Birmingham Metro Baptist Association

The "Baptist Beliefs" and the accompanying "Baptist Beliefs: A Leader's Guide" are now available on Amazon. Based on the classic work by Dr. E.Y. Mullins, these resources have been brought forward into the modern era by Dr. Chris Crain, making them relevant and readable for today's audience. Ideal for personal study, teaching in the local church, or small group Bible studies, these guides offer clear explanations of core Baptist doctrines, enriched with group discussion questions for deeper understanding and growth. By ordering these resources together, readers benefit from a cohesive approach to studying Baptist doctrine. Additionally, all proceeds from the sale of these resources support the ministries of the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association, contributing to their work of encouraging, equipping, and engaging biblically faithful churches in the Great Commission for God's glory. Purchase your copies today using the provided QR codes and enrich your understanding of Baptist beliefs.

With sincere gratitude,

Christopher (Chris) W. Crain, MBA, M.Div., D.Min.
Executive Director

We are excited to announce that our Discovery Clubs after-school Bible clubs ministry is now in 29 schools in Metro Birmingham! Today, Rachel Moore, Director, and Carol Gargus, volunteer coordinator, met with area supervisors for more training before the start of the 2024/2025 school year for Discovery Clubs. We are so grateful for our volunteer mentors and supervisors. If you feel called to share the Gospel with elementary school students, please contact Carol Gargus at [email protected].

GRACE LIFE BAPTIST CHURCH WILL HOST THE PASTOR'S LUNCHEON FOR THE SOUTHWEST REVIVAL

Pastor's Luncheon With Dr. Robert Smith Jr.
Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. - 12:30: a.m.

Join us for a special Pastor's Luncheon with the renowned Dr. Robert Smith Jr. for an inspiring and informative gathering!

Date and time:
Tuesday, October 8, 11am - 12:30pm CDT

Location:
Grace Life Baptist Church
5911 Old Tuscaloosa Highway
McCalla, AL 35111

About this event:
Pastor's Luncheon With Dr. Robert Smith Jr.! Join us for a time of fellowship, learning, and encouragement at Grace Life Baptist Church. Dr. Robert Smith Jr. will be sharing his wisdom and insights on leadership, faith, and preaching. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other pastors and gain inspiration for your ministry. Don't miss out on this special event! (This event will last 1 hour and 30 minutes.)

Florida company to buy majority interest in Brookwood Baptist Health BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Orlando Health, Inc. has signed an agreement to purchase majority interest in Brookwood Baptist Health. According to a news release from Orlando Health, they will ma…

SAVE THE DATE FOR THIS IMPORTANT SEMINAR!

Are you interested in learning more about the effects of Dementia?
Are you interested in learning about medical strides in Dementia research?
Have you experienced, or are you currently experiencing the effects of Dementia?
Do you have a family member or loved one living with the effects of Dementia?

Join us with this information session with UAB's Dr. David Geldmacher.

REGISTRATION is not required but would be most helpful to assist with crowd management. This is an event of the FBCT SAM group and is open to everyone.

REGISTRATION opens July 1, 2024

Olive Branch Baptist Church, in Evergreen, AL, is seeking copies of the 1991 Baptist Hymnal (ivory cover with gold lettering). If your church has copies they are no longer using and would like to donate them to this church, they would love to have them. The church needs 150 hymnals total and so far, 44 copies have been donated.

You may contact, Debbie Campbell at 205-937-4340 or [email protected] and she will be glad to come pick them up for this church.

Debbie will deliver what hymnals she has collected to Olive Branch on Aug. 22nd.

Thanks for your help!

On Wednesday, August 21st, at 6:00 PM, the Liberty Park Baptist Church Women's Ministry is hosting Gather. It will be an amazing opportunity for women in our community to come together for an evening of worship, Bible teaching, and fellowship. We have author and speaker, Kandi Gallaty coming to lead us in a teaching of God's Word.

We are inviting all women, middle-school age and up to come and be a part of Gather.

A bit about Kandi:

Kandi Gallaty has been investing in the lives of women for over a decade. She believes that there are three major sources to draw from when investing in the lives of others: God’s word, God’s work in one's life and God's Spirit. She is passionate about cultivating a biblical worldview from the truths of Scripture and teaching women how to steward the life experiences and lessons God has allowed in their life. Together Kandi and Robby lead Replicate Ministries. Kandi loves being a pastor's wife and serving alongside her husband at Long Hollow Church. Kandi is the author of Disciple Her: Using the Word, Work and Wonder of God to Invest in Women (B&H, 2019) and Foundations New Testament, A 260 Day Bible Reading Plan for Teen Girls (Lifeway, 2020). She is the also co-author with her husband Robby of Foundations: A 260-Day Bible Reading Plan for Busy Believers, Foundations: Teen Devotional: A 260-Day Bible Reading Plan for Busy Teens, and Foundations for Kids: A 260-day Bible Reading Plan for Kids. She is the author of The Bible In A Year (LifeWay, 2022). Kandi and Robby are the proud and thankful parents of two boys, Rig and Ryder, and live outside of Nashville, TN.

Register here:
https://onrealm.org/LibertyPark/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=YTFiY2JhYWYtNTMyZC00ZjJkLWIxOTgtYjFhOTAxMGUyOTQ0

Congratulations to Pastor Pablo Moscoso and Agape Iglesia Christiana on the celebration of their 20th Anniversary! Dr. Chris Crain shared a message of unity with the church and Marisa Taylor presented a plaque in honor of the occasion.

Church Financial Issues Checkup
August 1, 2024, from 9:00am - 12:00pm
BMBA Conference Center at 1449 Medical Park Drive Birmingham, AL 35213

The Financial Issues Check-Up will focus on new tax and retirement legislation affecting the church; policies about designated giving and other financial policies needed and how a church could get in trouble with the IRS including fund raising activities. Snacks and drinks will be provided (no lunch). This event is provided at no cost, but please register in advance by clicking the link below.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR CHURCH FINANCIAL ISSUES CHECKUP
https://alsbom.org/event/church-financial-issues-check-up-birmingham/

Preparing for Retirement
August 1, 2024, from 1:00pm - 3:00pm
BMBA Conference Center at 1449 Medical Park Drive Birmingham, AL 35213

Primarily for those ministers and employees in their 50s and 60s to begin to consider topics such as retirement income, Social Security income and Medicare basics. Spouses are welcome to attend. Snacks and drinks will be provided. This event is provided at no cost, but please register in advance by clicking the link below.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR PREPARING FOR RETIREMENT
https://alsbom.org/event/preparing-for-retirement-7/

Carol Gargus, our Discovery Clubs Volunteer Coordinator, trained a full class of enthusiastic Discovery Clubs volunteers today at the BMBA. We are so excited about all of our new mentors who have signed up to be part of the Discovery Clubs team. Of course, we can always use even more volunteers because the needs are great! Won't you sign up to become a Discovery Clubs Mentor or Supervisor today? Contact Carol Gargus at [email protected] for more information about how you can become involved.

Dear Birmingham Metro Baptists,

The Untold Work of the Association
During my first week on the job in denominational work, I was contacted by a part-time pastor who had been terminated over the telephone without cause. As this committed pastor shared his story, I began to weep. Over time, God worked in the pastor's life to help him regain his confidence and return to the pulpit. I am grateful that the Association provided resources and support to help this minister return to emotional health and effectiveness. The local Association continues to be an essential resource for pastors and churches but we cannot always share publicly the specifics of how we are able to help our churches.

One of the critical roles in the work of the Association is walking with churches and church leaders in decisive moments: staff transition, pastor search, church or staff conflict, determining vision or strategy, ministry coaching/counseling, and accessing mission advancement. I tell people that much of what I do happens behind the scenes—assisting church leaders and pastors in finding the next steps or listening to them share their struggles. Let me share how the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association can help in various situations.

Staff Transition
Almost daily, I spend time helping churches look for ministers to serve in various roles. Each church and ministry position is unique. Finding the right team member is like finding a donor organ for a major organ transplant. Without the proper match, the body (the church) will reject the organ. Even ministers who seem to be a good fit for the church because they were trained in a particular seminary or have a specific family background may be a mismatch because of the unique culture of the congregation. Often, these mismatches result in a forced termination of a minister and the ensuing turmoil that follows. The Birmingham Association stands ready to assist ministers who desire to be matched in the right local church and churches looking for ministers who fit their church's culture. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:27, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." This speaks to the importance of the body of Christ working together as one for God’s glory.

Pastor Search
How does a church find the next leader for the congregation? Having served as interim pastor, transitional pastor, and coach to pastor search committees, I have identified a few principles that apply in most settings. For instance, a church "calls" a minister; they do not merely "hire" one. Many well-intended members of the search committee fail to see the vast difference between "calling" a pastor and "hiring" someone for a company job. Calling a pastor is an incredible responsibility with immeasurable theological and ecclesiological ramifications. Pastor search teams would serve the church well by seeking God’s direction and reaching out to a skilled transitional pastor for guidance during the interim.

Every pastor, in a sense, is an interim pastor. Your church should remain prepared for transitions in leadership. However, few churches are spiritually prepared to take on the challenge of finding Godly leadership. God is never surprised, but churches may be if they are suddenly tasked with seeking a new pastor. As Proverbs 16:9 says, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." Let us walk with you in your search process. You are not alone.

Church Conflict
In a conflict, you find at least three sides to a story: his side, their side, and the right side! Emotions often cloud judgment. Add to this the reality that some people are "contentious" individuals. The Apostle Paul warned against such people: "I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them" (Romans 16:17). In whatever capacity you serve in your church, you can be the person who either locks the door on unhealthy conflict or throws open the door and bids it to come in. Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). Associational leaders are often called in to help lead the church to a higher plane of peace, unity, and forgiveness during seasons of conflict.

Minister Counseling
Before I began denominational work, I already sensed a calling to be a listening ear to pastors and church staff. Many ministers have difficulty finding trusted people to discuss issues regarding church and family. Some church leaders have few close friends. Listening to pastors—most of whom are talkers—is a unique skill and a calling. I consider it a solemn privilege to provide a safe place where church leaders can sort out difficulties and receive the support they need. Where does the shepherd of God's flock turn for help? The local Association is here to serve. Proverbs 11:14 states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety."

In recent studies through the Barna group, it has been found that nearly 50% of pastors have considered leaving the ministry due to the overwhelming stress and emotional toll. This startling statistic underscores the vital need for the support and resources that the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association provides. We are here to ensure that pastors and church leaders do not have to face their challenges alone. With 180 churches, approximately 500 ministers and missionaries in our association, and 150,000 members in our churches, we have a unique platform to provide resources and make connections.

A Unified Effort
It is important to recognize that the staff at the Birmingham Metro Baptist Association is truly exceptional and prepared to help in the various tasks mentioned. I am not alone in this work; our team is dedicated to supporting our churches and leaders. With our collective experience and vantage point from serving so many churches, we are uniquely equipped to offer guidance and assistance.

Would you pray for the Birmingham Metro Association as we carry out the untold work of assisting churches and church leaders? We are here to encourage, equip, and engage biblically faithful churches in the Great Commission. The work we do to foster the health of our local churches is of utmost importance. Thank you for your generous support, which allows us to be available to the local church in critical moments. Please share with others in your churches about the resources available through the BMBA. Together, we can strengthen our congregations and further the Kingdom of God.

With sincere gratitude,
Chris Crain, D.Min.
Executive Director
Birmingham Metro Baptist Association

SOUTHERN GOSPEL TRIO “NEW GROUND” IN CONCERT

JULY 28 - 6:30 PM

FIRST BAPTIST PELHAM, Alabama--- ANNEX
2882 PELHAM PARKWAY 35124

LOVE OFFERING ONLY—make checks to “New Ground”

HOMEMADE SWEETS & ICE CREAM SERVED
HAVE YOUR EVENING MEAL BEFORE ARRIVAL, ENJOY THE MUSIC AND DESSERT AFTER

For more information, directions etc. phone 205-664-0237
Or email [email protected]
YOU ARE INVITED----BE SURE TO TELL OTHERS AND BRING A FRIEND OR TWO WITH YOU !!!!!

At this morning's quarterly executive board meeting, some of our BMBA pastors and church leaders gathered to pray over the boxes and boxes of bibles that will be given to children all over the city of Birmingham through Discovery Clubs. Please join us in praying now for the thousands of children who will hear the gospel this school year!

Happy, happy birthday to Morris Johnson, our BMBA Executive Board Moderator and Pastor of Integrity Baptist Church! We are so blessed to have you as part of our leadership at the BMBA. We pray the Lord’s greatest blessings over your life as we celebrate you today. 🎂🎁🎈🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

Courtesy of The Alabama Baptist newspaper. Visit https://tabmedia.group to subscribe.

Happy birthday, Toni Wall, BMBA Marketing Specialist!

"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."
Numbers 6:24-26

❤️

Happy birthday to Diane Cole, our BMBA Financial Ministry Assistant. We are so blessed to have Diane as part of our team. She is excellent at what she does, has the sweetest spirit and is a blessing to everyone she meets. We hope you have an awesome birthday today! We are so glad to have you on the BMBA team!

HOME | TFC 2024

The BMBA leadership is happy to lend a helping hand as Discovery Clubs celebrates the arrival of 1000 Bibles that will be provided to many unchurched children in local elementary schools this fall. Each Discovery Clubs child receives a Bible of their own to take home with them at the end of the school year. Discovery Clubs is scheduled to be in 27 elementary schools in Birmingham and the surrounding counties for the 2024-2025 school year, reaching over 1200 children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If you would like to know how you can support Discovery Clubs, please visit discoveryclubs.org or call 205-941-9852 for more information.

After more than 42 years of faithful service, Jody Baker has announced her retirement beginning January 1, 2025. Jody has left an immeasurable mark on McElwain Baptist Church, now Hope Community Church, and the East Birmingham Community. We are thrilled for Jody for achieving this milestone.

We invite the entire community to come together to celebrate and honor Jody’s many years of ministry. Current and former church members, friends, family, and neighbors are encouraged to get involved with the celebration! More information about our celebration plans can be found at www.hopebhm.org/legacy.

https://westwoodbc.net/events/westwood-arts/

Westwood Arts 2024-25 Fall Registration Open