MAINSTREAM MESSENGER
Vol. 1, No. 1 April 1998
MOB Reps Attend National Conclave
by Jody Williams, Chair-Elect
As a member of the Executive Committee for Mainstream Oklahoma Baptists, it was a privilege to attend the Mainstream Gathering in Nashville, TN on March 2-3, 1998.
I am terrified of flying, but it was the only way to attend the meeting, having only two days I could use for personal business away from work. I met with 100 friends from 15 states, including AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX and VA. The meeting was organized by John Baugh, Herbert Reynolds, and Jack Glasgow. Mr. and Mrs. Baugh were our gracious hosts and we received copies of his book, The Battle for Baptist Integrity.
Oklahoma delegates included laity, church staff, and a hospice chaplain. Dr. Reynolds, Baylor University Chancellor, was moderator for our discussion sessions. We discussed the witness and work of fellow Mainstream Baptists, and ways to unite to support and enhance Baptist distinctives.
David Currie explained the development of Texas Baptists Committed. He shared copies of the TBC newsletter and volunteered to help other states develop similar organizations. Tony Woodell, part-time Director of Arkansas Baptists Committed, shared their state vision to promote traditional Baptist ideals, beliefs and freedoms.
Bob Stephenson told about the recent formation of Mainstream Oklahoma Baptists and its work to date. The Nashville meeting looks toward further networking of Mainstream Baptists everywhere.