[Wednesday Wellness] Finding Healing in the “Day of Small Things”
By Emily McMaster, LAC February is one of the coldest months of the year. The ground is hard; the trees are bare, and there are no visible signs of
February 4, 2026
By Emily McMaster, LAC February is one of the coldest months of the year. The ground is hard; the trees are bare, and there are no visible signs of
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
Following a winter system that brought a significant, high-impact combination of heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain, causing widespread power outages and dangerous driving conditions
By James Taylor, OBU ARKADELPHIA, Ark. — Ouachita Baptist University will host its annual Christian Focus Week Feb. 2-6, offering students dedicated time and space
An Abuse Prevention + Response Conference, presented by Arkansas Baptists, is scheduled Feb. 7 at Fair Park Baptist Church in Russellville.
Williams Baptist University has announced the launch of a new bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness that students can complete in three years. WBU’s new degree, which requires 90 credit hours rather than the usual 120 hours, was recently approved by the university’s accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission.
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
Harvest Baptist Church in Paragould recently celebrated the retirement of a $6.3 million debt. (Submitted photos) PARAGOULD, Ark. – For Harvest Baptist Church, the start
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) is on standby to assist impacted communities should the need arise as the potential of extreme cold and
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Campus ministers from community colleges and smaller college campuses around the state gathered in Little Rock this weekend to attend the Arkansas
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 Baptist women’s ministry leaders from across the state will gather Feb. 7 in Little Rock to be encouraged and refreshed
Students participate in recreation time at Student Life Camp in 2025. Lifeway camps will expand in 2026, adding four new locations and bringing new camps
When disaster strikes, Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) volunteers are among the first to respond, offering more than just a hot meal or removing debris—they offer the hope
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
From the announcement of a new Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) executive director to families learning about missions at the Little Rock Zoo, Arkansas Baptists had a lot of news to
First Baptist Church in Rogers performs its Christmas at First program. (Church’s Facebook) Churches across Arkansas have been celebrating the Christmas season with theatrical productions,
By Gayla Parker Christmas is a time of celebration and traditions. Because we have blended traditions at our house, mine, my husband’s, American, and Filipino (from
Several Arkansas Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) students delayed their Christmas break to serve on mission in the Arkansas Delta. Christmas in the Delta, which was Dec. 12-16, is an Arkansas
Members of Little Rock Immanuel Chinese Baptist Church raise banners for Jesus. (Submitted) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Members of Little Rock Immanuel Chinese Baptist Church have
Jaxon Smith, 9, left a football and teddy bear next to the baby Jesus of a manger scene at First Baptist Church in Mountain Pine.
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
OBU football team members run onto the field during a home game (Photo by Dr. Wesley Kluck) This holiday season, the Ouachita Baptist University (OBU) football team
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
New trustees at Williams Baptist University are (left to right) Jamar Andrews, Aaron Abbott, Cheryl Dean, Tonya Taylor, Shane Stolz and James Nichols. (Submitted) (WALNUT
Dr. Kyler Smith and his wife and daughter, Lauren and Eliza, stand in front of Immanuel Baptist Church in Little rock. The Pastor Search Committee over
By Nathan Winiecki, LPC As a single dad, I spent many Christmas Eves alone. While I wrapped presents for my son, I sometimes wondered what he might be doing. Was he watching Christmas movies? Was he
Summit Church held a “ground blessing” on Oct. 26. (Submitted) Part of the vision of The Summit family of churches is to spiritually impact 100 countries through
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
Tomorrow, millions of Americans will gather to share time and table together in celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday. Our family will have multiple gatherings in
by Heather Maino, Clinical Director of Counseling, Living Well Counseling January 4, 2024… It was our fourth wedding anniversary. I stood on the shoulder of
(Submitted photo) “Everything about the mission work is accomplished primarily because God is at work and moving in His people,” said Cliff Case, an International Mission Board (IMB)
On Friday, Nov. 14, Into the Light hosted the 2025 Light of the World benefit concert at the Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries building in Little Rock. The theme for the evening was Darkness in Light. The emcee of the event was Matt Foster, human trafficking coordinator for the Arkansas State Police.
The Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) of the University of Arkansas Community College Batesville (UACCB) on Tuesday, Nov. 18, helped serve up a Thanksgiving meal to approximately 200 students, faculty, and staff. To
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.
FORT SMITH, Ark. — What unfolded at this year’s Women’s Conference: Our Story, His Glory proved to be more than a scheduled gathering. For many in attendance, it
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its regularly scheduled Quarterly Board Meeting on Thursday, Nov. 13, at the Arkansas Baptist
CORNING, Ark. – On the front lawn of First Baptist Church in Corning on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 16 members of the Corning Bobcats football team
Finch Baptist Church in Paragould recently hosted a Judgement House event. They reported 58 salvations. (Submitteed) PARAGOULD, Ark. – Finch Baptist Church in Paragould saw
RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Two years ago, Katie Russell, who at the time was a middle school student in the Russellville School District, felt God calling
Loyd and his wife, Rebecca, visit with guests at his retirement celebration. Staff photo by Mary Alford FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – After 45 years of faithfully
LITTLE ROCK – Volunteers gathered at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention office on Tuesday, Nov. 11, to pack materials for churches to use to promote
Every Christian university exists within a web of tensions. On one hand, it must meet the rigorous demands of higher education: accreditation, academic excellence, financial
This article was written by Dawn Reed, LPC, at Living Well Counseling. Fall is my favorite time of year in Arkansas. The colors are gorgeous, and I can’t help but love pumpkin spice, blankets, hoodies, football
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.
(Lightstock photo) By Eric Davis, Treasurer/COO Arkansas Baptist Foundation This article brings back two topics that have been mentioned many times in this column. The reason
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.
Serving these last three years at Camp Siloam has been nothing short of amazing. My first encounter with Camp was back in 2007. My home
When Markham Street Baptist Church made the generous decision to give their building to Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries (ABCFM) to become our central office, none
(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
By Dillon McClain, Vice President/Attorney Arkansas Baptist Foundation The Foundation seeks to serve Arkansas Baptist churches (hereafter “Church or Churches”) in many ways, but we
Church Tax Tips Related to Payroll or Compensation WatersEdge is dedicated to supporting local churches by providing expert guidance on tax-related issues and helping navigate
JONESBORO, Ark. – Hundreds of Arkansas Baptists could be found ministering to the community throughout the Jonesboro area on Saturday, Oct. 4, as they participated
Students gather at Panther Stadium in Cabot for Fields of Faith, where 3,680 were in attendance. (Submitted/Abigail Rose Photography) CABOT, Ark. – Fields of Faith
Since being named chair of the ABSC Executive Board in October 2023, I have had the privilege of sharing my perspective in these articles. I
The Board of Trustees at Williams Baptist University elected new officers for the upcoming year at its regularly scheduled board meeting Tuesday, Sept. 23. Trustees also welcomed news of an increase in freshman enrollment for the fall semester.
College students gathered at Camp Paron recently for a BCM Fall Retreat. (Submitted) PARON, Ark. – More than 300 college students gathered this past weekend,
The 12th Annual Golden Age Conference was hosted Thursday, Sept. 18, at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge.
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.
RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The 2025 Pastors’ Conference will kick off at noon Monday, Oct. 20, with lunch in the fellowship hall at First Baptist Church
Eight students were baptized following a fellowship meal at Second Baptist Church in Russellville. (Submitted) God’s spirit is moving among high school and college students
On September 10, 2025, a horrible event shook the American educational and political landscape: Charlie Kirk — co-founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) and a
Note: This article is drawn from President Ben Sells’ Convocation Chapel address to students on September 2. With Convocation, we bring together new and returning
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
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Send Network Arkansas on Friday, Sept. 5, hosted a local, one-day event designed to inspire and equip planters, pastors, and followers
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
AABS President Mallory Mertens makes announcements in opening session. (Staff photo by Mary Alford) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Ministry assistants are oftentimes the first point
Students register for a Conway BCM event. (Submitted) Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) is kicking off the fall semester of ministry with gospel-fueled, welcome week events
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
What if there was a ministry already within your reach that could strengthen the families in your church and also serve as an outreach to
Rachel Strange, LAC, Living Well Counseling I’ve been reading through the Psalms. And if you’ve ever read through just about any of the Psalms, you’ll
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.
Women Equipped, the Christian Women’s Job Corps (CWJC) site in Benton, was recently awarded a $2,000 CWJC Site Grant by the Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) Foundation.
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
When most people think of a church, they think of ‘Church’— worship services, Sunday school classes, youth programs, and community outreach. And rightly so, the heart of any church should be ministry. But every church, whether we want to acknowledge it or not, is more than just ‘Church’. Every church is also a nonprofit organization, an employer, and a legal entity with trustees or directors who carry important legal and financial responsibilities. Recognizing this reality helps leaders manage the church with wisdom, integrity, and foresight.
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).
Walnut Valley Baptist Church in Hot Springs Pastor David Mason, from right, Living Well Counselor Aamie Mason, Walnut St Baptist Church in Jonesboro Pastor Grey
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
(Submitted photos) BATESVILLE, Ark. – West Baptist Church of Batesville hosted a No Sale Yard Sale on Monday, July 28. Preparation began months ahead with
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
(Submitted photos) FORREST CITY, Ark. –Liberty Baptist Association recently took a team to serve in Forrest City, where they partnered with Rusty Nails Cowboy Church
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which produced several acronyms, but we are going to go with (“BBB”), was passed on July 4, 2025, and
A group of 12 high school students and six adults from Woodland Heights Baptist Church recently spent a week in South Florida on mission serving
Dr. Ruth Provost, newly appointed Vice President for Academic Affairs at Williams Baptist University. (WBU) WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – A Williams Baptist University alumna with
Brooklin Pitard graduated in 2024 with degrees in biology and Christian foundations. (OBU) By James Taylor, OBU ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Ouachita Baptist University’s Christian foundations
(Submitted photos) Little Rock, Ark. – World Changers provides hands-on mission experiences that assist churches in developing students spiritually. Through construction, students actively meet the
Denver Broncos’ Quarterback Bo Nix and his father, Coach Patrick Nix, sit down with Lead Pastor Chris Dixon during Night of Champions at First Baptist
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
On July 5, tragedy struck close to home for the Williams Baptist University family. In the quiet hours of the early morning, a fire tore
As president of Ouachita Baptist University, I’m supposed to talk about being academically excellent and unapologetically Christian, which we are – and you’ve likely heard
Volunteers pack sacks for community. (Photo submitted) GOSNELL – Gosnell Baptist Church started a new ministry this summer – free sack lunches for Gosnell residents.
Sean Milliken, Arkansas Baptist Ranch Director of Operations Recently, while playing a trivia game with my family, I was surprised to hear from our (unsubstantiated)
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) recently deployed to Texas following the devastating flash floods in the Hill Country, particularly along the Guadalupe River, over Fourth
After God removed Saul, He raised up David to be their king, testifying about him: “I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man
(WALNUT RIDGE, Ark.) – A new scholarship at Williams Baptist University will benefit students in the field of agriculture business. The Turner Family Scholarship has
Photo by Alex Blankenship It’s summertime, which means Vacation Bible School (VBS). Churches are being filled with children singing and dancing to VBS songs and
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
Julia Ketner, retired executive director for Arkansas Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU), was recently recognized for her “unwavering commitment to the Great Commission” as she became the 25th recipient of the Dellanna West O’Brien Award for Women’s Leadership Development.
DALLAS – A quick response kitchen trailer of the Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) was a prominent sight this week in the exhibit hall of
Julia Ketner, retired executive director for Arkansas WMU, was the 25th recipient of the Dellanna West O’Brien award for women’s leadership development, which recognizes Baptist women who demonstrate the ability to foster leadership in women, display the potential to be leaders in their community and world and excel in missions discipleship.
In a crowd of thousands at the 2025 SBC Annual Meeting in Dallas, a sacred moment unfolds—messengers surround Jude and Bridget Davis in prayer, two
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
At 23 years old, I lost someone important to me. One day they were here, the next day they were suddenly and tragically gone. The
BROOKLYN, New York – “When we go on mission trips it reignites an awareness of need around us,” said Sarah Bowen of Hillcrest Community Church
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
On April 2, 2025, I marked my seventh anniversary as president of Williams Baptist University. When Joy and I arrived on this campus in 2018,
The following is President Ben Sells’ address during Ouachita’s May 2025 Commencement ceremony. Ouachita’s vision and mission statements do more than articulate our university’s purpose
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
(left to right) Luke Colley, WBU Vice President for Advancement; Dr. Rhyne Putman, WBU Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Stan Norman, WBU President; Beth
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
A big yellow and white tent was a prominent sight along Dry Bone Road in Ash Flat earlier this month as several churches came together
The student choir from Union Valley Baptist Church, Beebe, performs at their recent fundraiser. Photo submitted BEEBE, Ark. – The student ministry of Union Valley
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,
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its Quarterly Board Meeting on Thursday, May 8th at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention
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
Trish Waltz, LCSW, Living Well Counseling We all have pain in our lives: some pain can be debilitating, while other pain is a mere annoyance.
SEARCY, Ark. – Arkansas Baptists gathered in Searcy on Sunday to celebrate what God is doing around the state. Arise, an Arkansas Baptist State Convention
By Heather Noel, director of communications for Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries Sometimes the stories we tell are the ones that first told us
Sunday was a day of celebration at Balboa Baptist Church in Hot Springs Village as nine students who accepted Jesus into their hearts followed in
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
Photo courtesy of Ouachita Baptist University A dedication of the new Worship Studies Lab at Ouachita Baptist (OBU) University was held Thursday, April 24. Recognized
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
UAFS BCM students chalk the sidewalk on campus for Holy Week. (Submitted) It’s Holy Week and Arkansas Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) across the state are
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
Photos submitted. Editor’s note: After two EF4 tornadoes left a wake of destruction the night of March 14, in addition to the Arkansas Baptist Disaster
WatersEdge is dedicated to supporting local churches by providing expert guidance on tax-related issues and helping navigate the financial complexities of churches with ease. We
First Baptist Rogers is excited to host its inaugural apologetics and evangelism conference, A Call to Adventure, on May 16-17. This two-day event will feature
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
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) is currently assessing damage in Northeast Arkansas following severe weather that left devastation in its wake. Mount Zion Baptist Association
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
“Premium value and surprisingly affordable” – that’s an increasingly used phrase to describe Ouachita Baptist University, illustrated by the following: Ouachita is academically excellent. We
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
Emily Ruth Watson attended her first annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) in 1951. In the more than 70 years that followed,
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
“As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not
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,
Students lead worship Wednesday during Spiritual Emphasis Week. (Mary Alford/ABN) SHERWOOD, Ark. – It’s Spiritual Emphasis Week at Abundant Life Christian Academy (ALCA), and students
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
Three years ago, Rocky Bayou Associational Missionary Rick Hassell attended a Double Honor Ministries retreat. He’s been involved with the ministry ever since. “I was
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.
The 2025 Replicate retreat is set for Sept. 19-21. Replicate is a weekend of life-changing messages, powerful worship, small groups, and interactive experiences challenging students
(Submitted) A sweet spirit of fellowship was prevalent Feb. 21-22 during the 10th annual Third Street Baptist Church (TSBC) Women’s Conference in Arkadelphia. The goal
By Ellie Bennett, Ouachita Baptist University The J.D. Patterson School of Natural Sciences at Ouachita Baptist University has a long track record of quality professors,
Students worship during Reality Check at First Baptist Church in El Dorado. (Submitted) Disciple Now (DNow) events across the state are serving as catalysts for
In the early 1970s, Greg Hutchison lived just outside Atlanta, Georgia, with his dad, mom and younger brother. His dad had a massive heart attack
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
I recently attended a meeting where the discussion turned to investments. As I looked at the reports, it seemed like a Greek lesson to me
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its first Quarterly Board Meeting of 2025 on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the
Facebook photo Volunteers at Line Baptist Church in Little Rock recently saw a need in the area around their church and have stepped up to
Arkansas Baptists are invited on Sunday, Feb. 16, to celebrate the ways that God has worked through the Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU). Focus on WMU
Williams Baptist University is expanding its academic offerings to include a degree in agriculture. The university says its new degree, the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Business, will be available starting this fall.
Students in Ouachita’s Patterson School of Natural Sciences whose cancer cell research was published in the scientific journal, “microPublication Biology” include, from left, Tuesday Melton,
Dr. David O’Dell (center), pastor of Second Baptist Church, Jacksonville, prays for Arkansas Baptist pastors during last year’s What’s at Steak men’s worship night. Photo
Steven McClatchy, LPC, Living Well Counseling February is a month with emphasis on love with Valentine’s Day in the middle. In our online world, there
PRESS RELEASE – Cross Theological Seminary is pleased to announce a formal partnership with Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. This partnership allows
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
A man walks along a street in a city in South Asia (Submitted). Editor’s note: Names were changed for security. Feeling God’s call to missions
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
Acts 1:8 – “but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in
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
Tim Noel serves as the Director of Mission Advancement and Church Partnership at Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries. Lately, I have been drawn to
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
Missions discipleship has been a major focus in recent years at Iglesia Bautista Nueva Jerusalén. Utilizing resources made available by the Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU),
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
In 2024, the Foundation celebrated 75 years of serving Arkansas Baptists. Throughout the year we were honored to remember and celebrate the ways we had
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
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of Lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow
Calvary Baptist Church in Little Rock has opened its doors to serve as a shelter to those displaced following a fire at the Midtown Park
First Baptist Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky turned their gym into a miniature golf course for Christmas outreach opportunity. Photo submitted. SHELBYVILLE, Ky. – In a
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
Catherine Ponder sits a table at her home in Walnut Ridge. (Mary Alford/ABN) WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – “Loving God! Loving People!” Those words can be
STUTTGART, Ark. – Choir members from various churches came together on Sunday, Dec. 15, to present the Stuttgart community with the “I Call Him Lord”
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.
Jimmie Sheffield retired as associate executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention in 2003 and currently assists the Evangelism+Church Health Team. Since early childhood,
Dr. Don Moore served as the executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention from 1982 to 1995. He encourages senior adults to pray for
WYNNE, Ark. – A drive-thru live nativity experience took place the last two weekends, Dec. 7-9 and Dec. 14-15, at Three Trees Cowboy Church in
CONWAY, Ark. – Conway Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) students were treated to pancakes, a hug and an encouraging word on Monday, Dec. 9, as they
By Phillip Slaughter, Pastor, First Baptist Church, Crossett Let’s rewind two thousand years. Imagine yourself growing up in a Jewish family and hearing of the
Photo: (Center) Arkansas Gov. Sarah Sanders presents a ceremonial check to Dr. Ben Sells, Ouachita president, recognizing a $437,500 Workforce Strategy Grant awarded to the
By Myriah Snyder BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — In January, around 4,000 ministry leaders and volunteers will gather in Nashville, Tenn., Houston and Fort Worth, Texas, and
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
Bill and Evelyn Bullington served 39 years with the International Mission Board (IMB), most of that time in West Africa. They began doing evangelism and
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
By Curt Tucker, Stewardship Coordinator, Arkansas Baptist Foundation On November 15, 2024, a federal judge in Texas struck down the Department of Labor’s new overtime
LITTLE ROCK – Established in 1824, the congregation of First Baptist Church in Little Rock recently celebrated the church’s 200-year legacy of faith. The church
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
Governor Sarah Sanders presenting the HIRED Grant award to Dr. Stan Norman. Left to right: Hugh McDonald, Secretary of the Department of Commerce; Cody Waits, Executive Director
Coach Todd Knight with OBU players after win over HSU. (Photo by Meghann Bledsoe) WACO, Texas – For the fifth time in the last 10
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
The North American Mission Board communications team compiled this report. ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP) — A diverse group of more than 170 planters representing at least
CONWAY, Ark. – Scott Miller has served for the past 7 ½ years as the association missions strategist (AMS) of the Faulkner Baptist Association (FBA).
By Tabatha Miller, LCSW, Living Well Professional Counseling November is National Adoption Month. For many, this brings up the mental image of a courtroom full
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
Photo from Rose Bud First Baptist Church Facebook ROSE BUD, Ark. – The congregation of Rose Bud First Baptist Church put in the work, and
LITTLE ROCK – Hillcrest Community Church celebrated the nations and God’s glory on Oct. 27 during their Sunday service. “Nations Sunday was to celebrate what
When Lisa and I were raising children, we lived far from family. We returned home in the summer, but usually not for holidays. Christmas Day
In my report at the 2024 annual meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, I shared some personal reflections regarding a faith journey I have
Patrick Henry serves as the chief financial officer of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. Church insurance is a crucial component of protecting your employees, the
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
Worship Studies Preview Day is scheduled for Thursday, November 7, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia. This will be a
LITTLE ROCK – Volunteers came together at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention offices on Monday to pack materials for churches to use to promote the
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
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – “God has been moving big here this semester and it has been amazing to see and be a part of,” said Hayden
Students from Crosspointe Church in Bryant prepare for Sunday morning worship at Clarkridge Baptist Church. Fifteen years ago, a small group of Arkansas Baptist students
VALDOSTA, Ga. – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) volunteers extend the love of Christ to disaster survivors, offering help, healing, and hope that is found
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
Guest speaker Susie Everett (Staff photo by Mary Alford) ROLAND, Ark. – Fresh Start Christian Women’s Job Corps (CWJC) hosted a tea and luncheon fundraiser
BRYANT, Ark. – On National Good Neighbor Day, Sept. 28, more than 90 volunteers dispersed throughout Bryant to spread kindness and make a positive impact
WHITE HALL, Ark. – Three young ladies recently put together a lemonade stand to raise support for Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) and Hurricane Helene
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
We are fortunate to live on property with a large backyard on approximately 1.75 acres. It is not a pastureland, but for inside the city,
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
Katherine Smith, LPC, Living Well Counseling “Wait – you do therapy with children younger than five?” Shock, confusion and questioning is typically the initial response
Students across the state gathered for prayer at their schools’ flagpoles on Wednesday, Sept. 25, for See You at the Pole (SYATP). The event is
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
Six Arkansas Baptist associations are uniting in an area-wide senior adult revival. Calvary, Caroline, Faulkner, Independence, Little Red River, North Pulaski and Pulaski Baptist associations
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Pastors and church leaders from across Arkansas gathered in Little Rock on Thursday, Sept. 26, for the Arkansas Baptist Children &
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
BENTON, Ark. – Hundreds of women gathered on Saturday, Sept. 21, at First Baptist Church in Benton for the Arkansas Baptist Women Conference. The Conference
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.
BAY, Arkansas – Bay First Baptist Church on Sunday marked the retirement of a $1.5 million debt on its sanctuary with a note burning celebration
WBU President Dr. Stan Norman (right) looks over the newly renovated Startup Chapel with Trustees Susan Allison and Cliff Gifford. (Walnut Ridge, Ark) – The
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.
With Convocation, we bring together new and returning students with faculty and staff to formally begin the academic year.
Over the past two to three years, the number of times I get asked this question seems to grow more and more in conversations with prospective students and their families.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) is gearing up to deploy to Morgan City, Louisiana, to aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Francine. The hurricane slammed into
Unraveling a tale from the spreadsheets to the pews Have you ever considered what it feels like to be on the receiving end of your
WHITE HALL, Ark. – “Let the celebration begin.” Those are the words Bob Bailey, the former worship leader for First Baptist Church (FBC) in White
Parkway Place Church returned to their worship center on Aug. 25. (Screenshot) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Parkway Place Church on Sunday, Aug. 25., celebrated the
Students worship during Teen College. (Submitted) MARMADUKE, Ark. – Seeds were planted during Marmaduke First Baptist Church’s Teen College, a teen revival held every year
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
By James Barham, LPC, LMFT, Director of Healthy Family Initiatives with ABCFM and marriage therapist with ABCFM counseling provider, Living Well Professional Counseling. In November
A camp called Siloam is a place where God and people meet and experience salvation, discipleship, and a call to serve Jesus Christ! Camp Siloam
By Dr. Stephen Bell, LMFT, Professor of Psychology at Ouachita Baptist University Have you ever been in a situation where you just felt like
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
SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. – More than 500 salvations were reported over nine weeks of camp this summer at Camp Siloam. “It was an amazing summer.
Luke Schonauer has a heart for missions. He had the opportunity to put that passion into action this summer through serving at First Baptist Church
FORREST CITY, Ark. – Ministry leaders recently gathered for a weekend of encouragement and equipping at Beck Spur Baptist Church in Forrest City. The Church
Arkansas Baptists were well-represented at National Collegiate Week, held Aug. 4-8 at Falls Creek, Oklahoma. One hundred and thirty-four Arkansas students and leaders from both
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
A recent regulation may have significant implications for churches and nonprofits, and we implore each church to read and understand whether or not this regulation
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
SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. – Life Line Baptist Church Pastor Jeff Dial has been selected as the next executive director of Camp Siloam. The Board of
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
The last two weeks in July saw several Arkansas Baptist churches serve throughout the state.
Paul Williams serves as senior pastor at First Baptist Church in White Hall and currently serves as president of the ABSC Executive Board. Second Corinthians
Don Moore, retired executive director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, continues to encourage Arkansas Baptists to pray. Coming out of the Olympic season we
Article by Jinny Richards, LAC, Living Well Counseling “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for
BENTON, Ark.– Top Christian artists are set to take the stage at the two-day Amplify Music Festival, including Grammy-nominated band Skillet, hip-hop artist KB and
DeWitt, Ark. – For more than 30 years, the members of First Baptist Church in DeWitt had a desire to construct an activities building. Last
BATESVILLE, Ark. – Ronnie Toon has served as the associational missionary of the Independence Baptist Association for 21 years. He and his wife, Cheryl, have
Editor’s Note: This article was written by Taylor Cain who serves as the associate pastor at First Baptist Church in Sylvan Hills and Bible teacher
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – From Baptist Campus Ministry (BCM) leaders to ministry assistants, the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) in recent months has welcomed a
Throughout the week, World Changers presented the Gospel 20 times. Five people prayed to receive Christ.
Our world desperately needs Christ-centered leaders. I believe God birthed WBU to be a place that meets this critical need.
I’m grateful for the generations who came before us who faithfully and effectively stewarded this Christian university.
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.
A youth group from Iglesia Bautista Nueva Jerusalen in Little Rock recently embarked on their first missions trip to Houston, Texas, sharing the love of Christ.
When developed thoughtfully and implemented with transparency, these policies empower churches to fulfill their mission.
Sunday morning! The sun is out, the church doors are unlocked, the AC is on (and working!), and the fellowship hall smells of homemade breakfast. A week has come and gone, and now it’s time to worship and fellowship with the church family.
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.
The days and weeks immediately following VBS are the most crucial for outreach.
Lament is found all through scripture, and nearly two-thirds of the Psalms are written as songs of lament, not to mention the entire book of Lamentations, where lament is the central theme.
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.
Churches must understand and fix these church communication mistakes in order to evangelize our communities better, all while informing the congregation about ministry opportunities and discipleship.
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
Arkadelphia, Ark. – Thousands of students from across the state have gathered this week on the campus of Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia for Super
Student groups from Texas and Tennessee travelled to Pine Bluff during the week of June 10-17 to serve the community through World Changers.
Aubrey Lee and Aden Thompson compete at the National Bible Drill Competition in North Carolina. (Submitted) Concord, N.C. – Aubrey Lee from Grandview Baptist Church
Church group time can be one of the most pivotal moments for a student ministry during camp.
As a part of the Arkansas Baptist family, when you ask, we will help.
If you have an employee who will now be nonexempt under the new thresholds, who routinely works more than 40 hours per week, this may require you to put pen to paper and calculate if paying overtime or raising their salary makes more sense.
New beginnings can be tough. Here are some ways you can help keep high school graduates connected to God.
When I was asked to collaborate on this task force, I considered it a great honor not only for the association I serve, but also for our state convention
Minette Williams Drumwright Pratt—a remarkable, accomplished, beloved woman—died on June 15, 2024, at the age of 93. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandparent, denominational
Next summer, kids will explore the vastness of God’s character through the details of Scripture with Lifeway Christian Resources’ 2025 Vacation Bible School (VBS) theme: “Magnified! Discovering the Bigness of God in the Smallest of Things.”
By Sarah Barham, Vice President of Ministry Accounting, WatersEdge Ministry Services Even in the best circumstances, managing church finances can be daunting. Factor in complex
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
WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – Williams Baptist University has released the names of students on the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the 2024 spring semester. The
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – More than 415 students were named to the President’s List for the Spring 2024 semester at Ouachita Baptist University. To be named
When we fast, we are saying the cry of our soul to God is greater than the cry of our stomach or time.
Mission:Dignity has been a tremendous blessing for many, including Arkansas resident Emily Ruth Watson. Watson, 93, served in the ministry alongside her late husband, Jimmy,
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.
1 Corinthians 10:31, a verse embedded within the fabric of Christian teachings, serves as a guiding light for believers navigating the complexities of daily existence.
Mollie Duddleston of Cross Church in Northwest Arkansas was elected to serve a second term as chairperson of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC)’s Committee on Convention Missions and Ministry.
Southern Baptist messengers will have an opportunity to hear from the six men seeking to become the next president of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) next week before election at the 2024 Annual Meeting in Indianapolis.
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.
Carol Jones of Shiloh Community Church advises a seamstress on sewing machine maintenance. (Staff photo by Mary Alford) CLARKSTON, Ga. – Eleven Arkansas Baptist women
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.
This year’s university theme has been “lives of meaningful work,” a phrase in our mission statement focused on one purpose of an Ouachita education. There are many dimensions to a life of meaningful work.
I am grateful to work for and lead a Christian university that I believe has been faithful to a biblical understanding of elite. An elite Christian university should be committed to biblical authority, the lordship of Christ, orthodox Christian theology, a commitment to serve the church, and a mission to produce Christian leaders.
Williams Baptist University has announced a generous donation of $7,500 from the First National Bank of Lawrence County, dedicated to fortifying the Williams Works program.
Editor’s note: This article was written by Emma Richardson, who serves as the campus ministry associate at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith Baptist
As associational missionary for the Northwest Baptist Association, Scott Hobbs’ goal is to support the churches of the association “by helping them to fulfill the vision the Lord has given to them to reach their communities with the Gospel.”
A compassion ministry of Woman’s Missionary Union, Christian Women’s Job Corps is geared toward “equipping women for life in a Christian context through career focused classes, Bible study and building meaningful relationships.”
SPRING, Texas – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) teams deployed over the weekend to Spring, Texas, to aid the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention’s response
One small group of faithful Baptist men and women sought to be different. They wanted to cooperate to support missions at a higher level.
God took me out of a mess, and He brought me into a place of joy I didn’t realize I needed.
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.
Building a well-constructed budget allows your church to be a good steward of God’s resources and fulfill its mission effectively.
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.
What started as a food box ministry in a small Sunday school room of Graves Memorial Baptist Church in North Little Rock several years ago is now a thriving ministry for the Lord.
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.
MORRIS, Okla. – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) is deploying to Morris, Oklahoma. Five teams from First Baptist Church in Clarksville, First Baptist Church in
A group of Arkansas Baptist church planters recently traveled to Alpharetta, Georgia, for the North American Mission Board’s Send Network Orientation.
Reconciliation with Christ is found through genuine obedience to the call from Christ.
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
If you share the Gospel with more people, more people will have an opportunity to get saved.
The Board of Trustees at Williams Baptist University approved the budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year Tuesday, April 16.
The Lord is moving through Arkansas churches.
April 9 marked a historic occasion in Helena-West Helena as members of Helena First Baptist Church deeded the church property to Second Baptist Church in West Helena on Park Avenue.
On the weekend of April 12-14, more than 160 students from 12 different churches gathered in Marianna for the annual Spring CONNECT student missions event.
2 Samuel 23:4 reads, “He dawns on them like the morning light, like the sun shining forth on a cloudless morning, like rain that makes grass to sprout from the earth.” God wants you to see His beautiful sunrise so that you will know you are free. Take a moment to say, “Good morning, God.”
Managing church finances can be daunting even under the most favorable circumstances.
We have an obligation to teach the next generation that the importance of God’s word still stands today.
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.
CROSSETT, Ark. – As an associational missionary, Joel Whitenton is looking to help promote the health of pastors and churches. “Without healthy churches, we can’t
Photo by Alex Blankenship BENTON, Ark. – Donning solar eclipse glasses, adults and children at Trinity Baptist Church in Benton on Monday watched in awe
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).
For the fourth year in a row, recipients received this “13th Check” due to a fund established at the foundation.
Newton County Baptist Church’s Egg Drop Eggstravaganza was just one of the several Easter outreach events Arkansas Baptists held throughout the state.
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.
From Portland, Oregon, to Panama City Beach, Florida, Arkansas Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) students from around the state traveled near and far during their spring
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.
I invite all our lay people to join me on Saturday evenings to lift up these watchmen who stand on the walls and preach the Word.
To help parents make safety a priority for their family, MinistrySafe is providing their Awareness Parent Training for FREE for the entire month of April.
Following the largest wildfire in Texas history, Arkansans are helping collect and transport rounds of hay to aid impacted ranchers and farmers.
TEXARKANA, Ark. – The Kids Ministry at Trinity Baptist Church in Texarkana held their second annual Journey to the Cross event on Palm Sunday. Featuring
Williams Baptist University is joining forces with Walnut Ridge Regional Airport and the Wings of Honor Museum to present entertainment before the upcoming eclipse.
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.
First Baptist Church (FBC) in Smackover is approaching its 100-year anniversary. To commemorate the milestone, the church has planned a two-day celebration.
The Aussiedoodle is the first therapy dog in ABDR history.
The youth of Life Line Baptist Church are spending this spring break in service.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) does more than just respond to disasters.
By Don Moore, retired executive director, ABSC This is a question on the minds of many. For more than a decade our churches have declined
Pray for us at Arkansas Baptist Ranch, a ministry of Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries, as we serve the children in our care and their families.
HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE, Ark. – Multiple Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) teams spent the weekend providing aid in Hot Springs Village following an EF-2 tornado.
JACKSONVILLE, Ark. – Two years ago, Marshall Road Baptist Church in Jacksonville began a partnership with Murrell Taylor Elementary School, offering additional support for students
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,
A group from Baptist Prep takes a selfie at Camp Paron (Submitted) PARON, Ark. – Camp Paron received a bit of a facelift this week
Internal controls are procedures, policies, and practices designed to prevent fraud and promote accountability.
HARRISON, Ark. – David Graham has been part of about every size church imaginable. He grew up in a church with around 2,000 in attendance,
HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE, Ark. – Sunday was a day of celebration for members of Coronado Baptist Church in Hot Springs Village. Following a homecoming service and
ABDR volunteers sift through ash to help families locate valuable items that survived the fires. (Submitted) Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) recovery teams are lending
First Baptist Church in Clarendon has launched a new ministry inspired by the heart of God to aid and minister to the community.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) recovery teams are on their way to Texas to aid areas impacted by wildfires ravaging the state. According to recent
A team of Arkansas Baptists recently embarked on a Brazil Vision Tour.
It was a busy weekend for University of Arkansas graduate student Abigayle Money –the top finishing female of the Little Rock Marathon.
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.
The drama was performed four nights in a row, Feb. 25-28, drawing more than 1,200 from the community into the church. Of those, Pastor Reuel Cruce said 123 made decisions to follow Jesus.
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.
LITTLE ROCK – Danny Green is “well-respected in his association and is truly a pastor to pastors. Danny’s heart is for every church reaching their
Last January, several pastors of various churches and denominations in the region began meeting every Thursday in prayer
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 weekend retreat for students in the 501-area code was full of worship, encountering Jesus through the services and family group times, games, and much more.
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.
Incoming freshmen at Williams Baptist University this fall will each receive a new Bible, thanks to a gift from the Big Creek Baptist Association in northern Arkansas.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its first quarterly board meeting for 2024 on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building.
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.
Sarah Barham, Vice President of Ministry Accounting Services, WatersEdge It’s no secret that churches face complex challenges when it comes to their finances. Accounting, taxes,
Annette and I said “yes” to each other on June 6, 1958. We are approaching 66 years of being married. In today’s world that is
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. – The Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) in 2023 had the opportunity to distribute a record sum totaling more than $50 million. Since
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Dr. Rex and Becky Horne have been sweethearts since middle school. The couple met at ages 12 and 13 at Fairview
BENTON, Ark. – More than 100 students gathered at First Baptist Church in Benton Jan. 26-27 for PraizFest 2024. Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Worship
John Barnett, director of the diaspora mobilization team for the International Mission Board, speaks with Arkansas Baptists. (Mary Alford/ABN) LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Several Arkansas
Please join with me in praying for God to loudly and clearly call a new generation of faithful followers to serve vocationally in the local church.
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.
As counselors at Living Well Professional Counseling, we often meet with people in their greatest heartbreaks or overwhelming experiences.
Lightstock photo “Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you
Editor’s note: This article was written by Brandon Elrod of the North American Mission Board. PLANO, Texas – Prestonwood Baptist Church in Texas is hosting
Associational Missionary Don Chancellor said the goal of Pulaski Baptist Association is to “help every church impact their community with the gospel.” “Churches are the
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) Red River Feeding Unit of Arkadelphia provided lunch on Tuesday for members of the Area
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.
By Todd Kaunitz, Lead Pastor, New Beginnings Baptist Church, Longview, TX. It is an understatement to say, “When God shows up, everything changes.” When the
MONTICELLO, Ark. – After pastoring four churches in three states over a span of nearly 30 years, God called Joe Day a different direction in
Jesus came to seek and save the lost and He invites us to join in His mission.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) is on standby to assist impacted communities should the need arise as the potential of extreme
Fellowship Baptist Church Pastor Gary Martin said they surpassed that mark by more than $2,000, raising a total of $26,063 to support worldwide evangelism through the special offering named for famed missionary Lottie Moon
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.
David Dockery, SWBTS president, presents the James Leo Garrett Jr. Award for Contribution to Christian Thought to Wyman Richardson, pastor of Central Baptist Church in
Twelve college students, along with our director and two recent UAM graduates, entered the city with the purpose of aiding four important ministries.
Retired schoolteacher Debbie Finch is using footwear to share the Gospel, encouraging people to “flip flop” their lives for Jesus.
IMB is in the process of assigning each missionary unit a portfolio of churches. This will serve to put a very personal face on our cooperative efforts to take the gospel the ends of the earth.
OZARK, Ark. – In February, J.R. DeBusk will mark eight years serving as associational missionary with the Clear Creek Baptist Association. “My goal is to
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
Arkansas Baptists were introduced to Hiding Place Hollow in June of 2022. Hiding Place Hollow was born out of a vision that God had given
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
The holiday season is here and Arkansas Baptists around the state are taking the opportunity to share the gospel and God’s love. In Malvern, the
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
PARON, Ark. – Andrew Campbell has been selected as the next Camp Paron manager. Originally from Houston, Texas, Campbell has lived in Arkansas since 2004.
Beginning my eighth decade of ministry, perhaps the following will encourage others to press on.
As I think about giving gifts, I am reminded that this season provides a wonderful opportunity for giving to missions.
FORT SMITH, Ark. – The goal of the Great Commission Baptist Association (GCBA) of the River Valley is to have one healthy Great Commission Baptist
Friend, if you are struggling with hurt during this holiday season, know that you are seen and known by a good Father that cares about your emotions.
Arkansas Tourism representatives are anticipating up to 1.5 million visitors for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
Editor’s note: This article was first published by Williams Baptist University. WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – The Williams Works initiative at Williams Baptist University is expanding
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.
A needle and thread. A package of paper. An old wallpaper catalog. A pair of scissors. And a sack lunch. That is pretty much all my church needed to host our first “Scripture and Art” event a couple of weeks ago.
In 1 Thessalonians 2:8, Paul said “We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.”
Thanksgiving is a day to celebrate the harvest and blessings of the past year. Several Arkansas Baptists use the national holiday as an opportunity to pour those blessings back into their communities.
We need Christmas to come around. We need the reminder that Jesus came as our Savior.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its regularly scheduled Quarterly Board Meeting on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
Campus ministry is meant to multiply, because the church is meant to multiply.
WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – Tekla Research has made another major matching gift to the annual fund and the Williams Works initiative at Williams Baptist University.
TRUMANN, Ark. – Associational Missionary Robin Foster’s goal is to help churches work together in accomplishing the Great Commission. This January, Foster will mark six
It’s through God’s goodness we can be thankful.
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.
Forty-five years and counting. That’s how long Rosanne Ramer has served at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock.
A group of women from Beebe are embarking on a journey to start a Christian Women’s Job Corps (CWJC) site in White County.
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.
WBU was founded in the midst of the greatest military conflict in human history – World War II. Also, we were birthed in the midst of one of the greatest global economic disasters – the Great Depression.
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.
About 2,800 chaplains – including about 1,100 who are Southern Baptist – serve in the Armed Forces.
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Dr. Kathy Collins, associate professor and chair of the Department of Education at Ouachita Baptist University, died Sunday, Nov. 5. She was
RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Danny Green has been serving as associational missionary for the Arkansas River Valley Baptist Association since 2015. His goal: Do everything he
A groundbreaking was held Monday, Nov. 6, for the new prison seminary building at the Varner Unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
Ouachita Baptist University will begin construction on an NCAA-compliant track & field complex to serve as a home venue for its thriving cross country and track & field teams.
The Church at Rock Creek held a groundbreaking ceremony Monday, Oct. 30, for its new food bank center. (The Church at Rock Creek) LITTLE ROCK,
Cobie Roux, Zach Chester and Andries Pretorius and Chance Watson stand in front following the braai sermon on Sunday, Oct. 29, at Drover Cowboy Church.
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
Thirteen people were baptized in Christ on Sunday, Oct. 29, at Fresh Start Community Church in Sherwood.
LWC has established strong relationships with churches, community organizations, and professionals.
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.
Gratitude can be a mindset—a lifestyle that when adopted, actually significantly improves our outlook on life, and therefore our mental health in general.
God has promised us His power and the way for us to access it is through prayer, and yet prayer many times is our last option.
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.
I talk to pastors weekly on the verge of Please be aware of all your ministers do. Determine a practical way to encourage them today. At least thank them for one thing they do well. Ask how you can help? Show love and respect. And most importantly, pray for them!
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.
Arkansas Baptists sit in the stands at the University of Arkansas at Monticello football stadium before heading out to serve during One Day. MONTICELLO, Ark.
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.
Arkansas Baptist women from six different churches recently spent five days in Bay Ridge praying for, ministering among, and learning from the diaspora in Brooklyn, New York.
Students in Saline County and across the state have joined thousands of other youths in recent weeks on athletic fields across the nation to share their Christian faith with fellow students during Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ (FCA) Fields of Faith events.
The main mission of the ABF is to serve, advise, and encourage the over 1500 Southern Baptist Churches in Arkansas.
Immanuel Little Rock Chinese Baptist Church has seen a year of growth, unity and answered prayers.
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.
Pastors from around the state took a turn sitting in the pew at the inaugural Shepherds Conference held on Thursday, Sept. 28, by Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries (ABCFM).
Editor’s note: This article was written by Amy Grigg of Desired Haven. Desired Haven, a ministry of Arkansas Baptist Children and Family Ministries, equips parents
Editor’s note: This article was first published by the International Mission Board. Linda Gray moved to Benton in 1985. She joined Baring Cross Baptist Church
More than 50 students made decisions during Replicate, Sept. 22-24. (Submitted) Editor’s note: This article was written by Mitchell Waite, marketing supervisor for Camp Siloam.
Editor’s note: This article was written by Northark BCM Leader Jeff Brasel. HARRISON, Ark. — When God’s people come together, amazing things can happen. One
At Park Hill Baptist Church in North Little Rock a group of ladies meet every other week and pray specifically for the church, including its
The ABCFM Toy Express will make debut this month at the 2023 Annual Meeting. (Submitted) The Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries (ABCFM) Toy Express
The Arkansas Baptist Women’s Conference was held Sept. 23 at First Baptist Church in Russellville. (Ethan Dial/ABN) RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Andrea Lennon, women’s ministry consultant
When we as Believers take the time on the front-end to build strong, effective rhythms of wellness centered around the enduring love and strength we access from Our Heavenly Father, we don’t have to huddle up to overthink about what’s next.
One of the best ways for us to help build biblical community within our church is through small groups.
Students circle the flagpole at Russellville High School on Wednesday, Sept. 27, for See You at the Pole. (Submitted) Students across the state gathered for
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.
Williams Baptist University Board of Trustees take part in a groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of Startup Chapel. (WBU News) WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – The
What does it take to confidently share the Gospel with those around us? Often, we want to wait until we feel truly “ready” to share
Something unique is happening within the next generation.
A ministry unique to the Arkansas Baptist State Convention is our Church Mediation Ministry.
Four years ago, Arkansas Baptists celebrated the beginning of a partnership with Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Memphis and the Arkansas Department of Corrections. This
River Bible Church in Mountain Home recently partnered with Hillcrest International Collective to provide nearly 30 welcome baskets for incoming international students in Little Rock.
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.
Like any other scientific discovery, technology can be a gift from God that we can steward for his glory.
The following is the text of Dr. Ben Sells’ address to students, faculty and staff during Ouachita’s August 2023 Convocation ceremony.
We often hear about how Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) meets the needs of people trying to recover from natural disasters. Storm victims aren’t the
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!
As a women’s ministry leader for over 20 years, I have had my share of organizing events, planning activities, and presenting proposals for ministry strategies.
“I did not know how great the need is until I really was the hands and feet. I thought I was involved in church work.
A man raises his arms to God during the Master’Singers performance Monday at the White County Fair in Searcy. (Mary Alford/ABN) SEARCY, Ark. – Members
With a pastor’s heart and a love for the local church, Joe Garner has served as an associational missionary for more than 20 years.
A carved cross in Perry, Florida. (Facebook/Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief Volunteers) PERRY, Fla. – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) volunteers are providing help, healing and
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.
RDNE photo|Pexels This article was written by Heather Keller, the children’s missions consultant at National WMU. It was first published by LifeWay. As part focus
The Arkansas Baptist Convention State (ABSC) Missions Team saw multiple people accept Jesus Christ into their hearts on Saturday, Sept. 9, during a medical-dental clinic at West View Baptist Church in Paragould.
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
More than 300 men, women and youth made professions of faith last week, Aug. 27-30, during an evangelical event hosted in El Dorado called South Arkansas Together.
Seeing the event as an outreach opportunity, several Arkansas Baptist State Convention cowboy churches set up at the races to share the Gospel, hand out Bibles and simply fellowship with those in attendance.
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.
I realized there was a common thread God had woven into the leadership of Jesus’ ministry at Camp Siloam.
In 2024, our flagship campus in Monticello, Arkansas Baptist Homes for Children, celebrates its 130th birthday and we will celebrate in strength!
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
One crippling danger of the misconception that “God will not give us more than we can handle” is that it implies that we will be handling our hardships in our own strengths. The Bible tells us that we don’t have to. He will walk the path with us.
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.
HEBER SPRINGS, Ark. – Kent Dixon’s goal as associational missionary for the Little Red River Baptist Association is “to assist pastors and churches in accomplishing
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.
Ten people put their trust in Jesus on Saturday, Aug. 26, during a medical-dental clinic in Sherwood.
Ministry assistants from around the state gathered at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building on Friday, Aug. 25, to fellowship and enhance their professional and leadership skills for the ministry office.
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 River Baptist Association holds a ribbon cutting for its new pregnancy care center. (Submitted) NASHVILLE, Ark. – With a heart for unborn children and
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Executive Board of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) met Tuesday, Aug. 15, at the ABSC building in Little Rock.
This seemingly random event was part of a plan that God had orchestrated over many years and involved a series of second chances.
Hundreds of children and teens spent time this summer at Arkansas Baptist camps that mixed fun with Bible teaching.
Multiple churches across the state hosted back-to-school outreach events to connect with families in their communities and help prepare students for the new school year.
Turn is a word that is usually defined as something to do with rotation or focus. The biblical word in Luke’s gospel is to turn toward something or someone.
You have no doubt heard the phrase “bucket list.” It is a list of things a person would like to do before they “kick the
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.
Heading to college is a big deal for the students, the parents, and the local church.
Rick Hassell’s goal as associational missionary for the Rocky Bayou Baptist Association (RBBA) is “to help pastors understand and pursue God’s vision for their ministry and leadership.”
Multiple associational missionaries, pastors and church planters gathered at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention building for Heart and Four Fields evangelism training.
Have you ever watched the movie “Inside Out” by Pixar? My 20-month-old baby girl has been watching it lately. The film revolves around 11-year-old Riley
Lightstock photo This article was written by Scott Barkley, national correspondent for Baptist Press LAFAYETTE, Ga. (BP) – Vernon Barnett started his life of public
Arkansas Hispanic WMU and Iglesia Bautist Neuva Jerusalén in Little Rock recently partnered together to provide a student missions event for Arkansas Baptist Hispanic churches.
God has used “the land of a million smiles” to change countless hearts for a century.
While staying at a duck lodge after being displaced by a house fire in February 2022, Drover Cowboy Church Pastor Chance Watson and his family were able to meet and interact with South Africans also staying there.
Bienvenue. Добро пожаловать. Beinvenida. 欢迎. Willkommen. Benvenuta. Those are just a few variations of “Welcome” on a sign that greets visitors at 7:9 Snoball stand in Little Rock.
Leaders at First Baptist Church in Oppelo are using technology to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
MARVELL, Ark. – Marvell First Baptist Church Pastor B.J. Chatman and Rose Bud First Baptist Church Pastor Mitchell Vickers connected in March through the Arkansas
Here’s what came to my mind, my perspective for today.
Article by Taylor Walker, LPC, LAMFT, Living Well Counseling. If you’ve never been to a Minor League Baseball game, you should! They’re full of memories
There are many opinions on what makes a strong leader.
By the Ouachita Baptist University Office of Communications & Marketing Seth McDowell, 22, of Benton, Ark., died July 30. A graduate of Bauxite High School,
The better a church knows its community, the more strategic it can be in its ministries.
Lightstock Photo This article by Aaron Summers, pastor of First Baptist Church in Crowley, TX first first appeared at Lifeway Research. As a new school year approaches,
JONESBORO, Ark. – Vilonia native Ed Gillham has served the churches of the Mount Zion Baptist Association as associational missionary for the last 12 years.
Dr. Rhyne Putman, vice president for academic affairs at Williams Baptist University, leads a service in a rural village near Zirobwe, Uganda. (Submitted) WALNUT RIDGE,
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.
A missions movement for 18-25-year-olds is coming to Second Baptist Church, Conway, Arkansas on Oct. 14. Rev7:9 aims to create a community of people who
A group from the Arkansas River Valley Baptist Association recently embarked on a missions trip to the Arkansas Delta, bringing hope and encouragement to some of the churches serving the region.
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.
Camp Siloam Executive Director Jason Wilkie is inviting Arkansas Baptists to celebrate 100 years of ministry. “We want you and your congregation to come celebrate
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.
At Ouachita Baptist, we’re committed to preparing our students for lives of meaningful work.
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.
She found herself in a completely new environment with many challenges. However, she was grateful for the opportunity and the support of her parents to pursue this new adventure.
Woman’s Missionary Union invites you to participate in a simple and easy project that allows your association, church, or missions group to support North American Mission Board (NAMB) missionaries with “gifts” for their specific ministries.
Daniel Clark and his family pose for a picture. (Submitted) CLINTON, Ark. – North Central Baptist Association’s “mission is to strengthen connection amongst our churches
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
A group from FBC White Hall visit the ABSC building on Wednesday, July 12. (Submitted) Children at First Baptist Church in White Hall spent the
Children enjoy VBS at Earle Baptist Church. (Submitted) Louisiana Baptists recently embarked on a missions trip to the Arkansas Delta where they helped two local
In this article we want to share with you what the property would have been like that first summer and how Arkansas Baptists went to work constructing new buildings in order to comfortably host campers.
“It’s just a God thing,” Friendship Baptist Church Senior Pastor Sean Mills said regarding the recent growth experienced at the Conway church.
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
For the church to step into the brokenness that overwhelms all our communities, they must be healthy and equipped. Healthy churches will undoubtedly impact a hurting community.
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.”
One of my favorite things to do each summer is visit Super Summer Arkansas on the night of Explore Your Call! It happens on Thursday
Impact Inner City Church of Little Rock will soon be having worship services in the former property of Unity Bible Baptist Church.
As the associational missionary for the Carey Baptist Association, Chuck Barrett’s goal is to serve a healthy association of churches as they love and serve God.
The Fourth of July is the celebration of America’s Independence. It is also an opportunity for churches to minister within their community.
Article by Christen Hayes, LMSW, Living Well Counseling, Northeast Arkansas Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be
A ministry in White Hall is helping teachers receive extra supplies to help their students thrive.
Photo by Nicole Courson ARKADELPHIA, Ark – Thousands of students from across the state gathered this week on the campus of Ouachita Baptist University in
The Holy Spirit is moving in northwest Arkansas. Seventeen women at the Northwest Arkansas Community Correction Center in Washington County were baptized Sunday, June 11.
Multiple Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) chainsaw units were deployed this week in Faulkner and Poinsett counties following wind damage from the severe weather on
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
A few reminders and encouragements for churches when it comes to collegiate ministry.
Worship discipleship is a multi-faceted, intentional approach of discipling believers in biblical worship and equipping them to be biblical worshipers and worship leaders.
Since taking on the role of associational missionary for the Caroline Baptist Association in January, Chris McCarty said his focus has been connecting with the
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.
Rendering of facility. (Submitted) WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – Williams Baptist University has announced that it has been selected for a $4 million gift from the
The Pine Bluff Baptist Collegiate Ministry equipped and mobilized three recent graduates to go to Sao Paulo, Brazil for the purpose of encouraging Christians in Sao Paulo to “not grow weary of doing good (Gal. 6:9),” and to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, teaching them to obey and see people move from enemies of God to children of God (Ephesians 2:1-10).
Several Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) units were deployed to the Russellville area Sunday following the severe weather that hit the state over the weekend.
Arkansas native Chase Evans is using his passion and skills to further the kingdom of the Lord. One year ago, Evans and his dad purchased
The congregation of First Baptist Church in Benton was treated to a concert by its student choir Pure Energy on Sunday, June 4, following the
As I write this article, I am attending the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana. While the final gavel
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.
Article by Carnetha Wilson, Living Well Counseling graduate student. “Take one day at a time” is an idiom that is commonly easy to dish out
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.
To date, Bond has mailed more than 2,000 handwritten letters and cards to inmates, soldiers, sick children and whoever else needs encouragement and God’s love.
The churches of Greene County Baptist Association (GCBA) partnered together on Saturday, May 20, for Jerusalem Day 2023.
Arkansas Baptist churches reported a 15% increase in baptisms last year with the overall total reaching 6,233, up from 5,411 the previous year.
May 6, 2023, was a day of polarities for the Williams community – a day of contrasts.
The most effective people are “learners” rather than “knowers.”
Do you have a compelling vision that is empowering others to be Gospel sowers who are impacting lostness in their life?
Courtesy of Williams Baptist University WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – Williams Baptist University awarded degrees to 134 graduates during its 2023 commencement exercises Saturday, May 6. The
Photo courtesy of Ouachita Baptist University ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Ouachita Baptist University honored more than 400 students during its 136th Spring Commencement on Saturday, May 13,
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
June 1, will mark eight years serving as the Harmony Baptist Association associational missionary for Mike Manning.
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!
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its quarterly board meeting on Thursday, May 11 at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building.
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.”
In researching the history of Camp Siloam one of the most compelling things we have discovered is the enthusiasm Arkansas Baptists had for the new Assembly grounds.
Through Gospel-centered reconciliation, we can experience a world where “healing people heal people.”
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.
In Bible Drill, children and students develop Scripture memory skills while learning the books of the Bible and key biblical passages.
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
Emmanuel Cowboy Church had its first service Sunday, May 7. (Submitted) JONESBORO, Ark. – Emmanuel Cowboy Church in northern Jonesboro welcomed a crowd of more
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
The Missions Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention partnered with the churches of the Little Red River Association on April 14-16 to bring 226
Three Trees Cowboy Church in Wynne. (Submitted) Pastor Tracy Wilson was called to plant Three Trees Cowboy Church in Wynne roughly 12 years ago. Since
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.
At the Arkansas Baptist Foundation, we have the opportunity to answer lots of questions from churches about various administrative issues. One question we get quite often is whether or not a church has to pay sales tax.
But how do we get to that place when our minds are a loud whirlwind of anxious thoughts drowning out our best intentions to “fear not”? We go back to the basics.
We live in a world where pain and loneliness lurk around every corner. Almost daily, I talk to people who long for hope and help.
Camp Paron’s Flatside Conference Center – Hotel features 26 rooms with private bathrooms. PARON, Ark. – Participants of this weekend’s The Art of Marriage Retreat
The North Arkansas Baptist Association held a building dedication on April 22 at its new location, 912 Goblin Drive in Harrison. (Mary Alford/ABN) HARRISON, Ark.
“What we are doing is not symbolic; it’s vital. It’s our lifeline,” said Steven Smith, pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church (IBC) in Little Rock. Smith
The Washington Madison Baptist Association banner found on its website, wmbaonline.net. For the past 11 ½ years and counting, Ron Lomax has served as the
We plant seeds. We water. We labor.
Why? For the sake of advancing the Kingdom here, and everywhere, on earth.
Where do we find church planters? In our pews.
WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. (4/20/23) – Williams Baptist University will host an art exhibit April 21-26 in the Maddox Center Art Gallery, located on the second
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
“We like to carve a cross, and we try to put hope at the bottom of it because where do you find hope? You find hope at the foot of the cross,” Justin Murphy said when asked about the cross he carved after the recent tornado.
First Baptist Church in Jacksonville Pastor Seth Tucker was out of town when disaster struck Jacksonville on March 31.
Hannah Gammill is well known at the University of Arkansas for her athleticism on the field, playing third base for the Razorbacks softball team. This is also a position she uses as a platform to share God’s love with others.
Building trust means that you must be trustworthy.
“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.
Graduation is just around the corner! For university students, it will happen in a matter of weeks and for high school students, in about a
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).
Easter is a time to celebrate and share the Good News of Jesus our risen Lord and Savior, and to let the world know just
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,
Kim Bailey’s car was damaged during the March 31 tornado. (Photo by Wayne Martin) Kim Bailey of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church shares her harrowing
Everett Severs, Eli Severs, Holt Robinson, Drake Gray and other RAs at Wooster First Baptist Church made comfort packs for children impacted by the recent
This article was written by Bob Fielding, Arkansas Baptist State Convention Missions Team. The first senior class of the Arkansas Prison Initiative – College at
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.”
Serve Local is a missions movement that happens on a Saturday in Spring, where churches plan and participate in service-based mission projects to make Kingdom impact on their local community!
Passover Seder, a dinner traditionally celebrated by people of the Jewish faith during Passover.
Knowing our work at Williams makes a difference in the lives of others always lifts my spirit.
In four years, Ouachita’s nursing program has grown from zero to 100 students.
A community-wide prayer service will take place at Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock on today, April 6, at 6 p.m. for local Arkansans to
Arkansas Hispanic WMU gathered for their Annual Meeting and Missions Celebration on Saturday, March 11 at Indian Springs Baptist Church in Bryant.
If we can be vulnerable with the Lord, He will empower us to become vulnerable with others. This in turn will create the connection we desire with the Lord and others. Matthew 22:37-40.
“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.
We’ve taken this semester to build community, and establish our mission to “Help Students Find Jesus and Follow Jesus.”
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (ABDR) currently has 13 units deployed throughout Arkansas, following the recent severe thunderstorms and tornadoes on Friday, March 31, that left
“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
A group of Arkansas Baptist church planters recently spent a few days, March 20-23, in Alpharetta, Georgia, attending Send Network Orientation. It was the North
The White River Baptist Association was formed in 1840. That is four years after Arkansas became a state, five years before the Southern Baptist Convention
Volunteers begin cataloging relief supplies at First Church, Rolling Fork, after a super cell weather system raked the area March 24 and produced a deadly
Beach Reach photo University of Central Arkansas senior Kaylea Jobe spent her spring break, March 18-24, in Panama City, Florida, serving the Lord and sharing
Rolling Fork, Miss. – Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief is actively serving Mississippians after an EF-4 tornado tore through Rolling Fork, Mississippi, on Friday, March 24,
College students involved with Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) ministries across Arkansas are spending their spring break serving others and sharing about Jesus in various contexts
Nicholas Walker shares about his mission during the Arkansas Delta Vision Tour in Fordyce. More than 20 pastors and church leaders from across the state
Mountain Home, Ark. – Mountain Home resident Edith Mitchell, 101, has always had a passion for music and serving the Lord. Born in Roanoke Rapids,
In student ministry we encounter all different types of students and meet them in all different seasons of life. In campus ministry, we are constantly
Charles Morgan’s goal as the Black River Baptist Association’s associational missionary is to “be a pastor to weary pastors and unite the churches into a
Jacksonville, Ark. – Sitting in a red rocking chair in front of a group of at least two dozen second graders, Bob Fielding on Thursday,
In Matthew 28, Jesus commands all disciples to “go and make disciples of all peoples.”
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.
Sportsman events are a successful outreach tool for churches in Arkansas.
I enjoy reading the various definitions of words. This word—perspective— has several definitions.
We believe a scholarship is an investment in the education of a future generation.
It is OK to not be OK. That is the message Julie Busler said she hoped women took away from The Gathering, a night of encouragement in worship and the Word.
Arkansas Baptists are invited to join in praying first during this time to love their Muslim neighbors. Devotional material and prayer prompts will be provided each Wednesday during Ramadan via email.
Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries today announced that ABCFM Monticello, its flagship campus, will celebrate 130 years of life-changing ministry next year.
There is no greater calling than to make disciples!
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.
MARVELL, Ark. – At First Baptist Church in Marvell their mission is “Serving the Savior … Touching lives.” “Our goal is to find ways that
This article was written by Wyman Lewis Richardson, pastor at Central Baptist Church in North Little Rock . The church historian Jaroslav Pelikan once said that
Ouachita Baptist University’s community & family services program will host a conference titled “Keeping Faith” to help faith-based communities learn how to recognize and respond to all forms of child abuse.
Editor’s Note: In support of the sixth strategic action of Vision 2025 adopted by messengers to the 2021 SBC Annual Meeting, Baptist Press will continue
Discipleship is a key component to college ministry and can bring lasting change to those that are fully committed! Real discipleship involves many hours of
Editor’s note: This article was first published Feb. 24 by Bill Elliff on his website’s blog. Elliff is the founding and national engage pastor of The Summit Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas. He also serves on the Prayer Task Force at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
For the last 17 years, Joe Burt has shared the Gospel and God’s love with Arkansans and people across the nations through his work with the Red River Baptist Association.
Jim Huffman has served as pastor of First Baptist Church (FBC) in Pottsville for over 20 years.
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
One of the most important gifts you can give your family is to help them know how to spend time with God. Before my wife,
Hot Springs, Ark. – Grandparents and senior adults from across the state were invited Saturday, Feb. 18, to First Baptist Church in Hot Springs for
Rocky Bayou Baptist Association is collecting supplies to aid small membership churches in their Vacation Bible School endeavors. The association came up with the idea
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
Brandon Moore serves as the Conway Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) director where he loves to help students explore their faith and lead them to obedience. Our BCM’s
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief served up 600 meals Friday, Feb. 10, in Fordyce. (Mary Alford/Arkansas Baptist News) FORDYCE, Ark. – Six hundred meals were prepared
God began to capture my heart for the peoples of the world when I was a child growing up in southwest Arkansas. As a 10-year-old
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
Tens of thousands of Arkansas residents were left without power last week following a winter storm that produced ice of up to half an inch
Arkansas Baptists, thank you for the support and prayers given to the State Evangelism Conference (ECON) on January 23 and 24.
Robert Smith Jr., who serves as professor of Christian preaching and holds the Charles T. Carter Baptist Chair of Divinity at Beeson Divinity School in Alabama, shares his thoughts on evangelism following his appearance Jan. 23 at the Statewide Conference on Evangelism and Church Health (ECON).
Article written by Ashlyn Johnson, Living Well Counseling Let’s consider the topic of rural mental health today. While some concepts of mental health are universal,
BENTON, Ark. – More than 100 students gathered at First Baptist Church in Benton this past weekend, Jan. 27-28, for PraizFest 2023. Arkansas Baptist State
God has redeemed all of us from the domain of darkness and has placed us in His Kingdom of light to do His ministry.
The sanctuary of First Baptist Church in Monticello on Jan. 24 was occupied for 24 hours straight by members seeking the Lord in prayer.
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
Bethany Baptist Church in North Little Rock has dissolved and transferred its property to Unity Bible Baptist Church.
Smithville Baptist Church held a dedication service for its new building on January 7, culminating a process that began more than 15 years ago.
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.
If you were unable to attend Econ this year, you are still invited to connect with any of these church planters. You will find more information on all the Mission Connection planters beginning next week at the Arkansas Baptist News website.
Because of these families who dared greatly in 2022, over 50,000 nights of care were provided for foster children through Connected Foster Care and Adoptions! Each of those nights represents a real child with a face and a name sleeping safely in a real bed with a real family who loved with Gospel-centered selflessness and offered real hope.
We could use help from Arkansas Baptists to collect information about Camp Siloam. We are looking for pictures, stories, and videos of events that happened at Camp Siloam since 1923.
One of the most exciting parts of leading Baptist Collegiate Ministry on a university campus is training students how to share their faith.
A great way to get a fresh start is to connect or reconnect with Arkansas Baptists Women.
Photo shared by Drover Cowboy Church in October on Facebook. HARRISBURG, Ark. – The inmates at the Poinsett County jail are hearing the Gospel and
Students interested in joining the excitement of PraizFest still have time to register. Set for Friday night and Saturday, Jan. 27 and 28, at First
Survival from cardiac arrest doubles when a bystander steps in to apply an automated external defibrillator (AED) before emergency responders arrive, according to a 2018 report in the American
PINE BLUFF, Ark. – University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff students gathered at the Baptist Collegiate Ministry building on Monday to celebrate the legacy of
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
Within less than two hours of the initial phone call, the church [Immanuel Baptist in Warren] was open, security was in place, cots were provided by the city’s emergency management department and food began coming in from all over.
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.
When we remember that estate planning is not just for us, but for the ones we love, it becomes easier to take the necessary steps to efficiently steward your estate.
From the retirement of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention executive director to a Chinese mission becoming an autonomous church after 23 years, Arkansas Baptists had
Often in the counseling process, we ask questions of our clients. It helps them to examine and learn from their life experience.
Marty and Chandler knew, as soon as they left the mission field, that they’d only be gone temporarily. They were only leaving their current assignment
The Communications and the College + Young Leaders’ Teams are relocating within the building this week in preparation for repairs on the first floor of
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief workers were deployed across Arkansas following a line of recent storms that brought intense winds and heavy rain to much of
File photo There are several ministry learning opportunities for Arkansas Baptists. Two such occasions on the horizon are the 2023 Arkansas Delta Vision Tour and
By Marissa Postell NASHVILLE, Tenn. — For many, Vacation Bible School (VBS) is the best time of the year, and many ministry leaders and volunteers
A Better Together at Christmas women’s ministry event was held recently at East Side Baptist Church in Fort Smith. Submitted. Women’s ministries allow ladies to
James and Mattie Walker have been married 70 years and have been in the ministry together even longer.
Reaching the next generation doesn’t happen without intentionality.
The mission of the Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries is to make families strong.
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)
Personal experience has taught me that life is to be treasured.
“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19).
Tyler Hoffpauir, campus minister at Arkansas State University, offers two ways for churches to connect better with youth and young adults.
Central Baptist Church – Paragould Campus held its fourth gas giveaway event on Saturday, Dec. 3, fueling the community with gasoline and the Gospel.
Home for Christmas. These words are in a song we sing and hold a sentiment we believe in.
An interactive Christmas story experience is taking place this week at Central Baptist Church in Conway.
After leaving an abusive 12-year relationship, Crystal Noster found herself at a shelter contemplating ending her own life.
John Carter Cash, son of late country music star, Johnny Cash, talks with Baptist Press reporter Timothy Cockes.
“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).
Terry Fortner just celebrated his 25th Thanksgiving as pastor of Zion Hill Baptist Church in Cabot, AR. While he’s always had a lot to be
Thanksgiving presented an opportunity for Arkansas Baptist churches to serve their communities.
Imagine yourself arriving in Nepal to study at Kathmandu University. You are alone without friends or family.
John McCallum knows the pain of struggling with grief and loss during the holiday season. But rather than sinking in sorrow, he’s using it to serve others.
Over 33,000 students will graduate from Arkansas High Schools this year, according to the ADE Data Center.
An outreach and ministry of Immanuel Baptist Church (IBC) in Carlisle, Mission of Hope will provide food, clothes and other items to assist those in need in Carlisle and surrounding areas.
When news of the Russian invasion of Ukraine reached the West on the morning of February 24, few if any Arkansas Baptists could foresee the direct opportunities for service and ministry and the difference that one central Arkansas church could make.
Houston Nutt, former Arkansas Razorbacks football coach was recently invited to speak at Parkway Place Baptist Church as a part of their “Defining Moments” series.
Jay Ham, lead church planter at The Church In The Dirt, recently joined the Church Planting Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
Women are looking for leaders who are real and approachable.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its regularly scheduled Quarterly Board Meeting on Thursday, November 10, 2022, at 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 10-0 Ouachita Baptist University football team seeks its sixth consecutive victory over rival Henderson State University on Saturday, November 12 when it crosses the street for the 95th edition of the Battle of the Ravine.
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.
“Be sure to invite your friends!” These are words that we often hear when it comes to church-related activities and services. We hear those words
“Calling Out the Called,” a new book written by SBC leaders Shane Pruitt and Scott Pace, discusses the importance of raising up the next generation of ministry leaders.
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.
When Arkansans open their ballots, they’ll make an important decision about the fate of Issue 3, the Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment.
May His praises be overwhelming, and His honor preserved by us having united hearts before His throne. Let’s understand there is a reason for us being as we are; accept that being different is not necessarily evil and then appreciate anything that blesses another brother or sister.
In all that we do, we seek to sustain our distinct Christian identity and ensure a transformative educational experience for our students by fostering a love of God and a love of learning.
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.
These ladies recognize the challenges, as well as the blessings, that come with being the wife of a pastor and desire to provide a safe place to show support for each other.
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.
Your pastor needs your appreciation and support year-round.
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.
This has already proven to be a great pool for potential candidates for our Church Planting Residency Program as we seek to enter new fields, evangelize, make disciples, plant healthy multiplying churches, develop leaders, and partner together in the advance of the Gospel.
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.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief is actively serving Floridians after the recent landfall of Hurricane Ian. Nearly 150 volunteers have been deployed over the last week
August 17 marked the beginning of a new school year at the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) and my seventh as Campus Minister for
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published by Baptist Press and written by Willie McLaurin. October is Pastor Appreciation Month. This is a month set aside to
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.
Established in 1895, Franklin Baptist Church is located in Franklin, AR less than five miles south of the retirement community of Horseshoe Bend. Franklin is the oldest settlement in Izard County with a population of 190.
We want Arkansas Baptists to know what’s going on around the state and be able to celebrate together and encourage each other.
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.
As a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), we have seen their mission of “enhancing trust in Christ-centered churches and ministries” ring true time and time again. In fact, we believe financial accountability and stewardship go hand in hand.
Do you feel a bit like you and your family are living in a fishbowl or a glass house?
Sharing our faith is hard for us. It was apparently hard for Paul, which is why he asked people—in almost every letter he wrote—to pray for him in this arena.
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief is currently deployed to Florida, where Hurricane Ian drastically swept across the state on Wednesday, September 28. Hurricane Ian made landfall
I first felt God’s call on my life in my junior year of high school. In the summer following that year, I surrendered my life to vocational ministry.
I want to spend a few minutes focused on characteristics of Gen Z (born 1995-2012) that I find encouraging and even exciting.
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.”
“We’re pleased with what the Lord has been doing through us,” Martin said. “It’s nothing more than using sports as a stage to draw kids in so they can hear the Gospel—it’s that simple.”
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.
The Board of Trustees at Williams Baptist University voted Tuesday, Sept. 20, to confer the title professor emeritus upon Dr. Bob Magee, retired professor of music and director of choral programs. The board, meeting in regular session on the WBU campus, also pledged a challenge gift for an upcoming fundraiser and recognized four trustees who are rotating off the board.
May we know and believe that God is willing and able to save and transform our lives because that is who He is, and that is how He works.
Together, we can change the trajectory that families are on today.
It’s no secret that we have trouble slowing down to rest these days.
As I began to reflect upon the significance of the table, the Lord impressed upon me that He was the originator of the table.
“On the day of Pentecost, the first miracle that happened was that the people heard the Gospel in their own language. The people who are
Ford and the members of Full Faith Community, with the help of Central Baptist, have been working to be a light in their community as they build relationships and minister to the needs of those around them.
The purpose of the trip was to encounter and engage with different cultures in a place that is home to many ethnicities.
Fifty church planters and leaders from Arkansas Baptist churches gathered at Camp Paron for two days in August for the Hispanic Church Planting Retreat to renew strength, be inspired, and fellowship with others in the ministry.
One of our long-cherished Baptist beliefs is a doctrine called the priesthood of all believers. This biblical concept teaches that all born-again believers function collectively in their local churches as believer-priests.
In preparing for Convocation – our first Chapel service of the new school year – I reviewed a devotion from Oswald Chambers’ “My Utmost for His Highest.”
On August 17, a team of DR volunteers from across the state assembled to serve in a different way.
This article was a press release from Ouachita Baptist University. Ouachita Baptist University senior Clark Yarbrough, 21, of Rowlett, Texas, died Sept. 4. A business
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.
This year over 5,000 international students have come to study at colleges and universities in Arkansas.
Editor’s Note: In support of the sixth strategic action of Vision 2025 adopted by messengers to the 2021 SBC Annual Meeting, Baptist Press will continue to report
Through the generous support of Arkansas Baptist Churches through the Cooperative Program and the Dixie Jackson State Missions Offering, Church Planting Strategist Chanson Newborn led two church plants on a mission trip in Detroit, Michigan, July 17-23.
Central Baptist Church’s kids’ discipleship class contributed significantly to these baptisms and has allowed the children’s ministry to fulfill its purpose.
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
One of the foundational elements of our cooperative missions strategy is the local association.
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.
Each year, Arkansas Baptist churches are asked to complete the Annual Church Profile (ACP). The Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) and the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) and their agencies use the data collected to be aware of trends and plan ministry accordingly.
Our assignment as believers is planned, personal, and perfected in community
One of the greatest resources church members can provide is prayer. There is a great need for prayer warriors to be lifting each campus across the state of Arkansas in prayer.
We need to remember that Jesus invited us to ask Him when we know of a need.
My first time as a camper in the land of a million smiles was the summer of 2017. Our group of six people (four campers
With summertime fading, the new school year is at hand. According to home school, private school, and public school data, just over 513,000 Kindergarten through 12th grade students will be in Arkansas classrooms very soon.
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.
Missions discipleship becomes the focus for one week each summer when Camp Paron hosts a group of students and their adult leaders for Engage Missions Camp.
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.
In this segment, we feature innovative and exciting things that churches are doing as well as any church staff changes.
Association camps were able to return in full force in 2022. Many students were impacted, and lives were changed as God moved in powerful ways this summer. The following stories illustrate the impact and importance of association camps in the lives of Arkansas Baptist students and children.
This year we celebrated 70 years of ministry through PraiseWorks and JoyWorks.
Each summer, for 99 years, God has authored stories of Kingdom impact at Camp Siloam.
. In 2015, we began a “tradition” of hosting an Annual Board Advance each August at one of our Arkansas Baptist entities’ campus or location.
Emily Smith serves on the Evangelism+Church Health Team as the Children’s Specialist at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. As kids explore, discover, and grow, their
MILLS, Wyo. (BP) – Merry Marcus is among countless Southern Baptists nationwide who carefully watch their money to be sure they are able to participate
Pray for each person and family impacted by the floods in both Missouri and Kentucky.
If answering prayer is one way God has of revealing His grace, why would we not want to pray big?
As surveyors continue assessing the damage done by the historic flooding that has deluged eastern Kentucky, Southern Baptists have begun planning their response.
During their first day in Peru, IMB missionary Amy Fisher had the missions team from Iglesia Bautista Nueve Jerusalem, Little Rock, Arkansas, do an activity
We have to share the Gospel and the only way to do that effectively is to share the Gospel through those we have some type of relationship with in our community.
Putman baptized Ben on Easter Sunday at Mount Zion Baptist Church, Walcott, Ark., where he serves as the bi-vocational pastor.
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
Bible Drill challenges students to memorize all the books of the Bible as well as key scriptures.
Unfortunately, most foster homes are not equipped to care for large sibling groups. Thankfully, the campus care program of Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries is perfectly suited to meet this need.
As we gather at Inspire, we will sing about hope, study about hope, and share stories of hope.
BCM students have incredible opportunities during the summer to serve in a variety of ways.
One person sharing the gospel with another. It sounds simple but it can be intimidating.
It doesn’t escape me that as a culture, we are quick to share information, to share our ideas, our knowledge, our opinions, our insights, and everything else. But are we quick to share a reason for the HOPE we have?
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.
Step by step. That is how the Lord is teaching Wendy Farrell to walk out her faith. Motherhood can be a battle in and of
Seven Arkansas Hispanic Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) members, led by state president Diana Rodriguez ministered to women and children in Lima, Peru during their first international mission trip June 6-16.
At Ouachita, we collect and assess data on student outcomes that provide evidence of progress—of growth—toward fulfilling our Christ-centered higher education mission.
Churches from across the state are encouraged to bring parents, grandparents, staff and volunteers to be a part of this year’s NAVIGATE conference. The goal of NAVIGATE Conference is for attendees to leave feeling more equipped to face the realities of today’s culture and to do so with a renewed commitment to walk with children and students towards Jesus and the truth of Scripture.
After well over two years, Super Summer Arkansas made its return, continuing its focus on evangelism and discipleship for students in 6th-12th grades.
Dr. Daniel R. Grant, president emeritus of Ouachita Baptist University, died Wednesday, May 25. A celebration of Grant’s life will be held Saturday, July 23, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Arkadelphia.
I actually have dual citizenship. For more than three decades I can proudly boast citizenship in the U.S. and citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Arkansas Baptist churches across the state have available, hospitable, and selfless members ready to be key advocates to help the church reach young adults.
All humans need to learn how to love, forgive, seek God’s guidance and most importantly repent.
On July 16th, 2022, the current 10-digit suicide prevention hotline number will transition to 9-8-8.
The transformation so many of these near-hopeless college students are looking for is going to come from the Holy Spirit.
Hiding Place Hollow’s purpose is “to provide homes for global workers on furlough.” Their aim is for these families to experience the presence of Jesus and restoration.
While the Supreme Court’s decision supports Christian efforts to defend each and every God-created life, there is still work to be done.
The ladies of the River Valley Christian Life Corps (RVCLC) practiced serving one another by giving manicures in preparation to visit residents of the Community Rescue Mission. Their goal was to get to know each other better and share Jesus’s love through pampering with polish.
Approximately 200 community members in Summit, Arkansas gathered at ‘The Table,’ a community wide dinner, on Saturday, April 9, 2022. Summit Bible Church hosted the event with the hopes of getting to know the community, hearing their stories, and sharing the good news of the Gospel.
I was honored to be one of a few hundred messengers from Arkansas Baptist churches at the Southern Baptist Convention in Anaheim, California on June 14-15.
According to the latest statistics concerning estate planning, over fifty percent of United States’ citizens do not have an estate plan in place.
First Samuel chapter one chronicles Hannah’s cries to God for a son and God’s faithfulness to provide a child. Hannah’s story—in part—became our family’s story.
A good summer of planning a few simple things in your spiritual life can make a great fall!
The Supreme Court decision handed down today to overturn Roe v. Wade is significant.
The U.S. Supreme Court overturned a nationwide abortion regime Friday (June 24) that lasted nearly half a century and resulted in the deaths of more than 60 million preborn children.
In previous articles, I have shared my journey in ministry. To be truthful, I would not have been effective in ministry without Annette.
It’s not every day that you hear about an 80 year old who is physically able to run 100-mile races, much less someone that enjoys running that far.
One of the primary reasons for any church planter’s success, joy, and perseverance in planting churches is because of the people who have partnered with the planter in prayer.
On May 9, the Caroline Baptist Association honored Nina Burgan, who has served as the ministry assistant for the association since 2003.
Through a partnership with Jeremy Aylett, NAMB missionary and Arkansas native, we recently took a team of 11 students from our BCM at the University of Arkansas to serve alongside church planters in the greater San Diego area.
81 people have made professions of faith, 39 have made commitments to missions or full-time ministry and 35 have made recommitments to following Jesus.
The Southern Baptist Convention has set aside the fourth Sunday in June for churches to celebrate and raise a special offering for Mission:Dignity.
Missionaries heading to global areas where security is a concern were shown behind a screen. More than 90% of IMB missionary teams actively engage unreached people groups, many in hard-to-reach places where safety and security are daily considerations.
International Mission Board President Paul Chitwood began IMB’s report to the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting with recent good news from the mission field.
Mark Clifton opened the 2022 SBC Pastors’ Conference by reminding shepherds of local congregations that there are no unimportant churches and no unimportant places.
Amid the busy event schedule of the Southern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting, nearly 2,000 attendees gathered for the International Mission Board dinner.
The Board of Trustees voted to change the name of this ministry to Arkansas Baptist Children & Family Ministries.
June 10 will be the 25th anniversary of the organizational meeting of the Red River Baptist Association (RRBA) Disaster Relief Team.
When evening came, after the sun had set, they began bringing to Him all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed. And the whole city had gathered at the door … In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there. (Mark 1:32-37)
The Gospel is powerful. The Gospel transforms, heals, and restores. People are in desperate need to hear about the hope found in Jesus Christ. They just need someone to tell them.
On Saturday, May 14, Cornerstone Baptist Church of Texarkana, Arkansas hosted “Bless The Badges.” This event included a day of shopping, music, food, family-friendly games,
Selfless volunteers have given countless hours to faithfully minister to the needs of disaster survivors in Arkansas and around the country.
Melissa Gasaway and her family could have never guessed the journey they were about to embark on and what the Lord would do to see them through.
All of us know what it is like to need hope. Life can be hard, and it is easy to get discouraged.
Staff changes at the ABSC will impact the College+Young Leaders Team and the Communications Team.
Arkansas families need to know how deeply Arkansas Baptists love them.
Spend time in God’s Word and focus on how to navigate troubling times so that you too can experience His favor upon you and your family for a thousand generations.
Matthew J. Shepherd is the Speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives and the Arkansas State Representative for District 6, serving his sixth term in the House.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its Quarterly Board Meeting on Thursday, May 12 at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building.
The word “doxology” is defined as an expression of praise to God. That is the very thing that the band entitled “Doxology” desires to lead their audience to do.
Choose to be light in the darkness of the world. Embrace those struggling to find hope in the midst of the chaos. Live counter-culturally and be a glimpse of the healing that awaits us.
One of my favorite things to do when I am feeling out of sorts is to reorient my mind with the words and actions of Jesus.
A statement from the ABSC Sexual Abuse Task Force regarding the recent report from Guidepost
The key strategy in making an impact this summer, in your kids ministry, is to be intentional—don’t let the elongated days of summer pass by without impacting the life of a child with the Gospel.
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)
On Sunday, May 15, First Baptist Church of Sherwood held a joint fellowship and worship service with Fresh Start Community Church, a new church plant in Sherwood.
It is no surprise that when another Convention started asking for help on training new volunteers, Arkansas stepped up.
We stand on the shoulders of these who invested their lives in a mission of building this Campus of Christian Purpose.
We invest in our students, encourage them and celebrate their many successes.
Across the world, it is estimated that an abortion occurs every 23 seconds.
May is National Foster Care Awareness Month and in Arkansas, there are nearly 5,000 children in foster care.
The nations are no longer in a difficult geographical location to reach, they are on our college campuses, in our neighborhoods, at our jobs, and in our churches.
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.
Camp Siloam is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest bunkhouse.
There is no aspect of your life, ministry and church that will not be blessed if you will lead the way in your church becoming a “House of Prayer.”
If a church has a great next gen pastor, then that congregation should do everything within their power to cultivate a favorable environment for the pastor to have a long, fruitful ministry in the church.
Graduation is the launching pad to send out Baptist Collegiate Ministry students across the globe for ministry and mission.
Legacy of Praise, the words imprinted in the 75th anniversary logo, captured the spirit of Park Hill Baptist Church in North Little Rock.
On the weekend of April 29-May 1, 180 students and their adult leaders from 16 churches came together in Beebe for a weekend of ministry and missions.
In this segment, we feature church staff changes, as well as church news and announcements you send to us.
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.
The Greek word that James uses for wisdom is the word “sophia,” meaning the ability to perceive God’s hand in human circumstances.
Join me and encourage your church to begin praying now for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Southern Baptists in Anaheim, June 14-15.
In nature, what we know as a gift from our Creator has also been connected to mental health benefits through many years of research.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have selected Gregory Junior, cornerback from Ouachita Baptist University, in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He becomes the first-ever NFL Draft selection in Ouachita history.
Williams Baptist University commissioned over 40 students who will spend their summer working in ministry projects throughout the country in a special chapel service held in Manley Chapel on April 27.
When the people of Zion Hill Baptist Church in Cabot began to plan a celebration to honor their pastor for 25 years of ministry, church member Dennis Wilkins thought back to the Old Testament for an idea of stacking memorial stones.
Conversation involves talking and listening. If we are going to be effective in our prayer lives, we will need to become better listeners.
High school seniors need help navigating the multitude of changes headed their way.
Summer is an incredible time for hosting events where fun and friendship can be facilitated. Planning these types of events can be as important as small group Bible studies for building relationships and fostering community.
Take somebody else’s idea and make it your own.
A ‘No Sale, Yard Sale’ is just as the name suggests.
During One Day: Serve Local, Immanuel Baptist Church in Monticello hosted an egg hunt to serve special needs individuals and their families.
While we should not go around calling the local church a business, I would be one of the first to tell you that churches should have strong business principles.
Through the generosity of God’s people, we are able to provide scholarships for churches and campers who cannot afford to come to camp.
Administrative Professionals Day is Wednesday, April 27. The term “administrative professionals” is an over-arching term that includes secretaries, ministry assistants, receptionists, bookkeepers, office managers and much more.
As someone who grew up in the church, I heard how important it was to share my faith with others early on in my life.
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…
The best way for a student to spend their summer is with a week at a summer church camp or on a mission trip.
Hundreds of Arkansas Baptists used part of their Saturday on April 9 to serve their communities during the annual One Day: Serve Local initiative.
Williams Baptist University officially broke ground on a meat processing facility and dedicated Williams Corner store on April 8.
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is “bringing the Dome” to Arkansas, connecting alumni, friends, and prospective students during Southwestern Nights event.
James Barham, LPC, LMFT, serves as the Counseling Director for Living Well Professional Counseling, www.livingwell.care, a ministry of Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries. As a Counselor, James fully understands that there are situations in life, such as when there has been trauma and abuse, that boundary setting is necessary rather than trying to rebuild or repair a relationship.
The idea would be that the event would not be a debate, but rather an opportunity for each perspective to be shared uninterrupted. Point CounterPoint was born.
An Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief Update after Monday, April 11 storms.
Eight contenders arrived at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building on Saturday morning, April 9 with their Bibles and a few butterflies.
‘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
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers stand ready to offer “help, healing and hope” to those impacted by disasters.
First Baptist Church in Sherwood held a day of celebration on Sunday, April 3, to celebrate being debt-free.
Recognizing the state of hopelessness many families are in, the church has many practical ways to take grace into the local community.
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.
College students involved with Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) ministries across Arkansas spent their spring break serving others and sharing about Jesus in various contexts across the country.
Leadership Profile for 2022 Nominating Committee are now open! Nominations will be considered for all committees and boards.
“What a blessing it is to invest in the lives of the next generation of missionaries!”
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!
For 23 years, since the first Arkansas CWJC site began in Fort Smith, women across Arkansas have been impacted by this compassion ministry of Woman’s Missionary Union.
Last January we came under conviction that Central Baptist Church, North Little Rock, could be much more intentional about prayer.
The goal of Serve Local is to provide a cooperative effort that assists churches in moving people from the pew to active ministry.
That is truly what being a part of the yellow shirt family is all about—being a helping hand, wherever, whenever and being the hands and feet of Jesus.
Prayer is an opportunity to spend time with God.
The emphasis on World Water Day also provides Southern Baptist churches a unique opportunity to share the WMU Compassion Ministry Pure Water, Pure Love (PWPL), with their congregations. PWPL exists to provide missionaries with water filters and water resources to the people they serve.
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.
Hosting an exchange student is like taking an international mission trip without ever leaving your home.
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.
We want Arkansas Baptists to know what’s going on around the state and be able to celebrate together and encourage each other.
Clint Ritchie was recently named as the new Assistant Team Leader for the Missions Team at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
Churches from the Arkansas River Valley, Faulkner, and Conway-Perry Baptist Associations met together on March 5 and 6, for a joint Sunday School teachers’ training called Teach 28:20.
On Saturday March 5, First Southern Baptist Church in Bryant partnered with the Missions Team at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) to host the first Medical/Dental Clinic of the year.
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.
Building an evangelistic culture is no small feat for any church or organization.
275 million people are estimated lost in North America. That’s men, women, young adults and children. Among that population are more than 40 million people
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.
Maturity is not about how big you become. Maturity is about how humble we walk before God. The goal is the “well done” from God.
In December of 2021, the Surgeon General released an advisory article on Protecting Youth Mental Health. Research shows us that mental illness and distress has increased rapidly in adolescents since the beginning of the pandemic
God has opened my eyes to the international students all around me.
An update from Northeast Arkansas from our Disaster Relief teams as they clean up after the most recent winter storm
The growing ethnic diversity of Arkansas requires more intentional church planting efforts among these diverse population.
A breaking news update from Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief in Northeast Arkansas
Back in 2020, Woodlawn Baptist Church and Oasis Little Rock joined together to form Hillcrest Community Church (HCC) with the vision of becoming a church “In the City, for the Nations.”
This week, associational leaders representing 35 associations met with ABSC staff in Little Rock to further that spirit of cooperation.
“THE GENEROSITY OF GOD’S PEOPLE HAS BEEN AMAZING,” should be the top headline of the COVID pandemic.
Change is all around us. We all know that change does affect us from time to time; so, I want to share in this article how I have dealt with change in my ministry life.
The Board of Directors of the Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) held its first Quarterly Board Meeting for 2022 on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) building.
Williams Baptist University (WBU) will host a Youth Preview Event for any church or individuals with youth-aged students on March 9 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
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.
Christian Women’s Job Corps® (CWJC) is a ministry initiative of Woman’s Missionary Union. Women Equipped is one of five Arkansas CWJC sites.
God designed church planting as a way to expand His kingdom and is one of the most effective means to spread the gospel and reach new people.
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.
“Around the world, as many as 811 million people – 1 out of 9 – go to bed on an empty stomach each night.”
Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ…Let us not lose heart in doing good… let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.
For pastor Paul Williams and the members of First Baptist Church in White Hall their emphasis on prayer started three years ago with a small group meeting weekly for prayer.
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.
In this segment, we feature church staff changes, as well as church news and announcements you send to us.
When faced with new information or unfamiliar experiences, our brains must either assimilate or accommodate.
Last April, Archie Mason received clear confirmation that the podcast he hosted was meeting a long-neglected need and could literally save lives.
More time with Jesus in prayer would doubtless result in us having a more powerful influence on the unsaved.
On February 1, Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries received our largest gift in its history.
The college campus is an explosion of character, culture, education, ideology, religion, lifestyle, and worldview.
George Liele is one of the most significant figures in the history of Christian missions.
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.
This is the third article concerning, “Caring for the Care Giver.” The first two articles discussed the need for the ministry, the recruiting and organizing of the supporters, and the initial meeting with all interested parties.
Having a discipleship blueprint is key when ministering to the next generation
People are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, loneliness, trauma, and broken relationships at unprecedented rates.
Matt Duran began serving as senior pastor at Indian Springs Baptist Church in Bryant, AR in February of 2021. With a desire to make the greatest impact and help grow the church, Duran says he began to try to discover the church’s greatest area of deficiency. It wasn’t long before God began to show him that he was asking the wrong question.
When it comes to sharing the Gospel, Evans encourages Christians to communicate that the Bible is relevant to every unique challenge that a person could face.
Vocational service is the idea that Christ’s followers serve God through our vocation – our work.
Arkansas Baptists are responding to our state’s critical nursing shortage through Ouachita’s new nursing program.
If it’s true that the big attracts and the small keeps, our ministries must be good at doing it big and making it feel small.
The Little Rock School District (LRSD) held a press conference at Life Line Baptist on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2022, announcing the church’s food pantry as the recipient of the annual Poore Man on the Roof Food Drive.
Williams Baptist University has announced the addition of Dr. Stephen and Tracy Bell to its faculty. The Bells will join WBU after 20-plus years of instruction at the College of Ozarks and work in the private sector.
Essentially doctrine is what the Bible says regarding a specific issue or stance.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ…Let us not lose heart in doing good…let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith,”
Being the Collegiate Church Mobilizer for the Metro New York Baptist Association involves helping churches reach over 80 college campuses with over one million students in a city with over eight million people.
“Everybody should be considering how the Lord is calling them to follow Jesus.”
“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.
Whatever happened in the past year, God has granted you a new year.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ…Let us not lose heart in doing good… let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith,”
“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.”
If you are a follower of Christ, you carry a deep longing for MORE. More of Christ—more of His presence, His will, His voice, His direction. More fruit and effectiveness; more life change for you and those around you. More revival and spiritual awakening.
The WorldCrafts mission is this: “WorldCrafts develops sustainable, fair-trade businesses among impoverished people around the world.” Their vision is “to offer an income with dignity and the hope of everlasting life to every person on earth.”
Some of the women cut plastic shopping bags into strips then others loop and tie them together to form a ball of “plarn.”
The Evangelism + Church Health Team of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention will host three regional Kids Ministry + VBS trainings in April.
With the help of hundreds of churches, Pure Water, Pure Love (PWPL) provides thousands of water filters to missionary families and helps fund clean water projects.
“We cannot waste a day. The mission of God’s Kingdom to see people brought from death to life is too important.”
I didn’t set out to collect nativities, it just happened. They represent sweet memories and one of the sweetest stories.
Christmas at Ouachita had a deeper meaning this season compared to last. Our hope in Christ remained the same, but the way we acknowledged and worshiped this hope was done in fellowship and community, something we missed last season.
Events are held throughout the school year in the neighborhood, but nothing compares to the excitement that Christmas in The Cove brings to the campus and the community.
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” -Luke 1:47
God never wastes time or opportunities to accomplish His work of drawing non-believers to him, strengthening His people and building His church—regardless of our pain or challenging situations.
“Jesus is for the nations, and so Christmas is for everyone. Opening your home for the holidays might just be one of the easiest ways to reach the nations this year.”
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University.
Ben and Sheffield Coulter live in Magnolia, Arkansas, where he serves as senior pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church. John R. W. Stott said, “We must be global
By the time the storm hit Friday evening, the Tri-County Recovery Unit was already on standby.
MONETTE, Ark. (BP) – Pastor Stan Ballard noted Monday’s “beautiful weather” as he described the resilience of the 1,500 or so people in Monette, Ark., in the face of death and destruction from unseasonable tornadoes.
When you pray for our missionaries, please don’t forget to pray for those God has called to the frontlines to care for His children.
Loyd will maintain state-wide responsibilities working with BCM ministry on community colleges.
Join us as we pray and fast together for spiritual awakening and revival in our state, the nation and the world. Devotions are available as a daily email and will be posted each day on social media from Jan. 3-23.
We learned that you have to take it a day at a time. You make it through the current day, and then you start over the next day.
The Williams Baptist University (WBU) Board of Trustees met in regular session Friday and recognized WBU student Bailee Haskins for her life-saving actions following a recent accident.
BCM’s equip and empower student leaders to share this news boldly with the people God has placed in their lives. Here is the one-story (among many) of Gospel transformation shared by one of our student leaders, Landon.
A few years ago, God put the lost in North Little Rock on the heart of Roderick Rogers.
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University.
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!
PraizFest, student choir weekend, will be held at First Baptist Church in Benton on January 28 and 29, 2022.
Immanuel Baptist Church of Magnolia served a Thanksgiving meal in the church fellowship hall to approximately sixty individuals from around the world.
The amazing privilege of being missionaries on the college campus is the opportunities it affords our staff and student leaders to share life with others
The week of prayer for international missions and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering is Nov. 28-Dec. 5.
“And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” – 2 Tim 2:2 (ESV)
Collectively, these three ladies had and are still having an immeasurable eternal impact for the Kingdom.
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University.
To say that missions giving has become a priority for the members of First Baptist Church in Sheridan would be an understatement.
Thanksgiving has traditionally been a time to gather with family around a homecooked meal. However, we sometimes forget that some families are worried if they will be able to have a meal at all.
‘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.
The Arkansas Baptist State Convention’s (ABSC) newly formed Sexual Abuse Task Force recently held its first in-person meeting.
Given the critical nature of the resurrection, it shouldn’t be surprising that it has received considerable pushback over the last 2,000 years.
While this time of year is always a season of thankfulness and gatherings of family and/or friends, this year seems uniquely sweet, especially at the Foundation and among Arkansas Baptists.
In October, I was reminded of the legacy of Kingdom impact here at Camp Siloam. A man named Phil Fincher stopped by the camp office. Phil is a retired attorney from Naples, Florida, who came to
Kevin Wieser is a firm believer in the impact of Christian higher education.
November 28 – December 5 is the Week of Prayer for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (LMCO).
“There are a lot of forgotten people in a lot of forgotten places across rural America.” We give to the Cooperative Program to make sure they are not overlooked with the Gospel.
Arkansas Foundation holds quarterly board meeting, finalizes 2022 operating budget, and approves Amos distributions for mission work in Israel.
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University.
SmartStart is an ABSC initiative designed to help churches in those crucial weeks after a pastor leaves.
What does child-centered adoption mean? First, it is informed by the question, “What is best for this child?” Further, it is motivated by the desire to provide families for children rather than children for families. Lastly, it seeks to value the birth mother and views adoption as a support of her brave choice.
GuideStone recently released information that Mission:Dignity recipients in Arkansas had received an additional check in September of this year.
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ’If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will find it. For what will it benefit someone if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will anyone give in exchange for his life?’” — Matthew 16:24-26
My simple advice for those journeying through holidays is to make whatever arrangement is necessary to not spend those days alone.
If you are going to be successful as a number two leader, you must know who you are in Christ and what God has called you to do.
Adam Venters serves as the campus minister for Little Rock Baptist Collegiate Ministry, formerly Metro Baptist Collegiate MInistry. New Name On Nov. 9, the Little Rock
God has been asking the same thing from every person for all time, “obey me.”
“I want all of our ideas and strategies to be birthed out of our prayer life.”
My college years were some of the most transformational years of my life
A round-up of this week’s sports headlines from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University.
The two new structures serve WBU’s Eagle Farms, which is a key component of the university’s Williams Works initiative.
Dr. Magee has served as the director of the Williams Singers for 36 years and has touched the lives of many of his students in the process.
Church’s fellowship hall on Monday, October 25th for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Ministers’ Wives Conference.
The Institute has been a beacon of light and hope to bi-vocational pastors and church leaders across the state.
A round-up of sports headlines from our two Baptist universities – Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia and Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge.
The blessing of beautiful fall weather contributed to record attendance at fall festivals and trunk or treat events at many churches around Arkansas during the latter days of October.
Along with discipleship, Geyer Springs First Baptist Church believes its generous support of the Cooperative Program is a key part of its strategy for advancing the Gospel.
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
Around the state features church staff changes as well as other church announcements.
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
We are the ones who choose whether or not we will take the initiative and make the effort to read our Bible, pray, and grow up in spiritual maturity.
“OBEDIENCE AND FAITHFULNESS TO GOD GUIDES EVERYTHING WE DO INCLUDING THE STEWARDSHIP AND DISTRIBUTIONS OF FUNDS TO MAKE SIGNIFICANT KINGDOM IMPACT.” Arkansas Baptists desire to
And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore, the child to be born will be called Holy—the Son of God.”
“Missions and ministry endeavors that lead to life change and impacting lostness are what being an Arkansas Baptist is all about.”
CABOT, Ark. – Last Wednesday, October 13, 1,100 students from five different communities gathered at Panther Stadium in Cabot to hear the Gospel at Fields of Faith, an event sponsored by Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).
I think God’s given us a charge to minister and to grow and to fellowship and to worship.
Anticipated nominations for officers to serve at the 2022 Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Annual Meeting have been announced. Dr. J.D. “Sonny” Tucker, ABSC Executive Director, said that he has
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.
A left-behind levee, a backfiring barge and, ultimately, the faithfulness of God have led pastor Jody Gannaway back to the church where he was ordained in Arkansas City over 60 years ago.
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
Five Arkansas Baptist women were involved in English-teaching ministry through the Brooklyn Arab American Friendship Center, October 12-15. Prayer walking, visiting in women’s homes for coffee and prayer, encouraging missions partners, and doing
Camp Siloam’s vision is that we see our campers and staff make an eternal, global impact for the Kingdom of God.
The ultimate blessing we have seen through this new partnership is hearing and reading of the impact these funds have had on recipients.
f you ask Archie Mason, senior pastor of Central Baptist Church, how many cattle he manages alongside his son, Ty, he’ll tell you, “One too many.” However, for the last couple of months a mentality of “just one more” has taken root at the Arkansas church as 76 baptisms have been registered between its campuses in Jonesboro and Paragould.
We have a responsibility as believers to grow in our relationship with God. We also have the responsibility to be helping other people grow in their relationship with God.
“There is a difference between living next to someone and being their neighbor.”
A round-up of sports headlines from our two Baptist universities – Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia and Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge.
Because someone has directly discipled me, I have a desire and a goal to disciple others and to share with them what Christ has done in my life.
We really can experience the freedom of Jesus Christ. The freedom of knowing that He loves us. The freedom of knowing that He has a plan for our lives.
Jared Farley is the BCM Campus Minister at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. Over 300 college students from across the state gathered this past weekend
A round-up of sports headlines from 10/02 – 10/07 on our two Baptist universities
For southern Louisiana, they are living through the aftermath.
Saturday October 2 – 1100 missionaries from 80 Arkansas Baptist Churches joined together in Russellville and the surrounding areas for the annual One Day Acts 1:8 Missions Experience (One Day). This experience was two years
Sara Patterson is from Wylie, Texas and is a senior Christian Studies major with minors in English and Communications at Ouachita Baptist University. Ouachita Baptist University
‘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
RUSSELLVILLE – Arkansas Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) members and guests, together with International Mission Board (IMB) alumni and Arkansas missionary parents, celebrated missions at Second Baptist Church, Russellville, October
October is here and that means so is Pastor+Staff Appreciation Month! Every year here at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, we try to put together some new
If you wish you could just run away, run to God; if you feel the need to fight, know that God can fight the battle for you.
Who can you bless and encourage so they know they are loved and valued by God and by you?
God gave us this body, and we are to be good stewards of everything that God gives us.
We rejoice knowing that churches were mobilized for missions, needs were met, the Gospel was proclaimed and more than 100 people came to saving faith in Jesus!
It began with a birthday present and has grown into a group that gathers each week for fellowship and music.
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University. Williams Baptist University Lady Eagles Drop AMC Opener
Hello! We are the Pollard* family. Both of us, Adam* and Evelyn*, were born and mostly raised here in Arkansas. We have five children, and four of them were born overseas. We have
God always shows up. He is “…a very present help IN trouble.” (Psalm 46:1 KJV).
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
The university campus is the greatest and most strategic mission field in the entire world.
UPDATE Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief and other agencies continue to clean up after Hurricane Ida, which made landfall at the end of August. Teams have continued to
Pray for Joel and Kellie to continue ministering with favor and boldness.
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.
When someone brings up the subject of the annual Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) meeting, what comes to your mind? Too long? Too boring? Waste of time? Not for me? You might add others. But for me, I am
God and His mighty power at work within us, can do anything He wants to do through us.
When you give to your church, you give to missions through the Cooperative Program, bringing the Good News to the whole world.
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University. Williams Baptist University Lady Eagles Drop Doubleheader to
“I wanted to use what God had given us.”
We asked some recently returned Disaster Relief volunteers to share their stories and experiences, so far, from Hammond and these are their words.
God’s spoken words have Holy Spirit power.
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.
The first weeks of school for an incoming freshman are some of the most pivotal days of their lives.
Today is the last day to register so don’t wait!
An update from our Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief regarding the ongoing effort to support LA/MS in recovering from Hurricane Ida.
On almost any given day throughout the year, Arkansas Baptist churches are actively meeting needs and sharing Jesus in their local communities.
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University.
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.
A week before Hurricane Ida hit southeastern Louisiana, William Bekemeier had just endured a heart attack. After he rode out the storm and felt the shock of a tree landing on his family’s house, he didn’t have the strength or stamina to clear the tree from his yard
Over the last several articles, I have been defending the historical reliability of Sacred Scripture. As noted before, this is no small task given that
The impact that short-term missions can have on an individual is immense.
An update from our Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief regarding the ongoing effort to support LA/MS in recovering from Hurricane Ida.
The Gospel is still the power of God for salvation.
A round-up of headlines in sports from our Baptist universities, Williams Baptist University and Ouachita Baptist University. Williams Baptist Lady Eagles Go 0-2 on Day 1 at MVC Viking
Church planting has been about more than just starting a church. It has been about igniting light in a very dark place.
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.
“It rekindled a fire to do what God has called me to do.”
When we choose to abide in God’s commandments and love wholeheartedly, we experience His power working through us and bear much fruit in our lives.
An update from our Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief regarding the ongoing effort to support LA/MS in recovering from Hurricane Ida.
Relationships, trust, and community is happening, and we look forward to seeing God cultivate these relationships.
Arkansas Disaster Relief is already preparing to help our neighbors as they begin to recover.
Sara Smith knew that Williams Baptist University was where she wanted to attend, but neither she nor her family knew how they could afford it until a bold new initiative at the school opened an opportunity no one saw coming.
A round-up of headlines from the world of sports at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas.
Ouachita is in its 135th year as a Christ-centered learning community.
Students accepted into Williams Works agree to work 16 hours per week all through the fall and spring semesters, and in exchange have their tuition and student service fees covered.
One Day Acts 1:8 Missions Experience provides an annual opportunity for Arkansas Baptists to impact lostness in a specific area of our state.
Arkansas Baptists, through your generous support, you are investing in first-generation students.
The first three weeks of a collegian’s time on campus are the most pivotal. They begin to set patterns that literally shape the rest of their lives.
Ouachita’s News Bureau ARKADELPHIA, Ark.—Ouachita Baptist University will break ground on a 144-bed, $12.6 million student apartment complex this month, with plans for it to
When you give to your church, you give to missions through the Cooperative Program, bringing the Good News to the whole world.
A round-up of headlines from the world of sports at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas.
When a natural disaster hits, Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief is almost always the first to arrive and the last to leave.
This incredible ministry is provided by your missions giving through the Dixie Jackson State Missions Offering and the Cooperative Program.
Deacons have been some of my best friends in ministry.
God can use one week to completely change the trajectory of a college student’s life.
“I want to follow Jesus, but I have years of Hinduism to unlearn.”
For better or for worse, technology plays a significant role in many of our lives and the lives of our children.
Arkansas Baptist Homes for Children in Monticello recently announced that Allen Elkins and his wife, Renee joined their staff on August 1. Allen is serving as Campus Director and Renee is serving as Campus Care Coach. A
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.
As a follower of Jesus, there is always a chance the Spirit can break through the mundane of a day and use a willing vessel as a tool to bring redemption to a dark soul.
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,
How does the believer determine the difference between what should change and what should NEVER change?
In 1896, two young archeologists happened upon some of the most significant archeological finds of the 20th century: early fragments of the New Testament and early writings of the Christian faith.
Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.
The College and Young Leaders Team has partnered with several church leaders to craft a one-day, overnight retreat to help your ministry and your students move into this season of discipleship and mobilization.
“I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me,” Philippians 4:13 (CSB) is Susan McClanahan’s favorite verse and one she strives to live by. She can admit though it hasn’t always been easy to remember over the years.
“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.
Through the agreement, students in the Williams Works initiative will gain important certifications, as well as hands-on experience in healthcare.
“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.”
Williams Baptist University received a $7,500 gift from First National Bank of Lawrence County Wednesday in support of the Williams Works program. The check was presented to WBU President Dr. Stan Norman by Paula Haskins, assistant cashier and head teller for the Walnut Ridge branch of the bank.
I want to share four beliefs about God that help me stay grounded during the uncertain moments of life. These beliefs provide a solid foundation to build my life upon. As I type them out, I am reminded that these truths cover or touch every area of life. From the moment of our birth to the moment we go home to be with Jesus, we are safe in God’s loving and all sufficient hand.
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.
At 83 years of age, I am still working part time for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention.
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.
ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The Williams Baptist Men’s Basketball program has been chosen as the AMC Champions of Character Team®, the conference announced on Tuesday.
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.
In the first part of this series, we looked in-depth at how Proverbs 10:1-3 can assist as young adults transition to college. Here, we see that there are applications in each of the remaining verses of Proverbs 10 along with the conclusion to the author’s thoughts.
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.
Have you found yourself in a tight spot? A place where you are experiencing stress to the point you are unsure of the next step to take? This tight spot may be a result of circumstances you brought on yourself or a situation God is allowing to help you move on with the things of God.
“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.”
We are the Fox* family. I grew up in Arkansas where my parents serve in music ministry at an Arkansas Baptist church.
Without a doubt, your pastor needs support and encouragement. Having served in the ministry for 60+ years, I can tell you that I have always appreciated lay people who encouraged me on a regular basis.
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.
Arkadelphia is a close-knit community that is nestled beneath the Ouachita mountains. The name of the town is a word that combines ‘Arkansas’ and the Greek word for “brother.” When considering the relationship between Pediatrics Plus and Ouachita Baptist University (OBU), the meaning isn’t lost.
Gathered around two white foldable tables set with cups of coffee and loads of batting is where you can find the ladies of Graves Memorial Baptist Church’s sewing ministry every Tuesday morning.
‘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.
I have never seen God move like He has the last four to five weeks in our church. I know pastors can say things like that at times in an attempt to lift themselves up or their church. I promise you that is not my intention, and hopefully the rest of this article will prove that. Our story in Northwest Arkansas began in Hendersonville, Tennessee. I know that sounds weird, so let me explain.
As a nine-year-old girl I walked the aisle during children’s church at First Baptist Church of Rogers and was baptized into the saving grace of Jesus. I have vivid memories of our whole congregation gathered in a circle around the sanctuary every Sunday night at the close of evening service, hands joined, voices raised, singing the chorus “We are One in the Bond of Love” in faith together.
We are Travis and Beth Burkhalter and are currently serving with the International Mission Board (IMB) in Medellin, Colombia, with our four children. Our home church is University Baptist Church of Fayetteville, Arkansas. We have served with the IMB for over 11 years. The first eight were spent in a small jungle town on the Amazon River, and the past three have been spent in the city of Medellin in the Andes Mountains.
Mick Jagger, the lead singer for the secular rock band the Rolling Stones, recorded a hit song bemoaning the pursuit of and failure to discover what he refers to as “satisfaction” over 50 years ago. “I can’t get no satisfaction, ‘cause I try and I try and I try and I try,” is repeated over and over all to no avail according to the writer. Apparently, this driving passion and its elusiveness strikes a chord with millions of listeners as the song has become a cultural icon since its release in 1965.
This article was written by Corley Shumaker. She is the assistant campus minister at Arkansas State University BCM. Shumaker lives with her husband, Kevin, and daughter Ellie Joy in Jonesboro. They love taking road trips, visiting National Parks and attending ASU football games.
“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]
We are thrilled to announce that Chad and Mandy Plummer are joining the Camp Siloam family on May 31, 2021. Chad will be serving as Camp Siloam’s Director of Operations, the role formerly held by Pat Moore.
People said they were too young to be in love. Don Chandler said he and Margaret “Maggie” Kinley met at church as teens, married as teens and experienced 53 years as husband and wife.
Dr. Kyle Walker, Senior Pastor of Cartersville First Baptist Church in Cartersville, Georgia has announced his intentions of nominating Jamar Andrews, Senior Pastor of Word Baptist Church in Jonesboro, Arkansas as a candidate for president of the 2022 Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Pastors’ Conference.
“God, What I can do, I can do anywhere. Just tell me where.”
Tina Frost, a member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church, Cabot, just celebrated nine years of service as a volunteer chaplain with the Cabot Police Department.
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 are two things that have constantly impacted Jessica Sandusky’s life: Her dad, Mike Sandusky, and Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM).
“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.”
WBU Eagles Sports Digest brings you updates from this week’s sporting events at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge.
I am Joel, and my wife, Kellie, and I have been serving with the International Mission Board for the past 19 years in Southeast Asia
To say I was scared when I accepted the call to become pastor would be an understatement.
Ethan Dial, 23, is the new digital media manager for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC).
We have realized that, like me, the Lord has brought many to Walnut Street Baptist Church in Jonesboro to be trained up and sent out.
“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
Ouachita Baptist University’s Ben M. Elrod Center for Family and Community held its annual community service awards ceremony on Tuesday, April 13, recognizing the service
WBU Eagles Sports Digest brings you updates from this week’s sporting events at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge.
What do Summit Bible Church and Crosspointe Church have in common?
Like so many others around the state, Nick Floyd, senior pastor of Cross Church Northwest Arkansas, and his church staff have been praying for a long time for revival and spiritual awakening to take place.
Here’s your monthly update on news, celebrations, etc. from other ABSC affiliated churches!
I have seen and experienced many cases of conflict in my 60+ years in ministry. Some of these conflicts have been between individuals, some have been between leaders and groups of people…
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Ouachita Baptist University will hold its 134th Commencement honoring the class of 2021 on Saturday, May 8, at 9:30 a.m. in Cliff Harris
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) recently affirmed accreditation for Ouachita Baptist University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program in the
Electricity! Transportation! Rent/Mortgage! Clothing! Food! Formally or informally, we all “budget” for these living expenses and others.
Union Valley Baptist Church has a heart for reaching the next generation. Casey Longing has served as student pastor at the church since 1999 where he has helped lead the charge in NextGen Ministry.
WBU Eagles Sports Digest brings you updates from this week’s sporting events at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge.
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.
One Day: Serve Local is still a few weeks away, but Second Baptist Church in Russellville planned its outreach early…
In ministry, we can become so used to a routine, to a plan that has been set in motion, and ministry that happens the same way with the same methods and the same people.
More than 90 graduates will receive diplomas from Williams Baptist University during its 2021 commencement ceremony, Saturday, May 1. The event begins at 10 a.m.
One of the greatest privileges that college ministers share is participation in weddings for college students.
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.
Hope isn’t just a dream. On this side of the Resurrection of Jesus, no man, woman, or child should be left without hope.
The news struck at the heart of many. Abortions, already the subject of heated debates by many, could now be legally funded in other countries by our money. For one local youth pastor, this struck the heart and more.
Probably one of the most popular counters to the historical reliability of Scripture is atheism.
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.
A well-read section of the Arkansas Baptist News (ABN) is making its way to the new digital version. The obituaries will have its own section on the ABN website.
Somewhere along the way, I began to understand the need for building trust among those I was trying to lead and even in my relationships with others.
Our hope is that the Gospel will penetrate the hearts of individuals on these teams and that they will think of their team as a mission field.
On April 13, 2021 history was made in Little Rock. City of Refuge Community Church, a seven-year-old church plant in the inner-city of Little Rock purchased a building owned by Immanuel Baptist Church of Little Rock, a 129-year-old Anglo church.
As I looked at Jake’s project, I had no idea what to say. I wanted to find something positive, but I was at a loss for words. Honestly, I had no idea what the picture was.
Arkansas Baptist churches across the state prepared for an Easter service that looked every bit as different as last year, but also with a sense of normalcy to it.
Ouachita Baptist University’s Elrod Center for Family and Community held its Spring 2021 Tiger Serve Day event on Saturday, April 10, with 75 teams completing
Up until 2020, this culmination of months of work to memorize and practice finding Scripture passages then participating in church and regional drills was attended by large groups of supporters from each participant’s home church.
Williams Baptist University has announced a transition among its leadership team highlighted by Dr. Andrew Watson and Angela Flippo, who have assumed new roles within
The Board of Trustees at Williams Baptist University approved the school’s budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year Friday, April 9. The board, meeting in regular
Ouachita Baptist University’s Office of Development has announced its annual Stepping Up for Ouachita luncheon will be held on Friday, Nov. 12, in honor of
NASHVILLE (BP) – On Tuesday (April 6), Arkansas became the first U.S. state to prohibit doctors from providing gender transition procedures for children. The legislation,
More and more students are closed off to the truth. But that does not mean that the Gospel is not still reaching students or that God is not transforming the lives of college students.
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.
Being eighty-three years old and in the ministry for over sixty years, I often wonder if I would do things differently if I were able to start over.
The world tells girls and young women to seek empowerment and self-fulfillment in their own strength. It is vital for us to point them to God’s Word and what He says about women in the metanarrative of Scripture.
A story about how February’s “snow-mageddon” illustrated the character of students at Ouachita Baptist University, and perhaps a spiritual insight as well. By my estimation,
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…
The Christian dependence upon the reliability and authority of Scripture is paramount in defending the veracity of the Christian faith.
This article was written by Seth Tucker, Youth Ministry Consultant for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Summer ministry has been an integral piece to student
You may think that when you pray, your prayer goes to Jesus who then turns to the Father and relays your prayer to Him. That is not the meaning of intercession. The Heavenly Father doesn’t need hearing aids.
Here’s your monthly update on news, celebrations, etc. from other ABSC affiliated churches!
Arkansas Baptists recently initiated a prayer adoption strategy for the unengaged unreached people groups (UUPGs) in South Asia.
The campus of Arkansas Tech University (ATU) is less than a mile from Second Baptist Church (SBCR). With an enrollment of over 10,000 students, the school offers a very diverse mission field.
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.
CONWAY, Ark. (BP) – Pastor Larry White, a board member of Renewal Ranch, knows how important it is for the church to invest in such
You need a prayer partner. This is so important that Jesus makes the point twice in two verses.
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.
These three guys get together weekly to share a meal and study God’s Word with other guys they invite from the baseball team. Almost every week new guys are showing up to study the Bible and hearing the Gospel in a clear way.
My question to you is this: Are you willing to do the hard work of prayer?
In a world that tries to give us twenty million things to put our trust in, there is only one true foundation. There is only one that is worth building our life on and putting our trust in and that is Jesus.
A lot has changed in the two years since The Bridge Church was officially launched back in March of 2019.
Focused on Scripture and bringing actuality to its truth, Anthony Banks is determined to see the harvest in full bloom.
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.
Instead of focusing on my “to do” list. I made a different type of list. I opened my Bible and wrote down ten truths that overwhelm me about God.
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.
If you want the power of God in your life, step outside the self-centered society you live in and try to see yourself from His perspective.
Imagine trying to find a new pastor in the midst of a global pandemic. This is the situation that the members of Friendship Baptist Church of Conway found themselves in last year (2020).
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.
As followers of Christ, they are indeed the church now, but they are also the future leadership of the church.
The Arkansas university campuses are not only our most strategic mission fields but our greatest mission agencies.
In times of difficulty, we must take our eyes off our problems and look to Jesus.
Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) Disaster Relief (DR) volunteers are known for serving others in the midst of the devastation of a natural disaster.
Blaylock began volunteering with the IFO in 2015 by hosting two international students in his home. It was through this experience that Blaylock realized food is a valuable tool for bonding between cultures.
We want Arkansas Baptists to know what’s going on around the state and be able to celebrate together and encourage each other.
I’m sure there are multiple reasons for such a distortion of the character of God. One of the most prominent being that a hippy god seems far more likely to ignore my sinful actions.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (BP) – Arkansas became the most recent state to attempt a ban on most abortions when the state Senate passed a bill
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.
This past year was definitely unique and full of challenges; however, there was a record set in 2020 that is certainly worth celebrating. Arkansas Baptists gave over $21 million through the Cooperative Program!
What if I told you that 70 days or one summer of your college years could change the rest of your life?
With a whole year now to prep and plan for what might come, Robert José, First Cabot’s youth pastor, is looking forward to hosting his hometown camp again this year.
First Baptist Church, located at 315 S. Main St. in Hope, Arkansas, transformed their gymnasium into a shelter for those who lacked winter provisions, beginning with preparations made on February 14.
The decision had been made. Colt Baptist Church would not go along with the trends and dismiss services on Sunday night January 1, 2017.
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.
Whirlwinds are hard! If we are not prepared, a whirlwind can cause us to spin out of control.
This is the year of the new normal. That feels hopeful to write. I can’t say normalcy has ever been something I have strived for, but it sounds a lot better than abnormal.
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.
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.
I began to think about my prayer life and my journey in prayer. It has certainly changed through the years, and I am deeply grateful to God for this journey and His leadership.
Ouachita Baptist University has reported a total spring 2021 enrollment of 1,619, a 3% increase since spring 2020 and the highest spring headcount for the university in 25 years.
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.
Fayetteville, AR. – Cross Church Fayetteville celebrated their 10th anniversary on Sunday, January 24. The church was launched a decade ago with the goal of
NASHVILLE (BP) – After a slow start to the budget year, giving through the Cooperative Program rebounded in January with more than $19.3 million being
he Arkansas Food Bank has been working hard to fight hunger in Arkansas, especially amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This month they’re holding their Giving Back to Hunger Weekend
NASHVILLE (BP) — A new resource for churches is offering a set of tools for greater financial stewardship and support of missions and ministry through
Women of Arkansas… are you ready to be inspired? Mark your calendar and grab your friends because Inspire 2021 is almost here!
Join thousands of kids across the country in hands-on ministry in your community for Children’s Missions Day! WMU invites all children in grades 1–6 to participate on a Saturday in February each year.
Brad Branham has served as the Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) Campus Minister at Arkansas Tech University since January 2015. Additionally, he planted Hello Church on
We want Arkansas Baptists to know what’s going on around the state and be able to celebrate together and encourage each other. Here are some news and updates from “Around the State.”
Adams was 17-years old when she unexpectedly discovered she was pregnant. The same week she got a positive pregnancy test was the same week she received her college acceptance letter.
There are many needs that pregnancy care centers have. Read this article for more information on how your church can help.
Janice and I would like to believe that if someone had been on the sidewalk that day offering to pray or offering assistance, or just to simply listen without judgement, that we would have made a different decision [about abortion] that day.
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.
When we align our priorities with God’s, His timing for how He intends to purpose our lives for His glory is always perfect. For that season in my life, my main ministry was my family and being available to raise up these young men God had blessed us with. Then God provided me with an opportunity to attend the LifeWay Women Leadership Forum for the first time.
I have adopted the phrase “The Williams Way” to capture prominent biblical traits that have been true of the men and women who have in some way been influenced by our mission.
Freedom through discipline. Study with rigor. Application for life change. What could be more impactful?
So it might sound a bit strange to claim that God uses suffering for His glory and our benefit, but that is exactly what Scripture shows us. In other words, there is a purpose—of sorts—behind suffering.
One of the goals of each BCM campus ministry is to develop next-generation leaders. At the UAM BCM, one of the ways this is accomplished is by investing in the lives of students and equipping and challenging them to become student leaders.
Melinda Chisum was sixteen years old when she discovered she was pregnant. Growing up in a very poor family, there often wasn’t enough food in her house.
So, what does it mean to live as a righteous person? What does it mean – according to Psalm 1 – to pursue God?
Life affirming ministry is what executive director, Valerie Long, gets to do every day. However, she describes it as more – upholding it as God’s work that she gets to be a part of.
From giving $883 as a church for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering in 2011 to giving $18,684 for the 2020 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, Hebron Baptist Church (HBC) of Little Rock has grown in financial generosity over the years.
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.
During the month of January, the Arkansas Baptist News will feature an emphasis on the Sanctity of Human Life.
I still remember what an older, wiser Christian said to me back then – a sentence his mentor had said to him 50 years earlier: “If you can’t see very far ahead, go ahead as far as you can see.”
The BCM at Southern Arkansas University (SAU) made the decision early in the fall semester to be present on the SAU campus to interact with students with the intention of sharing the Gospel.
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.
CONNECT for students is a weekend missions experience where Arkansas students and leaders find ways to make an impact in the lives of residents within a community.
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!
There are approximately 145,000 immigrants in Arkansas, meaning 1 out of every 20 Arkansans (5%) was born in a foreign country.
When we consider the vast cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity of our growing immigrant, refugee, and international student populations in Arkansas, it can be overwhelming to think of how to effectively engage them with the Gospel.
These past circumstances can paralyze us. They can cause us to accept less than God’s best. Thankfully the story of Ruth helps us to see the heart of God in the midst of these moments.
This was the Psalm I was memorizing when I was sent home in March from my sophomore year of college. My semester was fueled by a newfound passion for scripture memorization.
Reaching the nations among us in Arkansas is not a new thing. Yet, because people are currently more dispersed around the world than at any other time in history, it is perhaps more needed than ever.
Tis the season for tinsel, twinkling lights all a glow, gift wrapping and hanging bows, but in a year like no other, does the hustle and bustle of traditions past leave something in people’s hearts that truly last?
As Arkansans, we are surrounded by visual reminders of Christmas, often before Halloween candy has even disappeared from the grocery stores. But, in some countries Christmas celebrations are nowhere to be seen.
I love to think about this line from a favorite Christmas hymn. When I think of hope, it can be a wonderfully dangerous feeling.
Most of us have favorite Christmas traditions and memories we can share. We build them based on family and community culture, then personalize them along the way. Our International Mission Board (IMB) missionary families find that the influence of family and community culture is expanded even more as they also incorporate the traditions of their adopted countries.
While Sunday School and other activities may be curtailed for a stretch, this could be a good time for your church to look ahead and ask God for a fresh vision for your children.
For many of us, the six or so weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day represent a full and busy season. But in many cultures, the Christmas season represents a time of rest, even in the midst of celebration.
In 1971, one family left all of their comfort, all of their family, all of their “normal” to serve as missionaries.
What do Hurricane Erma and Dixie Jackson have in common? Both played a major role in leading pastor Dustin Logan to First Baptist Church in Lambrook, Arkansas. One brought him to the state; the other led him to stay.
As Christmas 2020 approaches, I find myself regularly asking, where is our “peace on earth to those He favors?” In the midst of a pandemic in which the COVID virus wreaks havoc on our nation and world, where is peace?
There is one issue every Christian must grapple with: suffering. Whether wanted or not, suffering will happen in this life. It isn’t something normal people go looking for, but it is a reality.
Maybe this pandemic (and other problems we face) is just another step down the path to revival. Could it be that God really does cause all things to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose? Pray as though you believe it.
Colt Booth is the assistant campus minister at Henderson State University (HSU) and his story is why Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) plays such a critical role on the college campus.
As a young adult, I want to encourage those in generations above me: my generation longs for mentorship. We might not initially see the need for discipleship, but young people desire to be encouraged and trained by older people in the faith.
Ouachita Baptist University celebrated 309 graduates from the classes of 2019 and 2020 during its 133rd commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 5.
I am strolling through memory lane again. Last month I wrote about changes that affected the way we do church in the last sixty plus years. In this article, I want to share what has motivated me in my ministry and how that changed through the years.
What would you do if you were dropped off in an unfamiliar place, had no friends, knew little of the language or culture, and were far away from family and friends?
Seth Haile, a senior at Williams Baptist University (WBU), developed and held a church planting conference on November 10 to fulfill the requirement for his senior project.
“Mrs. Louise,” as the students call her, is 96-years old. Despite her age, she continues to serve in the youth group with joy, eagerness and passion.
I went to seminary with the intention to study theology and counseling, but I had no plans to be a counselor.
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.
Foundation holds Quarterly Board Meeting, finalizes 2021 operating budget, and approves Amos distributions for mission work in Israel
This year at the BCM, we began hosting Masterclasses. We saw students desiring to understand what the Bible says concerning certain topics.
March 1st of this year was my last official day in law enforcement after serving 34 years at the North Little Rock Police Department.
Think how often we ask the question, “Lord, what is your plan for my life?” I love a simple answer! We are to give thanks no matter what is going on in our lives.
As Christians today, how can we look at what Paul prayed for the church at Ephesus, and pray with the same conviction and expectancy for ourselves and those with whom we serve in the church today?
Today, when you ask Jackson and his wife Bekah what excites them about college ministry they say “discipling students” without hesitation.
In Governor Asa Hutchinson’s COVID-19 update on Tuesday, November 10, he drew attention to the recent spike in COVID cases stating, “the numbers aren’t good.
Just 10 minutes outside of Dumas, Arkansas is a little town called Back Gate.
God answered his prayers when he brought Tapson and Jordan Bowen together at a meeting for the Pulaski Baptist Association (PBA).
Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (DR) recently wrapped up relief efforts in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Our church members will step up to the plate and do things that challenge them and stretch them because they love Jesus.
So how can God allow such good people to die so young and tragically?
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.
Camp Siloam is pleased to announce it is making plans to be open and hosting summer camp in 2021.
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.
The second Sunday in October is annually celebrated as Pastor Appreciation Day or Clergy Appreciation Day in the U.S.
Homecoming will look considerably different at Williams Baptist University this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Located in Phillips County, this Delta community is home to Second Baptist Park Street and West Helena Baptist churches.
Remember, Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.
‘Around The State’ is a new segment being added to our eMagazine that goes out bi-weekly to our email subscriber list.
If your church gains a new staff member, please have one of your staff members email us their name, job title, the name of the church and a short biography of the new staff member.
Woodall is hiking to raise money and awareness for foster children and foster families in Arkansas.
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.
s part of the Dixie Jackson State Missions Offering each year, we highlight various stories from all over the state to show Arkansas Baptists the ministries that you are part of when you give to the Dixie Jackson offering.
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.
Ouachita Baptist University surprised its students today, Oct. 16, by declaring it Student Catch-up Day and canceling classes in an effort to encourage self-care.
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.
Here are some ways to show your gratitude during this Pastor Appreciation Month
Jon Harvey and his family have been attending First Baptist Church in Clarksville since 1994. It’s where Jon learned about Jesus, and where he was baptized at age 12 after praying with his father, Doug, to accept Christ.
At the end of July, we shared an article about ways that Arkansas Baptists were adapting to creating ministry opportunities for children amidst the pandemic. One of those was a church in Trumann that partnered with Fellowship Baptist in Huntington to conduct a sports camp.
Just 42 miles southwest of Pine Bluff down Highway 79, in southeastern Dallas county, sits the small town of Fordyce, Arkansas.
On Saturday, October 3, 2020, many Arkansans served across their cities for the sake of their community knowing Christ.
For about three years now, Fellowship Baptist Church of Huntington has worked with First Baptist Church (FBC) of Dardanelle to host a local sports camp.
In May, we reported that Marmaduke First Baptist Church had begun to do drive-thru meals on Wednesday nights and had already served over 1,200 meals at the time. The number of meals served exceeded the population of the town. As of October 7, the church has now been able to serve 6,044 meals to their community.
Cross Church in Northwest Arkansas announced some exciting things over the last several weeks including their 10-year vision for all four of their campuses, as well as increasing their amount of giving through the Cooperative Program.
A gift from First National Bank of Lawrence County will benefit the Williams Works initiative at Williams Baptist University.
Located just off of US-64 in Faulkner County, The Summit Church Vilonia kicked off its first official Sunday services on October 4 after having to reschedule a couple of times due to COVID-19.
Ouachita Baptist University’s Elrod Center for Family and Community held its Fall 2020 Tiger Serve Day event on Saturday, Sep. 26, with 116 teams and 850 total volunteers participating.
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.
Rejoice. Pray. Give thanks. Three actions that might be neglected during a pandemic; three actions that might be put on hold until we feel things return to “normal” again.
First Baptist Church in Russellville is no stranger to sending out and supporting church planters. For many years, they’ve helped send out and support planters across the state and beyond. Back in the day, several small churches in the Russellville area were started by FBC.
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.
The launch of the new Arkansas Baptist News (ABN) website at the end of August revealed the new and improved classified ad section.
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.
Story Church in northwest Arkansas has served something that most people enjoy as a way to share the Gospel: ice cream.
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.
The Williams Baptist University Board of Trustees conducted its regular fall meeting on the university campus Friday, September 11. It marked the first gathering of the full board on campus since December 2019.
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.
As Hurricane Laura barreled towards the coast of Louisiana, Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief (DR) volunteers were busy preparing to provide whatever assistance might be needed.
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.
Even amid the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ouachita Baptist University’s fall 2020 enrollment has grown to 1,704, a 4% increase from fall 2019 and the highest headcount the university has seen since 2000.
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.
In a suburb of Pine Bluff, where crime is all too common, Family Church has found ways to break through the noise and minister to families struck by unfortunate events.
The Annual Meeting of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention (ABSC) has been adjusted for this year.
As Arkansas Baptists enter into the Dixie Jackson Missions Offering Season, we are reminded of all that God has done in our great state during this past year through the combined missions efforts of all of our churches.
Ouachita was one of the few institutions in the state to continue summer research during the COVID-19 pandemic
A challenging time for higher education hasn’t slowed enrollment growth at Williams Baptist University
Ouachita Baptist University (OBU) launched its online bachelor/associate degree programs in 2015, so when COVID-19 hit, their programs were virtually unaffected.
Second Baptist Church in Arkadelphia recently released a new discipleship plan for their church.
At Ouachita Baptist University (OBU) and Williams Baptist University (WBU), students returned and started classes this week.
One of the major misconceptions about higher education is the idea that students pursue a degree to get a better job than they might get if they did not go college.
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.
Fifteen years ago, Steve DeBusk, one of the high school senior boys Lifegroup teachers and a member of First Baptist Church in Cabot, embarked on a journey to help raise up and encourage young men going into manhood.
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!
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
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was originally published by Talk Business & Politics, and it was written by George Jared. It’s one of the most notorious
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
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Ouachita Baptist University will suspend all athletics competition through Dec. 31, 2020, along with other universities in the Great American Conference (GAC).
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
Camp Siloam, a Christian camp for children, youth and families – funded, in part, by the Arkansas Baptist churches giving through the Cooperative Program –
After a hiatus of several months, the campus of Williams Baptist University is about to spring back to life. WBU will welcome freshmen and other
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
Jerry Gibbens, who served for more than half a century as an English professor at Williams Baptist University, was presented an honorary doctorate by WBU
With most colleges resuming on-campus classes this semester, universities have had to prepare to accommodate students in a safe and healthy way. With many changes
By Ben Sells, Ph.D. President, Ouachita Baptist University When visiting with prospective students and their parents about Ouachita, I conclude with two statements. First, we
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
First Baptist Church (FBC) in Mansfield has been serving the teachers and faculty in their community well for years. Reverend Phillip Slaughter of FBC shared,
The Ouachita Student Foundation has announced that it will livestream Tiger Tunes, its annual fundraising event for student scholarships, with the theme “Tunes REWIND” on
Williams Baptist University has announced that Dr. Christopher Hair will be joining the WBU English faculty this fall. Hair, who has more than 20 years
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
Williams Baptist University will hold its 2020 commencement exercises Saturday, Aug. 8. The ceremony was postponed from its originally scheduled date in May due to
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
Dr. Ben Sells, president of Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, announced today that Dr. Lewis Shepherd, Jr., will join the school’s executive leadership team as
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
ORANGE CITY, Fla. (BP) — Although he grew up in the church, Jordan Harris identified himself as an agnostic during his college years at Florida
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,”
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – Gospel Light Baptist Church is hosting an event by Teen Revolution on August 5-7, 2020. Teen Revolution is a ministry for
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
By Jason Wilkie Executive Director, Camp Siloam King Solomon wrote, “there is a time for everything; a time to tear down and a time to
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
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Governor Asa Hutchinson announced on Thursday, July 16 that he would sign an executive order for a mask mandate for the
Ouachita Baptist University’s Department of Biological Sciences virtually hosted 45 faculty members from 38 colleges and universities last month in its fourth annual AR-CURE Synthetic
“When we lived in Fayetteville, we got to know some different friends who happened to be on a TV show. They threw us a baby
SPRINGDALE, Ark. – Twenty years ago, Cross Church in Springdale began to develop and invest in building relationships with the Marshallese population that had begun
The Hotel Rhea will soon be under the management of students at Williams Baptist University. Through the university’s new student work initiative known as Williams
BENTON, Ark. – First Baptist Church (FBC) in Benton has been connecting with the Boys and Girls Club of Saline County to encourage and equip
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – At some point in life, every person has questions. Some of us have unanswered questions that paralyze us with fear, rejection
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
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was written by Jimmie Sheffield, Assistant to the Executive Director at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. “Well, our pastor has resigned
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
Dr. Rhyne Putman, a Williams Baptist University graduate and highly regarded theologian, is returning to his alma mater. Putman is joining the administration and faculty at
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
LITTLE ROCK – During his daily briefing, Governor Asa Hutchinson discussed various settings where clusters of COVID cases have been found, including churches. You can
Chances are you have never heard of Ellen Harrison or Natalie Burk until now. But many in Russellville, Arkansas know who they are. Harrison and
A donation to Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge will fund the construction of two greenhouses. The $75,000 gift from Tekla Research, Inc., is providing
CABOT, Ark. – Summer across the natural state looks a little different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With some restrictions being lifted, the
The second issue of the official Camp Siloam email newsletter was released June 12. Read the newsletter in its entirely below and sign up to
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Dr. Ben Sells, President of Ouachita Baptist University (OBU) announced yesterday (June 9) via email to students, staff, and faculty the fall
ARKADELPHIA, Ark. – Churches are finally opening back up. Families are able to gradually connect again with other people in person. Things are starting to
“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
Editor’s note: The ABSC has a new emphasis for Summer 2020, called A Once in a Lifetime Opportunity. This emphasis is two-fold to promote student
Camp Siloam director Jason Wilkie announced this Saturday that Camp Siloam will remain closed for the entirety of the summer 2020 season. Watch the video
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
Camp Siloam director Jason Wilkie issued the following statement after the release of yesterday’s directive from the Governor’s office pertaining to overnight camps: “Yesterday Governor
This year’s annual Explore, Discover, Grow Conference Faith-Based Early Childhood Conference has been adjusted due to the ongoing pandemic. However, another option for Weekday Directors
Executive Director of Camp Siloam Jason Wilkie made a statement today regarding the cancellation of camps scheduled for the summer of 2020. Read the full
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
Camp Siloam has a new email newsletter called The Impact, freely available to keep Arkansans informed about what’s happening with the camp. Camp Executive Director
NASHVILLE (BP) — Thousands of students each summer attend camps held at Baptist conference centers across the U.S. But in light of the COVID-19 pandemic,
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
Recently, the Paycheck Protection Program was rolled out through the Small Business Administration. Many churches are eligible to take part in this program. Bobby Thomas,
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
HARRISBURG (BP) – Facing the inability to gather for worship, Southern Baptist churches got creative March 22. One young couple in Arkansas is heaven-bound thanks
LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Right to Life is continuing a campaign to promote the Safe Haven Law and Baby Boxes across Arkansas with new billboards
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
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Baptist Foundation (ABF) Board of Directors approved the organization’s 2020 budget and officers, as well as distributions for mission work
CROSSETT – Most people see a run-down building and don’t think twice about it. However, church leaders at Jarvis Chapel Baptist Church, Crossett, saw an opportunity.
PEARL, Miss. – A Southern Baptist pastor indicted on a rape charge continues as the senior pastor of Metro Grace Community Church in Pearl, Miss.,
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
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Associational leader is the most fulfilling role that Sean McMahon has held in nearly 40 years of ministry. “I absolutely love my
Thousands of students in Arkansas and across the nation gathered at their school’s flag pole as part of the 29th annual See You at the
Arkansas River Valley – 4:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at Second Baptist, Russellville. Arkansas Valley – 3 p.m. Oct. 21 at First Baptist, Helena. Ashley –
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
LITTLE ROCK – “Viable,” a play dramatizing the impact of abortion, is coming to Arkansas in September, and the leader of the state’s leading pro-life
ABN Podcast host Bill Bumpas chats with newly elected Executive Director of Arkansas Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries (ABCHomes) Derek Brown on his new
