The original issue can be found at: http://www.baptistpress.com/issue-06/01/2015 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. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Black Hawk Down's Struecker graduates from SEBTS by Staff/SEBTS communications team Date: June 01, 2015 - Monday WAKE FOREST, N.C. (BP) -- Jeff Struecker, one of the heroes of the 1993 conflict in Mogadishu that inspired the movie "Black Hawk Down," graduated this spring from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with a doctor of philosophy in Christian leadership. The former Ranger and retired chaplain for the United States Army is now lead pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Columbus, Ga. During his military career, he was decorated for bravery above and beyond the call of duty for any Ranger, a special operations warrior, or soldier that resulted in saved lives. He retired from active military duty in 2011 after 22 years of service and received several awards, commendations and decorations throughout his military career. Struecker said he was drawn to SEBTS because of President Daniel Akin's passion for the Gospel and desire to train spiritual warriors to go to dangerous places. "I am convinced that Jesus' church is desperate for great leadership today," Struecker said. "I'm equally convinced that SBC seminaries do a great job of educating people to be effective theologians, preachers and church historians, but I think more emphasis should be placed on leadership at the same time." Akin noted, "Jeff's skills as a leader have been on full display in his superb work in our Ph.D. in leadership program. It is an honor to have him as one of our graduates. As he excelled as an Army Ranger, he has continued to excel as a pastor and a student at Southeastern. "I first met Jeff as a M.Div. student in my preaching class," Akin noted. "I was immediately impressed with his love for the Word and faithful expository preaching. Since then I have watched him continue to serve our country, our Lord and Christ's church with passion and excellence." Struecker said he views Christ as the ultimate leader. "The study of God is the study of leadership," he said. "In order for Jesus' church to confront sin and spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth it will require men and women who are courageous leaders with a bold vision for God's glory. God alone can make a man or woman into the leader the church needs them to be." Larry Purcell, associate professor of leadership and discipleship and associate dean of ministry studies, also shares Struecker's passion for leadership. "I was honored when he came to me and asked that I be his major professor," Purcell said. "We both share the experience of the military and combat." At Purcell's request, Struecker shared his testimony of the conflict in Mogadishu during class. After washing away the blood of comrades, Struecker told fellow students, he went back into the "kill-zone" numerous times. "He seemed fearless," Purcell noted. "This opened the door to many Army Rangers hearing the Gospel and coming to salvation after the fire fight." Struecker finished his modified residency Ph.D. in three and a half years while transitioning from the military to leading a church congregation and serving his family of five. He has a master of divinity degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky. and undergraduate degrees from Troy University in Alabama. He was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and he enlisted in the United States Army as an infantryman when he was 18. In addition to Mogadishu, Struecker's combat experience includes participation in the invasion of Panama, Operation Desert Storm, and more than a dozen combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. Struecker has been awarded medals for valor in combat and has received many medals as recognition for his service in the U.S. Army. Struecker retired after serving for 10 years in the 75th Ranger Regiment in positions from private to platoon sergeant and spent his last 10 years as a chaplain, in both Airborne and Ranger units. Struecker is the author of five books. He and his wife Dawn have five children: Aaron, Jacob, Joseph, Abigail and Lydia. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Thomas Green to lead Florida Baptist Convention by Barbara Denman/Florida Baptist Convention Date: June 01, 2015 - Monday LEESBURG, Fla. (BP) -- J. Thomas Green has been elected to lead the 1-million-member Florida Baptist State Convention as executive director-treasurer of the Florida Baptist Convention. Green, pastor of First Baptist Church in Brandon, was tapped by the State Board of Missions during its May 29 meeting at Lake Yale Conference Center in Leesburg. He will assume his new role effective June 8. In remarks to the board, Green pledged that by November he will present an annual budget for 2016 that will send 51 percent of Cooperative Program gifts from Florida Baptist churches to the Southern Baptist Convention and 49 percent to Florida Baptist missions and ministries. "By sending more than we are keeping, I believe God will honor and bless that as He did the fishes and the loaves," Green said. As the 10th executive director of the Florida Baptist Convention, Green, 57, succeeds John Sullivan who retired Feb. 28 after serving in that role from 1989 to 2015, the longest tenure in Florida Baptist history. Green was unanimously recommended by a nine-person search committee appointed at the time of Sullivan's retirement announcement last September. Chairman Marvin Pittman acknowledged that prior to the final interview with Green many on the committee were undecided on the candidate. However, "during the two hours spent with Dr. Green and his wife Karen there was a comfortable peace that invaded the room and every heart therein. The deliberation by the committee was short and bathed in unity; the vote was unanimous," said Pittman, a layman from First Baptist Church in Bartow. "We firmly believe that although we had some outstanding candidates with great credentials, the Father has led us to one that by His grace, will lead Florida Baptists into a new era of cooperation and unity to achieve the Great Commission in Florida and beyond," Pittman said. Green was elected as the Florida Baptist State Convention president in 2003 and 2004 and is completing a three-year term on the State Board of Missions, having previously served on it from 1999-2005. During his first tenure he was twice elected board president, for 2000-2001 and 2001-2002. In a statement of acceptance, Green said, "It is with a deep sense of humility that I accept the position of the Executive Director Treasurer of the Florida Baptist Convention. I appreciate the unified decision of the Search Team and the State Board of Missions in this appointment. Karen and I are extremely excited about the privilege to serve the churches of the Florida Baptist Convention in this capacity. I look forward to sharing and implementing the vision God has placed on my heart for the future of our churches in Florida. Thank you for the trust that you have placed in my leadership and I fully commit to seek and follow the will of God. We have exciting days of Kingdom ministry ahead of us as a convention of churches. May God unify us to reach the nations with the Gospel of Jesus Christ!" A video excerpt of Green's comments to the board is posted at https://vimeo.com/129371711. Green has served as senior pastor of First Baptist in Brandon since April 1996. During his 19-year tenure, he led the church to double its membership to 5,700 from 2,723. The church has been a pacesetter among Florida Baptist churches in evangelism and baptisms, with some 100 baptisms each year. The church's commitment to global missions is reflected in their Cooperative Program giving which averages 10 percent annually, in addition to contributions made to Great Commission Giving causes. Church members participate on numerous mission projects overseas, nationally and locally. In Southern Baptist life, Green was a trustee of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., from 2002-2012, serving as chairman from 2008-2010 and vice chairman from 2003-2006. In 2013 he was awarded the Alumni of the Year from New Orleans Seminary. Prior to coming to Florida, Green was pastor of First Baptist Church in Buford, Ga., 1988-1996; Franklin Creek Baptist Church, Pascagoula, Miss., 1985-1988; and Chesbrough Baptist Church in Kentwood, La., 1982-1985. An Alabama native, Green holds doctor of theology and master of divinity degrees from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and an undergraduate degree from Samford University in Birmingham, Ala. He and his wife have three grown children, John Green IV of Jacksonville and Philip Green and Matthew Green of Brandon. John Green IV, who serves as vice president of the State Board of Missions and pastor of Shindler Drive Baptist Church in Jacksonville, and his wife Katherine have three children. He abstained from the board's vote on his father. In addition to Pittman, layperson, members of the search committee were James Peoples, president of the Florida Baptist State Convention and pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Keystone Heights; Ted Traylor, pastor, Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola; Odany Augustin, pastor, Bethesda Christian Church in Pompano Beach; Wayne Briant, pastor, Southside Baptist Church in Sarasota; Stephen A. Davies, pastor, Village Baptist Church in Destin; Otto Fernandez, pastor, Riverside Baptist Church, Miami; Elaine Nasworthy, layperson, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Land O'Lakes; and Walter West, pastor, Anastasia Baptist Church, St. Augustine. -------------------------------------------------------------------- FIRST-PERSON: The marriage moment by Ronnie Floyd Date: June 01, 2015 - Monday EDITOR'S NOTE: Ronnie Floyd is president of the Southern Baptist Convention and pastor of Cross Church in northwest Arkansas. SPRINGDALE, Ark. (BP) -- Two weeks ago, I had the privilege to speak at two wonderful gatherings in Washington, D.C. While I was there, each morning after my time with God and moments of study, I ran through our National Mall. There is nothing like running through this impactful city. Everywhere you go are reminders of our history and power as a nation. The marriage moment in the United States On my final morning, I focused some of my running in the region of the Supreme Court building of the United States. I thought about the upcoming ruling on same-sex marriage and this significant moment in our nation. Since 1973, Roe v. Wade and the legalization of abortion, I do not believe our Supreme Court has dealt with a more watershed case that has the potential to change the trajectory of the moral direction of our nation. I prayed for a long while as I ran. I prayed for our Supreme Court. I prayed for God to move their hearts toward the biblical and traditional view of marriage. I prayed for the mercy of God for our nation regardless of their ruling. Unquestionably, the outcome of their ruling not only impacts marriage, but also has the potential to restrain religious liberty in our nation. This is a moment when the church needs to cry out to God for His leadership, but it is also a moment when we must stand, forwarding a strong biblical worldview. Timidity needs to be replaced with fearlessness. We need to resound what God's Word says about marriage. We cannot be silent now or in the future. We must be faithful to proclaim the biblical view of marriage. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy said, "The definition (of traditional marriage) has been with us for a millennia. And it's very difficult for the court to say, 'Oh well, we know better.'" I could not agree more. We do not need the Supreme Court or anyone else attempting to redefine what God has defined already. The Southern Baptist Convention in this marriage moment  In our great confession of faith, The Baptist Faith and Message 2000, we stand on these words: Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. This statement is a message to our churches and to the world. On this message we stand. Our churches need to be resolved not only on the uniting of one man and one woman in marriage, but also understand that marriage is a covenant commitment for a lifetime. We need to call all of our churches to stand for this biblical standard. Our own testimony in this realm needs to become much more biblical. Regardless of the Supreme Court's decision relating to same-sex marriage, we need to know God has the final ruling on marriage. The Bible is God's final authority on the issue of marriage and He has already spoken. Furthermore, we need to prepare for what may lie ahead in the future. While some of our churches have ministries for those dealing with same-sex attraction, for those who may come to us and are already in same-sex relationships, or for the families that are dealing with the challenges relating to this issue, we need all of our churches to prepare to minister effectively in this area of need. While truth must always be shared in love, we need to also insure the tone with which we share the truth is not one of judgment, but one of compassion and love. We need to hold the truth of God in one hand and the love of God in the other hand. Our churches need to become a mighty testimony not only for truth but also for compassion and ministry. This is why we want to help prepare our churches at the Southern Baptist Convention. On Wednesday afternoon, we have scheduled a presidential panel, "The Supreme Court and Same Sex Marriage: Preparing Our Churches for the Future." By the end of the Supreme Court's session this month, their ruling will be communicated. Whatever the Supreme Court ruling is: -- We need to believe in and stand for biblical marriage. -- Our churches need to be ready. -- Ministries need to occur in our churches to help those who are struggling with the same-sex issue in various ways. -- We need to hold the truth of God in one hand and the love of God in the other hand. -- Pray for the Supreme Court and all of our nation's leaders, as well as for the future of our nation. -- Forward the life-changing message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We are 14 days and counting until our Southern Baptist family converges on Columbus, Ohio, for our meeting on June 16-17. Until then, please join me in prayerful preparation. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Floyd envisions 'forward' leaders in new book by Matt Erickson Date: June 01, 2015 - Monday NASHVILLE (BP) -- As president of the Southern Baptist Convention and a pastor for 37-plus years, Ronnie Floyd has become convinced that pastors must engage in future and forward thinking. In a new book, "Forward: 7 Distinguishing Marks for Future Leaders," Floyd outlines what he sees as essential characteristics for those in leadership positions currently or in the future. "Forward leaders rise to lead people to a better future," Floyd, pastor of Cross Church in northwest Arkansas, said in a Q&A with Facts & Trends magazine about the book from B&H Publishing Group. Facts & Trends and B&H are part of LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. "Forward [the book] is about a new kind of leader who must rise up to lead in the world of today and in the world of tomorrow," Floyd said. "Forward is a call, a process, a direction and a change." Facts & Trends: What are the greatest lessons you've learned as a leader? Floyd: Every hill is not worth dying on. Leadership is not about being right or having the last word; leadership is about taking people with you to a future that's better than the current reality. I've also learned the importance of leading with absolute clarity. If a leader is not clear, people are unable to align with the leader's vision. I've come to understand the importance of simplicity, too. A good leader takes the complex and makes it simple. While there are a myriad of things a leader can do, a leader must do the right thing at the right time in order to lead effectively. And I've learned the high value of seeking to become more teachable. The longer I lead, the more teachable I want to become. Leaders who don't keep growing personally will lead in the wrong direction and eventually forfeit their influence. Facts & Trends: Why is now a crucial time to raise a generation of forward leaders? I would answer your question with these two questions: Where are the influential leaders today? Where are the leaders who are willing to step up now and lead big, keeping their message so big they create a movement of people who want to follow them? … I believe most leaders forfeit the opportunity to lead big because they're limited by their own too-small thinking and preferences. They listen far too much to the applause of their "groups" or "tribes," forgetting they're a part of something bigger. Every segment of society needs a new kind of leader to emerge. The field is wide open, and regardless of age, gender or ethnicity, the future awaits to be claimed by effective, influential leaders. Facts & Trends: How would Christianity in America look different if church leaders adopted the principles outlined in Forward? We would see leaders who lead by truth and with trust instead of only by style and a smile. I also believe we would see leaders with a multi-generational appeal, going beyond the interests of their own generation. A forward-looking leader will have to be culturally sensitive, aware of different ethnicities and practices. Failing to do so could be very costly. And we would have leaders who are motivated by compassion. They would be able to see what others see, hear what others hear and feel what others feel. The personal price can be high, but the return is worth it. … I believe these marks can equip leaders of all ages, ethnicities and vocations to seize the future before them. Facts & Trends: What's it like being a ministry leader and a husband and father? How do you balance the two? Floyd: Leaders have to be driven by their priorities, not by their preferences. Besides my daily walk with Christ, my family has always been the next priority. I practiced this when my kids lived at home and still do in my marriage. And I attempt to make my six grandchildren a priority, too. I have chosen to say no to lesser things in order to say yes to the right things. This is what future leaders do when they lead by their priorities. Facts & Trends: How do you envision pastors embracing these lessons? I believe pastors who read this book with openness and a willingness to change can take away several things that can improve their leadership and expand their Kingdom influence across the globe. I believe we settle for the status quo too often. Even some of us who have been entrusted with leading larger churches and organizations lead too small at times, limiting our influence and impact. … I really believe when a pastor implements a few of these principles, church members will be thinking: Our pastor is growing in his leadership. You see, even after someone has been at the same church for as long as I have, 28 years, you want your people to be able to say this about you. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Floyd on Duggar scandal: God 'can forgive' by Staff Date: June 01, 2015 - Monday EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated since its original posting June 1. PINNACLE HILLS, Ark. (BP) -- As the Duggar family of the reality show "19 Kids and Counting" deals with accusations that Josh Duggar molested five underage girls 12 years ago, Southern Baptist Convention President Ronnie Floyd highlighted forgiveness during an interview with People Magazine Sunday, May 31. "Everyone does wrong, and what was wrong was very wrong as to what was testified to and it's completely unacceptable," Floyd, who pastors one of Josh's sisters, told People during an interview at the Pinnacle Hills campus of Cross Church in northwest Arkansas. "But I'm thankful, whether it's him or any other one, that I serve a God who can forgive everything." Jill (Duggar) Dillard and her husband Derick are active members of Cross Church and were married there in June, 2014, but according to the church, Josh Duggar and his parents are not members. "All of us were surprised by the news because ... their reputation in Arkansas is that they are a very Christian family," People quoted Floyd in the story on People.com. "Things like [the scandal] have happened before and will happen again." Floyd has not mentioned the Duggar family scandal from the pulpit. The church released a statement to Baptist Press Monday (June 1) saying, "We are deeply burdened for the victims of this situation. We stand against any abuse of children. ... As we pray about this situation, we are thankful for the healing and forgiveness provided through the Gospel of Jesus Christ." The People interview came one day after Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar of the TLC series announced they will discuss the scandal in a Fox News broadcast June 5 at 9 p.m. (Eastern Time). A portion of the interview will air on The Kelly File June 3 at 9 p.m. "Next week we will sit down with Megyn Kelly on Fox News to share our hearts with you about the pain that we walked through as a family twelve years ago, the tears we all shed and the forgiveness that was given," the Duggars wrote on the family blog, www.duggarfamily.com. "We appreciate the outpouring of love and prayers for our family at this time." People Magazine publicized the accusations against Josh Duggar in a May 21 article, which included the 27-year-old's confession to "wrongdoing." "Twelve years ago, as a young teenager, I acted inexcusably, for which I am extremely sorry and deeply regret. I hurt others, including my family and close friends," Josh said in the People story. "I confessed this to my parents, who took several steps to help me address the situation. We spoke with the authorities, where I confessed my wrongdoing, and my parents arranged for me and those affected by my actions to receive counseling. I understood that if I continued down this wrong road that I would end up ruining my life." Josh Duggar, now married with three children, also resigned his position as executive director of Family Research Council (FRC) Action, apologizing for the distraction. He and his wife Anna are expecting a fourth child. "I deeply regret that recent media reports about my long ago past has brought negative attention to FRC Action and its work to preserve and advance the interests of family, faith, and freedom in the political arena," he said in his resignation letter posted on the FRC website. "FRC Action's mission to fortify the traditional foundations of civil society is more important now than ever before, and I'm heartbroken that any attention has been diverted from these noble causes to my wrong actions as a young teenager. I am so thankful for God's grace, forgiveness, and redemptive heart that allowed me to transform into a man of faith and testimony." TLC has pulled all previously scheduled episodes of "19 Kids and Counting," but it remains unclear whether the series will be permanently cancelled. "Effective immediately, TLC has pulled all episodes of 19 Kids and Counting currently from the air," TLC said in a May 22 statement. "We are deeply saddened and troubled by this heartbreaking situation, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family and victims at this difficult time." Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar have said the incidents of 12 years ago created a dark time that drew the family closer to God. "We pray that as people watch our lives, they see that we are not a perfect family. We have challenges and struggles every day," the couple said in the May 21 People story. "It is one of the reasons we treasure our faith so much because God's kindness and goodness and forgiveness are extended to us -- even though we are so undeserving." Anna Duggar has said Josh Duggar confessed the incidents to her two years before proposing marriage. "When my family and I first visited the Duggar home, Josh shared his past teenage mistakes. I was surprised at his openness and humility and at the same time didn't know why he was sharing it," she told People. "For Josh, he wanted not just me but my parents to know who he really was -- even very difficult past mistakes." She said she knows "who Josh really is -- someone who had gone down a wrong path and had humbled himself before God and those whom he had offended. [He is] someone who had received the help needed to change the direction of his life and do what is right." -------------------------------------------------------------------- Public apologies spur church discipline warnings by David Roach Date: June 01, 2015 - Monday NASHVILLE (BP) -- Public apologies by two U.S. megachurches for a lack of compassion in the exercise of church discipline have prompted some Baptist pastors to underscore the need for humility and congregational polity during the attempted restoration of wayward members. Most American churches have not exercised biblical church discipline for a century, Bart Barber, pastor of First Baptist Church in Farmersville, Texas, told Baptist Press. "Because we have so little practice with it, along the way, as we seek to restore it, people are going to make mistakes. This kind of humility required to apologize for making a mistake, I think, is going to be needed and needed in large quantities in order to be successful in getting to a healthy place with regard to what church membership is." Matt Chandler, pastor of the Village Church in Dallas, a Southern Baptist multisite congregation, apologized during worship services May 30-31 for a domineering approach by elders in some church discipline cases, the church confirmed to BP. Christianity Today reported on one case in which the church's leaders initiated the discipline process when a woman ended her marriage after discovering her husband had viewed child pornography for years. She requested to be removed from membership, but the request was denied initially, CT reported, with leaders citing a membership covenant requiring couples to "walk through the steps of marriage reconciliation" before pursuing divorce and a policy forbidding members under discipline from withdrawing. The Village Church's elders reversed their course May 28 and released her from membership, issuing an apology for not leading her "to a place conducive to peace, repentance and healing." She filed for a marriage annulment under Texas law. In Chicago, a megachurch's pastor and elders apologized last fall for "the complete lack of biblically required restorative component" in the discipline of three former elders accused of stirring up division in the church, CT reported. In September, Pastor James MacDonald said Harvest Bible Chapel's elder board had "lifted all discipline" from the former elders. The former elders accused Harvest's leaders of fostering a "culture of intimidation" and exhibiting a lack of transparency. In response, a 2013 video message from Harvest's leadership called church members to "avoid these former Harvest elders at all costs lest you incur great detriment to your own soul." The former elders' viewpoints, according to the video, were "satanic to the core," CT reported. Neither the Village Church nor Harvest brings matters of church discipline to a congregational vote. One way churches err in their discipline processes is by failing to include the entire congregation in votes to withdraw fellowship from individuals in sin who refuse to repent, said Barber, a former first vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention. The process of church discipline outlined in Matthew 18:15-18, he said, involves confronting a sinning church member individually, then confronting the person again with two or three witnesses if he or she refuses to repent. If that call to repentance fails, the entire church body should call for repentance and withdraw fellowship from the individual if there is still not a positive response. "Having that congregational basis to [discipline] is helpful," Barber said, "because my experience is that congregations are unwilling to extend church discipline sometimes when I'm willing to do it. So there's something of a mediating force in having to go to an entire congregation." Barber, who has led First Baptist to remove a person from church membership, said the primary biblical theme related to church discipline is "rescuing believers who are wandering off into a dangerous position." In 2008, Barber sought to help the SBC articulate an official position on church discipline by submitting a resolution on the topic to the convention's Resolutions Committee. Portions of the draft Barber submitted were incorporated into a resolution adopted by the convention on "regenerate church membership and church member restoration." The resolution called churches to repent of "any failure to obey Jesus Christ in the practice of lovingly correcting wayward church members." It asked "denominational servants to support and encourage churches that seek to recover and implement our Savior's teaching on church discipline." Another pastor to submit a resolution incorporated into that statement was Tom Ascol of Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral, Fla. He told BP the "biggest mistake" related to corrective church discipline among contemporary churches "is neglecting it altogether." Among those who do practice it, there can be a tendency of pastors to withdraw fellowship from members without the church's authority, said Ascol, a member of SBC Executive Committee President Frank S. Page's Calvinism Advisory Group in 2013-14. "Pastors can fall into the mistake of exercising pastor discipline, where the church has not been taught [and] the church is not fully on board with what's supposed to be done," Ascol said. "... Christ does vest His full authority in the church. So it's the whole body that has responsibility" for removing individuals from membership. Most church discipline is "formative" rather than "corrective," helping believers develop godly character through teaching and encouragement, Ascol said. He added among corrective discipline, most cases do not proceed to the step of involving the entire congregation. Discipline that does progress to congregational involvement should be carried out in love, he said, never with "harshness" or "heavy-handedness." Leading Grace to exclude unrepentant individuals from membership is "the most painful thing as a pastor that I've ever had to lead a church to do," Ascol said. Corrective church discipline "is always for God's glory. It's always for the sake of the Gospel," Ascol said. "... When we administer discipline and we do it right, it's in love." -------------------------------------------------------------------- BP Ledger, June 1, 2015 by Staff Date: June 01, 2015 - Monday EDITOR'S NOTE: BP Ledger carries items for reader information each week from various Southern Baptist-related entities, and news releases of interest from other sources. The items are published as received. Today's BP Ledger contains items from: Houston Baptist University Baptist College of Florida Mississippi Baptist Convention Board HBU Announces Archie W. Dunham College of Business Houston, Texas (Houston Baptist University) -- Houston Baptist University announced it has received a $15 million gift from well-known Christian business executive Archie W. Dunham and his wife Linda. The gift represents the largest single gift in the University's history and will fund scholarships, provide assistance for the Dunham Bible Museum, and result in the naming of the school of business.  HBU President Robert B. Sloan, Jr., announced the naming of the Archie W. Dunham College of Business. "We have long been blessed at HBU to be able to point our students to Archie and Linda Dunham as examples of the transforming power of Christian faith and Christian influence in the world," said President Sloan. "It is now an added privilege to be able to point to the Archie W. Dunham College of Business as a further tangible expression of our gratitude to the Dunham family."  The announcement was made at the May 12, 2015 meeting of the HBU Board of Trustees. "Archie and Linda Dunham represent everything we celebrate at HBU: Christian faith, character, service to others, generosity, and excellence in all the things that truly matter," said Sloan. "Probably the best testimony to everything that Linda and Archie exemplify can be seen in their outstanding and faithful children and grandchildren."  Archie W. Dunham is the Non-Executive Chairman of Chesapeake Energy. He served as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Conoco Inc., then as Chairman of ConocoPhillips, following the merger of Conoco Inc. and Phillips Petroleum Company. Previously, Archie served on the boards of Phelps Dodge Corporation, Pride International, DuPont, Louisiana Pacific Corporation, Union Pacific Corporation, Chase, and Consol Energy. He is also a member of the Deutsche Bank's Americas Advisory Board. Dunham and his wife Linda are members of the HBU President's Leadership Council, and they are active members of Second Baptist Church. The Dunhams' son Cary is a 1993 graduate of HBU.  "Linda and I have observed the growth and positive impact on students of Houston Baptist University during the last nine years under Dr. Robert Sloan's outstanding leadership," said Dunham. "We believe that HBU is becoming one of America's leading Christian Universities where integrity, ethics, and moral leadership are being taught to a new generation of future leaders. Linda and I are honored to be associated with the University."  The Dunhams were recognized for their commitment to HBU with the President's Lifetime Award at the Spirit of Excellence Gala in November 2014. They are past recipients of the Spirit of Excellent Award. They have supported a number of major on-campus projects that hold their name, including the Dunham Bible Museum, Dunham Theater, and Dunham Field for the University's newly constructed football stadium. Founded in 1960, HBU is an independent Christian university that offers enriched academic and student life experiences in a major metropolitan area. As a result of implementing its twelve-year vision, The Ten Pillars: Faith and Reason in a Great City, HBU is on a trajectory to become a comprehensive, national university. By fostering the intellectual, moral, and spiritual development of its students, the University provides "A Higher Education," one that prepares students to succeed not only in their careers but also in life. For more information about HBU, please visit www.hbu.edu. ********** Historic anniversary for the Baptist College of Florida GRACEVILLE, Fla. (Baptist College of Florida) -- The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) in Graceville, Fla., celebrated a historic event on May 14, as Thomas A. Kinchen, the institution's sixth president, completed 25 years, the longest serving president the college has had in its 72 year history. Dignitaries, convention leaders, trustees, college supporters, faculty and staff, family members, childhood friends and community colleagues all joined together to celebrate the incredible ways God has used this visionary leader at The Baptist College of Florida. During the anniversary celebration, The Baptist College of Florida Board of Trustees honored Kinchen for his 25 years of faithful service by announcing the construction of a new education building to be named "The Kinchen Center." Funds for the building have already exceeded half of what is needed for completion. Support for the center continues to pour in to honor this man who found innovative ways to inspire growth on a campus that was destined to close without his strong leadership and vision. When Kinchen arrived in 1990, he was given 18 months to turn the campus around or the school would be closed. Within those 18 months and throughout the past 25 years, BCF has seen major changes and growth, but as Kinchen quickly interjects, it was not through him but rather the very hand of God. There is no doubt that God has used this willing servant leader to accomplish many things, beginning with his early years of diligent educational training. Growing up in Thomasville, Ga., as the son of the late George H. and Annie Lou Kinchen, he finished his first two degrees in his home state earning a Bachelor of Arts degree at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro and a Masters of Education degree from the University of Georgia in Athens. He continued his education by obtaining the Master of Divinity and the Doctor of Philosophy degrees from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in New Orleans, La. President Kinchen began his professional career in education as a teacher at Swainsboro High School in Swainsboro, Ga. While in Georgia, he pastored churches in Thomas County, worked with the Georgia Department of Human Resources in Thomasville, and served as a counselor at Delgado Junior College in New Orleans. While at Seminary, Kinchen served in the following capacities: Director of Continuing Education and Doctor of Ministry Program, Vice President for Student Affairs, and Director of Church Minister Relations and Communications. Additionally, he served in local churches as minister of education, associate pastor and interim pastor. He served as a member of the Education Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention as well as a member of the Advisory Committee of the Florida State Board of Independent Colleges and Universities. He was named Chair of the Committee on Strategic Planning of the Board of Independent Colleges and Universities. Kinchen also served on the Board of Directors of the Association of Southern Baptist Colleges and Schools and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. Then in 1986, Kinchen was elected to serve as the Executive Secretary-Treasurer for the West Virginia Convention of Southern Baptists and held this position until May 21, 1990, when he became President of The Baptist College of Florida. Accolades and accomplishments can be attributed to this awe-inspiring leader, but they are accepted with such humility that onlookers can see the true heart of servanthood that Kinchen has at his core. Tremendous growth has taken place at BCF since Kinchen took on the responsibility as president. Over the past 25 years, over 100 acres have been added to the college's property holdings, a home for missionaries was opened on the campus, Lakeside Hall, Shepherd's Cottages, Conrad Court, and an Assembly Center were built. Extensive renovations of the Student Center, Library, Music and Worship facility, and the historic R.G. Lee Chapel have capture the architectural beauty that Kinchen is known for having etched on paper napkins. Under this visionary leader, a Preaching Lab, new Administration Building, the Mills Center for Missions and World Evangelism were dedicated as well as the state-of-the-art Wellness Center and near completion of the new Deese Center (dining facility). One on-campus project, often called Kinchen's brain child, was the construction of Heritage Village. The Village is a collection of turn-of-the-20th-century homes, churches, a schoolhouse and community center that represent a rich history Kinchen knew was worth preserving. It is the home of the annual Holiday Heritage Festival/Homecoming event, which features artisans, crafts and numerous musical performances from BCF's Music and Worship Division. It also serves as headquarters for the Florida Baptist Historical Society and archives. In addition to the physical growth that has occurred during Kinchen's 25 years, academic programs at BCF have flourished. The 90's saw the addition of degrees in Elementary Education, Christian Education, Leadership, Biblical Studies, Church Studies and Bachelor of Music. The college was accepted into the National Association of Schools of Music and the curriculum was revised to ensure that all BCF degrees had the same general education and biblical/theological foundations. Educational opportunities and programs have multiplied on campus as well as programs in Barbados, Brazil, certificate sites, distance sites and currently every degree can be completed online in Florida and most states throughout the country. Multiple degree programs have been added since 1990, including bachelor degrees in Music Education, Missions, Christian Studies, Contemporary Worship Ministry, English, English Secondary Education, History and Social Studies, History and Social Studies Secondary Education, Ministry Studies, Missions with a Concentration in Aviation, Business Leadership and master's degrees in Christian Studies and Music and Worship Leadership. Kinchen was not only instrumental but championed the call to change the world with the establishment of several Endowed Chairs for Missions and Evangelism. Through the endowed chairs, faculty and programs were secured to promote the evangelism efforts throughout the curriculum and within multiple degree programs. Because of his desire to utilize every possible avenue to connect with students and the community, Kinchen paved the way for BCF to operate a low-power radio station, 94.7 WFBU, from the campus beginning in 2003. He launched the development of webcasting and a large media presence for BCF on the internet. Under his leadership, the internet site, www.baptistcollege.edu, was established and has become one of the primary marketing tools for disseminating BCF information. The radio broadcast, BCF website, and social media venues is just another example of Kinchen's leading edge management style that is prevalent in every aspect of the college. The BCF student body and community is renewed and reenergized each year through the annual Missions Conference, Evangelism Conference, Prayer Conference and Powell Lectures established by President Kinchen. Special guest speakers and organizations are invited to campus every year to attend not only during these special events but also invited to chapel services held three days a week in the R. G. Lee Chapel. As Kinchen preaches in chapel the first week of each semester, students have the opportunity to hear firsthand the heart of their president. In addition to his own personal passion for preaching, he and wife Ruth Ann established a preaching award that is presented each semester to a deserving student. The student is awarded the "President's Excellence in Preaching Award" and given the opportunity to preach in chapel. Responding to a strong need for more practical and theoretical resources for ministers, Kinchen established a "Center for Expository Preaching" designed to provide resources to enrich and energize biblical preaching in Baptist churches. The center conducts several annual conferences to help pastors and lay leaders with Doctrinal Studies, etc. In addition to the strong preaching ministry at BCF, worship through music is a vital part of the campus, and under Kinchen's leadership, the college has served as host for various artists and music groups. Not only are popular musical groups invited to perform at BCF, they are formed here. Every semester and throughout the year, the plethora of talented musicians teaching and studying at BCF can be found serving in churches, schools, and places all around the country. During his 25 year career as president, Kinchen has seen many students pass through the doors of BCF, and it is with great joy that he encourages each and every one of them to pursue the plans God has for their lives. This unwavering motto has been at the heart of his service to BCF from the very beginning of his ministry on campus. "As we continue to pursue our registered trademark of "Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word,®" we have the unique opportunity to train, educate, and prepare the next greatest generation of Christian leaders," stated Kinchen. "Without any doubt, I feel a greater excitement today than I did 25 years ago as I anticipate what our Lord has in store for the days ahead of us. I look forward to showing up, standing up, and speaking up for our Lord and this wonderful college with all of the strength, energy, and vision that God can and will give to me." During the 25th Anniversary Celebration, BCF First Lady Ruth Ann Kinchen was recognized for her unending love and support of the college. For 25 years, she has traveled alongside the president for thousands of miles offering encouragement and assistance. She imparts a legacy on the BCF campus from baking cookies for the students each semester and raising funds for scholarships, to sewing window coverings and gracefully decorating campus buildings. The 25th Anniversary Guest Speaker Jim Henry saluted Kinchen as he reflected on his visionary leadership and successful presidency. Words of affirmation were echoed from John Sullivan, Glen Owens, Wayne Briant, and Alex Kinchen (Tom and Ruth Ann's son). A beautiful tribute of praise was sung by Lisa (Kinchen) Potter to honor her mom and dad on this historic occasion. Not a dry eye could be found among the faculty and staff in the Wellness Center as their deeply respected leader, President Thomas A. Kinchen, walked across the stage to respond to this incredible night filled with appreciation and grateful hearts for his 25 years of service to The Baptist College of Florida. According to Kinchen, "There is still much to be done, people to reach, lives to be touched, programs to be developed, and ministries to be strengthened. With the leadership of our Lord we have seen this great college make huge strides, and following that same leadership our greatest days are still ahead!" ********** Miss. Executive Committee taps three for board positions By William H. Perkins Jr. JACKSON, Miss. (Mississippi Baptist Convention Board) -- Members of the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board (MBCB) executive committee filled three key vacancies May 15 when they hired a department director, a camp manager, and a GuideStone representative. "What we knew was going to be a fairly long and intense work day for the executive committee turned into a remarkable day of meeting with one potential new employee after another," said Jim Futral, MBCB executive director. "As the executive committee met, heard, interviewed, and affirmed these new leaders, the room was filled with excitement, positive affirmation, and joyful expectation. "It was obvious that God had been at work in their lives preparing them not only for such a time as this, but for such a work as this to which they have come. We welcome each one of them as they serve in very diverse areas with unique gifts and great hearts." Michael D. Lee, senior pastor of First Church, Grenada, was elected to serve as director of the MBCB Pastor-Leadership Department, beginning June 1. He replaces the late Alan Woodward. According to the MBCB web site, the mission of the Pastor/Leadership Development Department is "to strengthen leaders so they can strengthen the church." Target audiences include pastors, church staff, deacons, church officers, ministry assistants, church leadership teams, church committees, youth/adults in vocational guidance, and college students committed to church related vocations. The department responds to requests from individuals, provides training on the associational level, and conducts both regional and statewide conferences in the department's specialty areas. Prior to serving at First Church, Grenada, Lee was senior pastor and associate pastor prior to that at Providence Church, Hattiesburg (2003-2010). He was also senior pastor at Macedonia Church, New Albany (2000-2002), and pastor of New Prospect Church, Iuka (1999-2000). He holds a B.A. in psychology ('97) from Mississippi State University in Starkville, an M.Div. in biblical studies ('02) and M.Th. in Old Testament/Hebrew ('06) from New Orleans Seminary, and is pursuing a D.Min in pastoral work at New Orleans Seminary. Lee has been married to the former Jennifer D. Esler for 20 years, and they have three children. "His experience, keen mind, and great spirit will provide great leadership for all of our pastors and leaders," Futral said. "I love Mississippi and Mississippi Baptists! I am both excited and humbled to join the Convention team and fill this role. My family covets your prayers as we transition to serve our MBCB pastors, staff, and churches," Lee said. Shane Thrash, assistant director of the Baptist Student Union at William Carey University (WCU) in Hattiesburg since July 2011 and also the current interim pastor at Lake Como Church, Bay Springs, will begin his duties as the new manager of Central Hills Retreat near Kosciusko on June 15. He replaces James Ray, who resigned Dec. 31 to answer the call to pastor Cherry Creek Church, Pontotoc. The primary purpose of Central Hills Retreat, according to the MBCB web site, is to provide a Christian camping experience for boys and girls ages five to 18. The facility is used almost exclusively for summer camp programs from late May to early August. Throughout the rest of the year, Central Hills is available for camps, retreats, and conferences. Prior to his current service, Thrash was student pastor at West Laurel Church, Laurel (2010-2012), minister of families at Park Haven Church, Laurel (2008-2010), and associate pastor/minister of students at Friendship Church, Ellisville (2003-2008). He holds a bachelor of general studies with concentrations in biblical studies and physical education ('06) and a masters of counseling psychology with an emphasis in Christian counseling ('08), both from WCU. Thrash, a former U.S. Marine, is a Central Hills staff alumnus. He has been married to his wife Kristel since December 2003, and they have three children. "Shane has history with Central Hills Retreat. God has uniquely packaged his experience and his desire with his ministerial experience, a love for young people, and a stint with the United States Marine Corps," Futral said. "I am truly excited to have this opportunity," Thrash said. "Since my time as a summer staffer at Central Hills, it has been my dream to manage a camp. I never thought that it would be at a place that has meant so much to me. I look forward to what God has in store for me and my family in His ministry at Central Hills." Tim Ruth was elected to the position of financial services (GuideStone) representative and procurement officer. He will begin his new duties on June 1. Ruth has been the consultant contract manager for the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) since 2010 and was an MDOT contract employee before then. He has also been self-employed and worked in sales and account management. He was an operations auditor for Citigroup for six years. He holds a bachelor of business administration with emphases in management and marketing ('90) from the University of Mississippi in Oxford and an associate in general business administration ('88) from Northeast Mississippi Community College in Booneville. A longtime member of Broadmoor Church in Madison, Ruth has been married to wife Teena for 22 years and they have two children. "Tim has spent most of his adult life in business, while he has been consumed with ministry and caring about people at the same time," Futral said. "God has assembled some of the greatest leaders to ministry assignments all across the state. What a blessing I am being given to serve alongside them in being their Guidestone representative," Ruth said. "Also, as a portion of my position I will be managing some of the day-to-day procurement and business of MBCB. I look forward to serving in the stewardship of this area as well." "We look forward to all of them coming to provide unique leadership with God-given abilities, and to bless all Mississippi Baptists," Futral said.