2022/May/12

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • MAY 12, 2022

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YEARS & COUNTING /// SEE PAGE 6

CO N T E N T S : Page 2 | News & Trends Falls Creek: A strong legacy >> TODD SANDERS

Page 3 | Voices Connect: Faithful in every season at church

Women enjoy retreat at Falls Creek and online

A moment of power loss ignites men at Rewired

Leaked SCOTUS draft gives hope for reversing Roe

>> STAFF

>> CHRIS DOYLE

>> TOM STRODE

Oklahoma Baptist women took full advantage of the registration options that were available to experience the Women’s Retreat, April 22-23, at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center. As Amy Cordova, Oklahoma Baptists’ missions and women’s ministry partner, described, it was “a two-day, hybrid retreat.”

“Three registration options were available to women, including: in-person, digital pass and host church,” Cordova said.

The moment will not be soon forgotten by those attending Rewired Men’s Conference, April 29-30, at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center.

With more than 700 men participating in worship through song in the Friday night session, the praise band’s instruments could not be heard, as the stage lost power. However, this did not cause Seth Garrett, worship pastor at Coweta, Community, and the praise band from halting worship.

Pro-life advocates reacted hopefully to the report of a leaked draft opinion within the U.S. Supreme Court that would overturn its 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.

In a stunning development Monday evening, May 2, Politico—a politics- and policy-focused news organization— published a copy of a draft of an opinion by Associate Justice Samuel Alito that would strike down the Roe ruling if it becomes final.

/// SEE PAGE 7

/// SEE PAGE 7

/// SEE PAGE 12

>> TODD FISHER

Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: 110 thank you’s! >> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: A head-scratching adventure >> WALKER MOORE

Page 5 | Missions & Ministry Vision, diversity draws two OKC churches to become one >> CHRIS FORBES

Page 10 | Church Toolbox Be a source of hope in your community >> PAGE & GREG MATHIAS

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I N I S T RY GOSPEL M

ENDS NEWS & TR

Falls Creek: MAI S Sstrong legacy IONS & M I N I S T RY

>> by Todd Sanders

FALLS CREEK PROGRAM DIREC TOR

There is a strong possibility, in communities across Oklahoma, one might encounter many people who had an eternally significant experience with Falls Creek Youth Camp.

Falls Creek has been such an important place to Oklahoma Baptists throughout the generations.

Churches have descended upon Davis in the summer weeks each year to take advantage of an opportunity to connect students with the Savior.

There has always been and continues to be a great need to take advantage of dedicated, focused times to do just that. Camp provides this type of targeted opportunity like few other events.

The majority of believers trust Christ before the age of 18. This is an alarming statistic. Maybe an even more staggering fact, and one which helps frame the weight of responsibility the church has to reach this generation, is the reality that the unreached portion of this current generation of youth (Generation Z) would comprise the largest state in the U.S. by 18 million people (ahead of California) if they were their own state. Anyone can see that the need is great.

Time is of the essence. There is a strong, compelling reason for God-led people to act.

There will always be a new, next generation. God’s people must possess a heart and vision for reaching each new generation of youth. God-led people in the church are mindful of taking urgent action to reach this generation. Spirit-led believers engage the N E next N L Ifaithfulness, generation with the Gospel N E WandOmodel NT NTEfollow E COand so that students might Christ USIV XCLtrust EB-Ealso W the Lord faithfully. This is the heart of making disciples. Oklahoma Baptists continue to accomplish this together through Falls Creek Youth Camp and other important next generation initiatives.

Falls Creek Youth Camp remains a special place for millions. In fact, since its start in 1917, more than O 2.5 million people have IC been partN of IN FallsFCreek Ta IO A L B U P Youth Camp, and 1.5 million of those have been full

O O L B OX CHURCH T >> PHOTO: CHRIS DOYLE Todd Sanders speaks to students who publicly responded during an invitation at Falls Creek.

time camp attendees. Those D S represent I Enumbers F I S S A L C lives—souls—and valuable opportunities to advance the Gospel.

God has changed life after life through His Spirit moving through the strong preaching of God’s Word, vibrant worship and rich community year in and year out at camp. One Oklahoma minister’s wife said, “Falls Creek instilled in me a sense of church family and beS local church body.” longing that extended I C Emy Ooutside V In its 100-year history, more than 72,000 individuals have professed Christ as savior. Falls Creek Youth Camp, since its small beginning in 1917 with 273 participants and 13 spiritual decisions, has seen almost 280,000 spiritual decisions recorded, not including the countless other decisions that have taken place during youth camp weeks. Each of those numbers represents the move of the Holy Spirit, as God’s people have been committed to make disciples and faithfully lead others to the Lord and help them grow in Him. God has changed lives in generation after generation of students in Oklahoma and beyond.

Youth minister Brandon Holloway sees the impact of Falls Creek on his life. “Jesus changed the entire trajectory of my life as a student at Falls Creek,” he said. “Now I get to go every year and watch Him do it over and over again with my own students.”

It really is not surprising that God does significant work in students’ lives at Falls Creek consider-

Oklahoma Baptists Board of Directors Meeting Baptist Building

MAY 26-28

Camp Perfect Wings

CrossTimbers Conference Center oklahomabaptists.org/childhood/ camp-perfect-wings

MAY 30-JUNE 2

CrossTimbers Session 1

CrossTimbers Conference Center Camp pastor: Charlie Blount crosstimbers.org

JUNE 3-6

CrossTimbers Session 2

SIV WEB-EXCLU JUNE 6-10

Falls Creek Week 1

Falls Creek Conference Center Camp speaker: Zane Black oklahomabaptists.org/ youthcamp

JUNE 10-13

CrossTimbers Session 3

CrossTimbers Conference Center Camp pastor: Eric Fletcher crosstimbers.org

JUNE 13-17

Falls Creek Week 2

Falls Creek Conference Center Camp speaker: Brian Mills oklahomabaptists.org/ youthcamp

CrossTimbers Conference Center Camp pastor: Rick Cordova crosstimbers.org

FOR MORE INFO ON OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ EVENTS, VISIT WWW.OKLAHOMABAPTISTS.ORG/EVENTS

Seminole sees significant tornado damage; Baptist DR responds BRIAN HOBBS| MAY 5

SEMINOLE—On May 4, tornadoes and severe storms hit areas FO INacross N IO T A IC L B Oklahoma, including significant PU damage in Seminole which saw multiple tornadoes hit. By the next morning, Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief (DR) had storm damage assessors and chaplains out serving.

T Schurches Narea E V Ewith In coordination and South Canadian Association’s Director of Missions Tim Green, DR coordinated a response, sending chainsaw teams to help in the Seminole area.

For updates or to make a taxdeductible donation to Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief, which will help serve storm victims and provide relief, visit okdisasterhelp.org.

Editor’s Note: The May 4 tornadoes hit hours before this edition went to press. For more complete coverage, visit baptistmessenger.com.

FIND ALL THESE STORIES AND MORE ONLINE AT WWW.BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM

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spiritual things, God’s Word and ongoing application of those eternal truths.

My wife, Angela, explained why Falls Creek has been such an impact on her life. “Maybe because I was able to leave the world behind for a week, I P L Eat&camp,” always seemed to hear GodPmost E Oclearly S she said. “The existence of (Falls Creek) and N EtheWfact H C R U H C that so many adults I knew had attended and continued to invest in the effort told me that seeking God with intention was important.”

Another Oklahoma youth minister, Stefan Valdez, has his own story of the Lord changing his life at camp. “Falls Creek is a special place for me,” he said. “I gave my life to Christ the summer TURE Lheading U C & S W E N into my freshman year. It was my first time to experience Falls Creek. I returned home changed and did not miss a summer at Falls Creek after that. Five years later while serving as a sponsor at camp, the Lord called me to ministry! I thank God for Falls Creek. It forever changed my life!”

L surStefan is one of more thanA 37,000 U Ahave N Nwho render their lives to ministry and missions FO I Nwhile N G continues E T ICamp at Falls Creek. Falls Creek M EYouth its strong history of sending and remains one of the most significant global-sending grounds anywhere, influencing local church ministry and missions literally around the world.

As has been the case thoughout its history, youth camp at Falls Creek continues to provide space for students and adults alike to listen for and respond to the Lord’s calling. One Oklahoma Baptist church member said, “It’s where I heard God’s call to ministry and said, ‘Yes.’” The need for the Gospel among teenagers is strong, and the strong legacy through Falls Creek Youth Camp continues. Oklahoma Baptists maintain a strong partnership as they continue to cooperate to advance the Gospel together among Oklahoma teenagers. We pray the summer of 2022 is no exception.

NE N E W O NELCIONTEforNTmore Visit oklahomabaptists.org/youthcamp SIV Camp.

XCLU information on Youth EB-ECreek WFalls

NE N E W O NELCIONTENT

EVENTS MAY 24

SPORTS & T EN INM TAfocus ing the amount of time, spent on T E Rand E Nenergy

May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Trends

PUBLICATIO

N INFO

The Baptist Messenger (ISSN 07449518) is published semi-monthly by the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, 3800 N. May, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112-6506. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Circulation last issue: 39,782. Individual subscriptions are available upon request. When writing for a change of address or a subscription renewal, please include a copy of your mailing label. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Baptist Messenger, 3800 N. May, Oklahoma City, OK 73112-6506.

While the Baptist Messenger attempts to provide advertisers of integrity who furnish quality products, it is recommended that buyers be cautious, do research and get references to any advertiser with which they are not familiar. Publication of an advertisement in the Baptist Messenger does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or businesses. May 12, 2022 • Volume 111, Number 9.

Member, Baptist Press News, Christian Newspaper Association, Evangelical Press Association, Oklahoma Press Association.

EVENTS

MESSENGER STAFF >> Brian Hobbs | Editor bhobbs@baptistmessenger.com >> Chris Doyle | Managing Editor cdoyle@baptistmessenger.com >> Lori Coats | Subscriptions/Assistant lcoats@baptistmessenger.com >> Chris Forbes | Staff Writer cforbes@oklahomabaptists.org >> Tori Hamilton | Art Director thamilton@baptistmessenger.com

VOICES

A N N UA L NFO MEETING I

Connect: Faithful in every season at church Todd Fisher Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @eToddFisher

As Easter approached this year, I must admit I had mixed feelings. I love Easter and being in church to celebrate and worship the risen Jesus! I also love studying the doctrine of the resurrection and what Jesus’ bodily rising from the dead means for our everyday lives and for our own resurrection.

What I did not love was the prospect that, for the first time in 30 years, I might not be preaching on Easter Sunday since I stepped into this new role serving Oklahoma Baptists. Fortunately, I was invited to preach at one of our churches that currently does not have a pastor. My family and I had a great day worshiping and fellowshipping with this church.

Even though I had the opportunity to preach, it was still a different Easter Sunday for me. One way in which it was different is that throughout the day I received messages from a number of pastors telling me how their Easter services went.

I rejoiced with some that had baptisms, salvations and record-breaking attendance. It fills me with excitement and gratefulness at how the Lord is moving in these churches! Others were disappointed that high expectations for this Easter after the pandemic were not met. I reminded these pastors that, even though they may not have seen much in terms of God visibly moving in their midst, He was no doubt working as the Word of God was being faithfully proclaimed and the risen Jesus worshiped.

Whether Easter services this year were “exciting” or not, it is good to remember that in any ministry context we need to be faithful to the work God has called us to do wherever He has called us to serve.

Times of growth and excitement often ebb and flow in a cyclical way, with times of discouragement at many churches. Stay the course and keep your hand to the plow in any and every season within the church.

If things at your church are going great, keep focused on Christ, focused on His Word and the Gospel, and give the glory and credit to Him. Don’t just sit and bask in the good things that are happening, but keep preaching, keep building a culture of evangelism and discipleship, keep serving your

people and the community with vision and passion. Don’t let off the gas!

Pastors and churches should never think they have “arrived,” as though the “success” of their ministry was something contingent on them or that they’ve done all they need to do in ministry. We need to reach and teach more and more people all the while tethered to the reality that results are the work of the Spirit, not us.

If things are slow and discouraging at your church, be mindful of the unseen ways God is working. Keep preaching, keep sharing, keep serving, depend on Him and be satisfied in Him for the results, and don’t let off the gas!

Be faithful in serving and living for the One and for things eternal that cannot be measured in what is seen. Be tethered to the reality that God has called you to serve His church in this time in a certain place. Be always mindful of the words of Gal. 6:9, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

If this is an encouraging season at your church, rejoice and be humbly grateful. If this is a discouraging season, be resolved and focused on God who has called you and provides for you to serve Him through every season.

Sword & trowel: 110 thank you’s!

Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

On May 15, the Baptist Messenger will reach a milestone that few publications do. We will celebrate our 110th anniversary.

In 1912—the year the Messenger was born—a number of other notable events occurred. The Titanic struck an iceberg on April 14 and would tragically sink. Nabisco debuted its now famous Oreo cookie. Speaking of cookies makes me think of milk, which according to records cost 36 cents a gallon in 1912. Meanwhile, the price for an annual subscription to the Baptist Messenger was $2.

Much has changed through the decades, but the mission to advance the Gospel and to inspire and inform Oklahoma Baptists, has remained. In the Aug. 9, 1962 edition of the Messenger (which commemorated the 50-year anniversary), it said: “Fifty years ago, the Baptist Messenger began as a dream in the heart of a man. He was a Baptist

preacher who had moved to the new state of Oklahoma from Washington, D.C. He saw that Oklahoma Baptists needed a publication which would unite them in spirit and effort… C.P. Stealey saw the need for a Baptist paper which would promote the causes, stand for the truth and provide a spiritual blessing to the churches and people.”

From that vision, through the decades, to today, the Baptist Messenger has fulfilled that very role.

The inaugural edition on May 15, 1912, contained stories about the work of the Foreign (Now International) and Home (Now North American) Mission Boards, Christian education, teaching about Christian doctrine and theology and the Oklahoma Baptist Orphans’ Home.

It was not long after that the convention’s board determined that the Baptist Messenger should become its official news journal and purchased the newspaper from Stealey for $5,000 under the condition that he would continue to serve as editor.

Since Stealey’s era, 10 others have served as editor of the newspaper.

Today, the Baptist Messenger is mailed to nearly 40,000 households every edition, making it one of the largest newspapers in the state of Oklahoma. In 2010, the “Messenger Insight Podcast” pro-

gram was launched and continues to produce weekly episodes. The next year, Messenger Digital was launched, a full online edition of the Baptist Messenger, along with the Messenger Mobile companion app (available in the Google Play and Apple app stores).

In the time between our founding to today, many events and much ministry has occurred. There, all along, the Baptist Messenger has been there to report it.

We sometimes get asked about how to see the future outlook of the Baptist Messenger. My reply is that the future looks bright. I say this not out of presumptuousness, but because I believe the future of Oklahoma Baptists looks bright.

After all, the Baptist Messenger is but a reflection of you, our readers. The Lord Jesus Himself said, “I assure you: A servant is not greater than his master, and a messenger is not greater than the one who sent him” (John 13:16).

Much in the way that Oklahoma Baptist University is “our university,” as Oklahoma Baptists, we want you always to view the Baptist Messenger as “our publication.” To that end, whether it’s the print or online edition, the podcast or the blog, we truly hope you continue to enjoy the Baptist Messenger, your publication! And today we want to say 110 “thank you’s” for reading the Messenger!

Voices | May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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RiteS I Oof passage: A head-scratching adventure & & S N ORTS MIS Walker Moore Y M I N I S T RAuthor & Messenger Columnist Email | walker@back40.org @WalkerDeanMoore

OX O L Bfrom T O home Hcome I had a funeral. I was upR Cjust U C Hstairs changing clothes when I looked out of our

bedroom window to the street below. There, I saw a man kneeling alone in the road, hands folded, head bowed as if he were praying.

Normally when I see a need, I move toward it, but this one had me scratching my head. I was glad there was no traffic, I EasDmySfirst concern was for this F I S S A L C man’s safety. He was just a few feet from an intersection and would be hard to see. At any moment, a car could turn quickly onto our street.

“Surely he will get up and move on,” I thought. I finished dressing, and when I looked out the window a few minutes later, he was still kneeling there, head bowed and hands folded.

“There must something wrong,” I thought. I I CbeE S O V told my wife I was going out to check on him and walked the 50 feet to where he knelt in the road. He didn’t look up as I approached. In his hands, he held a cloth decorated with three tiny yellow flowers.

“Excuse me; are you all right?” I asked.

“I’m sorry; I’m sorry,” he said, rising to his feet.

“No, you don’t need to apologize. I just wanted to know if you are all right.”

SP

“I’m all right,” he said in broken English.

E N T I noticed INM TAmine his skin was and asked if he was T E Rthan E Ndarker Hispanic. He shook his head no.

“Do you need something to eat or drink?” I asked.

I was watching him closely for signs of mental illness, but he was calm, composed and answered my questions without hesitation.

“No, I am fine.”

PEOPLE & “Do you need money?”

NEWS H C R U H C “No, I have work.”

“Is there anything I can do for you?” I asked.

“No; I was praying.”

I was confused. He sounded normal and wasn’t acting erratically; he was just kneeling in the road, praying.

I decided to try another approach.

“Who were you praying to?”

LT U R E U C & S W E N “God,” he said.

“Do you know of Jesus?”

His eyes lit up, and he patted his heart. In his broken English, he said, “I am follower of Jesus. I am a Christian.”

“And you were here, kneeling in the road, praying to Jesus?”

N N UA L A “Yes.” FO I Ndo,GsoI INasked E T to I didn’t know him, “May I M Ewhat join you in praying to Jesus?”

“Yes.” He dropped to his knees and continued his prayer.

I dropped down next to him, my knees on the asphalt as well. I clasped my hands and bowed my head, and there we knelt in silence. He didn’t say a word, but I could tell he was focused on his prayer.

I am not sure what people who saw us may have thought: a young man and an old one, two different skin colors, both kneeling in prayer in the street.

At first, we prayed silently, but then I felt led to pray aloud for his life and his family and to thank God for this man who stopped in the middle of the road to pray. I am not sure how long we were there, but we got up, and he thanked me. Then he turned around and walked away. I watched him to make sure he was all right; he turned the corner and went out of sight.

I am still confused about the whole event. As a missionary, I have been in many situations that would be considered strange, but this one left me scratching my head.

I felt like the disciples in John 9 when they were with Jesus and passed a man who had been blind from birth. They asked a simple question, “Rabbi, who sinned: This man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (v. 2b). Jesus gave them an answer that made them scratch their heads: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened that the works of God might be displayed in him” (v. 3).

I don’t know why this man chose my street, prayed outside our bedroom window and happened to be there when I looked out. He had no physical needs that I could see or meet.

I’m still praying for my new friend. And as I pray that the works of God might be displayed in him, I pray that they also may be displayed in me.

Even when they leave others scratching their heads.

Generation Z: Update Bertholomew “Prophet” Bailey Oklahoma Baptists’ Young Adult Ministry Partner

When COVID-19 was at its worst, there were times when my whole family would be on the internet at the same time. Then our internet would go for a walk. We discovered that there was an update that we missed with our Wi-Fi system. The update helped us all be online at the same time.

Likewise, there are some things in ministry that we should stay updated on that could help us better connect with those we are trying to reach. If you are still referring to teens and college students as millennials, it may be time for an update. A new generation is on the rise! They are our students, our next-door neighbors and our relatives. Understanding them can help you in more ways than one.

Generation Z is the largest U.S. generation in history, and they are on track to be the most educated.

Researchers disagree on beginning and ending dates, but the most popular belief is this generation spans from 1996-1999 to 2010-2015, making them between 7 to 26 years old. Unlike, Generation Y, also known as Millennials, they were not ascribed a catchy nickname, but Gen Z maybe more suiting. Some believe they are perfectly named, as they are the generation that will bring in post-Christian culture.

Worldview. There are three parts to their views.

Individualism: to discover life’s answers, one should look within to do discover “your truth” or “authentic self.” Relativism: Haydn Shaw, author of “Sticking Points,” says their motto is “You do you.” Though this statement may not say much, it says it all. The belief is that what is best for you, may not be best for me.

Barna Research discovered only 34 percent agreed that lying was morally wrong. Moral relativism has not crept in as the major opinion. Spirituality: The view of “I don’t need to go to church to have a relationship with God” did not start with Gen Z, but they have widely accepted it. Some consider themselves spiritual over being Christian.

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If individualism and relativism is where they begin, you may see how they arrive here. This viewpoint opens the door to a buffet belief system where you can have law of attraction, with the universe, with ancestral blessing, rocks, crystals and astrology—all while trying to hold on to Christianity principals.

Gen Z struggles with evangelizing their friends due to the feeling of encroachment on their faith.

Pray for boldness that this generation will share their faith with their peers. Help students see the contradictions in relativism that their friends come to see Jesus as the only way. Lastly, help students see the benefits of belonging to a Bible-based church.

Diversity. Gen Z is the most racially and ethnically diverse generation in American history. More than half identify as something other than white. The diversity they experienced growing up influences how they see others. This leads them to be more appreciative and accepting than generations before them. This aspect of this generation helps make Sunday look more diverse, as more multi-ethnic churches are on the rise.

Mental Health. Tim Elmore calls them “the most anxious generation.”

They are the most vocal on mental health issues.

For Gen Z, stress comes from social media, finances, school loans, current issues, the future, COVID and so on. Barna reports Gen Z deals with anxiety by looking to friends, family, music and TV. They also plug into games, social media or unplug by meditating, reading or exercising. We should make it a priority to make mental health a discussable topic. What does God have to say about anxiety in the 21st century?

Social Media. Gen Z people are digital natives, ON meaning they were born into the world of the internet. As teens, they were

considered “Screenagers.” For many of them, there is a real FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) on social media. Though they are the most connected generation, reports show they often feel lonely and disconnected. Reports show that 46 percent of Gen Z people believe that “looking at other people’s post often makes them feel bad about the lack of excitement in my own life.” Young adult women, ages 18-21, are tougher on themselves. Within our churches we can address issues of connection, comparison, time management, idols and identity to help our students have quality relationships and social life.

Social Involvement: At the heart of this generation is the desire to make a change and to do something great. They are not going to sit back and wait.

This generation is seeking to make a difference in the world. Many within this group are ready to get their hands dirty in serving. Our job is to come alongside them to help them see what servant leadership looks like. Also, to make space for them to serve inside and outside the church.

Good News Campus

May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Gospel Ministry

The Cooperative Program is the everyday, everywhere, every-church plan for comprehensive missions support.

Learn more at OklahomaBaptists.org/CP

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

SPORTS & T MEN E N T E R TA I N

Vision, diversity draws two OKC churches to become Eone & O O L B OX T H C R U H C

>> by Chris Forbes STAFF WRITER

Two congregations, Christ Community and Rancho Village, both of Oklahoma City recently decided to merge their congregations together, forming one new church. Around 180 people from nearly nine ethnic groups, and who speak two languages, comprise the membership of the new church.

John Mark Hart, former pastor of Christ Community, preached a message that was also translated into Spanish to the new congregation in an inaugural service held on Sunday, April 10.

Hart, along with an elder pastoral team of four others, will continue as pastor of the newly united church which has yet to decide an official name.

Presently, the church operates under the name Christ Community Church at Rancho Village and meets in the original Rancho Village facilities on Southwest 38th street.

“Rancho Village Baptist Church and Christ Community Church have been praying for God’s leadership for many years,” Hart said to the congregation. “I had on my heart this morning Psalm 66:19, ‘But truly God has listened; He has attended to the voice of my prayer.’

Can we celebrate today, what God has done?”

Hart said it was the shared ministry vision and diversity of the community that drew the congregations to conclude that they needed to become one.

“Christ Community Church was planted in 2010 and had been a very evangelistic, multi-ethnic church, but had been monolingual,” he said. “However, we had a few Spanish speakers in our church.

“Rancho Village was going through a transitional period, but they have a strong history of bilingual

CLASSIFIE >> PHOTO: CHRIS FORBES Worshippers

from nine ethnicities and two languages gather for bilingual worship at the first official gathering of Oklahoma City, Christ Community at Rancho Village.

ministry,” Hart continued. have two multiE Sweethnic I C“So V Odifferent ethnic churches, with mixes coming together to be very multi-ethnic and bilingual.

Rancho Village was founded in 1949 and experienced great seasons of ministry over the year. Most recently, the church faced challenges after the death of long-time pastor Floyd McKee (1953-2020).

“After Brother Floyd passed away, after having been the pastor for more than 30 years, some of the leaders within the church began taking over the responsibilities of leading the church, while praying and determining what direction God was leading us in,” said Ever Borunda, Oklahoma Baptist Hispanic Ministry Partner and Rancho Village member.

“Under Floyd we had already begun having bilingual services, singing in both languages and separating for preaching in English and Spanish,” Borunda explained. “We continued the direction set by Floyd, but over the course of about three years we lost about half of our members.”

MISSIONS VOLUNTEER TIES

OPPORTUN

OKLAHOMA

On-going opportunities for volunteers: Tulakogee Conference Center, Wagoner— 918/462-3212— info@tulakogee.com Hospitality House of Tulsa provides family centered lodging, emotional and spiritual support for family members of patients traveling to Tulsa for medical care—918/794-0088 hhtulsa.org Hospitality House of Oklahoma provides for the physical, spiritual needs of families with loved ones incarcerated in McAlester—918/429-0142 OK Jail & Prison Ministry needs volunteers to go into the jails and share the Gospel each week— 405-917-2242 or ojpm@ojpm.org

I

DISASTER RELIEF

Training:

K-Love Sponsored Training, Crisis Response Care—June 7-10, Baptist Building, 3800 N. May Avenue, OKC, OK 73112 • June 7—Moral Injury • June 8—Supporting Children After Disasters • June 9-10—Functional Stress Hardiness Instructor: Naomi Paget, FBI Chaplain & Crisis Interventionist To register visit crisisresponse.org.

Pray for International Missionaries Americas Pray for Oklahoma Baptists serving with the International Mission Board throughout Central and South America.

Their names and even the number of them are withheld for security reasons.

DS

PEOPL

Borunda said Rancho Village leaders started prayS EW R C H Nwhen ing and considering other possibilities the CHU church approached Christ Community. Commonality was discovered, and merging was discussed.

“It’s been a process of about 12 months,” Borunda said. “We have involved the congregation (Rancho Village) in everything we’ve done. Initially the congregation voted to share the building U RE T with C U Lthe Christ Community. They idea W S to&explore Evoted N of merging. And then at the end, we talked and figured this is something we should really consider. Later the congregation voted to merge.”

During the period of transition, Nathaniel Estrada, Rancho Village elder, led the church alongside Mark Madewell, anotherURancho N A L VilAN lage elder. “Over the last couple of years we sought O NF to understand what God as a E T I NusGto Ido Ewanted M church,” Estrada said. “This (merger) is huge. We have had the vision since 2005 to have a multi-ethnic, bilingual congregation here in southwest Oklahoma City, because that’s what this community is.

“And now with Christ Community coming in with us, we are able to fulfill that vision,” Estrada continued.

“We didn’t know that God was going to fulfill His plan for us through merging with another congregation.”

Hart explained that before the merger the two congregations spent more than a year meeting in the same building, holding joint worship services periodically and doing outreach and service projects together.

“That has helped us build relationships and trust to get to where we are in a healthy way,” he said. “I think our potential to make disciples in Southwest Oklahoma City is going to exponentially increase right now. We can do a lot more together than we could separately.”

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America’s #1 Church Bus Dealer, Carpenter Bus Sales, wants to buy under-utilized buses or vans, refurbish them, and make them available to churches looking for transportation solutions.

If you have a bus or van you would like to sell, go online to www.carpenterbus.com/buymybus America’s #1 Church Bus Dealer 800-370-6180 www.carpenterbus.com

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Matt Stewart Matt is Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) director at Oklahoma City University. This campus is diverse with students from around the country with a wide variety of worldviews. Pray for BCM students to have wisdom and boldness.

For Powerpoint slides of Prayer Guide, visit www.oklahomabaptists.org/cp

Missions & ministry | May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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110 Years and Counting: Celebrating the Baptist Messenger’s history, legacy and future /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Staff On May 15, 2022, the Baptist Messenger will celebrate its 110th anniversary. The flagship publication of Oklahoma Baptists now has been printed continually through these 11 decades, a time span which witnessed two World Wars, a Depression, the Cold War, the invention of the Internet and, most recently, a pandemic.

In 2012 leading up to its 100th anniversary, the Baptist Messenger published a 10-week series highlighting its history and years of ministry in articles authored by retired associate editor Dana Williamson. The articles, which can be viewed online, discussed the rapid development of the Messenger each decade.

“From its beginnings to today, the mission of the Baptist Messenger—to advance the Gospel and ‘to inform, inspire and connect Oklahoma Baptists’— has remained true,” said Brian Hobbs who has been the current editor of the Messenger for more than 10 years.

“We are grateful the Lord has provided through Oklahoma Baptists and that we can continue to publish good news about the Good News,” Hobbs

Editors & staff The following individuals have served as editors for the Baptist Messenger: C.P. Stealey, 1912-1927 E.C. Routh, 1928-1943 Porter Routh, 1943-1945 Albert McClellan, 1945-1949 Jack L. Gritz, 1949-1979 Richard T. McCartney, 1979-1987 Glenn A. Brown, 1987-1997 John L. Yeats, 1997-2005 Ray E. Sanders, 2006-2008 Douglas E. Baker, 2009-2010 Brian Hobbs, 2011-Present Other longtime Baptist Messenger staff included Dana Williamson, Fern Hurt, Bob Nigh, Bob Matthews and so many others. The Baptist Messenger has been supported by an excellent, godly and talented team of editors, writers, designers and support staff, as well as a capable pressmen, printing and mailing team members. Thank you to each and every one!

added. “What once began as a print publication today includes our flagship print publication, our breaking news website, weekly podcast, social media channel and more. The tools of communication look different today, but the Gospel is the same, as is our charge to share the story of what God is doing through Oklahoma Baptists.”

Today, approximately 40,000 households are subscribed to the Baptist Messenger, making it one of the largest publications in the state. Every Oklahoma Baptist church receives a copy of the publication, and the Messenger is mailed to numerous countries and also is distributed to prisons in Oklahoma, as an outreach.

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Oklahoma Baptists may receive a print or digital subscription to the Baptist Messenger at no outof-pocket cost. To subscribe, visit baptistmessenger. com/subscribe. Below is more about the founding, history and highlights of the Baptist Messenger.

How Baptist Messenger began Although the first issue of the Baptist Messenger was published May 15, 1912, and was the first Baptist paper in the new state of Oklahoma, it wasn’t the first attempt at a Baptist paper in what was then Indian Territory.

Oklahoma Baptist papers go back to 1844 when the first issue of the Cherokee Messenger rolled off the presses. That was the first paper printed in Indian Territory and the first Baptist paper of any kind in the territory.

Publication of the Cherokee Messenger was suspended in 1846, and revived in 1858, but did not survive long. Records show other Baptist papers emerged for a brief time. When C.P. Stealey, founder and first editor of the Baptist Messenger, started the publication in 1912, it was privately owned. It wasn’t until 1919 that the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma purchased the paper for $5,000.

The first edition of the Messenger was timed to be distributed at the first Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting ever held in Oklahoma. The first issue contained articles about the work of the Foreign and Home Mission Boards, Christian education, the state Baptist Orphans Home and a statement about the benefit of the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention to the five-yearold state.

In his first editorial, Stealey wrote: “This paper will earnestly support the organized work of the state and shall ever seek to be a helpful factor in solving the problems that are before us. We sincerely desire to be used for the glory of Christ and His cause in this state of abounding opportunity.”

Years later, in talking about the purpose of the Messenger in a 1945 editorial, Porter Routh said, “The Baptist Messenger uses different devices in fulfilling its task. (1) It carries pages each week devoted to many of the agencies, such as the WMU and the Brotherhood. (2) It focuses attention on worthwhile mission achievements through editorials, news articles and pictures. (3) It devotes special editions to various causes. (4) It tries to be optimistic in tone and cooperative in practice, supporting wholeheartedly the Unified Budget chosen by Oklahoma Baptists as the plan for execution of their mission program.”

By the grace of God, those visions and dreams continue to today and have even expanded.

Throughout its 110 years, the Baptist Messenger has endeavored to inform, educate, encourage, challenge, uplift and inspire Oklahoma Baptists while communicating the Good News through its pages.

About 100 million words published later, that is still the goal of your newsjournal: the Baptist Messenger.

Key moments in Baptist Messenger history 1912—The first edition of the Baptist Messenger is published, May 15, 1912 1919—The Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma purchased the Baptist Messenger at a price $5,000, making it the flagship publication of the state convention.

1920—The eight-year-old paper morphs into more of a denominational paper, focused on Baptist missions, church and religious news articles.

1943—With the economy booming because of America’s entry into World War II, subscriptions to the Baptist Messenger grow to 25,000.

1949—Jack L. Gritz, the longest tenured Baptist Messenger editor, steps into his role.

1995—The Baptist Messenger carried coverage and inspirational stories following the tragic events of the Murrah Building Bombing in Oklahoma City.

2001—The Messenger launches its news website, baptistmessenger.com.

2002—The Messenger celebrated its 90th anniversary, became a four-color publication, outsourced printing for the first time and exprienced format changes.

2010—The Baptist Messenger launches the “Insight Podcast” program which continues to present day.

2012—The Baptist Messenger celebrated its 100th anniversary, holding events across Oklahoma that featured popular columnist Walker Moore and others.

2013—The Messenger introduces a Spanish-language edition called “El Mensajero Bautista” which is now published as a periodical insert.

2019—The Baptist Messenger makes the transition from a weekly print publication to twice per month, offering subscriptions at no out-of-pocket Next week’s edition will unveil cost to Oklahoma Baptists. a new look and additional features!

May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Features speakers call on ‘Sleeping Giants’ to take spiritual responsibility

Women enjoy retreat at Falls Creek and online /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Staff DAVIS—Oklahoma Baptist women took full advantage of the registration options that were available to experience the Women’s Retreat, April 22-23, at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center. As Amy Cordova, Oklahoma Baptists’ missions and women’s ministry partner, described, it was “a two-day, hybrid retreat.”

“Three registration options were available to women, including: in-person, digital pass and host church,” Cordova said. “More than 1,600 attended in person at Falls Creek. Sixty churches hosted the event with more than 2,000 in attendance virtually.”

Speakers share importance to ‘Dwell’ in Christ’s Word The theme for the Women’s Retreat was “Dwell,” which Cordova said is based on Col. 3:16. The retreat speakers were experienced Bible teachers who elaborated on the retreat’s theme.

Kandi Gallaty opened the first session at the Women’s Retreat. She and her husband Robby Gallaty, a pastor in Tennessee, co-authored Bible reading plans.

“You were formed for relationship,” she said, speaking on Gen. 2:18. “You bring something to that relationship and help accomplish something that may not otherwise be accomplished.”

Gallaty also emphasized how Christians are to be filled with the Spirit. “The Holy Spirit breathes into us, and we become a living breathing spiritual being,” she said. “Never short-change the Spirit of the living God. We will spend so much time scrolling on that phone reading the wrong text, when the ‘Holy Text’ will change your life.”

Julie Busler, a member of Shawnee, Immanuel who serves as Oklahoma WMU president, opened her

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>> PHOTOS: TONY DILLARD 1) Julie Busler shares how God has transformed her life even in the midst of depression. 2) Amy Cordova leads a discussion with Kandi Gallaty and Christine Hoover about dwelling in God’s Word.

speaking time with a video of her testimony. The video explained how she hid depression and suicidal thoughts. She was serving as a missionary in Turkey, but she returned home under the direction of a psychiatrist. The video shared that God redeemed her through treatment but also through consistent time in the Word every day.

“It was nothing that I did,” Busler explained after the video presentation. “In His timing, (God) found his child, and He revealed Himself. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is the same power that lives in you. Yes, there is pain, but there is also purpose.”

The Saturday morning session opened with a virtual interview with Hunter Beless, who recently wrote the book “Read It. See It. Say It. Sing It.” “I think there are times where we really need Scripture,” Beless said. “That’s why Scripture memory is so important, so that we are able to reach for it, so that the Holy Spirit can bring it to mind.

Christine Hoover, author and wife of a church planter, spoke on the importance of seeking wisdom.

“Wisdom is this skill in the art of Godly living,” she said. “Wisdom begins with having a fear of the Lord, which means we are submitting to God as the

authority in our lives. As we submit to Him, the Holy Spirt begins to conform us into the image of Christ.”

Todd Fisher, executive director-treasurer of Oklahoma Baptists, was the first man to speak at the Women’s Retreat in many years. He gave a presentation on the importance and the validity of the Bible being the inspired Word of God. “This Book is not just the creation of humanity,” Fisher said while holding up his Bible. “The Bible is God’s revelation of Himself to us. It is inspired by God. The Bible is authoritative; the Bible is authentic; the Bible is accurate and is accessible and applicable.”

Offering taken to support IMB deaf ministry More than $6,000 was given in an offering taken at the Women’s Retreat. The offering will support the International Mission Board help fund Bible translating into signed languages.

“The Deaf Culture is one of the most unreached people groups in the world, with less than 2 percent knowing Jesus,” Cordova said.

For more information on the Women’s Retreat and to view the sessions online, visit oklahomabaptists.org/women/retreat.

A moment of power loss ignites men at Rewired /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

DAVIS—The moment will not be soon forgotten by those attending Rewired Men’s Conference, April 29-30, at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center.

With more than 700 men participating in worship through song in the Friday night session, the praise band’s instruments could not be heard, as the stage lost power. However, this not did cause Seth Garrett, worship pastor at Coweta, Community, and the praise band from halting worship.

On the contrary, everyone kept singing acapella “How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior’s love for me,” and other verses of the cherished hymn.

And many did stand amazed.

“It’s one of my favorite Rewired moments, and I’ve had a few,” Bubba Burcham said.

As Rewired program director and men’s ministry consultant for Oklahoma Baptists, Burcham knew that the whole weekend event would provide great moments of fellowship and spiritual nurturing, but this occurrence turned into a highlight.

“Power to the instruments went out, but we just kept rolling,” he said. “We heard the power of men’s voices that was coming through so strongly. There’s so much power to it.”

Rewired speakers ‘dig deep’ on challenging messages “We must be willing to dig deep and build on the rock that can never be moved,” said Adam Mask, pastor of Coweta, Community, who briefly spoke in the opening session Friday afternoon. Mask pointed out the theme of Rewired which was “Dig Deep,” emphasizing the work men should do in their lives, focusing on Jesus, while being leaders of their families and in their local churches.

Abraham Wright, teaching pastor at Bethany, Council Road, was the main speaker in the opening session Friday afternoon and spoke on David writing Psalm 57 from a cave while hiding from Saul.

Wright concluded with a Gospel challenge. “Jesus dying on the cross is proof to the entire world that God does really love you,” he said. “Take sin seriously.

Will you take your sin seriously and come to Jesus?”

Christian speaker and businessman Jeremy Pry-

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1) Caleb and Jeremy Freeman share how Caleb has progressed since his car wreck; 2) More than 700 men sang acapella during a moment of the praise band losing power resulting in a powerful Rewired moment.

>> PHOTOS: CHRIS DOYLE

or spoke on how the structure of a modern family is not what God intended the family structure to be originally. He said God wants the family to be “a multi-generational team on mission,” and encouraged fathers to be coaches of their families.

“Don’t be ashamed to lead your family,” Pryor said.

“We are in the worst epidemic of fatherlessness that the world has ever seen. This is a deeply spiritual problem.”

Jeremy and Caleb Freeman shared the story of Caleb’s car wreck four years ago causing him to experience severe injuries yet progressed miraculously.

Jeremy, pastor of Newcastle, First, said Caleb is a rare combination of contentment and real motivation.

Both Jeremy and Caleb shared how the statement “but God” has been a key emphasis throughout this experience, claiming how Caleb’s life was not supposed to improve after the accident put him in a coma state. Caleb shared clearly how God had a different plan for him.

“My doctor said, ‘Caleb will never walk again. Caleb will never eat again. Caleb will never talk again,’” he explained, “and every single time God has provided me the ability. And now people are able to see all of my life ‘but God has the final say.’”

Caleb graduated from high school in 2020 and graduated in May from Rose State College with his associate’s degree. They continue to travel and share Caleb’s story and see God do incredible things.

The Saturday morning session featured Todd Fisher and Shane Pruitt as speakers. Fisher, executive director-treasurer of Oklahoma Baptists, shared a similar message he delivered during the women’s retreat the previous weekend on seeking truth and how Chris-

tians must rely on Scripture as the source of truth.

“By a secular scientist’s own criteria, the most reliable book that has ever existed in the history of the world is in my hands,” Fisher said holding his Bible.

Pruitt, who serves as the Next Gen evangelism director for the North American Mission Board, preached from Acts 5:27-42 and challenged Rewired attendees to pursue a movement of God, just like the disciples of Jesus.

“The greatest thing we need to talk about is the Gospel of Jesus Christ because I believe when men fall head over heels in love with Jesus, and He becomes their real King, and they go full on in obedience, they’re not going to want to do anything to bring shame to their King,” Pruitt said.

What they said about Rewired “I think the content was timely for men and especially fathers,” said Kevin Chartney, pastor of Muskogee, First.

“As we know, the institution of the family is disintegrating as we speak, and to come here and be encouraged by men of the faith through the Word on what our high calling is as men and fathers is refreshing and challenging. We’ve got to be ready for the times we are in. Men all over the place need to hear what was shared this weekend. This is why Rewired matters.”

“I love the momentum Rewired creates,” said Kenny Mossman, pastor of Carnegie, First. “We leave Falls Creek with a renewed energy to pursue Christ and serve others, and we do so with the assurance that comes from worshipping with our brothers. Those are powerful outcomes. This isn’t an annual box to check, it’s an important event that God is most certainly using to His glory.”

Features | May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

O L B OX O T H C R U CH

OBU commissions students, employees for global service C1L A S S I F I E

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A N N UA L NFO MEETING I >> PHOTOS: CLINTON SINCLAIR

>> by Kenny Day

1) Matt Kearns, director of student ministry, delivered the message during OBU’s commissioning service; 2) OBU students and employees being commissioned for global service gathered on the stage steps in Potter Auditorium, holding signs with various names of God; 3) Rachel Stewart, logistic coordinator for the Global Outreach Center, speaks during the commissioning service.

OBU MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

SHAWNEE—Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) commissioned almost 100 students and employees who will serve this summer on Global Outreach trips (GO trips), in internships or at camps.

The commissioning service took place April 27 inside Raley Chapel’s Potter Auditorium. The student body worshiped together and prayed

over teams of people who will represent OBU all around the world.

OBU sponsored GO trip teams will travel to six international locations, including England, Greece, North Africa, Israel, Zambia and the Middle East. A group of 16 students and employees will travel to Ecuador on a Study Abroad GO trip, while a group of 15 will travel on a Project Israel GO trip.

Global marketplace engagement majors were comStore Family and worker Closing Men’s big & tall missioned for internships to 10xl, 72in waist in the Middle East, Central Prices No Gimmicks - Hard to beat prices - lots to look at America and Oklahoma. best deals on flame resistant clothing in town Students were also commissioned for church trips buy now bargains, use later - selected sizes available to serve in New York, Afri2409 S. AGNEW AVE. 73108 OKC, ok we must close ca, Germany and the Middle OPEN tues. - SAT. 9AM to 5:30 PM East. Numerous other stuClosed SUN. & Mon. (405) 636-1486

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May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | People & Church News

dents and employees will serve in camps, ministries, internships and outreaches throughout the nation this summer, including Falls Creek, Pine Cove City, Mentoring Alliance and more.

Matt Kearns, director of student ministry, delivered the commissioning message. Following his message, students and faculty who will be participating in service this summer began to gather on the steps in front of the stage, holding signs with various names of God. Near the end of the service, the students flipped the signs over, revealing the destinations of their summer service trips.

The service concluded with a word of encouragement and commissioning prayer from OBU President Heath A. Thomas.

OBU has plans for 14 international Global Outreach trips for summer 2023. To learn more about GO trips at OBU visit okbu.edu/global-outreach.

O L B OX O T H C R U CH

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

IFC hosts golf tourney U LT U R E IFIEDS

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ASS C>>Lby Staff

Indian Falls Creek (IFC) is hosting its fourth annual golf tournament to raise funds and promote the longstanding summer camp.SThe golf C Ebe June 10 V O Iwill tournament at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Firelake Golf Course in Shawnee.

Indian Falls Creek has been in existence since 1947, ministering to Native Americans in Oklahoma, Canada and across the nation. IFC is the largest gathering of Indian Christians in the world with 3,600 attending in 2017.

“We hope to raise $10,000 dollars for the ever-increasing cost of an event like Indian Falls Creek,” said Victor Cope, IFC executive director. “Many of our Indian Congregations cannot attend because of cost. All proceeds help Indian people attend camp.”

IFC is a family camp ministering to young people through senior adults. Cope said IFC is “so awesome that students don’t want to go home. It is a place where God

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS CANTRELL DEATH. Kenneth Cantrell, MA 94,O died 21 O in Brownwood, Texas.

AH LApril Kservices T H EFuneral were April 27 at LawE V I R C H churches in Texas Apastored T He First.

TIS B A Pton, and was interim pastor of Lawton, Letitia before serving as pastor of Lawton, Southside. He also worked for the Oklahoma State Department of Human Services before retiring in 1990. He was involved in his community and taught Sunday School at Lawton, First. He also served on the Board of Lawton Pro Musica combining his talents for admininstration and his love for choral music. He is survived by his daughter, Karen Krause; his son, Norman Cantrell; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

WILSON DEATH. Leon Wilson, 87, died April 18. Funeral services were April 22 at Moore, First. He served as pastor of Oklahoma City, Southpark before he and his wife Sharolyn became national missionaries for bivocational ministers and wives across the United States and Canada. He served as pastor of nine churches, five in Oklahoma, in his 50 years of ministry—27 of those years as bivocational pastor while operating truck sales and lubrication business in Oklahoma City. He is survived by his wife of 68 years; his son, Edwin Wilson; his daughters, Sharol Cottingham and Anita Pease; and four grandchildren.

ORDINATION. Harold Thorne was ordained to the deacon ministry at Geronimo, First.

CHURCH STAFF CHANGES TREVOR MCCLURE is student minister at Lawton, First Baptist East.

A N N UA L NFO MEETING I

heals the physical and social ills of humanity. It is a special place where God is creating stronger Indian people through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Indian Falls Creek will be July 31-Aug. 4, and this year will be the 75th year of the camp. Look for more information about this milestone experience in upcoming Baptist Messenger editions.

Visit indianfallscreek.org for more information about the camp or the golf tournament.

Associational Bible Drill

Children from Choctaw, First and Oklahoma City, Quail Springs participate in the Capital Association Bible Drill, April 24.

Oklahoma Baptist churches participated in the State Bible Drill at Quail Springs on May 7.

For more information on how churches can participate in Bible Drill, visit oklahomabaptists.org/ childhood/events/#bible-drills.

TO SHARE NEWS, PLEASE EMAIL ALL INFO TO BAPTISTMESSENGER@OKBAPTIST.NET

send us your church news SUDOKU

>> PHOTO: BRIAN HOBBS

SEND THE BAPTIST MESSENGER YOUR CHURCH NEWS, PHOTOS, INFORMATION, MINISTRY AND STAFF CHANGES, EVENTS AND MORE. EMAIL BAPTISTMESSENGER@OKBAPTIST.NET TO HAVE YOUR NEWS ITEMS CONSIDERED FOR PUBLICATION.

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Note: The word clues for the Word Search are chosen by the Messenger staff, while the puzzles and letters surrounding the clues are computer-generated at random.

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People & Church News | May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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O O L B OX CHURCH T

Be a source of hope DS in your community CLASSIFIE encounter families walking their dogs, people working in their yard, kids riding bikes, and a neighbor who always smokes a cigar EDITOR’S NOTE: This article originally ap- in his driveway after dinner. These are the peared in HomeLife magazine. people we talk to and pray for regularly on When it comes to looking for practical our prayer walks.

VOICES ways for our family to have a spiritual imBe a ‘regular’ at local shops pact in our community, I like to think of the Second, become a “regular” at severpositive aspect of changing things up in our al places in your community. This means daily paths. As we go through our regular you establish a grocery store, coffee shop, routines, we pray and look for opportuni- restaurant and gas station where your famities to guide our conversations to point to ly can go often enough that they know you.

Christ. We expectantly look for chances to Being a “regular” allows you to build relatalk about our faith, to serve others and to tionships and establish trust with the peobe authentic and caring friends. ple who work there. As you get to know Our family’s network looks like this: We the employees, you can learn about their live on a cul-de-sac in a neighborhood in a lives and look for opportunities to encoursmall town in North Carolina. My husband age them, pray for them and hopefully see teaches at a Baptist seminary, and I teach the Holy Spirit awaken them to their need art at a school. Our girls go to three differ- for the Gospel. The entire family can be inent public schools. They sing in school cho- volved. All this requires is an intentional ruses, take music lessons, and one performs mindset to pray for opportunities, pay atwith a color guard team. We like to discover tention and focus on others. local restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores Get involved in community events and outdoor activities. If you add up the Third, get involved in your community by number of people we see on a regular ba- going to festivals, parties and other special sis in all of these places, you realize quick- events with your family. Enjoy some fun toly what an amazing opportunity we have to gether, and challenge each other to meet be involved in loving, serving and sharing someone new and have at least one sigour faith with those who are lost. nificant conversation with that person. Be Think through your own family’s network friendly. Ask people how you can pray for that includes the neighborhood in which them. Notice nametags, tattoos and T-shirt you live, where you work and your kids go slogans, and ask about these things. Listen to school, the activities you do, the places to peoples’ stories. You’ll get some wonderyou frequent and your extended family and ful insight into who they are and what they friends. God has given you an opportunity love. These observations will often provide to care for these people and point them to- open doors to talk about Gospel truths. ward knowing Christ. The great thing about You most likely have even more ideas for your family’s network is that you are most how to engage spiritually in your communilikely to share your faith with these people ty. The important thing is to build relationT H Eand to speak intentionally about your R O Mships you already know well, and the wholeFfamiO G provides some wisdom on B L4:5-6 E R SCol. ly can be involved.

R D S L I N Gfaith.

O W Go for a walk in your neighborhood engaging your community: First, get out and start prayer walking in “Act wisely toward outsiders, making the your neighborhood and community regu- most of the time. Let your speech always be larly. As you walk, look for opportunities to gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may pray out loud for the people who live around know how you should answer each person.” you. Anything can be a prompt for prayer: a Don’t wait. Develop a plan. Pray for op“For Sale” sign in front of a house, a A “Welportunities.

AY S Open your eyes to the people S E V D come New Baby” banner, a “Student Driver” God brings across your path. Be a source of bumper sticker. In our neighborhood, we light in your community. >> by Page and Greg Mathias LIFEWAY.COM WRITERS

BA PT ISTS OKLAHOMA H IG H L I GH T E C R U O S E R

2022 SBC ANNUAL MEETING

C A M P PE R FE C T W I N G S

Registration continues for the 2022 Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting, June 14-15, in Anaheim, Calif.

Visit the following website to register or for more information:

Camp Perfect Wings is meeting again at CrossTimbers, May 26-28. To find out more about this amazing camp for kids and adults with special needs, visit the following website:

sbcannualmeeting.net

oklahomabaptists.org/childhood/ camp-perfect-wings

Check back with the highlight every issue to learn more about the resources available to every SBC church!

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May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Church Toolbox

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N F RO M T H E G E R S B LO G URE WO R D S L I N E W S & C U LT

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T-REX THEOLOGIANS >> CARISSA JONES

Today’s social media culture, coupled is with L Asuch Y SAasNit N U A S E V A D easy access to information and literature, has created a O INF I N Gcomes T reality vast network of armchair theologians.

This MEE with both positives and negatives. We are all theologians to some degree, whether we realize it or not. More people thinking about theological issues and getting involved in those conversations is a good thing. ButSthe situation ST presents a few OMA BAPTI H well.

L Aas O Krisks T of absorbOne significant risk for any theologian IG H L I GisHthat H E C R U O S E ing a wealthRof knowledge without putting it into practice. Several years ago, I saw the Disney movie Meet the Robinsons. I really don’t remember a whole lot from the film, but one part stuck with me. A young boy is huddled in a corner, trapped by a massive T-Rex. Fortunately for the boy, the dinosaur cannot reach him because its head keeps getting in the way. The T-Rex turns to the main villain and says, “I have a big head and little arms. I’m just not sure how well this plan was thought through.”

The moment offers a bit of on-screen comedic relief but also serves as a word of caution for believers today. If we fail to practice what we believe, we become just like the T-Rex in the film: big heads but totally ineffective in carrying out our mission.

To read the rest of Carissa’s blog, visit baptistmessenger.com/blog-t-rex-theologians

F RO M T H E E R S B LO G G N I L S D R O To read W more blogs with Jesus in mind, visit www.baptistmessenger.com/blog

D AV E S AY S YOU CAN HAVE MORE THAN ONE Dear Dave, B A P TsheI S T S A M A relative of mine recently mentioned O H A L OK HT had two life insurance policies. okay forI G a perHL E IsHitIG C R U O S E R son to have more than one life insurance policy? If so, why would someone do that?

—Victoria Dear Victoria, There aren’t any rules against having more than one life insurance policy. The only real problem is it might complicate your life a little in terms of having multiple premium withdrawals, checks or possibly additional policy fees to worry about every month. It’s cheaper to have just one policy, generally speaking, but regardless of whether you have one or more, I always recommend having 10 to 12 times your annual income wrapped up in a good, level term life insurance policy.

Different people have different personal and business financial situations, so there could be many reasons to have more than one life insurance policy. I have lots of insurance connected to our estate plan, our business and different kinds of things. Most life insurance companies will only write so much in coverage for one person, so when this has been the case, I just went to another carrier for additional coverage.

Also, some people buy more than one life insurance policy just to feel secure from a provider standpoint. If one insurance company goes out of business, they’ll still have another policy—or more—in place. That’s not usually a big problem, though, since the majority of insurance companies have insurance to back them up with the state, or are very financially stable.

I hope this helps, Victoria!

—Dave The views expressed by Dave Ramsey do not necessarily reflect those of the Baptist Messenger and do not constitute legal financial advice.

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Rate: $25.00 flat rate per ad • Deadline: Two weeks prior to publication. Submit a classified ad at www.baptistmessenger.com/advertise on the Classifieds Form >>F/T OR P/T YOUTH PASTOR: Mount Hermon Church of Jay is prayerfully searching for our next Youth Pastor. Position is F/T or P/T for the right candidate. Resumes can be sent to: pastorjake@mhcjay.com.

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>>BI/VO MUSIC WORSHIP LEADER: Highland Park Edmond seeks a spiritually motivated & energetic personality to lead our praise team & congregation. Resume: Music Search Team, HPBC, 400 N. Blackwelder, Edmond, OK 73034 or as attachment to: hpbcpastor@att.net.

>>BI/VO OR P/T WORSHIP MINISTER: Seeking God’s candidate for our next blended service Worship Minister. Please submit resume & cover letter to: cbcbamusic@gmail.com or Clearview Baptist Church, P.O. Box 140892, Broken Arrow, OK 74014.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Lone Star Baptist Church, a small rural church near Miami, OK is seeking a BI/ VO Pastor to lead their multigenerational congregation. Send resume to the church at: P.O. Box 561, Afton, OK 74331 or email: jasonggibson@gmail.com.

>>F/T PASTOR YOUTH/WORSHIP: Oak Grove Church of Cushing, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor of Youth & Worship. To discover more info & to submit a resume, please visit: og.church/careers. For any other questions contact the church office at: (918) 352-3174.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: New Hope Baptist Church, 1501 N. 43rd St. E., Muskogee, OK 74403 is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minister to lead & disciple youth 6th - 12th grades. Send resumes to above address or email to: NHBC2022YouthMinister@gmail.com.

>> BI/VO WORSHIP PASTOR: Portland Avenue Baptist Church in Oklahoma City is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Worship Pastor to help coordinate our worship ministry. Interested applicants can apply at: https:// www.portlandavenue.org/worship-ministry.html.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Beautiful historic church in Hastings, OK is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please submit resume to: Hastings Baptist Church P.O. Box 205, Hastings, OK 73548.

>>F/T PASTOR: Immanuel Baptist Church in Skiatook, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor to follow our retiring pastor of 33 yrs. Applicants should mail resume with references to: IBC, 625 S. Broadway St, Skiatook, OK 74070 or email to: immanuelskiatook@yahoo.com.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Duke FBC is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minister who is passionate about God & serving youth. Please send resume or inquiries to: fbcduke@swoi.net.

>>P/T WORSHIP LEADER: Lead blended worship service. Adaptable skill set & leadership ability to enable worship ministry growth. Job description at: www.twelvecornersbaptistchurch.org.

Send resume & interest letter to: talodes@ou.edu.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Great potential & opportunity if up to the challenge. A loving church with vision & desire to reach youth & families. Send resume: fsbcarcadia@yahoo.com or First Southern Baptist Church, P.O. Box 237, Arcadia, OK 73007.

>>BI/VO YOUTH MINISTER: Paradise Valley Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a BI/ VO Youth Minister. Parsonage is provided.

Please send resumes to: Paradise Valley Baptist Church, 4974 NW Meers Porter Hill Rd., Lawton, OK 73507 or email to: PVBCLawton@gmail.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: Big Creek Baptist in Heavener, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested applicants should mail a cover letter & resume to: 13186 Black Fork Rd., Heavener, OK 74937 or bigcreekbaptistok@ gmail.com. Contact (918) 658-5384 leave a message.

>>BI/VO SENIOR PASTOR: FBC Ft. Towson is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Senior Pastor. Parsonage available. Please submit resume & cover letter to: office@friscobaptist.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: Blackgum, FBC Vian, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates should email a cover letter & resume to: BlackgumBaptistresume@gmail.com.

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC Beaver, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Parsonage is provided. Please send resume to: FBC Attn: Pastoral Search Committee, P.O. Box 6, Beaver, OK 73932 or email to: fbcbeavr@gmail.com.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Calvin FBC in Calvin, OK is seeking a minister called to work with youth. Must have a calling to work with youth in a small community. Housing provided send resumes to: calvinbaptist1st@yahoo.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: FBC Sayre, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates should mail or email a cover letter & resume to: FBC, ATTN: Pastor Search Committee, 504 N. 4th St., Sayre, OK 73662 or pastor@fbcsayre.org.

>>F/T YOUTH PASTOR: Martha Road Baptist Church, Altus OK, is prayerfully seeking its next F/T Youth Pastor. Please send resumes to: kevin@martharoad.org.

>>F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: Associate Pastor of Worship & Discipleship. Highland Park Baptist Church, Bartlesville OK. F/T Staff Position. For full job description & to apply: http://highlandparkbaptist.net/connect/associate-pastor-application.

>>P/T MUSIC MINISTER: New Hope Baptist Church, 1501 N. 43rd St. E., Muskogee, OK 74403. Prayerfully seeking P/T Music Minister. Send resume to above addressoremailto:NHBC2022MusicMinister@gmail.com.

>>SUMMER INTERN POSITION: Student Ministry. Berryhill Baptist Church, Tulsa is looking for a young man who feels called to Student Ministry. If interested, call: (918) 445-0923 for interview or send a resume to: BBC, 6035 W. 40th, Tulsa, OK 74107.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Hopewell Baptist Church, a small rural church in the Bethel Acres/Shawnee, OK area is seeking God’s man to serve as our new Pastor. Send resume to the church at: 33500 Hardesty Road, Shawnee, OK 74801 or email to: bill.berglan@yahoo.com.

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>>BI/VO PASTOR: Canaan Baptist Church Minco, OK is a small rural church prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please submit all resumes to: Canaan Baptist Church, 17092 CS 2730, Minco, OK or email to: Eisenmangd@gmail.com.

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13 “Art not thou ___ God”

27 Fashionable 52(2Azubah was Jehoshaphat’s Chron. 20:7) 1 “Child shall play on the hole of the ___” 29 people ___ with iniquity” ___ (2mine Chron. 20:31) 14mother’s Jesus is preparing (Isa.“A11:8) (Isa.(prefi 1:4)x) 5416What dog those returns (Prov.

Peopleacurse whoto___ (Prov. 11:26) 4 Before 30 forth. .andout fetch ___ Womens’colloquially docs 7 “I “Go took the little. book of the angel’s hand, 1726:11), 5518Fun branches” (Neh. 8:15) “Moreover the brasen ___” and ___ it up” (Rev. 10:10) 31 __graph 56(2Rant Chron. 1:5) 10 Queen of __machine visited Solomon 32 Rational 5719“There was noprophet more war unto Old Testament (2 Chron.

9:1) 33 “If ye. . .go and serve ___ gods” the five and thirtieth ___” (2 Chron. 7:19) (2 Chron. 15:19) 34 Wrapped around Jonah’s head 58 Hold (Jonah 2:5) 59 “They ___ the house of the 36 Pastrami on ___ Lord” (2 Chron. 24:18) 39 Food energy (abbr.)

60 Jesus’ boat was ___ as he slept 44 Thin band 61 Language

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Del View Baptist Church, Del City, OK is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please send resume including bio summary & video sermon link to: rlangan.dvbc@gmail.com ATTN: Pastoral Search Committee. You could be who we’ve been praying for! >>F/T YOUTH/STUDENT PASTOR: Spiro FBC in Spiro, OK is seeking a F/T Youth/Student Pastor. Competitive salary package with 3 bed 2 bath home. Send resume to: jamestsmith@live.com. >>SUMMER CHILDREN’S MINISTER: Meadowood Baptist Church in Midwest City, OK is searching for someone to lead our Children’s Ministry for the summer. This is a F/T temporary position. Please call (405) 737-7684 or email: jay@meadowoodbaptist.org. >>F/T or BI/VO PASTOR: Mary Niblack Road Baptist Church, Ardmore, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T or BI/VO Pastor. Please send resume to: maryniblackroad@gmail.com. >>BI/VO PASTOR: Denton Baptist Marlow is prayerfully searching for a BI/VO Pastor. Please send resumes to: saltechllcorp@gmail.com or mail to: 272910 W. Ballpark Rd., Marlow, OK 73055. >>F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Jay FBC is seeking a F/T Youth Minister who has a call & passion for ministering to youth. Please email to: fbcjay@yahoo.com or mail to: P.O. Box 304, Jay, OK 74346. >>BI/VO PASTOR: Liberty Hill Baptist Church in Cameron, OK is prayerfully seeking God’s candidate for a BI/VO Pastor. Housing is available. Please submit resumes to Danny Rogers by email at: RogersDanny1959@gmail.com. >>F/T PASTOR: FBC Rosedale is prayerfully seeking God’s Man. Please send resume to: 37740 Arkansas Ave., Rosedale, OK 74831 or email: tracy100@windstream.net. >>F/T PASTOR: Davidson FBC is prayerfully searching for a F/T Pastor. Resumes may be sent to: P.O. Box 187, Davidson, OK 73530. >>F/T or P/T YOUTH PASTOR: FSBC Guthrie is prayerfully searching for our next Youth Pastor. Position is F/T or P/T for the right candidate. Resumes can be mailed to: 202 E. Noble Ave., Guthrie, OK 73044 or emailed to: fsbc.youthpastorsearch@gmail.com. >>BI/VO PASTOR: FBC of St. Louis, OK seeking BI/ VO Pastor. To receive a candidate packet, please send your request to: First Baptist Church Attn: Search Committee P.O. Box 147, St. Louis, OK 74866. >>F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: FBC Frederick is prayerfully searching for a F/T Associate Pastor of Worship & Family Discipleship.

Please send resumes to: fbcfrederick@pldi.net. >>PASTOR: Pastor for the Lakeview Baptist Church Salina, OK responsible for leading church body, providing spiritual instruction & strategic leadership

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A N N UA L O >> BI/VO PASTOR: FBC of Rattan is prayerfully Fsend NconsidG IPlease E T IisNavailable. ering a BI/VO Pastor.

M EParsonage to the members, staff & ministries of the church.

Send resume to: P.O. BOX 102, Pryor, OK 74362.

resume with a cover letter to: office@friscobaptist.com.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Springdale Baptist Church in Oklahoma City is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minister who is passionate about God & serving youth.

Please send resume or inquiries to: drsburke@att.net. >>F/T DOM: Craig Mayes Baptist Association in Pryor, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a F/T Director of Missions for an Association of 36 churches.

Please send resumes to: christine@craigmayes. org or mail to: P.O. Box 184, Pryor, OK 74362. >>F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: FBC Chickasha is searching for a Worship Pastor with a heart to lead intergenerational corporate worship & oversee the church’s missions partnerships. For a detailed description of the position visit fbcchickasha.org. >>F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: The FBC of Chickasha is searching for proven leader to serve as Associate Pastor. For a detailed description of the position visit fbcchickasha.org. >>P/T CHILDREN’S MINISTER: Blanchard FBC is seeking a P/T Children’s Minister. We are a growing church in a thriving community. If interested in the position, please send resumes to: travis@ fbcblanchard.org or Blanchard FBC, P.O. Box 370, Blanchard, OK 73010. www.blanchardfirst.com. >>P/T CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DIRECTOR: FBC of Anadarko is seeking an individual who loves the Lord & loves children to provide leadership & oversight to all children’s ministries. Submit resumes to: fbcanadarko@sbcglobal.net. >>F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: FBC Westcliffe, CO is seeking a F/T Associate Pastor. Responsibilities will include assisting the senior pastor with the ministerial & spiritual needs of the church. Submit resumes to: assoc.pastor@firstbaptistwestcliffe.com. >>P/T STUDENT MINISTER: Grace Life Baptist (SBTC) in Cypress, TX (NW Houston) is seeking a P/T Student Minister. Grace Life is a multi-ethnic church (46% Anglo, 36% Hispanic, 13% African-American, 5% Asian).

Average Attendance: 225 - 20 hrs/weekly ($20/hr). >>F/T PASTOR: FBC Davis, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates should mail a cover letter & resume to: First Baptist Church, Attn: Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 297, Davis, OK 73030. >>P/T CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DIRECTOR: Temple Baptist Church in Shawnee, OK is currently looking for a P/T Children’s Ministry Director. See a full job description & information on how to apply on our website: tbcshawnee.com. >>P/T SECRETARY: P/T Secretary position at Fletcher FBC. 9 - 4 M - TH. Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, basic computer skills, good customer service & phone etiquette is must. Mail resume to: P.O. BOX 359, Fletcher, OK 73541 or email: office@fletcherfbc.com.

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21 Muddy 23 Cup 24 Family returning to Jerusalem (Neh. 7:47) 25 Number of commandments 28 “Then ___ spake unto all Israel” (2 Chron.

1:2) 32 “Had much cattle, both in the ___ country” (2 Chron. 26:10) 35 “Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his ___” (2 Chron. 32:26) 37 Boxer Muhammad 38 Angle less than 90 degrees 40 Pretentious 41 “Isaac was old, and his eyes were ___” (Gen. 27:1) 42 Suffer 43 Gunpowder need 45 Seth’s mother 46 Traveled over regularly 47 “The ___ of the house of David” (Isa. 22:22) 48 Fiery 51 Luke was one of these (abbr.) (pl.)

52 Athletic association 53 Beak 55 Tending to snatch hastily 58 W. Cameroon seaport 61 “Remember the __” 62 Samaria to Shechem dir.

64 “Thou shalt plant vineyards, and ___ them” (Deut. 28:39) 66 “Solomon kept the feast ___ days” (2 Chron. 7:8) 67 Mammal created on sixth day 68 “Hezekiah commanded to ___ the burnt offering” (2 Chron. 29:27)

36 Pastrami on ___ 39 Food energy (abbr.)

44 Thin band 46 Counterfeit 49 Talk DOWN 50 Card game 1 “He planteth an ___” (Isa. 44:14) 52 Azubah was Jehoshaphat’s mother’s ___ (2 2 “So he drew off his ___” (Ruth 4:8) Chron. 20:31) 3 Ring 54 What a dog returns to (Prov. 26:11), 4 Winnie the __ colloquially 5 Abrade 55 Fun 6 Formerly (arch.)

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14 Boat dock 24:18) 15 Actress Jessica 60 Jesus’ boat was ___ as he slept 20 “Hast thou not heard long ___” (2 Kings 61 Language 19:25) 63 Resort hotel 22 Military aid group 1 Chronicles 65 __ Lanka Sarahand Lagerquist 25 “Sacrificed thereon peace offerings ___ Simmons offerings”F O R E A L PO D EGA S CR Y WR A P CR AB (2 Chron.E33:16) C AR L O AM I NO HU E V E N WH I R R H I V E T WE E T V I N YL A L A T Ethought NT R A Cwas K ___ O A PED 26 Disciples Jesus (Matt.

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>> by Tom Strode BAPTIST PRESS WASHINGTON BUREAU CHIEF

WASHINGTON (BP)—Pro-life advocates reacted hopefully to the report of a leaked draft opinion within the U.S. Supreme Court that would overturn its 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.

In a stunning development Monday evening, May 2, Politico—a politics- and policy-focused news organization—published a copy of a draft of an opinion by Associate Justice Samuel Alito that would strike down the Roe ruling if it becomes final. A source familiar with the court’s work said four other associate justices—Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett—sided with Alito in a conference vote after oral arguments in December, Politico reported in an article that include a link to the draft. They remain united on the opinion as of its report, Politico said.

The opinion leaked apparently from within a court that is highly secretive about its proceedings regarding a Mississippi ban on abortion after 15 weeks’ gestation. The state, as well as the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) and other pro-life organizations, had urged the high court not only to uphold the 15-week prohibition contested in the case—Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization but to overturn Roe and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey opinion that affirmed that decision.

Roe was an “abuse of judicial authority,” Alito wrote in the leaked draft, which included a note that it was circulated Feb. 10 to the other justices.

“Roe was egregiously wrong from the start. Its reasoning was exceptionally weak, and the decision has had damaging consequences. And far from bringing about a national settlement of the abortion issue, Roe and Casey have enflamed debate and deepened division.”

If the high court overturns Roe and Casey in its final opinion, the ruling would return abortion policy to the states.

In a news release Tuesday morning, May 3, the Supreme Court confirmed the draft opinion is “authentic,” but “it does not represent a decision by the Court or the final position of any member on the issues in the case.”

In the release, Chief Justice John Roberts described the leak as a “serious and egregious breach” of the trust of the high court. He has ordered the marshal of the Supreme Court to begin an investigation into the source of the leak, Roberts said.

Justices may change their votes before a final opinion is published. Such a reversal reportedly occurred after an initial draft reversing Roe was circulated among the justices in the Planned Parenthood case.

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Five justices voted in conference after oral arguments in Planned Parenthood to strike down Roe, and Chief Justice William Rehnquist sent the court’s members a draft opinion in late May 1992 that would have done so, the late Associate Justice John Paul Stevens said in a 2019 memoir, according to The Washington Post. Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy reversed course, however, and joined in a late June ruling that upheld Roe while permitting some state restrictions.

Southern Baptist and other pro-life supporters expressed prayerful hope the justices in the majority will stand firm in their decision to overturn Roe. They also encouraged followers of Jesus to prepare to aid vulnerable women if the opinion holds.

Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer Todd Fisher said, “The possibility that Roe may soon be overturned is a momentous point in American history. Oklahoma Baptists, because of our biblical convictions for life, have long worked to save unborn children and to see an end to the tragic practice of legalized abortion, even as we seek to minister to those facing an unintended pregnancy. We uphold the value of life at every stage, and we are hopeful and prayerful the end of Roe signals the end of abortion in our state and across our nation. We are prepared to continue to minister and serve women, men and their children, meeting needs in the name of Jesus.”

Brent Leatherwood, the ERLC’s acting president, described it as “a breathtaking development in every sense of the phrase.”

“Assuming it truly remains a majority opinion — which could still change—it means we are one step closer to ending the Roe-Casey abortion framework that has taken more than 60 million innocent lives, fractured families, marginalized mothers and harmed this nation for nearly 50 years,” he said in written remarks for BP. If this majority holds, witnessing a day where that regime is ended cannot come soon enough.

“By overturning the Roe-Casey precedents and eliminating the number one factor inhibiting prolife laws from taking effect, our nation can begin to establish a true culture of life by giving states the freedom to pursue policies that protect preborn children. Christians should be in earnest prayer for such a moment to be reality.”

Leatherwood urged the Supreme Court “to move with all deliberate speed to finalize and publish

May 12, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Culture

this decision as soon as possible. (I)t would show, despite their differences, these justices will not be bullied by those seeking to operate outside of its established processes. So I will be praying for each justice and their safety, for this majority to hold firm for life and for them collectively to have the fortitude to withstand the torrent of criticism that is likely coming their way.”

Ed Litton, president of the Southern Baptist Convention, said in a written statement provided to BP, “Christians have sought the end of Roe for nearly 50 years. We must pray now for the resolve of the Court to cement its reversal.

In the leaked draft, Alito said Roe and Casey “must be overruled. The Constitution makes no reference to abortion, and no such right is implicitly protected by any constitutional provision, including the one on which the defenders of Roe and Casey now chiefly rely,” the 14th Amendment’s Due Process Clause.

“On many other occasions, this Court has overruled important constitutional decisions,” he wrote.

“Without these decisions, American constitutional law as we know it would be unrecognizable, and this would be a different country.”

As an example, Alito cited the 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson decision that upheld racial segregation through what became known as the “separate but equal” doctrine. The high court basically and finally overturned the ruling in 1954.

“Roe was on a collision course with the Constitution from the day it was decided, and Casey perpetuated its errors, and the errors do not concern some arcane corner of the law of little importance to the American people,” Alito wrote. “Rather, wielding nothing but ‘raw judicial power’”—quoting from Associate Justice Byron White’s dissent to Roe—“the Court usurped the power to address a question of profound moral and social importance that the Constitution unequivocally leaves for the people.”