VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS – 7/17/09)—With the theme of “These Hands, These Feet,” American Baptists gathered by the hundreds in Pasadena, CA, during the last weekend of June to hear and experience ways they have been, currently are, and soon will be, the instruments of God’s work on Earth.
For American Baptist International Ministries (IM), the time was spent connecting missionaries to attendees, showcasing new material and sharing the experiences of mission with the denomination.On Saturday, June 27th, IM executive director Reid Trulson shared with Biennial delegates and participants the IM Board report, in which he reminded those present of the rich history and continuing mission of the organization.
“Since 1814,” Trulson said, “we American Baptists have understood that our core purpose is Christ’s commission to make disciples of all nations. That means helping people in Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas to come to faith in Jesus, to grow in that relationship and to change their world with Christ.”
He also introduced a new video, IM Overview: Connecting with Churches, Strengthening Mission, an 8-minute feature that will be included in churches’ WMO packets, and will be available from Judson Press after July 15th. To order, call 1-800-4JUDSON or visit www.judsonpress.com.
Trulson then spoke briefly at the Sunday morning worship service, where the emphasis was on Mission Partnership Teams. He particularly noted the impact MPTs are having by strengthening local churches and enriching church members through personal interaction with field missionaries.
Another new video was introduced, A Partnership Story: One Congregation, One Missionary, a 3-minute piece that will also be sent with WMO packets and will be available from Judson Press.
Perhaps the best opportunity for Biennial attendees to experience mission was at the IM exhibit in the Mission Fair. Individuals were able to have one-on-one conversations with over 20 IM missionaries who serve around the world. This was one of the most popular areas for attendees and allowed for informal, personal time to chat with those serving in foreign missions…something most American Baptists rarely get to do.
The American Baptist Churches Biennial Meeting is a national event held every two years for the purposes of electing officers, voting on bylaws and celebrating the denomination’s work and legacy.
American Baptist Churches is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with 5,500 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.