Huntsville’s Whitesburg Church to host convention meeting

This year’s get-together for Alabama Baptists will be something of a novelty.

“As far as I know, we have never had the opportunity for a presently serving president to host the convention at his church,” said Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.

Whitesburg Baptist Church, Huntsville — where state convention President Jimmy Jackson serves as pastor — will host the state convention annual meeting Nov. 17–18.

“This is most historic for us,” Lance said.

No one planned it, Jackson said with a laugh — it just happened that way.

“Our people have always been happy to host the convention in the past,” he said. “But it will definitely be a special time for me this year.”

And messengers might notice things won’t be quite as much business as usual.

The president’s address, usually during the Tuesday morning session of the annual meeting, has been moved to Tuesday night. During that time, before their pastor preaches, the youth of Whitesburg Baptist will showcase their music ministry.

“It’s a strong, dynamic ministry, ranging from stomp music to a cappella,” Jackson said. “It’s really impressive what these kids can do, and we hope it will be an encouragement to churches who may have stopped believing you can do something with youth music ministries.”

Modern hymnwriters Keith and Kristyn Getty will also lead in worship that evening.

“The Gettys appeal cross-generationally in their music. This should be a worship service extravaganza,” Lance said. “Alabama Baptists of all ages and backgrounds will enjoy this worship opportunity.”

Jerry Rankin, soon-to-retire president of the International Mission Board, will also be a featured speaker, addressing messengers in the morning time slot usually reserved for the president’s address.

Jackson said he hopes the meeting will be an encouragement to churches in the midst of tough economic times.

“This annual meeting will be an exciting time, an uplifting time,” Jackson said. “I am praying not only for spiritual revival but also for encouragement for all of us as we gather.”

For more information, visit www.alsbom.org.