Greetings!
Baptists & Roses
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Different, but still a rose
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In one of those nearly irresistible "forward this and something good will happen to you" e-mails, a neighbor sent me a lovely prayer by St. Teresa and a photo of a multicolored rose. The anonymous creator of the original message claims that the rose is not artificially treated but is bred to bloom petals of many hues. We know it's still a rose but we can also see that it is different from other roses.
If we could only help others to see Baptists differently! We spend a lot of time seeking to separate ourselves as American Baptists, Progressive Baptists, Cooperative Baptists, etc., trying to differentiate ourselves from a stereotype that defines Baptist as rigid, judgmental, self-righteous, or fearful of others.
Part of that sorting happens through study of what it means to us to be Baptist. Classic and contemporary Baptist resources can guide us as we engage in mission and ministry today, regardless of our name. We also learn from each other--through associations with other Baptists and Christian believers. In every generation, we have the opportunity to come together in new ways for ministry.
What has been your church or personal experience with being called Baptist? How have you or are you becoming a different kind of rose where you are?
Add your comments to the notes on our Facebook page, or send me an email. We look forward to hearing from you.
Laura Alden
Publisher, Judson Press
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