The Gathering CBFNC Magazine – Winter 2021

Winter 2021 Vol. 26/Issue 4

Celebrate!

cbfnc.org

The Gathering is a seasonal publication of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina, 2640 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, NC, 27106.

3 Reflections: Don’t Forget to Celebrate 4 Celebrating Eddie Hammet

Larry Hovis

Executive Coordinator

Jamie Rorrer

The Gathering, Editor

Amy Cook

5 The 150-Year Heritage of First Baptist–Boone

The Gathering, Graphic Designer Communications Specialist

7 Welcome Ride 2021 Recap

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6 Helping Pastors Thrive Announces New Pastors-in-Residence

Director of Communications

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jrorrer@cbfnc.org

KNOW

ABOUT CBFNC!

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336.759.3456

8 A Tribute to Women Deacons 12 CBFNC Annual Gathering 2022 14 Thanks to You...

Lolley Scholarship Nominations Now Open!

DO YOU KNOW

Nominations are now open for CBFNC’s Lolley Fund Scholarship, our most prestigious theological education scholarship that requires potential recipients to be nominated by someone who can speak to their outstanding promise for Christian ministry and excellent potential for graduate-level work.

a student beginning to pursue a Master of Divinity?

NOMINATION DEADLINE

is February 25, 2022 (for fall term 2022)

Students must be entering an M. Div. program in NC or out of state. Those enrolled in NC partner schools will receive a matching award. Each Lolley Scholarship is valued at $5,000 per year and is renewable for up to three years in a Master of Divinity program.

Find more info and the nomination form at cbfnc.org/engage/theological-education-scholarships.

2 | The Gathering

Reflections:

By Larry Hovis CBFNC Executive Coordinator

Don’t Forget to Celebrate

I

am, by nature, a planner. I believe in thorough planning in my personal life as well as in my leadership in churches and CBFNC. Typical organizational planning cycles involve the following stages:

My unspoken mantra is “plan the work and work the plan.” Far too often, after Executing, and maybe only minimal Evaluating, I cycle back around to Assessing, skipping Celebrating altogether. And in doing so, I rob myself and those I lead of a critical practice that is every bit as important as the other stages.

I’ve noticed that many churches and ministries share • Assessing – What is the current reality? What needs to my shortcoming.

Far too often they skip over celebration be improved or stopped? What needs to be changed or and move on to the next task. The primary exceptions are added? staff departures (retirements or resignations), major mile• Visioning – What would a more desirable future look like? stones, such as “big” anniversaries (every 25 or 50 years), or constructing new buildings.

• Goal-setting – What should be the areas of focus during the next phase of our life and work? What particular And we certainly should celebrate these things. This actions do we need to take? What steps will enable us issue of The Gathering, for example, contains some of to make changes or improvements? What people or those kinds of celebrations. resources are needed?

But what about the more routine accomplishments?

How could we better name and celebrate ongoing, but • Executing – How will we structure our time and effort to every bit as important, successes? What happens on a accomplish the goals we set? weekly, monthly, quarterly or annual basis that is worthy • Evaluating – Did we accomplish our goals? Did they of celebration? Might more produce the desired change? regular celebration fuel Did our efforts create the future ministry and nurture And what might we celebrate more desirable future we our life together? envisioned? that may not be the result of And what might we • Celebrating – How are we celebrate that may not be goal-setting or task-completion, celebrating our accomplishthe result of goal-setting ments and successes, both or task-completion, but an but an expression of our deepest intended and unintended? expression of our deepest values and shared culture? values and shared culture?

For example, in this issue Even when God created the of The Gathering we celeworld, He included the practices brate the ministry of women deacons. Many, though not of Evaluating and Celebrating. Six times during the act of creall, CBFNC partner churches have women staff ministers. ation in the first chapter of Genesis, God evaluated the work A small but growing number have women pastors. But of creation, declaring it “good” (vv. 10, 12, 18, 21, 24, 31). At the vast majority have women deacons. The presence of the end of the process, God celebrated this good work: women deacons is a distinguishing characteristic of our partner churches. Yet we rarely celebrate this important Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all aspect of our life together. their multitude. And on the seventh day God finished the And maybe, just maybe, during these days of grim work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day statistics for the American church (declining attendance, from all the work that he had done. So God blessed the aging membership, etc.), we should celebrate what is seventh day and hallowed it, because on it God rested going well and try to see the glass as half full rather than from all the work that he had done in creation (Gen. half empty. Our response to the COVID-19 pandemic is a 2:1-3). good example. What might we celebrate about this particular season? Possibilities include: To be honest, I’m pretty good at the first four stages but pretty terrible at the last two, especially Celebrating.

See “Don’t Forget to Celebrate” on page 4.

Winter 2021 | 3

Reflections: Don’t Forget to Celebrate, continued from page 3.

• Faithful giving – When the pandemic first hit, we assumed that giving would be reduced by half or more.

In most churches, giving has been much stronger than our worst fears. And many folks have learned to give to their church even when they can’t attend their church.

• Missional engagement – Existing community ministries have continued, or new ones launched, outside traditional schedules and structures. The expansion of Welcome House is a good example.

• New skills – Most churches had no online worship prior to the pandemic but most have continued online worship even after resuming in-person worship.

Planning is vital to us as individuals, churches and ministries. As you “plan your work and work your plan,” be sure to complete every stage of the cycle. Don’t forget to celebrate.

• New ways of connecting – Like worship, most churches have learned to connect with members and others whether they come to the building or not. Meetings and classes are being conducted more efficiently and effectively than before, in many cases, through virtual platforms.

E

Eddie Hammet

ddie Hammett, CBFNC’s church and clergy coach since 2009, retired from his role this summer. During Eddie’s tenure with CBFNC, he established a coach training program, offered workshops and webinars on the changing church, led numerous deacon training events and coached many churches and individuals. Eddie often shared that he felt his calling was to “equip the saints for the work of ministry” both inside the walls of the church and beyond. He faithfully lived out his calling through writing, speaking, consulting and coaching as Professional Certified Coach (PCC).

“Eddie’s contribution to CBFNC, its churches and leaders has been phenomenal. He will leave a lasting legacy by imprinting on our fellowship the ‘coach approach.’ I will be forever grateful not only for his ministries to churches and their leaders, but also for the way he served as a thought partner to me personally,” stated Larry Hovis, CBFNC executive coordinator.

Eddie’s final official contribution to CBFNC was in the form of three final webinars – two for deacons and one where he offered reflections on his tenure at CBFNC and his thoughts on the future of the church.

Greg Rogers, pastor of Oakmont, Greenville and CBFNC moderator in 2009 when Eddie was called to this role, offered his praise of Eddie’s ministry. “CBFNC was most fortunate to have Eddie Hammett join the staff of our Fellowship 12 years ago as church and clergy coach while I served as moderator. Eddie pioneered and implemented a coach approach strategy that invited clergy and churches 4 | The Gathering

to create a kingdom mindset for ministry. He is always on the cutting edge of helping local congregations make those critical shifts to achieve maximum impact in their communities. A prolific author, his books have touched and guided lay

By Jamie Rorrer and clergy leaders within and beyond the CBFNC Director of Baptist family. As a senior pastor, I was Communications trained as a coach by Eddie while also having him coach our congregation and me personally on several occasions. We all are grateful for his faithful ministry that has blessed a generation of Christ-followers across our state and nation.”

“I am grateful to have served as a contract partner with CBFNC over the last decade. Learning from and with you in a variety of deacon, coaching and leadership development settings was my joy,” said Eddie. “I continue to coach and write during my next years as I nurture my aging body, care for my aging parents and grow in faith and impact as church in our rapidly-changing culture and world. I’m convinced God is doing a ‘new thing’ with us these days. I’m hopeful that pioneering leaders and churches will embrace the ‘new’ that God is about and loosen our grip on what is most comfortable and familiar with us now.”

The 150-Year Heritage of First Baptist-Boone

F

irst Baptist Church of Boone recently enjoyed our people bring hope to the community. For By Roy Dobyns, Jr. Senior Pastor 150th Anniversary Celebration: A Heritage and Vision example, from the corner in 2015, church First Baptist–Boone of Sharing God’s Love from 1871-2021. The celebra- bells rang and members of the congregation included a Service of Worship on Sunday, September tion gathered on the steps, mourning the needless loss of 12, 2021, For the Lord is good: his steadfast love endures for- human lives at the Mother Emmanuel Church in Charleston, ever, and his faithfulness to all generations. Psalm 100:5. SC. In 2018 the community gathered on the steps to mourn The gathering for worship included remarks from mission the loss of human lives at a Jewish synagogue in Pittsburg, partners Larry Hovis of CBFNC and Tom Beam of the NC PA. And 2021 the church gathered on the steps to mourn Baptists on Mission. Special, sacred music was shared by the loss of two local law enforcement officers as they were the chancel choir and organ, as well as prayers and read- carried home to their ings from former ministers, and a sermon by Reverend final resting place.

Gerald Hodges of Roxboro. An exhibit hall of historical artifacts was on display in the church Library/Media Center. The Celebration continued with a birthday party in the parking lot the following Wednesday.

First Baptist-Boone sits at the corner of King and College Streets in downtown Boone, adjacent to Appalachian State University. Reverend Roy A. Dobyns Jr. has served as the senior pastor since September 2009. The ministerial staff is also comprised of Billy Ralph Winkler, minister of Tommy Justus, pastor of Mars Hill Music, and Tierney Boss, College Ministry assoBaptist and former youth pastor at ciate. Tierney also serves as the North Carolina First Baptist Boone with Larry Hovis, Cooperative Baptist Student Fellowship App State CBFNC executive coordinator. campus minister (CBSF). The support staff includes The corner location is a constant reminder to the conFaye Ayers, organist; Carol Lea Liles, administrative office gregation of our purpose of feeding, forgiving and healing assistant; and Michael Turner, building and grounds.

One Hundred and Fifty years ago, a newly formed by serving the local community through missions such as First Baptist Church had a charter membership of just 17. the Christmas Day Lunch, a weekly food pantry, college day The Watauga County courthouse provided the first place free lunch and a local school supply storage.

Music ministry and traditional worship have always of worship. The first church building was a white, wood framed structure erected on Rivers Street in 1875. A new been important to FBC Boone. The music ministry is made building was constructed on the corner of King and College up of the chancel choir, organist, choral scholars, handbell Streets in 1916, which is where the church is located today. choirs and choirs for all ages. Cantatas and productions The spirit of a loving and mission hearted church is during Advent and Lent are looked forward to every year.

FBC Boone has long recognized women in ministry exemplified by the vision statement…“to share God’s love on this corner, from this corner, to every corner.” The beau- and leadership. By the latter decades of the 20th Century, tiful steeple and church bells placed on a corner by a faithful women were elected as deacons. More recently, in 2012, First Baptist began participation in Baptist Women in Ministry Sundays in support of women called by God to preach.

Please pray for the First Baptist Church of Boone. Join me in thanking God for our remarkable heritage and continued vision to share God’s love “on this corner, from this corner, to every corner.”

Portions of this article were taken from the history submitted by the 150th Anniversary History Sub-Team.

Winter 2021 | 5

Announces

Helping Pastors Thrive New Pastors-in-Residence

CBFNC’s Helping Pastors Thrive program has announced that two North Carolina pastors have been selected to spend a month in residence at Duke Divinity School and the GardnerWebb School of Divinity as Pastors-in-Residence. The Pastor-in-Residence program is administered as a joint partnership between CBFNC and the four theological schools in North Carolina (Campbell, Duke, Gardner-Webb and Wake Forest).

By Scott Hudgins Director of Helping Pastors Thrive

The Rev. Ray Ammons, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Clinton, spent the month of October in residence at the Duke Divinity School. Ray is a native of Red Springs, NC and he and his wife, Cathy, have two daughters. He received his M.Div. from Southern Seminary in 1994 and his D.Min. from the Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond in 2004. Ray has served as pastor in four churches in Kentucky and North Carolina. His previous pastorate was First Baptist-Gastonia. He also served as the moderator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina in 2014-2015.

“The Helping Pastors Thrive program provided for me the enrichment I was seeking and the respite I needed during my recent sabbatical. I am grateful to CBF of North Carolina for the implementation of this program and I encourage my ministry companions across our fellowship to engage this efficient, resourceful and renewing opportunity.” –Ray Ammons The Rev. Dr. Jerome Washington, pastor of the Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Durham, will be in residence at Gardner-Webb during the winter term that begins in late January.

Jerome holds both a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music and a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Xavier University of Louisiana. He has done theological studies at the Union Baptist Seminary and the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. In 1995, Jerome was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy in Religion and Counseling from Southwestern University. He has done postdoctoral studies at Christ Church College of the University of Oxford and Harvard Divinity School and is an alumnus of that Divinity School’s Summer Leadership Institute. He is the recipient of an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from the Tennessee School of Religion. He is an inductee into the Martin Luther King, Jr. College of Ministers and Laity at Morehouse College.

Prior to becoming a minister, Jerome performed as a classical singer throughout the United States and Europe. He is a former public school teacher, counselor and adjunct professor at Delgado Community College in New Orleans. He serves as a board member of the North Carolina Council of Churches, the Durham Anti-Gang Commission and United Christian Campus Ministries of North Carolina Central University.

The Pastor-in-Residence program is designed as a mini-sabbatical/study leave and renewal program. All expenses related to the residency are covered by CBFNC’s Helping Pastors Thrive program, including housing, transportation, meal allowance and financial support for the congregation during the pastor’s absence. CBFNC also provides pulpit supply to the congregation if needed.

In partnership with CBFNC’s four partner theological schools, the program provides for engagement with the theology faculty, access to courses and use of the libraries and participation in the larger learning community. Each pastor determines their own goals and outcomes for the program and works with a faculty advisor during the residency. Pastors have also been invited to address students and serve as mentors and resources for future pastors who are enrolled in degree programs.

A Thriving in Ministry grant provided by the Lilly Endowment funds the Helping Pastors Thrive program and can support up to four Pastors-in-Residence each year. More information and applications for future Pastor-inResidence opportunities are located at helpingpastorsthrive.org.

6 | The Gathering

WELCOME RIDE 2021

WAS A BIG SUCCESS! In case you missed it, Welcome Ride 2021 took place October 14–17, traveling from the state capital to the NC coast to raise awareness and funds for CBFNC’s Welcome House Community Network (WHCN). This was the second year of Welcome Ride and it was an overwhelming success that raised more than $55,000!

The growing network is made up of 25 houses/ministries in NC and Tennessee managed by churches and mostly volunteers in those communities to provide short-term housing for those in need. The proceeds from Welcome Ride will fund grants to churches to start new Welcome House ministries.

By Jamie Rorrer CBFNC Director of Communications

Larry Hovis, CBFNC’s executive coordinator, rode a total of 160 miles and stopped in several communities along the way of churches who support Welcome Houses and this type of missions work. Thank you to churches and partners who hosted Welcome Ride: Zebulon Baptist–Zebulon; First Baptist-Wilson; Welcome House Conetoe; Oakmont Baptist-Greenville; Synder Memorial-Fayetteville; First-Lumberton; First-Whiteville; First-Wilmington; and Winter Park-Wilmington.

Special thanks to the riders who joined Team Hovis over the course of Welcome Ride: Chris Mitchell (Zebulon Baptist-Zebulon); Bill Meetze (Oakmont Baptist-Greenville); Rev. Richard Joyner (Conetoe Family Life Center); Steve Terry (Snyder Memorial–Fayetteville; Mike Copenhaver (Snyder Memorial Baptist-Fayetteville); and Tony De La Vega (Snyder Memorial-Fayetteville).

Thank you to all who made Welcome Ride 2021 a huge success. Your gifts will allow us to share the welcome of Jesus with many folks who really need it.

Photos by CBFNC and Jim Tabor.

Winter 2021 | 7

A Tribute T

to Women Deacons

HE AFFIRMATION OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH AND HOME HAS BEEN AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE CBF STORY FROM THE BEGINNING. This past summer we surveyed our fellowship. We asked about women being included in diaconate bodies, when our congregations first ordained women deacons and how many women deacon chairs have served our congregations across the state.

We discovered, probably not surprisingly, that our congregations have a rich history, almost 100 years, of leadership from women deacons.

By Mary Kaylor Rev. Thomas Allen of Angier Baptist Church shared, “Since 1926, the leadership of our women dea- CBFNC Associate Coordinator cons has been essential to carrying out the ministry of our church. Their loyalty, faithfulness and hard work constantly helps us reach beyond the walls to minister to our community.” We celebrate this history, the service and ministry of the seven women who shared their deacon experiences with us as well as all the women who have served their congregations as a deacon!

Additionally, this feature on women deacons celebrates one of CBFNC’s core principles: autonomy of the local church.

We affirm that Baptist churches are free, under the Lordship of Christ and guidance of the Holy Spirit, to determine their membership and leadership; to order their worship and work; to ordain whomever they perceive as gifted for ministry; and to participate, as they deem appropriate, in the larger Body of Christ.

NANCY BERRY

Lakeside Baptist Church-Rocky Mount Lakeside has been home church since 1975. I have been elected to serve as a deacon three times beginning in 2000.

Our deacons serve for three-year terms and may not be reelected again for two years. In my last term, 2017-2019, I was asked to serve as Vice Chair in 2018 and then serve as Chair of the Diaconate in my third year of 2019.

Women have always been involved in our ministry and mission programs at Lakeside. The first woman elected to the Diaconate was in 1974 and many have served as Chair.

Being nominated and then elected to serve as a deacon was an extremely humbling experience for me. Knowing that the congregation had placed their trust and support in me strengthened my faith in seeking the right answers and asking the right questions as how to most effectively serve our church.

Two significant decisions were made in 2019 at Lakeside Baptist. The first came as a request for a wedding to be held in our Columbarium for two young women, one of whom had grown up in our church and maintained strong ties with us. This was a first for Lakeside and sparked much discussion. Ultimately, our Diaconate voted unanimously “yes.”

The second decision we made was to participate in the Growing Young cohort offered through CBFNC with Fuller Youth Institute. The purpose was to assess where our church was heading and what we are willing to do to help Lakeside grow. That process asked thought provoking questions that challenged my faith and my willingness to participate.

Our ministry and missions at Lakeside Baptist encourage all women to participate and be involved in all aspects of our church life. My faith has been strengthened in discovering many people with gifts and talents that some were unaware that they even had.

8 | The Gathering

BILLIE G. HUTCHISON

Sardis Baptist Church-Charlotte I first served as a deacon years ago at Wedgewood Baptist and that is where I was ordained. I am currently serving my first three-year term at Sardis. Both churches have a long history of ordaining female deacons that started before me.

I grew up in churches where men usually held the role of deacons and the deacon board “ran” the church (financial, administrative, etc.). I am proud to have served as deacon at two churches where deacons “served” the church/community and were not just the decision-makers. History shows that men have usually been the decision-makers and women the “servers,” and I am proud to have been taught by WMU how to lead and serve with a servant heart.

Being a member at Sardis has strengthened my faith and encouraged a better view of humanity for me. Having been a staff member of a church and an association in the 90s, I was discouraged with church before coming to Sardis.

KAYLA BETTINGER HOWELL

Zebulon Baptist Church-Zebulon I first served as a Congregational Care Deacon from October 2017 to September 2020. I was co-chair from October 2019-September 2020 and then chair from October 2020-September 2021. My husband and I were both asked to serve as deacons and we felt honored to be asked because we were relatively new to the church. Not only did we grow in our faith, but we were able to grow within our church community and the fellowship we gained was priceless.

Like other churches, COVID-19 was a big challenge to navigate, especially moving our Diaconate meetings online. Making sure everyone knew how to log-on, unmute, adjust the cameras and deal with typical Zoom issues was a challenge in the beginning but we all overcame it. When things got a little better we tried a hybrid meeting approach. I am thankful that near the end of my term we were able to meet face-to-face while following safety measures.

In addition to COVID-19, my husband and I had our first child while were serving as deacons. Our daughter was born in December 2017, after I went into labor while Christmas caroling to our elderly shut-ins with our fellow deacons.

After having a baby, evening meetings became more difficult. We would usually take turns going to the meetings.

Eventually, some family friends would watch her so we both could attend the meetings.

During my time as co-chair, our son was born. It was now a challenge to have two small children at home, work full time, attend meetings and do my duties as co-chair and eventually chair. It was hard sometimes to balance all the different aspects of life but I am thankful for a wonderful husband, friends and church family who supported me along the way even on the days when I was sleep deprived and showed up with a messy bun!

I grew closer to God serving as a deacon. I wasn’t super involved with church as a young person but I was still a Christian. Finding a church home in ZBC helped further my faith but having been a part of the deacons truly helped make me feel the love of Gods people in so many different ways and grow closer to Him. It also helped me realize some of the gifts God has blessed me with and how I can use those gifts.

THERESA EARLY CURD

First Baptist Church-West Jefferson I was the first woman elected as a deacon at FBC West Jefferson and was ordained in January 1993. I have served continuously since then except for years I had to rotate off and even served as chair of the Diaconate in 2011.

I learned later, that during that first spring and summer while I was serving as deacon in 1993, our minister Ken Morris received letters encouraging our church to rescind my ordination. At the August 1993 annual meeting of the Ashe Baptist Association, a vote was taken to withdraw fellowship from our church. In other words, we were kicked out of the association! I had no idea this was coming and was devastated. The situation received lots of press. We were featured in an article on the front page of the Winston-Salem Journal and other articles appeared in national press. It was stressful for me but had to be much more stressful for Rev. Morris.

But my church was amazing! I felt nothing but support from the church. I also received letters from other people who had seen the articles and wrote to encourage me. There was even support from some of the other churches in the association to reinstate our church.

In August 1993, shortly after the action of the Association, Dwight McGrady, our most senior deacon died.

His wife, Grace, approached Rev. Morris with the notion that she would like to be ordained and serve the remainder of Dwight’s term if the church was in agreement. Of course the church agreed and Rev. Morris and I were forever grateful for this amazing act of support.

Since that time our church has elected eight other female deacons and several of them have also served as chair. Serving in this role has strengthened my faith and sometimes the responsibility has sent me to my knees!

Winter 2021 | 9

IRMA DUKE

Neill’s Creek Baptist Church-Angier I began my current role as a deacon serving in Neill’s Creek Baptist in September of 2020. All my life I have heard horror stories about pastors and their relationship with deacons, but, in my limited experience, this has not been the case. It has been a Christian growth experience for me as we have truly tried to minister together in Christ’s love. We consider our role as shepherds of our flock vital in making financial, facility and planning decisions.

Our church has had female deacons since the early 1950s. By our church constitution and bylaws, we have six male and six female members of the Diaconate. Each of us is respected for our leadership abilities and spiritual discernment.

During my first term of service, our church has navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, a building program and the first-ever pastoral sabbatical. God has blessed us as we have faithfully sought His leadership and followed the guidance of our pastor.

I have found communication among the pastor, deacons and the church has been a tremendous key in moving forward together.

Years ago, I was recommended as a deacon in another church, shortly after the church voted to change its constitution to omit gender in deacon selection. I would have been the first female deacon, if elected. At my request, I asked the chair to poll the current deacons to ask if the church was ready for female deacons. The response was that they were not. Today, that church has female deacons working alongside the male deacons. I’m thankful for God’s timing.

KATHY WYATT PRICE

First Baptist Church-Weaverville Our church ordained its first woman as deacon in 1985. I was first ordained in 1994 and have served several terms since then with the last ending in June 2021, of which I was chair.

I am grateful to be in a church where women are valued and encouraged to serve where God calls them. The first women deacons in our church served as mentors to me.

They provided the foundation where I was able to grow and flourish as I strived to follow in their giant footsteps.

Deacons who have served before and continue to serve, both women and men, have greatly influenced my life.

My most recent service has been during the COVID-19 pandemic. We learned new ways to “do” church and to serve our church family. We began virtual services, had Zoom meetings with children, youth and Sunday School, contacted our folks regularly through phone, email and postal service, and ministered to our church family by helping with groceries and other needs.

By adapting to new practices, we were able to continue to serve in our ministries to the homeless and to veterans. Using appropriate health and safety procedures, we have had Trunk or Treat for those in our community, as well as a cookout for our church family. We also had a drive-thru Christmas Eve service.

During this time, we were also able to complete several church projects that included replacing our HVAC system, updating our kitchen with a new stove, purchasing a defibrillator, upholstering our church pews and adding new signage on the front of the building.

Serving as a deacon is one way I have been able to live out my faith. It has required me to spend more time in study, prayer and ministry. Learning to use my time and resources responsibly has influenced my life. Serving as a deacon has helped me to understand the responsibility of each one of us to love God and to love one another.

10 | The Gathering

KAY THOMPSON MEYER Greystone Baptist Church-Raleigh

I most recently served a three year term from September 2018 through August 2021 and I was chair of the Diaconate this year.

Greystone Baptist Church has always been a church that has supported and valued women in service in our church. Women have served in leadership roles, ministry and on the Diaconate for many years.

It is an honor and a privilege to serve God and our family of faith in any capacity. Serving as a deacon, however, has special meaning. At Greystone, our deacons serve as spiritual leaders focused on the care of our congregation, engagement with our members and community, and in prayer and discernment for our church and our mission in working in accordance to God’s plan.

Since early 2020, like most churches, our deacons have supported our ministers in guiding our church through the unprecedented times of the COVID19 pandemic. There were many decisions and actions that had to be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of our congregation, both physically and spiritually, while managing the changing circumstances, protocols and needs of the pandemic.

Throughout this time, our deacons focused on maintaining connection with our church families, discussing and supporting decisions about worship and discipleship and adapting our participation in elements of our church services as they changed to virtual and then to socially distanced in-person worship. It was a blessing to have a group of spiritual leaders to consider how best to serve God and our faith family during this challenging and ever-changing time.

Service in many capacities in the church helps you build relationships and deepens your connection and commitment to your church. Serving as a deacon, however, helps focus on how God is working through our faith family. I feel that service as a deacon has allowed me to more clearly see the purpose of our work as Christians, to understand more deeply the relationships we have with each other and with our God, and most importantly, the power of prayer.

Serving the church, especially as a deacon, requires dedication of your time and talents to the work of your church and God. But the resulting impact to your own life and your walk of faith is far more valuable than the time and commitment you make to deacon service.

CHURCHES WITH

WOMEN DEACONS The following churches responded to the CBFNC survey that they ordain women deacons. If your church is not listed but does ordain women deacons, please email us at info@cbfnc.org to be added to our database.

1. Angier Baptist-Angier 2. Ardmore Baptist-Winston-Salem 3. Benson Baptist-Benson 4. Central Baptist-Spruce Pine 5. College Park Baptist-Winston-Salem 6. Connaritsa Baptist-Aulander 7. Earlys Baptist-Ahoskie 8. First Baptist-Ahoskie 9. First Baptist-Albemarle 10. First Baptist-Burlington 11. First Baptist-Elkin 12. First Baptist-Elon 13. First Baptist-Gastonia 14. First Baptist-Goldsboro 15. First Baptist-Greensboro 16. First Baptist-Jamestown 17. First Baptist-Marion 18. First Baptist-Raleigh 19. First Baptist-Sylva 20. First Baptist-Valdese 21. First Baptist-Weaverville 22. First Baptist-West Jefferson 23. First Baptist-Wilson 24. Grace Crossing-Charlotte 25. Greenwood Forest-Cary 26. Greystone Baptist-Raleigh 27. Hayes Barton Baptist-Raleigh 28. Hillside Church-Chapel Hill 29. Hominy Baptist-Candler 30. Immanuel Baptist-Greenville 31. Knollwood Baptist-Winston Salem 32. Lakeside Baptist-Rocky Mount 33. Lystra Baptist-Chapel Hill 34. Mount Carmel Baptist-Chapel Hill 35. Murfreesboro Baptist-Murfreesboro 36. Neill’s Creek-Angier 37. New Hope Baptist-Raleigh 38. North Chapel Hill-Chapel Hill 39. Oakmont Baptist-Greenville 40. Piney Grove Baptist-Mount Airy 41. Pritchard Memorial-Charlotte 42. Roberts Chapel Baptist-Pendleton 43. Sardis Baptist-Charlotte 44. Trinity Baptist-Raleigh 45. University Baptist-Chapel Hill 46. Yates Baptist-Durham Winter 2021 | 11

Annual Gathering 2022

THE

GOD W H O

S E E S G E NE SIS 16:13

SAVE THE DATE! March 17 – March 18, 2022 Trinity Baptist Church–Raleigh (In-Person & Livestreamed) Registration opens in January.

12 | The Gathering

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QUARTER PAGE

New This Year

($175 Early Bird by 12/17)

DISPLAY YOUR BANNER Display your organization's banner

$200

on the railing in the gym above the Exhibit Hall.

Must provide your own banner. $75

Become an Exhibitor!

It’s a Hybrid Exhibit Hall. . . for a Hybrid Annual Gathering!

The 2022 Annual Gathering will be a hybrid event: both in-person and online. You have the opportunity to promote your organization in the Exhibit Hall on-site in the gym at Trinity Baptist or with a virtual Exhibit Hall ad.

Virtual Exhibit Hall Includes Your. . .

• Organization name • Logo

• Text of your choosing • Link to website in the digital program book

In-Person Exhibit Hall • A listing in the Virtual Exhibit Hall section of the digital program book

• One table with two chairs • Two lunches provided • Cost is $100

All ads will have a uniform layout Artwork is due to acook@cbfnc.org by Friday, January 31.

Cost is $50 Winter 2021 | 13

T hanks to you,

CBFNC SHARED GOD’S LOVE IN 2021 BY. . .

EQUIPPING PASTORS TO LEAD THRIVING CHURCHES • Assisted 105 ministers through ministerial transitions.

• Promoted 80 ministry and non-ministry staff positions on the CBFNC Ministry Job Board.

• Provided 53 webinars and online roundtable discussions for pastors and lay leaders about relevant issues facing churches in the midst of a pandemic.

EMBRACING OUR NEIGHBORS, LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY • Hosted the 425th refugee/immigrant guest at Welcome House.

• Launched the Welcome House Community Network, a CBF signature missions program that seeks to provide temporary housing to the vulnerable and housing insecure across N.C. • Gave over $59,000 in grant money as Missions Engagement, Global Partnership (CBF Field Personnel), Hunger Fund and Disaster Relief grants to churches and partners across our state and world.

ENGAGING YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS • Supported 13 campus ministers and interns who connected with more than 200 college students across N.C. • Hosted Growing Stronger town hall meetings via Zoom to talk about racial and social justice issues with college students.

• Provided $260,000 in support to partner divinity schools and awarded $92,000 in theological education scholarships to 33 current and future Baptist ministers pursuing post-graduate degrees or continuing education.

CBFNC programs touch an amazing variety of people of all ages and all walks of life!

Help CBFNC continue to share God’s love with so many by giving a YEAR-END gift by December 31st.

GIVE ONLINE at cbfnc.org, click “Give,” then select to direct your gift to “CBFNC Missions and Ministry (General Budget).”

OR MAIL A DONATION TO: 2640 Reynolda Road Winston-Salem, NC 27106.

This is only a snapshot of all we accomplished with the support of churches and individuals like you.

For a comprehensive list, see our annual report at cbfnc.org.

14 | The Gathering

Give a Year-End Gift

MINISTERS ON THE MOVE

to CBFNC

By December 31, CBFNC seeks to inspire 100 donors to support our ministries with an end-of-year gift so that together, we may continue to support churches and pastors, help those dealing with real trauma and minister to students and young adults at such a pivotal time in their lives.

Give online at cbfnc.org, click “Give,” then select to direct your gift to “CBFNC Missions and Ministry (General Budget).”

Or mail a donation to: CBFNC 2640 Reynolda Road Winston-Salem, NC 27106.

Our encouragement and support go to the following ministers who have recently moved: Jeanne Baucom to First Baptist–Laurinburg as Pastor Paul Burgess to University Baptist–Chapel Hill as Pastor Kendell Cameron to First Baptist–Albemarle as Pastor Anna Beth Cross to Greystone Baptist–Raleigh as Associate Minister, Students and Digital Discipleship Will Raybon to Benson Baptist–Benson as Minister of Youth and Children Chase Robinson to First Baptist–Burlington as Pastor Kristen Tucker to First Baptist–Smithfield as Pastor When you make a move or know of someone who has changed places of ministry, please send us an email: seth.hix@cbfnc.org.

For assistance to search committees and ministers seeking vocational discernment, visit the Equip Ministers and Churches page on our website (cbfnc.org) or call us at 336.759.3456.

DONATE

to CBFNC today! www.cbfnc.org/give

CBFNC HONORARY & MEMORIAL GIFTS July – October 2021

Jennifer and Seth Asbill in honor of Jesse Croom

Catherine and Robert Lee in honor of Lisa and Kenneth Rust

Betty and Tom Bouldin in honor of Rev. Erin Collier

Nancy Myer in honor of Erin Collier

Cheryl and Michael Brooks in honor of H. Michael

Lisa and Kenneth Rust in honor of Kim & Marc Wyatt

Brooks and Andy Holland

Lita and Rick Sample in honor of Kim and Marc Wyatt

Carol Adamec Brown in honor of Bill Meetze

Henry Skinner in honor of Welcome Ride 2021

Kathy Driver in honor of the retirement of Tom Allen, First-Southern Pines; Joyce Lindsay (prayer warrior); and Jean and Marion Lark

Stacy and Kevin Tighe in celebration of Mary Clay and Carlton Brown

Randy and Bobby Fussell in honor of Bill Meetze

Luther Hutchens in memory of Brenda Walsh Hutchens

Don and Jo Ann Horton in honor of Larry Hovis

Karen and Gary Sain in memory of Aaron Sain

Mary and Mike Langley in honor of Amy & Andy Jung

John Vestal in memory of Cindy Vestal

Kay Albright in honor of Kim and Marc Wyatt

Kathy Driver in memory of Alice Goode

Winter 2021 | 15

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID WINSTON-SALEM PERMIT NO. 162

Bringing Baptists of North Carolina Together for Christ-Centered Ministry

www.cbfnc.org

2640 Reynolda Road Winston-Salem, NC 27106

Return Service Requested

A Look Ahead . . .

2021

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DECEMBER

Advocacy Webinar Series: Hunger Advocacy December 14

2022

JANUARY

CBF Regional Growing Young Digital Cohort Begins January–December

Winter Youth Summit Providence Baptist–Charlotte January 14–16

2022

FEBRUARY

Oasis 2022 Retreat Montreat Retreat & Conference Center, Montreat For children, youth and collegiate ministry leaders.

February 8–11

Ministry Design: A Conference for Churches Forest Hills Baptist–Raleigh February 12

MARCH

CBFNC Annual Gathering Trinity Baptist–Raleigh March 17–18