The original issue can be found at: http://www.baptistpress.com/issue-02/04/2002 DISCLAIMER: Baptist Press should be credited for any reprinted stories that originate with BP. Suggested credit line: Reprinted from Baptist Press (www.baptistpress.com), news service of the Southern Baptist Convention. Please note that Baptist Press periodically carries stories from other sources by permission. Individuals interested in reprinting non-BP stories should contact the entity where the story originated to seek reprint permission. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Grandmother, on first mission trip, braves the challenge of Bourbon St. by Todd Starnes Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday EDITORS' NOTE: Baptist Press dispatched a team of journalists to cover Baptist ministry during Super Bowl XXXVI in New Orleans. The team included BP Assistant Editor Todd Starnes, LifeWay Christian Resources photographer Morris Abernathy, BP office assistant Michael Winn and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary writer Doy Cave. Additional stories appear on BPSports at www.bpsports.net. NEW ORLEANS (BP)--Georgia Klier is an unlikely first-time missionary. But two days prior to the opening kickoff of Super Bowl XXXVI, this retired LPN and grandmother of three was standing on the corner of Bourbon and Conti streets prepared to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Klier, a member of Grove Port Baptist Church in Canal Winchester, Ohio, has been in the Big Easy for eight days, working alongside a handful of hearty Southern Baptists who troll the streets of the French Quarter in search of revelers who need to hear about Jesus Christ. "This is my very first mission trip," Klier told Baptist Press. "My children are grown, I had to retire from my job because of a back injury and I was willing to serve." So why not try a less-threatening first-time mission experience? "Because this is where the Lord told me to go," Klier said matter-of-factly. "And I've learned over the years to do what the Lord says to do." With her suitcase in tow, Klier boarded a Greyhound bus near her home outside Columbus and arrived in New Orleans Jan. 25. "I've majored in stickering and rolling posters," Klier said. "And we've been giving kids football tattoos for days." The Baptist volunteers worked through the Baptist Association of Greater New Orleans, distributing a faith-friendly sports magazine and other materials. "It has been so fun and exciting," she said. "And the NFL people have been so nice. Volunteering has definitely been a lot of hard work, but it's worthwhile. We're supposed to step out of our comfort zone. That's what you have to do." On Feb. 2, Klier was about to radically step out of her comfort zone -- taking an evangelistic walk down Bourbon Street on a rowdy Friday night. Baptist Press followed Klier as she made the journey. Following is her story: 6:45 p.m. -- Vieux Carre Baptist Church is the only Southern Baptist outpost in the French Quarter. The storefront building looks like any other weatherworn structure on Dauphine Street -- apart from a wooden sign hanging outside identifying it as a place of worship. On Feb. 2 it was the starting point for about 12 believers for an evangelism trip on Bourbon Street. Klier, dressed in gray sweatpants and a jacket, said she was nervous about going into the Quarter. "It's somewhere between terrifying and awesome," she said, while collecting materials that she hoped will end up in the hands of unbelievers. "Don't get me wrong, I'm happy to be here, but it's a little intimidating." 7:00 p.m. -- The believers are gathered together in the center of the worship hall for a time of prayer and singing. Moments later, they bundle up in jackets and prepare to walk into the darkness of Dauphine Street toward the debauchery of the French Quarter. "I really feel like the Lord has given me a great life," Klier said as she walked along the street. "And now I want to give something back. I've considered possibly getting involved in street ministry back home." Nearing Jackson Square, Klier joins others in the group as they sing a rousing rendition of "Victory in Jesus," drawing stares from passersby. 7:10 p.m. -- It was at Jackson Square that Klier totally stepped out of her comfort zone. Noticing a Tarot card reader sitting outside Jackson Square, Klier made her move. "Jesus loves you and so do I," Klier said as she boldly approached the reader. "Would you like something free to read?" To her surprise, the Tarot card reader smiled and accepted the material. But others would not be so kind. A fortuneteller dressed in black cursed at Klier and ordered her to leave the square. But Klier smiled and told the man that Jesus loved him. He turned and walked away. 7:30 p.m. -- The group leaves the square and turns onto Conti Street, heading to Bourbon. Klier said her heart was still racing from the encounter with the fortuneteller. "My maximum heart rate has been reached," she said, laughing. "This is so exciting, but it was scary." Klier said she didn't have any regrets about talking to the fortuneteller or his reaction. "This is what I asked for," she said. "The Lord is leading me to do this. It's not by my strength, but it's by God's strength." 7:45 p.m. -- Klier's group has split up. Only three remain as they get to the edge of Bourbon Street. Their team leader, David Cobb of Gatlinburg, Tenn., stops the team. He cautions everyone to stay close. Cobb instructs Klier not to stray too far from the group. "This is what I've been waiting for," Klier said as she merged into a sea of drunken revelers, many hurling obscenities. The trio sets up shop in the middle of Bourbon Street, with Cobb holding a large banner proclaiming the message of Christ. Klier stands beside him offering materials to those passing by. 8:20 p.m. -- Klier is still passing out materials as the crowd grows larger and rowdier. "I'm really encouraged by what's happened," she said. "That's good. Some have even told us that they love Jesus." Despite a bitterly cold wind, Klier remained in the French Quarter until late in the night, smiling gently at many lost souls along Bourbon Street. For Klier, her first mission trip was only the beginning of what she said will become a routine event in her life. "I think missions is a good thing," she said. "It's good that I came here. It's good that we are all here." --30-- (BP) photos posted in the BP Photo Library at http://www.bpnews.net. Photo titles: GRANDMOTHER ON MISSION, PRAYING FOR STRENGTH, SHARING HOPE, PROCLAIMING THE WORD. -------------------------------------------------------------------- French Quarter: tourist spot & place of spiritual warfare by Todd Starnes Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday NEW ORLEANS (BP)--Jackson Square is one of the most photographed tourist spots in the French Quarter. Located in front of the historic St. Louis Cathedral, it is home to an assortment of street performers, artists and other characters who give New Orleans its eclectic charm. But Jackson Square also is home to a darker element -- tarot card readers, fortunetellers and others who dabble in the supernatural. "There's a demonic presence here and you can feel the darkness," said North American Mission Board's Inner City Evangelism team member Mark Martin. "There is a spirit of oppression in this place." Martin, along with a handful of other evangelical Christians, invaded Jackson Square on Feb. 1 to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to the sidewalk merchants. The evangelism walks were based in nearby Vieux Carre Baptist Church as part of an evangelism strategy for Super Bowl XXXVI. Many of the merchants accepted the gospel literature, but some were verbally abusive and confrontational. While Martin was speaking with a fortuneteller, a man dressed in black lunged at him and ordered him to back away. Martin respectfully declined as the man cursed and shouted at him. Undeterred by the incident, Martin and his team continued their work. "There is such a need for Christians to prayerwalk Jackson Square," Martin said. "We need a constant saturation of prayer." At one point a group of young people dressed in black backed away from Martin as he offered them material. "Get that hideous stuff away from me," one of the unidentified young people yelled. "They run from it," Martin said of the gospel. "Light will dispel the darkness. That's why we're here." --30-- See additional coverage of Baptist ministries at the Super Bowl at BPSports, www.bpsports.net. (BP) photos posted in the BP Photo Library at http://www.bpnews.net. Photo titles: CONFRONTING EVIL AND PREPARING TO SHARE. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Seminary students get more than 'NFL Experience' in New Orleans by Doy Cave Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday NEW ORLEANS (BP)--Seven seminary students experienced more than the NFL could provide at the "NFL Experience" attraction in New Orleans. In addition to managing the many football attractions for the tens of thousands of participants, these students, all from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, were able to experience the work of God in some of the hundreds of volunteers and staff around them. "The seminary is such a small world," said Julie Bauman, wife of seminary student Nathan Bauman. "It was almost refreshing to be around lost people. They act like lost people. They don't hold back on their language or anything. "Before I came to seminary, I worked in a church. I feel like I've been in this Christian bubble for so long now. Being with lost people has been a daily relationship that I've missed. I didn't know if I could handle it at first." The students served on the staff of the NFL's weekend family attraction Jan. 31-Feb. 3, where children and adults could play one of several games, sometimes against their favorite NFL players; buy NFL products; and watch several concerts by renowned secular artists throughout the day. The event was the preliminary event for the NFL Super Bowl. Tim Knopps, evangelist with the Timothy Institute of Evangelism in Oklahoma City, served as an event consultant for the Baptist Association of Greater New Orleans and as one of the leaders of the volunteer staff. Although neither he nor the students are able to mingle with the thousands of people who attend the NFL Experience, Knopps said they had opportunities to share Christ with the volunteers and fellow staff. "We always tell them to look for the question, 'How did you get to be a volunteer?'" he said. "They can then answer, 'Our church brought a group.' Then the person may ask, 'What church?' And hopefully that will lead them into a discussion about Jesus. "If you can't talk about Jesus by talking about the church you go to, then you're probably going to the wrong church," he added. The seminary students say they were given even more providential opportunities than just talking about church. James "Tex" Brandon, a master of divinity student at NOBTS, said he was able to talk about his faith just by having a good attitude throughout the often-hectic day. "I was just standing there this morning, having a good time, and this girl asked me, 'Why are you having fun so early?' I told her that I have a lot more fun than I used to because of what God has done in my life," he said. "I was able to share my testimony with her just because she'd never seen a person do that." Kyle Cox, an undergraduate student at the seminary's Leavell College, said he was able to share with some of the volunteers after they'd asked him what school he attended, while Bauman was able to share her faith by talking about a summer mission trip, as well as talking about the blessing of the money God was providing through the NFL staff position. Her husband, Nathan, a master of divinity student, was able to share a little about his faith in his interview with the NFL. "When I was interviewing, the manager asked me, 'If you could have the ideal job, what would it be?'" he recalled. "I told her my ideal job would be to be a missionary in the jungle. She was completely blown away, and I was able to share with her that God had called me to be a missionary and that I wanted to obey him." Though making those connections with the lost was rewarding, the team also said it was good to have a support group of Christians, and more specifically seminary students, as co-workers. "The whole thing was a divine appointment of God to put us all together like that," said Sam Purcell, also a master of divinity student at the seminary. "He presented opportunities for us every day." While they were focused on the spiritual task at hand, the students admit it was fun to see all of the celebrities who attended the event. "Peyton Manning whispered in my ear," Julie Bauman said, laughing. "He wasn't flirting or anything, he just wanted to make sure that all of the kids got autographs. That was awesome." Each student said the event was a great opportunity to meet with lost people and a reminder to seek them out as Jesus did. When asked, however, if the experience made them more adept at leading a conversation into a talk about Christ, Nathan Bauman said he didn't think they should view it that way. "I don't think it should be an intentional segue into the gospel," he said. "It's more of a lifestyle. We're talking about our life, and our life is Christ." --30-- For additional stories about Baptist ministry related to the Super Bowl, go to BPSports at www.bpsports.net. (BP) photos posted in the BP Photo Library at http://www.bpnews.net. Photo titles: GOING OVER DETAILS, A HELPING HAND and WORKING TOGETHER. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Youngest generation comfortable with contradictions, Barna says by Jon Walker Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--It's always been a struggle to reach teenagers for Christ, but those born since 1984 may be the toughest to reach yet, said Christian researcher George Barna. Appearing on Richard Land's "For Faith & Family" weekday radio show Feb. 4 and 5, Barna said the "Mosaic Generation" is comprised of non-linear thinkers who cut and paste their beliefs and values from a variety of sources. What's more, Barna said, almost half the Mosaics don't know and don't care about moral absolutes. To them, it's just a non-issue not worth arguing over. This means, Barna said, that they're a generation comfortable with contradictions. Barna defines the Mosaic Generation as youngsters born between 1984 and 2002, describing them as such because they're "very mosaic in every aspect of their life." He said, "There's [no attribute] that really dominates like you might have seen with prior generations." Other researchers refer to this generation as Millennials or Generation Y. "When we try to show them logically that two things really don't work together -- that either one is right and the other is wrong, or they're both wrong -- typically what you get is a giggle and then the response, 'Yeah, how about that?'" Barna said. "They're not really concerned about trying to figure out where things stand on an objective continuum." Richard Land, president of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission and host of For Faith & Family, said the research regarding the Mosaics shows America is cultivating a generation of mainly right-brained thinkers. "I just want to make sure everybody understands that this is a radical departure from Western thought, at least since the time of the Renaissance," Land said. He added that this way of thinking is so different from other generations that it's like comparing a modern man to one from medieval times. The For Faith & Family broadcast ministry is heard daily on nearly 600 radio stations across the country and around the world on the Internet at www.faithandfamily.com. Visitors to the program's website can access archives of past For Faith & Family programs as well as listen to the Barna interviews. An audiotape of the two-part interview also can be ordered by calling 1-888-324-8450. Barna said society has taught Mosaics to think in this different way through fast-edit videos, constant computer use and easy access video games. In addition, 91 percent of all Mosaics, compared to 51 percent of all adults, use the Internet, where they absorb information and build relationships. "We've taught them, 'You don't have to connect the dots the way your parents did,'" Barna said. "'What you have to do is just react to whatever you see out there, and as long as it feels good, as long as it makes sense, that's good enough.'" Connecting with young people has always been a challenge, Barna said, but today that struggle is at a much deeper level. "That is why I am so encouraged by programs like Student Leadership University," Land responded. "Jay Strack's Student Leadership University uses innovative teaching locations and techniques to reach and teach young people to be salt and light in their community. "The students who complete the program are equipped to make a difference in the culture by focusing the message of Jesus Christ instead of relying on worldly solutions," said Land, who lectures at the program's Washington, D.C., site each year. For more information on SLU, go to www.faithandfamily.com. Land interviewed Strack on For Faith & Family Jan. 30. "It's no longer just a difference in cultural icons, ones that young people respond to instead of their elders," Barna noted in the For Faith & Family interview. "Now it's a whole different style of thinking and communicating. It's a completely different set of values based upon a very varied interpretation of the meaning of life and how to achieve success or significance in one's life. "This calls into question, 'How do we teach young people today?'" Barna observed. "Is preaching the best way to communicate God's truths to them, at least the way we traditionally preach? How do we get them to understand and embrace God's Word without ever compromising it while still understanding they communicate very differently from previous generations? "They want spirituality; they want faith experiences; they want a taste of religion; but they don't want to have to go through all of the stuff that they see the adults doing at the typical church," Barna said. "But, because the Internet fits with their schedule -- it's a 24/7 opportunity -- they're using it to explore things they might not have access to otherwise." Much of Barna's research on Mosaics is compiled in the book, "Real Teens: A Contemporary Snapshot of Youth Culture" (Regal Books, 2001). --30-- -------------------------------------------------------------------- Chaplain promotions process continues after federal judge refuses injunction by Ken Walker Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday WASHINGTON (BP)--Navy promotion board hearings for the 2003 fiscal year were poised to begin today, Feb. 4, after an attempt by 25 current and former chaplains to postpone them failed. However, the attorney for the evangelical chaplains plans to appeal the Feb. 1 ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Ricardo Urbina. Vienna, Va., attorney Art Schulz filed a request for an injunction in early January, saying the court should postpone the latest round of hearings until it rules on the evangelicals' constitutional challenge to the Navy's chaplaincy system. The plaintiffs in two different lawsuits are alleging the Navy discriminates against evangelicals by reserving better assignments and promotions for Catholics and liturgical Protestants. The evangelical plaintiffs include five Southern Baptists, one of them still on active duty. While not at issue in the latest injunction request, the plaintiffs also have challenged the Navy's plan to award bonus points to candidates for promotion who recruit others for the Chaplain Corps. In its motion opposing the injunction, the U.S. Justice Department argued the plaintiffs are engaging in "litigation maneuvering," noting that promotion selection boards have met twice in the two years since the litigation commenced. "By allowing Chaplain Corps promotion selection boards to convene over the two years since the filing of these suits before seeking to enjoin them from continuing, plaintiffs have foregone any claim that they need emergency relief now," the government said. However, Schulz has filed a motion for Urbina to reconsider his ruling. If that attempt fails, he said he will file an appeal with a higher court. Schulz contends that the Justice Department made a material misrepresentation of fact in an earlier brief by claiming that chaplains who sit on a promotion board are like any other Navy officer. However, chaplains are unique because they serve at the discretion of their endorsing agency, Schulcz noted. Chaplains cannot bear arms, issue orders or serve as a duty officer other than duties related to chapel services, he added. "When an officer is on duty, he represents the sovereign (government) and a chaplain has no governmental power," Schulcz continued. "His duties are solely religious and to minister to the needs of seamen." Since chaplains are not like other officers, the constitutionality of their appointment as board members needs to first be considered before the 2003 promotion boards make their decisions, Schulcz argued. The attorney said having a faith group member sit in judgment of another faith group member is a violation of the First Amendment prohibiting the mixing of government and religious functions. Although the attorney said he has no power to halt the proceedings, if a court later overturns Urbina's ruling, the latest promotion boards' actions would be invalidated, Schulcz said. The Justice Department has a policy against commenting on court rulings. Urbina's Feb. 1 ruling was a brief, one-paragraph order. However, the judge said a forthcoming memorandum will set forth the reasons for the ruling. --30-- -------------------------------------------------------------------- Golden Gate provost to move to fulltime classroom duties by Cameron Crabtree Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday SAN FRANCISCO (BP)--Citing health reasons and a desire to return to his "first love of teaching and writing," Richard Melick Jr. has resigned as provost of Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary to devote his full energies as a member of the seminary faculty. In his capacity as provost at the Mill Valley, Calif., seminary near San Francisco, Melick functioned as the school's chief operating officer. His transition to the classroom was effective Feb. 1. Seminary President William O. Crews expressed appreciation to Melick for his administrative work the past four years. "Dr. Melick has strengthened our administrative systems and implemented many efforts aimed at helping our work with churches and denominational structures," Crews said. "He has also assisted Golden Gate in enlisting a number of outstanding administrative leaders in our system who have blessed our seminary family." Crews also noted Melick's contributions as a faculty member: "We are grateful that we will continue to have his ministry among us as a scholar and teacher. He is a popular teacher who is committed to helping students see the Scriptures come alive in their lives and in their ministries." Trustees elected Melick as professor of New Testament studies in 1997 and then as provost the next year. "My wife and I continue to be committed to the mission of Golden Gate Seminary and I am thankful for the seminary, its administration, faculty, staff and students," Melick said. "I look forward to the years ahead as I return to the duties and joys of being a professor fulltime." Prior to joining the Golden Gate Seminary faculty, Melick served as president of the Criswell Center for Biblical Studies in Dallas. He is a recognized author, most recently of "Called To Be Holy," the annual doctrinal study for the Southern Baptist Convention. He serves as consulting editor for the New American Commentary Series published by Broadman and Holman Publishers and is author of the series' volume on "Philippians, Colossians and Philemon." A regular contributor to major reference works, Melick also served as co-editor and contributor to "Authority and Interpretation: A Baptist Perspective", published by Baker Book House. He received his doctor of philosophy from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He also holds a master of divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a bachelor of arts from Columbia International University. In addition to serving at Golden Gate and the Criswell Center, Melick has served at five other educational institutions during his teaching ministry, including the Evangelische Theologische Faculteit in Heverlee, Belgium, where he continues to serve as a professor. His wife, Shera, is a Christian education professor at Golden Gate and oversees the Child Development Center. In addition, she directs the Partners in Ministry Training program designed for spouses of ministerial students. --30-- (BP) photo posted in the BP Photo Library at http://www.bpnews.net. Photo title: RICHARD MELICK JR. -------------------------------------------------------------------- FIRST-PERSON: Integrity before God affects all of life by Henry Blackaby Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday ATLANTA (BP)--These days can, and are, bringing many pressures on the Christian in their workplace. The economy is affecting many in adverse ways: loss of income, loss of jobs, bills unpaid, felt needs unmet and a financial future at best uncertain. However, pressure is often self-induced. That is, we let our changing circumstances unsettle us, or put pressure on us. For the Christian, the changing and often volatile circumstances in our environment or our nation and even our world need not cause pressure on us. David had incredible pressures on him. He was king over God's people, and he had many enemies both from within and without. He cried aloud to his God, who had promised to be his God in all circumstances. Knowing that God had promised to keep him in all his ways, David desired only that he have integrity before God. That is, that his heart would never shift from trusting God completely, regardless of the circumstances. Here is his prayer: "... let my integrity and uprightness preserve me. For I wait for You...." (Psalm 25:21). Then again, "Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity. I have also trusted in the LORD; I shall not slip. Examine me, O LORD, and prove me: try my mind and my heart. For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes, and I have walked in Your truth...." (Psalm 26:1-3). Then David seemed to summarize his walk before God in his marketplace: "... as for me, I will walk in my integrity; redeem me and be merciful to me. My foot stands in an even place; in the congregations I will bless the LORD...." (Psalm 26:11-12). David was far more concerned about his integrity before God than he was his popularity or success before men. He was more concerned that his trust for his life, his family or his future not shift from God. He wanted integrity before God. He wanted to please God and to serve God uninterrupted. He knew that this integrity would give security. David trusted that God would always keep his feet steady and would uphold him, even in the eyes of men. So he turned to God to help him, at all times, under all circumstances -- so his God would be honored. In these uncertain times (in the minds of men, but not with God) we must keep our relationship with God FIRST. The person who truly does "seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness" (Matthew 6:33) will find that God will "add everything else to him...." This makes for real peace in times of turmoil, real certainty and hope when so much seems to be changing and uncertain. God doesn't change! He remains in charge -- especially of the life that puts their trust in him, and does it openly in their home and their workplace. The one who puts their trust completely in the LORD, and walks in God's ways with integrity, will experience God vindicating his integrity, especially before God -- but also before those in the world who are watching him/her. If there ever was a time when our world needed to see the faithful presence of God working in the life of those who trust him, it is now. May God grant us the wisdom he gave David to "walk in ... integrity" (Psalm 26:11) before a watching world. --30-- -------------------------------------------------------------------- FIRST-PERSON: WMU's heart for missions begins with personal faith in Christ by Wanda Lee Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (BP)--In 1997, the national WMU Executive Board adopted nine statements that articulate the foundational truths for all we do in WMU. We refer to these as our Core Values. The first core value is foundational to all of the others. It reads: "We believe that Jesus Christ, Son of God, gave His life a sacrifice for the salvation of all people of the world, fulfilling God's plan for the ages as revealed in the Bible, God's Holy Word." At the center of our faith lies a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. John 3:16 becomes reality when we recognize our sinfulness, ask God to forgive us, and invite Jesus into our hearts. At this point we begin a lifelong journey into a faith relationship with God. As our faith grows, God is able to shape and mold us into the person he desires us to be. Everything that follows is based on this foundational truth of God's provision of grace and salvation. My personal decision to follow Christ came when I was 8 years old. I cannot remember a time when I did not know Jesus loved me, but one day I realized I had a personal decision to make. I needed to publicly acknowledge my sinfulness and ask Jesus into my heart. It was the beginning of my spiritual journey with a faithful God. The presence of God through the Holy Spirit has confirmed my decision over and over. We begin at this point in everything we do in WMU. Missions is understood in the context of our personal experiences with Christ. As we grow in our faith, we see God at work in his world and discover he has a place for us in his plan for reaching the entire world with the gospel. WMU desires to assist individuals in finding their unique place of service. How do we do that? Mission groups in the church Missions principles and information provided through an ongoing educational format build on our salvation experience, making a lasting impact on our lives. We are better able to hear God's call, understand what he is calling us to do, and respond by following him. Ministry models and opportunities Jesus modeled the importance of living out our faith in practical ways. WMU recognizes the need to learn how to minister effectively while sharing our faith. Therefore, ministry models such as Christian Women's Job Corps, Project HELP, and other initiatives are developed. MissionsFest, Acteen Activators and Women on Mission Enterprisers provide avenues to practice what we have learned. The foundational core value of WMU in the church and around the world is our desire for people to come to faith in Christ. Following the servant model of Jesus opens the door for communicating the gospel in such a way that people can see Christ through us and hear his message of love and salvation. --30-- -------------------------------------------------------------------- Dobson book leads LifeWay list again by Staff Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--"Bringing Up Boys" by James Dobson led the list of top-selling hardback books at LifeWay Christian Stores in January, for the second month in a row. The book took first place in December 2001, bumping Bruce Wilkinson's "Prayer of Jabez," which had topped the list for a full year. The national chain of stores, operated by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention, releases a list of each month's best-selling hardbacks, paperbacks, fiction and music, based on sales during the previous month. All best sellers will be featured in the stores at discounted prices throughout February. LIFEWAY CHRISTIAN STORES TOP 10 BEST-SELLERS HARDBACK 1. Bringing Up Boys, James Dobson (Tyndale) 2. Traveling Light, Max Lucado (Nelson) 3. Prayer of Jabez, Bruce Wilkinson (Multnomah) 4. Secrets of the Vine, Bruce Wilkinson (Multnomah) 5. Night Light, James & Shirley Dobson, Multnomah 6. Praying God's Word, Beth Moore (Broadman & Holman, LifeWay trade publishing arm) 7. Spiritual Leadership, Henry & Richard Blackaby (B&H) 8. Grace for the Moment, Max Lucado (Nelson) 9. Prayer of Jesus, Ken Hemphill (B&H) 10. Heaven: My Father's House, Anne Graham Lotz (Nelson) PAPERBACK 1. Power of a Praying Wife, Stormie Omartian (Harvest House) 2. Power of a Praying Husband, Stormie Omartian (Harvest House) 3. Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian (Harvest House) 4. Praying God's Will for Your Life, Stormie Omartian (Nelson) 5. Five Love Languages, Gary Chapman (Moody Press) 6. Case for Faith, Lee Strobel (Zondervan) 7. Attack on America, John Hagee (Nelson) 8. God's Grace from Ground Zero, Jim Cymbala (Zondervan) 9. Sacred Romance, John Eldredge (Nelson) 10. Humor for a Woman's Heart, various writers (Howard) FICTION 1. Desecration, Jerry Jenkins & Tim LaHaye (Tyndale) 2. Redeeming Love, Francine Rivers (Multnomah) 3. Unafraid, Francine Rivers, Tyndale 4. Protector, Dee Henderson (Multnomah) 5. October Song, Beverly Lewis (Bethany) 6. Tested by Fire, Kathy Herman (Multnomah) 7. Emerald Windows, Terri Blackstock (Zondervan) 8. Sea of Glory, Ken Wales & David Poling (B&H) 9. Bamboo and Lace, Lori Wick (Harvest House) 10. Written on the Wind, Judith Pella (Bethany) MUSIC 1. Almost There, Mercy Me (Word) 2. Come Together, Third Day (Provident) 3. Worship, Michael W. Smith (Provident) 4. WoW 2002, Various (Chordant) 5. Life, Zoe Girl (Chordant) 6. Shout to the Lord, Songs 4 Worship (Word) 7. Declaration, Stephen Curtis Chapman (Chordant) 8. Way I Am, Jennifer Knapp (Chordant) 9. Momentum, Tobymac (Chordant) 10. Lift, Audio Adrenaline (Chordant) --30-- -------------------------------------------------------------------- TOP 20: Shaun Groves picks up second top 20 tune by Staff Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--Two songs written by Southern Baptist musician Shaun Groves appeared in the Feb. 4 Christian Hit Radio Top 20 list, while Third Day maintained the top two rankings. The list, which appears each week in Baptist Press, is courtesy of the WAY-FM network of Christian radio stations. (Last week's position is listed at right.) 1. Show Me Your Glory, Third Day 2 2. Come Together, Third Day 1 3. Who You Are, Caedmon's Call 3 4. Watching Over Me, FFH 4 5. Larger Than Life, downhere 5 6. The Face Of Christ, Chris Rice 7 7. Open Up The Sky, FFH 8 8. Above All, Michael W. Smith 6 9. With All Of My Heart, ZOEgirl 9 10. See The Glory, Steven Curtis Chapman 11 11. Welcome Home, Shaun Groves 10 12. Sing Alleluia, City On A Hill 13 13. Loss For Words, Tait 12 14. Breathe, Rebecca St. James 14 15. It Is You, Newsboys 16 16. I Need You, Jars of Clay 17 17. The Power Of Your Love, Lincoln Brewster 18 18. Every Move I Make, Fusebox 19 19. After The Music Fades, Shaun Groves -- 20. Holy One, SonicFlood 15 --30-- -------------------------------------------------------------------- Jack Graham to be nominated for SBC presidency in June by James A. Smith Sr. Date: February 04, 2002 - Monday JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (BP)--Texas pastor Jack Graham "very likely" will be nominated for president of the Southern Baptist Convention when the annual meeting convenes June 11 in St. Louis, Jerry Vines announced today, Feb. 4, in Jacksonville, Fla. "I have been told that it's very likely that he's going to be nominated to serve as president of the SBC this year," Vines told the annual Pastors' Conference at First Baptist Church, where Vines serves as senior pastor. "And if he is, I plan to vote for him. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to vote for Dr. Jack Graham. He would make us a wonderful, wonderful president." Graham is senior pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, north of Dallas. The church is one of the nation's largest Southern Baptist congregations, with more than 20,000 members. Of Prestonwood, Vines said, "It's absolutely phenomenal what's taking place at that church, how the Lord is blessing ... ." The Pastors' Conference at the Jacksonville church has been a launching point for previously successful conservative presidential nominations during the last decade. Prestonwood was one of the first mega-churches to join the new Southern Baptists of Texas Convention, while maintaining nominal membership in the Baptist General Convention of Texas. Graham has been critical of the BGCT's movement away from the SBC and co-chaired SBTC's Partners in the Harvest offering that netted about $1.3 million for SBC agencies defunded by the BGCT last year. He has addressed several SBTC gatherings, including the first evangelism conference and last year's annual meeting, where he delivered the convention sermon. Prestonwood will host the SBTC student evangelism conference in May. Praising Graham's leadership and friendship with the new convention, SBTC Executive Director Jim Richards said, "The Southern Baptists of Texas Convention has no better friend than Jack Graham." Richards told the Florida Baptist Witness, "It is exciting to know of his nomination for president of the Southern Baptist Convention" and pledged prayer support from the SBTC. SBTC received nearly $1 million in gifts from Prestonwood last year, including $90,000 for SBTC's adopted budget that allocates 51 percent to the SBC's Cooperative Program budget. A designated gift of $520,000 was sent through the SBTC for the SBC. SBTC accountant Barbara Smith reported additional contributions from Prestonwood last year as $140,000 for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions, $90,000 for the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering for North American Missions and $143,044 for disaster relief in New York City and Houston. Prestonwood's giving to BGCT amounted to $5,000 last year. Prestonwood's executive pastor, Mike Buster, said the church contributes additional funds directly to local Southern Baptist-related ministries, including Criswell College, Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Denton Baptist Association. These contributions combined with offerings to the state and national conventions make up 6 percent of Prestonwood's budget. Additional funds are allocated for particular mission efforts, including $10,000 to Brooklyn Tabernacle 9-11 Relief, $384,000 for Prestonwood's Pregnancy and Family Care Center, and $383,000 to Mission Endeavor/Europe, making total missions giving 10.6 percent of last year's $17,163,000 budget. The church has recorded more than 4,500 baptisms and 10,000 additions to the membership since Graham became pastor in 1989. Founded in 1977, Prestonwood has 31 ministers on its pastoral staff and supports a Christian school. The church also is involved in Restorative Justice Ministries designed to evangelize and disciple inmates within state prisons. Hispanic and Romanian congregations are among the ethnic ministries of Prestonwood while multi-housing ministries incorporate worship, Bible study, literacy and employment opportunities. Short-term mission trips taken by members assist in planting new churches overseas in coordination with local Southern Baptist missionaries. Graham, a native of Conway, Ark., was ordained to the gospel ministry in 1970 and has received degrees from Hardin-Simmons University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has held previous pastorates in Texas, Oklahoma and Florida. In 1992, Graham presided over the Southern Baptist Pastors' Conference. He delivered the annual sermon at the 1993 Southern Baptist Convention and in 1994 nominated Jim Henry, pastor of First Baptist Church of Orlando, Fla., for SBC president. Henry was elected over Alabama pastor Fred Wolfe, who was regarded as the choice of conservative leaders in the SBC. James Merritt, pastor of First Baptist Church of Snellville in suburban Atlanta, completing a second term as SBC president in June, is ineligible for re-election. --30-- Tammi Reed Ledbetter of the SBTC communications office contributed to this story.