Council Discusses Association Growth

SCHAUMBURG, Ill.—“Protestant churchgoers are no more loyal to their church denomination than they are to brands of toothpaste or bathroom tissue.” This startling conclusion on denominational loyalty was reported by www.greymatterresearch.com, and was the topic of interesting discussion during the November GARBC Council of Eighteen meetings. Churches of the GARBC elect the council to serve the association, expanding  its work and implementing its actions and policies.While the association does not view itself as a denomination, the statistics remain of interest as it pursues a strategy of growth. During the meetings, the Council of Eighteen identified key areas for fostering recruitment of existing churches into the association, with plans led by the association growth committee chaired by Pastor Jon Jenks. The council has also implemented a church planting committee, chaired by Rev. David Little. John Greening, GARBC national representative, and Pastor Ken Spink, chairman of the conference committee, reported that the theme of the June 2011 GARBC Conference is “Destined to Multiply,” with the program focusing on church multiplication. Plans are well under way for the spiritually rich conference to be held June 27–July 1, in Denver, Colo.; more information is available at www.GARBCConference.org. Led by chair Bernie Augsburger, the council engaged in the reporting of the GARBC administrative team: Jim Vogel, associate national representative; Alex Bauman, director of RBP; Chris Hindal, director of international ministries; and Michael Nolan; director of business administration and Baptist Builders Club. In addition, Pastor Bob Sauser reported for the chaplaincy committee in lieu of John Murdoch. John Greening presented a “20/20 Vision,” a focus in which a council team and the administrative staff will craft a master plan for association ministries for the decade ahead. John praised the council for their active participation and work in their respective committees and expressed gratitude to the Lord for His continued financial provision. Though each ministry of the GARBC faces significant financial challenges, the Lord has enabled the council and administrative team to manage resources so that the ministries remain financially viable. In looking ahead to the next decade of  GARBC ministries, John concluded his report to the council by urging, “Together we can sharpen our focus!”