FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA – October 21, 2021)
In conjunction with the 2021 Baptist World Alliance (BWA) Virtual General Council this week, the BWA hosted a virtual worship gathering entitled “Beyond the Headlines.” Acknowledging that Baptists around the world are facing challenges that often are not fully reported in the news, the worship gathering featured firsthand ministry updates from communities in Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Lebanon, Myanmar, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Venezuela.
“As the people of God and members of the global Baptist family, we have a shared calling to impact the world for Christ,” said Merritt Johnston, BWA Director of Communications and Media. “Listening to the stories of these faithful men and women of God encourages us, convicts us, and helps us learn how we can stand together to make a difference at this crucial time.”
The gathering featured segments focused on global ministry responses in each of the BWA’s five core ministry areas of worship, fellowship, and unity; mission and evangelism; aid, relief, and community development; religious freedom, human rights, and justice; and theological reflection and transformational leadership. In response to the significant needs around the world, Baptists worldwide were called upon to pray and to give as able.
“When you give to the BWA, your gifts are multiplied beyond the headlines,” shared BWA General Secretary Elijah Brown. “Through your prayer support and faithful giving, you are standing with the persecuted. You are helping the Gospel be shared and working to reverse war and violence around the world. Your partnership is multiplied in areas of worship, prayer, evangelism, pastoral training, aid, and justice. Together we are making a difference.”
The service concluded with a global medley of “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” – a poignant reminder of the care and compassion of God for all nations.
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