SBC disability ministry emphasis would mobilize entities, conventions and churches
By Diana Chandler
A new ministry emphasis to the disabled would mobilize entities, state conventions, and the Woman’s Missionary Union in evangelizing those with special needs everywhere Southern Baptists share the Gospel.
BCM/D Executive Director Tom Stolle proposed the initiative to the SBC Executive Committee on behalf of the Disability Ministry Task Force, which he chairs. The EC voted to recommend approval of the emphasis to messengers at the 2026 Annual Meeting.
States Report Cooperative Program Increases (Including BCM/D)
By Scott Barkley (BP)
Several state conventions have reported increases in CP receipts in 2025 and in the first few months of the current fiscal year.
State conventions showing significant percentage gains (since October) include Alabama (6.93), Arkansas (26.31), Georgia (3.8), Illinois (54.76), Maryland-Delaware (6.65), Utah-Idaho (16.95) and Wyoming (7.29).
BCM/D Executive Director Tom Stolle says, “We are thankful for the generosity of churches that affiliate with us. That continued partnership is vital as we seek to push back darkness.”
Tom Stolle: 2026 is the Year of Analysis
By Tom Stolle
I’ve officially called 2026 BCM/D’s “Year of Analysis.” That may not sound exciting, but it’s important. What we’re doing this year will have a significant impact on BCM/D’s future.
Looking back, 2025 was our “Year of Systems.” Our BCM/D staff worked tirelessly to replace our core financial reporting and processing systems, payroll system, and our database—the backbone and repository of our church information. That was a major undertaking.
The Gates Church sees youth as world changers now
The Gates Church, tucked into the Armistead Gardens neighborhood of Baltimore City, is intentionally investing in children and youth — not as the future of the church, but as the present.
“We want our kids and youth to know they’re world changers now,” said Pastor Austin O’Donald.
That conviction shapes multiple ministries, including a Child Evangelism Fellowship Good News Club at a nearby public elementary school and an “Adventure Camp.”
Social media post deemed racist receives Southern Baptist response
By Brandon Porter
WASHINGTON (BP) – Southern Baptist leaders pointed to the evils of racism following a now deleted post on Pres. Trump’s social media page Friday.
“Nearly all of the 62-second clip appears to be from a conservative video alleging deliberate tampering with voting machines in battleground states as 2020 votes were tallied. At the 60-second mark is a quick scene of two jungle primates, with the Obamas’ smiling faces imposed on them.”
7 Ways to Welcome Families with Disabilities to Your Church
By Amber Stewart
You’re the pastor or a leader in a church, and your main priority is making sure that every person who steps (or rolls) inside feels welcomed and loved. Typically, showing people you’re happy they’re there involves enthusiasm, warm smiles, handshakes (or hugs), and friendly eye contact while you’re talking. If, however, you’re welcoming an individual or family affected by disability, those “rules of engagement” may not apply.