EDITOR’S NOTE — Ireland-Godfrey ALCAP Sunday is Nov. 12.
This year, ALCAP Sunday has a new name — Ireland-Godfrey ALCAP Sunday — in honor of two past leaders of the organization known as “Alabama’s moral advocate.”
Greg Davis, president and CEO of Alabama Citizens Action Program since May 2022, said the annual prayer and giving emphasis provides an opportunity to remind Alabama Baptists that their voices matter in Montgomery.
“Unfortunately, the idea of being active in the public square and particularly in politics has become unpopular with many, and as a result we have seen a slide away from biblical morality and citizenship,” Davis said.
“I don’t think you can separate morality from the Bible. You cannot separate the Bible from the church, and you cannot separate the church from the gospel. These are all related.”
Recognizing the impact
Chris Crain, executive director of Birmingham Metro Baptist Association and chair of the ALCAP board, said the new name recognizes the impact Davis’ immediate predecessors, Joe Godfrey and Dan Ireland, had in the state.
“Both men exemplify the very essence of ALCAP — a strong stand for biblical ethics in Alabama politics,” Crain said. “Throughout their tenures with ALCAP, both Dr. Ireland and Dr. Godfrey advocated for the principles of righteousness and truth within our state.
“They provided Bible-believing churches with a voice to champion these values at the state house, ensuring that our biblical worldview remained at the forefront.
“Their dedication to protecting religious liberties and freedom for all Alabamians was unrelenting,” Crain added. “The decision to rename the day is a tribute to Dr. Ireland and Dr. Godfrey, celebrating their lifelong commitment to our cause. It is our way of ensuring that their legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of Alabama Baptists and all of those who share our mission.”
Godfrey served 15 years at the helm of ALCAP, from June 2008 through April 2022. Ireland served 30 years, from 1978 until his retirement in 2008.
Ireland, who died Dec. 24, 2019, was known nationally for his fight against gambling and alcohol. Godfrey continued Ireland’s mission, lobbying against expansion of gambling and alcohol while also facing legislative efforts dealing with abortion, same-sex marriage, pornography, medical marijuana and transgender issues, among others.
“Dr. Ireland passed away in 2019, but his influence carries on all across Alabama,” Davis said. “Everywhere I go, people remember Dan Ireland. His shadow of influence is very long, and I am very grateful for him and his wife, Mrs. Polly.
“Likewise, Dr. Godfrey has been a tremendous supporter for me as I have started in this new role and has remained active as a consultant with ALCAP and also continues speaking out on issues.
“I shudder to think how different our state would be without these two men and ALCAP.”
Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, echoed Davis’ praise.
“Dan Ireland and Joe Godfrey were stellar leaders during their lengthy tenures,” Lance said. “They led us during some challenging times dealing with moral and ethical issues.
“Alabama Baptists can be confident that ALCAP will be on the frontlines of the debate concerning these issues which are important to us,” Lance said.
Godfrey said he is honored Davis and the ALCAP board has chosen to recognize the service he and Ireland provided to Alabama Baptists during their tenures.
“I hope every church in Alabama will take time on Nov. 12 to pray for the ALCAP ministry, Greg Davis and the entire staff,” he said. “As always, I am grateful to all the churches and individuals who support ALCAP with their prayers and financial contributions.”
Ways to help
Davis said there are many ways churches can recognize Ireland-Godfrey ALCAP Sunday.
Pastors can remind members of their congregations that it is important for Christian citizens to be engaged and involved in the political sphere. The day might include a time of prayer for their local legislators and ALCAP leaders.
In addition, a church could receive an offering, encouraging individuals to make a personal donation in support of ALCAP.
“As a 501(c)(4) organization, the work we do on behalf of our churches is totally dependent on those churches supporting the organization,” Davis said. “While ALCAP does receive a portion of its budget from Cooperative Program funds, most of the budget is provided by local chuches all across the state.”
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