Much has been said and written concerning the Baptist Faith and Message recently. I believe it is appropriate for Baptists to be clear about what they believe, and why they believe it. I also believe it is important for us to practice what we profess.
God, in His providence, has called me into Christian child care and has allowed me the privilege and responsibility of directing the Alabama Baptist child care ministry. In this position, I believe that I have the responsibility to speak for those without a platform or a power base or any significant means of voicing their plights. So, I am attempting to speak for orphaned, needy, abused, helpless, and yes, even unborn children. These are the ones described in section 9 of the Baptist Faith and Message Statement as those for whom Baptists should provide.
Both the 1963 and the 2000 versions of the Baptist Faith and Message state that we have a commitment to these individuals. I personally like the section of the 2000 version that speaks of care for the abused and the unborn children. Whatever version you prefer, I have one question: How are you and your church caring for these individuals?
A recent study by the Casey Foundation concluded that care for children in Alabama ranked 47th in the nation. How should Alabama Baptists respond to a situation where care for children in our state is ranked near the bottom among U.S. states? If we take seriously the statement of our faith, we will not neglect providing for these individuals.
There are obviously many ways an individual or church should provide for orphaned, needy, abused, aged, helpless and/or sick children and their families. One way is to pray for the respect of, and speak on behalf of unborn children in many ways to contend for the sanctity of all human life from conception to natural death.
I realize I am biased in my response, but I cannot think of a better way for an individual or church to care for orphaned, needy, abused, helpless and unborn children in Alabama than by supporting Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries. This agency is actively involved in caring for children and families through many programs and at many service locations, but currently without the support of many churches. In fact, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries does not receive the support from the churches and the Cooperative Program that is realized by Baptist childcare ministries in other southeastern states.
My challenge to churches is that if you are serious about practicing what you proclaim, why not support Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries with prayer, budgeted giving, and/or through the Annual Children’s Homes Offering? The Children’s Homes board of trustees and staff welcome you and your church to join them in protecting, nurturing, and restoring children and families through Christ-centered services with integrity and wise stewardship of resources.
Paul Miller
Executive Director
Alabama Baptist Children’s
Homes & Family Ministries
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