Two new office directors were elected by the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions (SBOM) during its Nov. 13 meeting at Hunter Street Baptist Church, Hoover.
Keith Hibbs, an associate in the office of worship leadership and church music, will become the office’s director Jan. 1, 2007, replacing Ray Burdeshaw, who is retiring.
Jim Swedenburg, who currently serves as the SBOM’s coordinator of annuity and insurance services, will become director of the office of Cooperative Program and stewardship development after the retirement of John MacLaren Jan. 31, 2007.
Hibbs, who joined the SBOM staff in 1982, formerly served Baptist churches in music and youth ministry.
He is a member of Bethel Baptist Church, Fort Deposit, and a graduate of Samford University in Birmingham and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky.
Swedenburg, who joined the SBOM staff in 1987, formerly served as minister of education for churches in Alabama and Georgia.
He is a member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church, Montgomery, and a graduate of Southern Seminary.
Rick Lance, the SBOM’s executive director, told the state board members that both men are well suited to lead their respective offices.
"Keith Hibbs is ‘multilingual’ when it comes to music," Lance said with a smile, noting that Hibbs can relate to the various types of worship — contemporary, traditional, blended, etc.
"We know that out in our terrain of churches there are multiple kinds of worship styles," he said. "Keith will serve all these churches well with distinction and dedication."
Lance commended Swedenburg’s service related to annuity and insurance services and noted the financial and stewardship-related dimensions of the new post.
"Jim is prepared for a newly envisioned strategic ministry for Alabama Baptists," Lance explained. "This includes Cooperative Program, stewardship development and — a new priority in the office — planned estate giving for the Cooperative Program." (SBOM)
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