck into the “either/or” flow. Let me see if I can explain. You see, when
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Dr. Rex and Becky Horne have been sweethearts since middle school. The couple met at ages 12 and 13 at Fairview
It’s their stories that give me joy in this work and ministry known as Ouachita Baptist University and that illustrate the stewardship of Arkansas Baptists’ investment.
ABSC churches are encouraged to schedule Sunday, February 11, 2024 to promote the hunger ministries of Arkansas Baptists and Send Relief and to collect the annual Global Hunger Relief Offering.
The goal of Lead Defend is to prepare students to be the leaders of today by engaging others where culture and faith collide.
This is going to be an exciting year for Arkansas Baptist Women.
Sermons from the Evangelism Conference will be shared on the ABSC website in the coming weeks
“Due to the partnership and support of local churches and associations, Arkansas Baptists are seeing big impact on these smaller campuses. These often-unseen folks are some of the unsung heroes in God’s harvest field.”
Arkansas Baptist worship ministers across the state recently had the opportunity to participate in a lunch and workshop led by Joe Crider, dean and professor of church music and worship at Southwestern Theological Baptist Seminary.
ABDR deployed a feeding unit to the center to provide warm meals for those seeking shelter from the cold.
In a world full of hurting children and hurting families, together we can help them find peace and healing.
Jesus came to seek and save the lost and He invites us to join in His mission.
Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) churches have an opportunity to join other Southern Baptist churches across the nation on Jan. 21 in affirming and celebrating the sanctity of human life.
Arkansas Baptist leaders are invited to gather Jan. 22-23 at New Life Baptist Church in Alexander for the annual Arkansas Baptist Statewide Conference on Evangelism and Church Health (ECON).
May the Lord lead us to be sensitive to the people who need the Lord who are all around us.
Jason Wilkie has moved into a fundraising role for Camp Siloam.
The three-day camp will feature preaching, teaching, and breakout sessions expressly focused on various vocational calls to ministry: pastoral ministry, student ministry, music ministry, and women’s ministry.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) has a new podcast with a focus on missions for Arkansas Baptists. Missionize with the
In my line of work, I often hear of past sins or the weight of life that seem to grab ahold and tear down the peace and hope in a believer.
You may sign up at absc.org/prayfirst2024 to be added to the email list.
Arkansas cowboy churches this holiday season loaded up supplies and Christmas boxes, traveled to various pueblos in New Mexico, and shared the gospel with Native Americans.
Twelve college students, along with our director and two recent UAM graduates, entered the city with the purpose of aiding four important ministries.
We need to operate under the assumption that no one else is going to tell these young, godly, humble leaders that they ought to consider if God is calling them to ministry.
By Debbie Moore, Arkansas WMU Executive Director Arkansas Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) is so thankful for the privilege of serving Arkansas Baptists in the areas
As usual, Arkansas Baptists have a lot on their calendars to look forward to next year. Pray First To start the year off, Arkansas Baptists
From the announcement of the new Arkansas Baptist State Convention executive director to celebrating the first graduating class of the Arkansas Prison Initiative, Arkansas Baptists
As I think about giving gifts, I am reminded that this season provides a wonderful opportunity for giving to missions.
Arkansas Tourism representatives are anticipating up to 1.5 million visitors for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
This was an extra gift made possible by the generous giving of Arkansas Baptists.
“It was God’s call that kept me on the field, but it was the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering and the generosity of Southern Baptists that helped provide the things that were needed to stay on the field,” Moore said, also stressing the importance of prayer support.
We need Christmas to come around. We need the reminder that Jesus came as our Savior.
Campus ministry is meant to multiply, because the church is meant to multiply.
Two of the five teams that make up the executive board staff of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) are becoming one
“The international getaway retreat to me is a great way to get to know those who aren’t like you, who come from a different culture or maybe a different religion.”
A group of Arkansas Baptist church planters recently spent time in Alpharetta, Georgia, fellowshipping, learning from leading church planting practitioners and worshiping together during the North American Mission Board’s Send Network Orientation.
Arkansas Baptist churches, Baptist Collegiate Ministries, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University are better together in helping the next generation contend for the faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints.
It will take the effort of every Baptist Collegiate Ministry and every church working cooperatively together to reach these nearly 150,000 students with the Gospel.
Through the generosity of Arkansas Baptist churches and individuals, the Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) team was recently able to purchase a new quick response kitchen and truck.
A groundbreaking was held Monday, Nov. 6, for the new prison seminary building at the Varner Unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
The theme for this year’s annual meeting, “Such as I Have” was taken from Acts 3:6, “Then Peter said, silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” (KJV)
Arkansas Baptist Foundation President/CEO Bobby Thomas speaks during the 170th Annual Meeting of the ABSC. JONESBORO, Ark. – God is on the move in the
The Camp Siloam program team works for two years on each theme, putting a lot of thought and time into the development of a story that will be compelling to campers.
Our Lord has some important things to say about His followers’ involvement in ministry to others.
When Dr. J. Fulton Amonette became the associational missionary for the Arkansas Valley Baptist Association nine years ago, he wanted to “strengthen the cooperative relationship
Pastors from across the state gathered at Walnut Street Baptist Church in Jonesboro on Monday to be “refreshed, re-signed and renewed” in the Lord.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Church Planting Dinner featured Send Network Coaching Director Dino Senesi, who shared qualities of a coach and the role a coach plays in a church planter’s life.
The Ministers’ Wives Conference was held prior to the 170th Annual Meeting of the ABSC, Oct. 24-25.
Horne longs to carry on Gospel work with efficiency, effectively network with Arkansas Baptists from around the state while meeting their needs, and passionately work together for the glory of the Lord.
First Baptist Church of Hope served as the host for over 130 participants made up of students and adults from 10 different Arkansas Baptist churches.
The main mission of the ABF is to serve, advise, and encourage the over 1500 Southern Baptist Churches in Arkansas.
I can sincerely say I have always been excited about working for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
Partnership is at the heart of what we do as Arkansas Baptists. There is no greater evidence to that fact than what we experience each
One of my favorite narratives in Scripture comes from John 21, as Jesus reveals Himself to the disciples after His resurrection, and ultimately restores fellowship with Peter there on the shore of the Sea of Tiberias.
CORNING, Ark. – When Don Settles became the Current-Gaines Baptist Association associational missionary in January 2001 his goal was to lead the association “to be
Dr. Rex Horne has been named the new executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
Over 200 students from Arkansas State University and Williams Baptist University gathered for a night of prayer and worship on Sunday, October 1.
Relationships can take on many forms.
he Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Missions Team hosted a medical-dental clinic on Saturday, Sept. 23, at First Baptist Church in Stuttgart.
When Robby Sherman became associational missionary for Little River Baptist Association, he arrived with a plan of revitalization.
Something unique is happening within the next generation.
A ministry unique to the Arkansas Baptist State Convention is our Church Mediation Ministry.
The 170th annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will take place on Oct. 24-25 at Walnut Street Baptist Church, 1910 Scenic Rd in Jonesboro.
More than 400 took part in the team’s Family Missions Day, where participants learned about missions and unreached people groups through a scavenger hunt, prayer cards, and presentations from missionaries.
Nearly 100 Arkansas Baptists gathered for the awareness training to become better equipped to protect minors and those vulnerable from abuse.
Nettleton Baptist Church Senior Pastor Brady Canright said he intends to nominate Lewter, who has been pastor of Grand Avenue Baptist since 2013.
Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) across the state kicked off the fall semester of ministry with over 1,200 students in weekly worship across ten locations!
Potential church planters recently gathered at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) to confirm their calling and become better equipped as they embark on their church planting journey.
Every turning point has a starting point. In the resources provided to promote the 2023 Dixie Jackson (DJ) Arkansas Missions Offering are four stories centered
In recent weeks churches and Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) across Arkansas have organized hundreds of events (impacting thousands) for the sole purpose of reaching this generation with the Gospel.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Church Planting Team has experienced a few staff changes this summer. In July, Team Leader Vince Blubaugh announced Church
Although the strategy for being obedient to the Great Commission might change from church to church, I believe there are five components that are common in every effective mission strategy.
More than 200 Arkansas Baptists gathered at the City Center in Little Rock on Monday and Tuesday for the 10th Annual Statewide Prayer Gathering: A United Cry for Authentic Awakening.
On September 19th, an in-person MinistrySafe training event with attorney and MinistrySafe founder Greg Love is available to all Arkansas Baptists. This training will be helpful for pastors and church staff, student and children’s leaders, safety and security volunteers, and lay leaders of your church.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) met Tuesday, Aug. 15, at the ABSC building in Little Rock.
Each August, the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) provides an opportunity for their Board of Directors to learn more about the work and ministry of the agencies and institutions it serves by taking their annual Board Advance to one of their ministry partners’ locations.
Roughly 200 Arkansas Baptists gathered at Indian Springs Baptist Church in Bryant on Saturday for disaster relief training. Seventy-seven of those were new volunteers.
Multiple associational missionaries, pastors and church planters gathered at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention building for Heart and Four Fields evangelism training.
God has used “the land of a million smiles” to change countless hearts for a century.
Here’s what came to my mind, my perspective for today.
There are many opinions on what makes a strong leader.
The better a church knows its community, the more strategic it can be in its ministries.
The 2023 Prayer Gathering will take place on Monday evening, August 28, and Tuesday morning, August 29, at The City Center next to Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock.
World Changers from five states assembled in Little Rock last week at Life Line Baptist Church to rehab homes and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) teams recently spent two weeks providing help, healing and hope in the Arkansas Delta.
An internship allows us to pour into those up-and-coming leaders while at the same time staying connected to the heart and thinking of this next generation.
Williams Works allows Williams Baptist University students to work their way through college.
The Shepherds Conference, which is also sponsored by the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University, is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries’ central office, 9701 W. Markham St., in Little Rock.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention Missions Team saw nine professions of faith this past weekend during a medical-dental clinic in Pine Bluff.
Arkansas Baptists churches have a heart for people all over the world.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Annual Meeting this year will be held at Walnut Street Baptist Church in Jonesboro. On Tuesday, July 11, the
Students work at Lonsdale Community Church during ENGAGE Missions Camp. (Ethan Dial/ABN) God is moving in powerful ways this summer in the lives of students
The Operating Committee of the Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) is inviting Arkansas Baptists to pray with them as they continue
Less than two months from now college ministries across the country will be in the middle of the second most important time of the year – “Welcome Week.”
The purpose of the ABSC is to assist churches of the convention in fulfilling their mission and to encourage cooperative support of and involvement in our worldwide mission enterprise.
I have often said that summer should be the Foundation’s “slow time” or at least “non-peak season” regarding in-office activity. However, as I reflect back
As I look at the work of Arkansas Baptists, with our churches, agencies, and institutions, using the baseball analogy, I see a variety of “positions” or what we might call ministries making up an extraordinary team.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Several Arkansas Baptist church planters from around the state gathered on Saturday, June 3, at Dickey–Stephens Park in North Little Rock
Craig Golden, pastor at First Baptist Church in Viola, has served as the associational missionary for Big Creek Baptist Association for the past two years.
As Jesus sends his disciples out in Matthew 10 to proclaim, “the Kingdom of heaven has come near” to the people of Israel, He warns them that He is sending them out “like sheep among wolves.”
Overall, Smith said BCM has been one of the best parts of her college experience.
The Operating Committee of the Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) is beginning its search for the next executive director with seven
The call of God on a person’s life is an invitation to follow Him to salvation, to a deeper relationship with him, to church membership, or to vocational ministry. Because I believe that God is always calling people, I am unapologetic about boldly giving invitations at the conclusions of my sermons.
Ministry to the next generation has never been more important. Those who minister to the next generation are at the front lines of some of the most strategic ministry in the world.
Part of the joy of working with college students is helping identify and disciple those feeling called to ministry!
A prison seminary largely funded by Arkansas Baptists at the Varner Unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections, a high security prison in Lincoln County, celebrated its first graduating class on Friday, May 12.
“We try to carve a cross anywhere we go on Disaster Relief,” Murphy said. “We carve the cross and put hope at the bottom, because where do you find hope, man? You find hope at the foot of the cross.”
On Saturday May 6, over 100 men and boys of all ages gathered for Man UP 2023! at Spring Lake Camp and Retreat Center in Lonsdale.
Scott Hendren of Little Rock has taken on the role of controller at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
Across our state, collegians are wrapping up a semester and year of study by taking finals. This is one of the more exciting times of
David Holder has been the full-time associational missionary for the Southwest Baptist Association for nine months. Prior to that, he served in the role part-time
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Operating Committee of the Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) is launching its search for the next
A choir of more than 80 members from various churches in northwest Arkansas lead worship during Arise held at First Baptist Church in Rogers. (Ethan
I will never forget September of 2005. Hurricane Katrina had just wreaked havoc on the Gulf Coast. A few weeks later, during fall break, I
ROGERS, Ark. – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Northwest Arkansas (NWA) Ministry Center is carrying on the legacy of 26th Street Baptist Church in
The Missions Team held its first medical-dental clinic of the year on April 29 at Iglesia Bautista Roca Fuerte (Strong Rock Baptist Church) in Little Rock.
I have been reading through Dr. Scott Duvall’s book, “The Heart of Revelation.” His illustration about perseverance caught my eye.
Where do we find church planters? In our pews.
Travis McCormick, Mary Alford, Ethan Dial, and Craig Jenkins hold the nine award certificates received on Wednesday, April 19. RIDGECREST, N.C. – The communications team
“Attention…Present Bibles…Start”
Upon hearing that final word, state Bible Drill contenders on Saturday, April 15, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention quickly opened their Bibles.
The Word of God has a lot to say about training. It speaks of the saints being equipped for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:12).
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief volunteer Jerry Bolander shared several photos on social media showing the devastation caused in Wynne by the March 31 tornado. WYNNE,
Arkansas Baptists were represented recently during the Abuse Reform Implementation Task Force (ARITF) meeting held Tuesday, March 28, in Georgia. In attendance at the meeting
EL DORADO, Ark. – As Liberty Baptist Association’s associational missionary, Wade Totty wants to “equip pastors and churches to be spiritually healthy as well as
Since the March 31 tornadoes, Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) has deployed 23 recovery teams, six feeding units and two shower and laundry units. Currently,
Southern Baptist Convention President Bart Barber said, “Southern Baptist Disaster Relief gives people a true picture of who we are and what the gospel of Jesus Christ has done in us.”
“One of the beauties of Southern Baptist disaster relief network is the relationship we have between the states where if one of us is running short of manpower or resources, we have the ability to call on other states, our brothers and sisters in the ministry and they’re there,” said Hubert Yates, SBDR director for Mississippi Baptists, while Mississippi and Arkansas Baptists responded to the March 24 storms that hit his state.
“It is urgent that denominations, networks and independent churches determine how to best motivate, mobilize, resource and deploy more young pastors,” said David Kinnaman, President
Jacksonville, Ark. – Sitting in a red rocking chair in front of a group of at least two dozen second graders, Bob Fielding on Thursday,
The 2023 Lead>Defend apologetics conference welcomed record attendance Saturday, March 4, as more than 2,000 students, young adults and church leaders gathered at Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock.
I enjoy reading the various definitions of words. This word—perspective— has several definitions.
As leaders, we should see Jesus as our perfect example and learn to pour into the lives of our people – one individual and one small group at a time – if we are to truly help them to engage the Word for themselves and live their lives like Christ.
Through the Cooperative Program (CP) and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (LMCO), Arkansas Baptists in 2022 gave more than ever before to international missions. The
A new resource is available for Arkansas Baptists. An Overview of the Ministries & Entities that Comprise the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, produced by the
Members of the Convention Nominating Committee for the 2023 Arkansas Baptist State Convention invite Arkansas Baptists to submit names of persons for consideration for service
LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Baptists gave more than $21 million through the Cooperative Program in 2022, marking the largest year of giving in the history
Robert Foster of Williams Baptist University speaks during EQUIP: SMC on Feb. 4. WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – First Baptist Church in Corning Pastor Bart Baker
Arkansas Baptists, thank you for the support and prayers given to the State Evangelism Conference (ECON) on January 23 and 24.
Baptist Collegiate Ministry leaders from across Arkansas gathered this past weekend, Jan. 20-22, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention to fellowship and connect with one another as well as participate in a few workshops led by the College + Young Leaders Team.
The Evangelism Conference focused on equipping, encouraging, and empowering Arkansas Baptist leaders to bring the good news to the forefront of their ministrie
Referencing Luke 11, Senior Ambassador for the International Mission Board President Gordon Fort said that’s been a consistent request he has made of the Lord for many years.
Arkansas Baptist State Convention staff on Wednesday started their day with worship during their first building-wide meeting of 2023. It was also the first meeting
ECON reminds us to bring the mission and message of Jesus to the forefront of our ministries.
LITTLE ROCK – Ben Coulter, 42, has joined the Little Rock Baptist Collegiate Ministry team. Taking on the campus minister role, Coulter comes to the
At the start of January, Matthew Hall began his new role with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention as Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) director at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
Mary Alford joined the Arkansas Baptist State Convention’s (ABSC) communications team as a creative content producer on Dec. 1, 2022, after seven years working for
There are a number of reasons why I am proud to be a Southern and Arkansas Baptist.
The Communications and the College + Young Leaders’ Teams are relocating within the building this week in preparation for repairs on the first floor of
Tucker has served Arkansas Baptists through his work with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) for 25 years. He has spent the last decade doing this as ABSC executive director.
Demographics Specialist Karen Smith has decided to retire after a 26-year career with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
Every Sunday in January, a video along with resources and daily encouragement will be released to guide you through the week as you prioritize prayer in the new year. The words of Jesus found in Mark 12:30-31 will serve as our guide: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength…[and] love your neighbor as yourself.” (CSB)
“Every service opportunity that I have…I try not to turn anything down, honestly, because it’s…a privilege,” said Dr. Rex Horne, the new interim executive director for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
Imagine yourself arriving in Nepal to study at Kathmandu University. You are alone without friends or family.
Jay Ham, lead church planter at The Church In The Dirt, recently joined the Church Planting Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
The mission team from Immanuel Baptist Church, Magnolia, Arkansas, expected things in Brooklyn, New York, to be different from their small southern Arkansas town.
The Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) approved a recommendation from the ABSC Operating Committee on Thursday, Nov. 10, to name Dr.
The David Bond “Heart of a Servant” Scholarship was established by the Arkansas Baptist Foundation to honor the life and ministry of David Bond.
The 169th Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) convened, Oct. 25-26 at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs. The annual Pastors’ and Ministers’ Wives Conferences took place Oct. 24.
Arkansas Baptist pastors focused on “The Heart of a Shepherd” at the annual Pastors’ Conference (PC) on Monday, October 24 at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs.
Jeremy Woodall, Baptist Collegiate Ministries Campus Minister at the University of Arkansas in Monticello, is using his passion for a worthy mission.
We desperately need to equip more ministers if we want to replace the countless number currently retiring or leaving the ministry for a myriad of other reasons.
On Tuesday, October 25, 2022, the SATF released its report to the 169th session of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention meeting at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs.
The Kingdom value of the smaller membership churches cannot be overstated.
Executive Director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Dr. J.D. “Sonny” Tucker released a statement opposing Issue 4, the constitutional amendment to legalize marijuana in Arkansas.
The Annual Pastors’ Conference begins at 1:30 on Monday, October 24 at First Baptist Church in Hot Springs.
For several Arkansas Baptist churches, the arrival of fall also means the opportunity to come together for one weekend to share the Gospel and serve others in Jesus’ name through the CONNECT student missions weekend.
A newly formed church called Grace United Church, is the merger of Grace Temple Church, a predominately African American church plant, and Grace Church (formerly Grace Community Church).
Our God can turn a tragic hurricane into a life-saving miracle.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention will meet in Hot Springs for our 169th session preceded by the Pastors’ Conference, October 24-26.
On October 14-15, the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Missions Team held First Responder Chaplain/Peer Support training for current or future law enforcement, fire and EMS (emergency medical service) chaplains and peer support members.
God uses BCM ministries to raise up and call out students to a variety of ministry callings.
Jeremy Woodall, was recognized by the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) athletic department and inducted into the UAM Sports Hall of Fame for the Spirit Award.
A new partnership between the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) and the North American Mission Board (NAMB) will provide additional resources to start churches in high need areas throughout Arkansas.
David Bond, an employee of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) for over a decade, passed away Saturday, Oct. 1, at the age of 50 after four years of fighting cancer.
Arkansas Women’s Ministries and Woman’s Missionary Union come together for Inspire Conference.
Acts1:8 One Day Mission Trip is an annual opportunity for Arkansas Baptists to be witnesses in their Jerusalem and Judea.
The 169th annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention will take place on Oct. 25-26 at First Baptist Church, 2350 Central Avenue, Hot Springs. The theme for this year’s annual meeting is “The Heart of a Servant.”
Will McKay, who has served as the team leader for the Evangelism and Church Health team (ECH) of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) for the past two years, has been called to serve as pastor at First Baptist Church in Murray, Kentucky.
Dr. J.D. “Sonny” Tucker announced in an email on August 31 to the Executive Board and ABSC employees, his plans to retire as Executive Director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention on December 31, 2022.
Have you ever noticed King Hezekiah’s prayer in 2 Kings 17? When Hezekiah was sent a very threatening letter, he did what other kings no
Next Monday as evening approaches, there will be an air of anticipation and excitement at the City Center, 315 N Shackelford Road, in Little Rock.
The Missions Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) recently hosted two events with the title: Equipping Churches to Minister to Women in Crisis.
This year we celebrated 70 years of ministry through PraiseWorks and JoyWorks.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) and Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) interns have been hard at work this summer. With their time here coming to
These first four weeks are incredibly important in the life of these students and our ministry.
We want to equip churches to creatively minister to women in crisis.
After well over two years, Super Summer Arkansas made its return, continuing its focus on evangelism and discipleship for students in 6th-12th grades.
Staff changes at the ABSC will impact the College+Young Leaders Team and the Communications Team.
A statement from the ABSC Sexual Abuse Task Force regarding the recent report from Guidepost
The below statement was issued today responding to the release of the Southern Baptist Convention Sexual Abuse Task Force report on behalf of Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC)
We all have to agree that the safety and security of our houses of worship as we enter these troubling times of 2021 and beyond has to be a priority.
On Wednesday, April 27 the 58th Wilmer C. Fields Awards were handed out at Ralph’s on the Park in New Orleans. The ABSC Communications Team and the ABN brought home 10 awards.
In early April, a team of six volunteers from the Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief traveled to Romania to assist however they might be needed. On April 14, we received the following report from our team…
Hundreds of Arkansas Baptists used part of their Saturday on April 9 to serve their communities during the annual One Day: Serve Local initiative.
An Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief Update after Monday, April 11 storms.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers stand ready to offer “help, healing and hope” to those impacted by disasters.
AR Baptist Brief brings you quick stories from around the state
An update from Northwest Arkansas from our Disaster Relief teams as they clean up after Wednesday, March 30th storms.
Dr. Justin K. Hardin has been named Ouachita Baptist University’s vice president for academic affairs, effective in summer 2022.
An update from Northwest Arkansas from our Disaster Relief teams as they clean up after Wednesday, March 30th storms.
Leadership Profile for 2022 Nominating Committee are now open! Nominations will be considered for all committees and boards.
The ABSC Missions Team recently hosted Arkansas Department of Corrections chaplains at Camp Paron for a three-day retreat on March 15 – 17. This was no ordinary retreat!
The goal of Serve Local is to provide a cooperative effort that assists churches in moving people from the pew to active ministry.
Churches have an opportunity to share the gospel, make a difference, and change a child’s life. Kids are worth it and VBS can still be a powerful tool to make an impact in your kids ministry this summer.
It is not every day that over 30 International Mission Board (IMB) missionaries are able to make a special “short-term” trip themselves to intentionally invest in those who have sent them. One of the great benefits of the Cooperative Program (CP) is this mutual encouragement and investment.
Clint Ritchie was recently named as the new Assistant Team Leader for the Missions Team at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
More than 1,600 students, young adults and church leaders gathered Saturday, March 5 at Immanuel Baptist Church (IBC) in Little Rock for the 2022 Lead > Defend apologetics conference which is a Cooperative Program ministry of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC). That number included middle/junior high students who attended Lead > Defend:Foundations.
On Tuesday, February 22 the Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (DR) team showed up at the Little Rock Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) Center located at 5515 W.32nd St. in Little Rock, Arkansas to train 25 college students in Disaster Relief chainsaw recovery.
Brasel said his team of BCM students and volunteers from the school and surrounding area churches hand out goody bags. Even Brasel’s grandson gets in on the distribution.
The end of 2021 marked 45 years of Dr. Bob Harper’s ministry, seven of which included leading the Missions Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
The annual Lead > Defend conference is right around the corner on March 5.
On January 1, 2022 several new hires began official business with their respective teams at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
The Statewide Conference on Evangelism and Church Health (ECON) took place on January 24-25, 2022 at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock.
The college campus is an explosion of character, culture, education, ideology, religion, lifestyle, and worldview.
PraizFest ’22 was a great time of fellowship and worship as over ninety students gathered at First Baptist Church in Benton on Friday night and Saturday, January 28th and 29th.
“Methods may change, but the message stays the same.” Those words will echo in my head for the rest of my life.
ECON gives Arkansas Baptists an annual opportunity to step away from the trenches of daily life to unite hearts and focus sights upon the Gospel message and ministries entrusted to us. As we draw nearer to the time for this year’s conference, I would like to suggest twenty-two reasons for you to prayerfully consider joining us:
It’s been almost two years since Arkansas Baptists last gathered for ECON, an evangelism and church health conference. However, 2022 is shaping up to be the year of returns as we head back to Geyer Springs Baptist Church in Little Rock on January 24-25 for a jam packed event – the first of many this year.
“The main purpose of the ABN is to point people to God by continually telling the stories of how He is working in our state.”
By the time the storm hit Friday evening, the Tri-County Recovery Unit was already on standby.
We recently asked the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) staff to share with us some of their favorite Christmas traditions to both inspire and encourage you this holiday season!
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention’s (ABSC) newly formed Sexual Abuse Task Force recently held its first in-person meeting.
SmartStart is an ABSC initiative designed to help churches in those crucial weeks after a pastor leaves.
My college years were some of the most transformational years of my life
CABOT, Ark. – The 168th Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention convened last week, Oct. 26-27 at First Baptist Church in Cabot. The annual
CABOT, Ark. — Messengers of the 168th session of the Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) voted in favor of forming a sexual abuse task force last
Messengers to the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Annual Meeting approved six resolutions during the morning session on Wednesday Oct. 27.
What an incredible time last week at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Annual Meeting at First Baptist Church in Cabot.
Pastors were encouraged to heed to the Holy Spirit and allow His presence in their lives to push them forward in powerful ministry.
CABOT, Ark. – On October 26 and 27 agencies and institutions with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) presented reports to approximately 500 registered messengers at First
What an honor and privilege to serve my fellow Arkansas Baptists! I am deeply humbled by this opportunity. One of my life verses is Psalm 15:6, “The lines
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – On November 1, Nick Burt, Director of Communications at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will officially transition to The Church at Rock Creek as their new Executive Director of Communications.
Arkansas Baptists from around the state will gather at First Baptist Cabot next week for the Annual Meeting on Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 26-27. The Pastors’ Conference
‘Around the State’ is a segment in the eMagazine that goes out every other Thursday to our email subscriber list. In this segment, we feature church staff
The 2021 Convention Nominating Committee Report
The 168th annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will take place on Oct. 25-27 at First Baptist Church, 204 N. 3rd Street, Cabot, AR. The theme for this year’s annual meeting is “COMPELLED.” As Christ followers, we are compelled by the Spirit to testify to the Gospel. (Acts 20:22,24).
On August 17, 2021, the Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention met and approved three recommendations to be presented to the messengers during
“¦for the sake of your name lead and guide me.” (Psalm 31:3)
I am excited to attend our 2021 convention because I can’t wait to see every one of you there.
We asked some recently returned Disaster Relief volunteers to share their stories and experiences, so far, from Hammond and these are their words.
The new bunkhouse will continue the design aesthetic that the camp has been working developing the last several years and will be a prototype for future bunkhouses at the camp.
An update from our Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief regarding the ongoing effort to support LA/MS in recovering from Hurricane Ida.
The Dixie Jackson Arkansas Missions Offering and Week of Prayer officially kicks off this Sunday, September 12 and concludes on Sunday, September 19.
We’ve covered many aspects of Arkansas Baptist life to share just how far your giving can go to reach the state alone. We wanted to share an update on how one of the ministries that Dixie Jackson impacts is going from last year’s campaign.
An update from our Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief regarding the ongoing effort to support LA/MS in recovering from Hurricane Ida.
An update from our Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief regarding the ongoing effort to support LA/MS in recovering from Hurricane Ida.
When you and your Church give through the Dixie Jackson Arkansas Missions offering, you allow for ABSC Disaster Relief to stand ready to respond at a moment’s notice.
An update from our Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief regarding the ongoing effort to support LA/MS in recovering from Hurricane Ida.
“I want to follow Jesus, but I have years of Hinduism to unlearn.”
Camp Siloam is a place of eternal, global impact, where life change happens from the worship center to the water slide and anywhere in between.
This year’s Prayer Gathering for Pastors and All Ministers will be held August 30-31 at Indian Springs Baptist Church, 23581 I-30, Bryant, Arkansas.
‘Around the State’ is a segment in the eMagazine that goes out every other Thursday to our email subscriber list. In this segment, we feature church staff changes,
“One minute you think you’ve seen it all, then God does something to reassure you that He is at work, and you just get to join Him in it.”
Pool parties, camps, retreats, waterslides, float trips, worship nights under the stars, and advancing the gospel in some of the most remote places in the world. This is the opportunity that college students have in the uniquely special season of life of the after high school but before being a professional kicks in.
Driving my son to school one morning a few years ago, my five-year-old stated, “Mommy, do bad guys do bad things because they do not know Jesus?” I replied, “Yes you have it right—bad guys do bad things because they don’t know Jesus, but God has given us the task to share Jesus with them.” After pondering for a moment, my son replied back, “Mommy, I think I may be too scared to do that, but we could make a big sign and put it up.”
In recent years, church planting has been elevated to a key focus in the state of Arkansas. The Church Planting Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) aims to come alongside churches to assist with, raise up and support church planters as they work to establish new works across the state and across the country. Through leadership assessments, training, development, resources, prayer and financial support, the Church Planting Team helps churches plant between 15 to 30 new works each year.
Since announcing the move to the ABSC Executive Team, Jenkins has been asked countless times, “what do you do?” and “what does your new title mean?”. The answer to these questions, Jenkins says, can be found in the three key words of his job title: convention, advancement, and news.
‘Around the State’ is a segment in the eMagazine that goes out every other Thursday to our email subscriber list. In this segment, we feature church staff changes, as well as church news and announcements you send to us. We want Arkansas Baptists to know what’s going on around the state and be able to celebrate together and encourage each other.
Since 2010, thousands of underserved Arkansans have received free medical and dental care and hundreds have trusted Christ through Medical and Dental Missions of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC), a mission funded 100% through Dixie Jackson.
The faithfulness of Dardanelle First Baptist Church exceeded his expectations.
“The first night we were there, you know, everyone is kind of testing the waters,” Robinson said. “It just seemed like they were holding back but the second night, the students really broke loose.”
“The calling keeps you, and seeing lives transformed by the Gospel motivates you.”
Pursuing Gospel-centered community among do-it-yourself pioneers might seem like an inefficient evangelism method, but in Grand Junction, Colorado, the art of neighboring has proven itself effective in the life of River City Church.
The challenges brought on by the recent pandemic have taught us that change is inevitable and often necessary to achieve desired goals. In an effort to best meet the changing needs of ABSC churches and ABSC organization, the Executive Team and the Church Planting Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) have recently undergone some restructuring.
Addiction is giving up everything for one thing. Recovery is giving up one thing for everything.
In every career, words matter. In fact, the Bible reminds us in Proverbs 18:2 that “death and life are in the power of the tongue.” This has proved especially true in Marquetta Peyton’s field of work.
Each and every generation faces new and unique challenges as it seeks to serve the generation coming behind it. As children and teenagers are plunged into the digital world, we know that today’s challenges may be unlike any we have seen before
After a year of disruption, this summer has provided several reminders of all we have to be thankful for. Most recently as we celebrated our nation’s independence, I could not help but be thankful to serve in a country that still respects personal and religious freedom. Although there are several things I am sure we would all like to change, this is still the best country to serve in a ministry setting.
COVID UPDATE – Monday, July 12, 2021 – We feel it is safe to host Week 7 (July 12-17), however, we want everyone to be aware of the circumstances. Currently, Northwest Arkansas is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 attributed to the Delta variant of the virus.
Since Easter 2019, 18 people have been baptized, and many who have been far from God are finding new purpose in Christ. And among the core team that has been mobilized from First Baptist Russellville many are already discovering a purpose for which The Church in the Dirt is serving as a training ground.
We are Asher and Loren Cross* serving with the International Mission Board. Although we grew up in Fort Smith and Dardanelle, we call Conway our adult home. We met at the University of Central Arkansas and settled near there after graduating college. We are members at The Summit Church in Conway. In 2013 we left Arkansas for East Asia and our two children, Lilly and Evan, were born there.
My oldest son turns 30 this month and I don’t know if that’s what got me thinking about Mary and her role as a mother. I had honestly never considered her life after Jesus ascended. I was recently reading in Acts 1 and as I read verse 14, it struck me that here’s Mary, mother of Jesus, present and accounted for along with the 120 other believers. You might think she would be ready for a break. I mean the woman has been a solid, selfless servant for her entire life up to this point. But what do we see in this often overlooked passage in Acts 1?
“We offer CISM courses to help equip first responders with tools to minister to people who have suffered a critical incident or disaster.”
With the first day of classes fast approaching, the attention of campus ministers across our state is turning to connecting to students as they arrive on campus, especially those freshmen that are coming to campus for the first time. If we are being honest, connecting with students, introducing them to the Gospel, and getting them plugged in to our ministries is something that we think about all day, every day.
This article was written by Gracen Goudy. Gracen is currently a junior at Ouachita Baptist University, where she is pursuing a major in Mass Communications and minors in Graphic Design and Christian Studies. She is from Benton, Arkansas and attends Geyer Springs First Baptist Church.
Crossroads New Baptist Church near Little Rock recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. This is the story of how God answers prayer to revitalize a church.
‘Around The State’ is a segment in the eMagazine that goes out bi-weekly to our email subscriber list. In this segment, which appears in the first issue of each month, we feature churches’ staff changes, as well as church news and big announcements you send us. We want Arkansas Baptists to know what’s going on around the state and be able to celebrate together and encourage each other.
A third trait of the Williams Way is what I call “courageous faith.” Courageous faith refers to a deep, strong trust in Christ that moves us to bold action.
Every year the Arkansas Democrat Gazette publishes an article about how prepared or unprepared academically high school graduates are for college. There has been great concern for preparing students for the next level of education, and both parents and students take great measures to ensure that they are adequately prepared. However, there may be a more urgent concern and that is, “are our youth prepared spiritually for college?”
The class of 2021 marks a turnaround for Ouachita, a rising tide in our enrollment – highest in 20 years – that’s running counter to trends.
Dr. Jeremy Greer is the new dean of Ouachita Baptist University’s Pruet School of Christian Studies. Greer, a Ouachita graduate and second generation pastor, has long ties to the university as well as Arkansas Baptists in addition to higher education experience through teaching and administrative roles.
“It is like we are speaking the same language but using a completely different dictionary.”
Pastor William Jaques and his wife Marabeth have devoted their lives to caring for those in the foster care system.
CONWAY, Ark. – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) recently hired Brandon Moore as Conway Baptist Collegiate Ministry’s new campus minister. Moore most recently served at Christ Community Church in Huntersville, North Carolina where he was the College & Young Adult Director.
Exciting senior trips, inspiring graduation speeches, nostalgic summer vacations, bittersweet goodbyes in high school and so much more
“The number of fathers in U.S. jails and prisons has increased four-fold since 1980. Among the more than 800,000 parents in federal and state prisons, 92 percent are fathers.” – fatherhood.gov.
Before I went to the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), I was already incredibly proud to be a Southern Baptist.
“Vision 2025 is not a slogan or rallying cry. It’s a path forward to help us reimagine a new future together of reaching the world for Jesus Christ – every person, every town, every city, every state, and every nation.”
Reach the campus, and you can reach the world for Christ. Does that seem like an exaggeration? I was convinced that God was willing to do just that through our obedience at Henderson State University. Going to make disciples of all nations needed to start with reaching and discipling students right here on the local campus.
In that first meeting of the Ba Lau* group back in January 2021, two of the workers listening to the story prayed to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and others have since made a commitment to follow Him.
‘Around the State’ is a segment in the eMagazine that goes out every other Thursday to our email subscriber list. In this segment, which appears in the first issue of each month, we feature church staff changes, as well as church news and announcements you send to us. We want Arkansas Baptists to know what’s going on around the state and be able to celebrate together and encourage each other.
“It seems as if we have been in ‘crisis mode’ since straight-line winds tore through Camp Siloam in June 2019. A tornado a few weeks later and the virus crisis have been challenging for ministry and leadership.”
The purpose of this book is simple. I want to show how modern science, in various guises, can address and is addressing the question why there is something rather than nothing: The answers that have been obtained—from staggeringly beautiful experimental observations, as well as from the theories that underline much of modern physics—all suggest that getting something from nothing is not a problem. Indeed, something from nothing may have been required for the universe to come into being. Moreover, all signs suggest that this is how our universe could have arisen.[1]
“God, What I can do, I can do anywhere. Just tell me where.”
What do fishing, camping, sports, metalworking, horseback riding, Dutch oven cooking, grilling, Baggo, swimming, and waterslides have in common?
On April 18, 2021, our nation recorded a vaccine milestone with 50.4% of adults being vaccinated. At first glance, this is a great thing that needs to be celebrated, regardless of how you feel about the vaccines.
“There is a mission field right in front of us. And there is work to be done. This is what we want to awaken in others: not just to come to church, but to see everyone actively reaching the lost.”
Ethan Dial, 23, is the new digital media manager for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
“What a brave thing to do. To choose to hurt in order to make a plan that she felt was in her child’s best interest.” Becky Bruns, Adoption Specialist, ABCH
Here’s your monthly update on news, celebrations, etc. from other ABSC affiliated churches!
Electricity! Transportation! Rent/Mortgage! Clothing! Food! Formally or informally, we all “budget” for these living expenses and others.
While living in the Family Care Home with his Mamaw, Ethan’s hope is being restored as Charlotte can offer the safety and structure he needs and deserves.
The 2021 National Day of Prayer (NDOP) takes place on Thursday, May 6.
It has been said, “ministry wouldn’t be so bad if it weren’t for all the people.” Whether two months or 20+ years in your position, you will have all kinds of people to deal with.
Each year the Communication Team from the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) takes part in the Baptist Communicators Association’s Wilmer C. Fields awards competition. In the 57th year of the competition, the team from the ABSC won awards in a wide array of categories.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention and First Baptist Church of Benton have partnered together to introduce the Navigate Conference 2021
This position is more than a job to go to each day – it is a way of ministering to church staff, church members and maybe even an unbeliever who crosses her path.
Praying, giving, and going on mission with Jesus is central to the identity of Arkansas Baptists.
Founded in 1923 by what was then the Arkansas Baptist Assembly, now the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, Camp Siloam exists to offer churches a high quality, yet affordable camp experience.
Opened in 1964, Camp Paron was intentionally set apart as a place of ministry where churches of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) could go to recreate, to play, restore, renew focus and experience a fresh word.
This month’s Around The State segment comes early, as there are lots to celebrate and hear about this month!
ENGAGE is designed to provide participants the experience of a mission trip and summer camp all rolled into one.
Students will be able to experience meaningful worship, a variety of tracks, a talent show, and more. Information and details for registration will be available soon.
Neither Ingold nor the Crosspointe members could have envisioned the journey that would lead them to their current location since officially launching as a church plant six years ago.
This time last year, Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) around the state had canceled scheduled spring break mission trips.
“For the past 6 ½ years, we have seen God do some incredible things amongst college students in the Conway area…
Here’s your monthly update on news, celebrations, etc. from other ABSC affiliated churches!
The revised booklet features a six-step process for a team, commonly called a Pastor Search Committee, that is tasked with finding a new pastor.
With new and exciting things coming for some, we wanted to take a minute and talk about what all these shows have been up to and give you a glimpse inside what’s coming to your favorite podcast listening app very soon.
As the first event to cancel amid the pandemic last year, Inspire Women’s Conference had a year to plan and adapt to whatever the circumstances were going to look like in 2021.
A lot has changed in the two years since The Bridge Church was officially launched back in March of 2019.
The Missions Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention is introducing brand new initiatives for men and students to help involve them in reaching the lost and making disciples.
As vaccines are distributed and guidelines are adjusted, the possibility of hosting VBS in 2021 seems to be increasing.
The law is not set to take effect until 90 days after the legislature adjourns this year’s session. This means the newly signed law cannot be enforced until this summer at the earliest.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its first Quarterly Board Meeting for 2021 on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building.
According to the ADH, Houses of Worship are defined as operating religious organizations – such as churches, religious temples, and monasteries – and administering an organized religion or promoting religious activities.
While the schedule and layout looked different compared to a year ago, the messages and purpose remained the same: to encourage and equip the next generation to share the Gospel confidently.
When Will came to the Arkansas Baptist Ranch in 2017, he didn’t have anywhere else to go. He didn’t realize that the Ranch was exactly where God wanted him to be.
The Arkansas university campuses are not only our most strategic mission fields but our greatest mission agencies.
Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Disaster Relief (DR) volunteers are known for serving others in the midst of the devastation of a natural disaster.
The Arkansas Master’Singers Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of deceased members, is awarded annually and designed to support a college or seminary student who is preparing for some type of vocational ministry through music.
If you think Jeff and Cassie Lothes’ hands are full as the parents of nine children, you should see their hearts.
Neither Feigueiredo nor the faithful group of church members could possibly know at the time how God would use this seemingly chance encounter to impact this family, this church and many others literally around the world.
the raising of awareness about church planting in Arkansas and North America, as well as advocating for thousands of unreached people groups around the world leads us to the notion that we can impact that lostness in spite of the travel restrictions placed on us by COVID.
In a year marked with hardships, loss, separation, and isolation, it is my honor and privilege to inform Arkansas Baptists of the incredible outcomes of our partnership and cooperation to support missions at every level.
We need them to see that the Bible is more than “stories.” It is the inspired, inerrant, Word of the Living God. It is true and it is powerful in addressing all of life’s questions. Questions on values, identity, origins, and so much more.
NASHVILLE (BP) — A new resource for churches is offering a set of tools for greater financial stewardship and support of missions and ministry through
Since Monday, January 4, more than 1,000 Arkansas Baptists have been participating together in the 21 Days of Prayer + Fasting.
The 2021 Statewide Evangelism and Church Health Conference (ECON) went virtual this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
En un estudio reciente realizado por la SBC, se aprecia que las iglesias hispanas han ido creciendo y multiplicándose en términos porcentuales en todo Estados Unidos, así como las iglesias afroamericanas.
This year’s Evangelism and Church Health Conference, usually held in Little Rock, will be all virtual due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The Church Health and Evangelism team will be hosting a Sexual Abuse Awareness Training Webinar, presented by MinistrySafe, on February 9 from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Every 23 seconds an abortion is performed worldwide. Pregnancy care centers in Arkansas are diligently working to change that statistic. The Arkansas Baptist State Convention partners in three different avenues with pregnancy care centers so that together we can make a difference.
Recently, Warren Gasaway of the Evangelism and Church Health team offered a model for doing multi-generational, missional, discipleship based on Titus 2. This strategy could help fill the void for the approximately 1,300 Arkansas Southern Baptist Churches that do not have full-time ministries.
Our 21 Days of Prayer + Fasting emphasis kicks off today!
When it comes to disciple making in the local church, I am hearing from frustrated pastors and other church leaders who feel they expend a great deal of energy and resources but still don’t make much progress. Their discipleship ministry, much like our flat-bottom boat, is stuck.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (DR) recently wrapped up relief efforts in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
The College + Young Leaders (CYL) Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) is launching a new video series that shares student’s testimonies who have been impacted by the work of churches and BCMs on college campuses.
Do we ever stop and think if there is a church reaching these Hispanic employees?
Fall Festivals, or at least the traditional ones we have become accustomed to, took on a new look this year as churches had to rethink their festivities during a pandemic.
Every number represents a person so valuable to God that he’d be willing to send his only Son to die in their place. That’s value!
I have been in the ministry for approximately 62 years, and I have never experienced anything like the situation in which we find ourselves now.
At the special session of the 167th Arkansas Baptist State Convention annual meeting, the President of the ABSC and the Executive Director of the ABSC, spoke to encourage and challenge both those in attendance and those watching the live stream.
Each agency and institution had positive growth within their organization this year, even amidst the pandemic.
On Tuesday, October 20 at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building, the 167th annual meeting was convened as a special session of the Convention in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation.
Arkansas Baptists are grateful and honored to be served by Greg Addison, and we congratulate him as he moves forward to serve at the Southern Baptist Convention.
At the ABSC, Pilcher has helped develop the social media outlets, websites, photography and more for the ministries through the ABSC.
The 167th annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) will convene tomorrow at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention building in Little Rock for a condensed schedule.
On Saturday, October 3, 2020, many Arkansans served across their cities for the sake of their community knowing Christ.
On Saturday, October 3, the annual One Day mission trip went local as over 115 churches registered to participate in service projects and community outreach events that their churches planned and implemented.
Arkansas Baptists used to partner together every other year for a one-day missions experience as part of the Mississippi River Ministry.
If you are interested in registering or know someone who might be interested in enrolling in The Institute, please click here for a link to registration. The deadline to register is October 12, 2020.
While I cannot agree with that assessment, I will say that pastors need and deserve the fervent prayers of their church family. We expect them to pray us through our trials and they should count on us to pray them through their trials.
Soon after Hurricane Laura unleashed its destructive fury, Arkansas Baptist disaster relief volunteers responded with tangible expressions of God’s compassion.
On September 11 at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC), eight new church planters met to begin their journey into church planting around the state.
The 167th annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) has been adapted due to safety concerns and limitations presented by the coronavirus.
Three weeks have passed since Hurricane Laura made landfall in Cameron, Louisiana. The Category 4 hurricane caused widespread damage as hundreds of thousands were left without power and water. Most of the homes in Lake Charles suffered damage.
We often don’t realize how far a single act of obedience can reach until we hear stories like Waylon Tay’s.
Summer camp is a staple for many churches. In Arkansas, Camp Siloam in Siloam Springs has stood for years as a standard of that camp experience.
A new school year brings new opportunities for college outreach programs. Leaders must find ways to engage students within the community and on campus. Baptist Collegiate Ministries are no different. However, many didn’t know what the fall was going to look like thanks to COVID-19.
God’s ability to do immeasurably more extends to places that most of us will never go, including prisons in Arkansas.
Greg Addison, the Associate Executive Director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) has announced his plan to leave his current position to join the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) as the Executive Vice President.
When God sets the stage for His gospel to spread through a new church plant, He rarely calls just one person. Instead, He plants His vision in multiple hearts, drawing their different passions and talents to a unified focus.
Arkansas Baptist Foundation announced that its scholarship applications have opened. The primary deadline for most of the applications is February 1 2021 at 8 a.m.
Though distant, Arkansas Baptist pastors and ministers were still able to unite and connect together through a virtual option for this year’s annual statewide prayer gathering.
Arkansas Baptist pastors and ministry staff gathered all across the state of Arkansas for the annual ABSC Statewide Prayer Gathering. This was the seventh year these ministers gathered together to pray for revival.
The Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) has been adjusted for this year.
The Acts 1:8 One Day mission trip is an annual event every October that brings Arkansas Baptists together to serve and minister to a city in Arkansas.
Many of you are familiar with the work of Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (DR).
One of the principles we know to build our life and ministry on is to never abandon the basic, foundational principles and activities.
Drop by to say “hello” as we continue to serve Arkansas Baptists – the greatest folks in the world!
Scammers are using various names of ministers, church leaders and Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) staff to attempt to scam people via email. If you
On July 1, the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) welcomed two new staff members, Will McKay and Rusty Richardson. McKay joined the staff as the
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was written by Phillip Johnson, Worship Pastor at Heber Springs Baptist Church. I made a terrible mistake when attending my first
For the past six years, Arkansas pastors and ministry staff have come together at the Statewide Prayer Gathering on the last Monday and Tuesday in
We are excited about our newest Church Planting Strategist here at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, Chanson Newborn. Newborn comes to the ABSC from Fellowship
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – Senior year for high school students has looked extremely different than they ever would’ve imagined. With things like prom and graduation
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief officially launched its virtual training sessions Monday, August 3. Chainsaw, Flood Recovery, Feeding, Shower/Laundry, and more are now available online for
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Larry Grayson, Music and Worship Consultant at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC), is retiring from the ABSC after 10-years of
Vacation Bible School (VBS) has been a timeless tradition done during the summer at churches to help engage children and advance the Gospel. This year
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – “Many times we spent time talking about what we can’t do, but then we started talking about what we can do,”
A disaster is defined as an occurrence that causes human suffering or creates human needs that the survivors cannot alleviate without assistance. Disasters have been
JONESBORO, Ark. – Ten years ago, Central Baptist Church in Jonesboro began feeding 30-35 local police officers as part of an appreciation luncheon. Now, each
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – On Monday, July 20 Colonel Bill Bryant director of the Arkansas State Police and Alice Fulk, Assistant Chief of Police –
Arkansas Disaster Relief was forced to cancel their in-person training events due to COVID-19 and will likely have to wait until 2021 to continue doing
FORT SMITH, Ark. – Every fifth Sunday of the month, Grand Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Smith prepares for ‘Family Worship’ day. This is when
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Madison Burch recently joined the News and Communications team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention as the Communications Production Assistant. Burch
SPRINGDALE, Ark. – Twenty years ago, Cross Church in Springdale began to develop and invest in building relationships with the Marshallese population that had begun
By Tyler Hoffpauir College campuses across the state have resembled a ghost town since COVID-19 sent students and faculty home in mid-March. Usually, summertime for
EDITOR’S NOTE: The need for these DVDs has arisen again. See the article for how you can help. Volunteers are what keep prison ministries afloat
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was written by Stella Prather, Director of Communications for Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries. “Fostering is not always easy,
In 2019 Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief accomplished a number of things. They put in 27,054 hours of work, from making and serving meals to cutting
On Friday, June 26, 2020, the Arkansas Department of Health released to the press a list of churches allegedly “with documented COVID-19 exposure.” In response,
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – “Success is simply defined by faithfulness,” Children’s Pastor Brad Franklin shared. At Geyer Springs First Baptist Church, Pastor Brad and his
BATESVILLE, Ark. – First Baptist Church (FBC) in Batesville has creatively developed new strategies for meeting with their congregation. The coronavirus pandemic has left many
By Heather Noel, Content Manager Connected Foster Care Imagine being removed from your home by an unfamiliar person, dropped off in an unfamiliar home, with
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was written by Lisa Falknor. You turn 18 once. You graduate from high school once. For Luke Faddis, these milestones look
“There is as great a need for ABSC pastors to lead out in prayer in this season as any other time that we have gathered
Just as COVID-19 has changed church ministries and patterns during the Spring of 2020, churches are now facing how the pandemic is changing ministry this
By Dr. J.D. “Sonny” Tucker As Arkansas Baptists, we are preparing to enter the next phase of this unprecedented COVID-19 journey. On May 4, Governor
Derek Brown discusses the importance of tending to your mental and emotional health, especially during this difficult season of life. If you are a baptist
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) and ABSC Executive Director Dr. J.D. “Sonny” Tucker have filed an Answer to the December 2019
LITTLE ROCK – With the ongoing concern surrounding COVID-19, the Arkansas Baptist State Convention has decided to err on the side of caution and cancel
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) is excited to announce the next MinistrySafe training event on May 4, 2020 at First Baptist
LITTLE ROCK – A lawsuit filed Dec. 16, 2019 alleges former Millcreek Baptist Church pastor Teddy Leon Hill engaged in sexual assault, battery, felonious conduct
LITTLE ROCK – Clint Ritchie, former pastor of First Baptist Church, Hampton, and Swifton Baptist Church, Swifton, who has served as pastor of First Baptist
Messengers to the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Annual Meeting approved the following seven resolutions Oct. 23: 1) “Appreciation” (of the various individuals and organizations
LITTLE ROCK – Seven agencies or institutions of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) presented annual reports during the 166th annual meeting of the ABSC
LITTLE ROCK — Arkansas Baptist messengers approved seven resolutions at the 2019 annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) at Geyer Springs First
LITTLE ROCK – Don Moore, retired executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC), has been named the convention’s new prayer ambassador. “(Don’s) heart
LITTLE ROCK – Three new Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) team members were recognized, and potential missions partnerships were discussed during the Aug. 13 ABSC