Wednesday, October 22, 2014

IBSA Annual Meeting
IBSA Constitution revision needed

Messengers to the Nov. 5-6 IBSA Annual Meeting will be asked to suspend the rules of the IBSA Constitution to vote on changes to the constitution itself. The request to suspend the usual two-year process is due to the immediate need for the Baptist Children's Home and Family Services (BCHFS) to have its own bylaws in order to comply with current Illinois not-for-profit law. Read the revised documents at IBSA.org.

Find out more about the November 4-6 IBSA Annual Meeting and Pastors' Conference at IBSA.org/IBSA2014.

News from the Illinois Baptist

Revival: It starts in me, but where in me does it start?

I have often heard it said that, for each of us, revival must begin in "me," that I should draw a circle around myself and ask God to bring revival there before I can expect Him to bring it anywhere else. Read how a Veggie Tales cartoon gave Nate Adams a serious "aha" moment at IB2news.org.

6 suggestions for ministering to people with same-sex attraction

It is important for Southern Baptists to carefully analyze our attitudes and responses regarding those who struggle with homosexuality. Not just the pastor, but the church as a whole. Are your people trained to deal with this issue? Learn what your church members need to know at BPnews.net.

Get ready for Youth Encounter!

Don't miss this year's Youth Encounter with music by Flame, V-Rose, and The Never Claim, comedy from Team Word Play, illusionist Brian Drake, and evangelist Rick Gage. Bring your students to Springfield Dec. 29-30 for great music, fun, and a clear presentation of the good news about Jesus. Find out more at IBSA.org.

21 free tools and resources you should know about

A vast majority of churches use the web, but few use it well. These free resources will help your church represent the gospel through multimedia and digital media. Get these great web, social media and graphic resources at LouisianaBaptists.org.

The #1 reason for decline in church attendance

Few people will argue that church attendance in many churches in America is declining. Attendance can even decline dramatically if some members just slightly change their attendance pattern. Learn five possible approaches to turnaround at ChurchLeaders.com.

IBSA eConnection is a weekly e-newsletter designed to provide Illinois Baptists with useful information and resources. We pray it enriches your ministry and helps your church to grow and minister.