Christian Life & Public Affairs Committee

Christian Life and Public Affairs

Joey Deese, Chair Laura Hudson, Vice-Chair

The Christian Life and Public Affairs Committee (CLPAC) addresses current moral, social, and cultural trends and events. Committee members work closely with the Office of Public Policy to educate, inform, and engage the public on current issues and pending legislation that affects families and churches. The committee meets formally four or five times throughout the year to stay abreast of current issues and develop action plans.

According to Convention bylaws, the Christian Life and Public Affairs Committee is composed of ten members. Two members’ terms expire each year.

An annual highlight is the announcement of the three committee awards. The E.A. McDowell award recognizes an individual who exemplifies Christian action in the public arena—politics, government, or community action. Additionally, the committee recognizes one church in our Convention that shows a similar commitment to social and moral concerns by conferring the Impact Your World award. The Public Service Award recognizes a public official that has gone above and beyond in representing Christian ideals through their role in the public square.

The 2021 recipients are:

E. A. McDowell Award Karen A. Salerno Greer First Baptist Church Greer, SC

Impact Your World Award Brushy Creek Baptist Church Cory Horton, Pastor Taylors, SC

Public Servant Award The Honorable Henry McMaster Governor of South Carolina

Members of the committee are grateful for the opportunity to serve South Carolina Baptists and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the future.

Joey Deese, Chair Laura Hudson, Vice-Chair Chad Connelly Deborah Guest Eddie Hill Mark Krieger Michael Post Terrye Seckinger Tommy Shelley