
Issue 2010.11, June 1, 2010
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Comings, Goings, Celebrations, Concerns
- Pastor Lee Austin of New Hope Baptist Church, Bay City, has been diagnosed with a precancerous condition of the esophagus. Please be in prayer for her. [Information supplied by Prudy Bannick]
New Book for Deacons in the Black Baptist Church
Pastor, professor, and author Marvin A. McMickle takes a 21st century look at a first century ministry in his forthcoming book, Deacons in Today's Black Baptist Church (Judson Press, August 2010, $16). He explores the scriptural basis and historical context for the ministry of deacons, and considers the practical issues that bring this ministry to a crossroads today.
The book explores the following matters:
- The role and responsibilities of the deacon
- Personal qualities of a deacon candidate
- The relationship between the pastor and deacons
- Training and terms of service
- Women as deacons
McMickle also offers insights from a recent survey to determine how the work of the deacon is understood in 44 Baptist congregations across the country. This practical and insightful resource concludes with a series of profiles of deacons of various ages, from various churches, and with diverse life experiences. Through their voices and perceptions readers will gain added insight into the roles and responsibilities of Deacons in Today's Black Baptist Church.
Marvin A. McMickle, DMin, PhD, is pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Cleveland, OH, where he has served since 1987. One of the most respected preachers in the nation, he was named recipient of the 2006 Ralph Garfield Schell Presidential Award for Excellence in Ministry. In addition to his pastorate, McMickle serves as professor of homiletics at Ashland Theological Seminary. This is his ninth Judson Press book.
Unique Ministry Opportunity in Lansing Area
The Munn Ice Arena at Michigan State University has been made available to the Body of Christ.
On August 3, 4 and 5 University Baptist Church will partner with Lansing-area churches to present “Cool Livin’ – Vacation Bible School at Munn.”
During three days, churches will have the opportunity to use a 6,000-seat hockey arena for the glory of God. Activities include ice skating, 6-foot penguin costumes, games, rallies, snacks, a parents’ corner and Bible lessons.
Your congregation is welcome to join this great opportunity for outreach. Please visit www.ubcel.org, contact June Youatt @ 517-339-9150 or youatt@msu.edu for more information.
Is It Time For Your Church To “Retool”?
Retool is not a program as much as it is a pathway or journey, a two-year+ journey toward church mobilization for greater mission impact. If you’re looking for a “quick fix,” Retool is not for you. However, if you are intrigued by the idea of working together with others in your church to achieve spiritual growth, vision development, and community impact, check out the Retool Kit Pathway on the Region website.
University Baptist Church Offers Student Internship
University Baptist Church, East Lansing, is seeking a part time (12 hours per week) Campus Ministry Intern, starting in August 2010. The Intern's responsibilities include working with the Pastor and Diaconate to develop a team approach to student ministry and working as a member of the team responsible for yard care, snow removal, and night security. The full position description is available here.
It's Time to Register for Camp
Now is the time to register for camp at Lake Louise this summer. Registration has never been easier - go to www.camplakelouise.com, a few clicks, and you're ready for the best week of the summer. Call or email Ryan Madis for more information - ryan.madis@lakelouiserocks.com or 800-440-1238. There are scholarships available, based on need and "first come first served". We want everyone to have the opportunity to experience this wonderful place this summer. See you on our gorgeous beach soon.
Short Notices
- New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church, Detroit, will host A Conference for Female Clergy, August 19-20, 2010. Dr. Wilma Johnson is host pastor. The conference is sponsored by National Ministries/American Baptist Home Mission Societies. For more information click here.
- Central Area Fall Senior Adult Event will be held Tuesday, September 21, 11am -1pm, at Federated Church of Grass Lake, 519 E. Michigan Ave., Grass Lake, 517-522-4480, email: glfederated@yahoo.com, The event will be hosted by the Young At Heart Senior Adult Group of the Federated Church where the Rev. Chuck McNeil is the pastor. The program will be presented by Dr. Andy Mead, Professor of Music at University of Michigan, who will describe the origins of the pipe organ, then play a short concert on the church's pipe organ. A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall. Cost for the program and lunch will be $5.
- The most recent Friendship House Newsletter is available at http://abc-mi.org/elink/fh.pdf (PDF) or http://abc-mi.org/elink/fh.doc (DOC).
- The next issue of E-Link Online will be published on Monday, June 14, 2010. Please send news items and notices to the Editor (editor@abc-mi.org) by June 10.
Editor's Trips
Every edition of E-Link Online features links to articles the Editor has tripped over while wasting time surfing the Web. Posting of these links does not imply that either he or the American Baptist Churches of Michigan necessarily agrees with, endorses, or otherwise promotes the views expressed in them. Their value, if any, consists of whatever further thought, discussion, inquiry, discernment, fury, or occasional laugh they may provoke. Readers are welcome to send their own suggestions to the Editor.













