Wednesday, December 31, 2014

News from the Illinois Baptist
Cuban church in spotlight after diplomatic decision

President Obama's announcement Dec. 17 that the U.S. will renew its relationship with Cuba had pundits talking about the political and economic implications. Meanwhile, many Christian leaders focused on what the decision could mean for Cuban believers.

Phil Nelson has traveled to Cuba 11 times since 2003, speaking openly about the gospel with college students and on one occasion, a university president. Read more at IB2news.org.

IBSA Student Resource Conference

Mul·ti·ply [verb]: To make many... That's God's call upon our lives.The 2015 conference will feature leaders from LifeWay, IBSA and local churches during main sessions and breakouts to better multiply disciples, leaders and groups through the student ministry of the local church. Find out more at www.IBSA.org/Students#Multiply.

What parents with young kids want their church leaders to know

Parents with young kids view church through a unique lens. People's preferences and experiences change when kids enter the picture. Read nine statements one pastor has heard numerous times from parents with young kids at ArtRainer.com.

10 things pastors don't like about pastoring

The expectations of a pastor are endless. Many members expect them to be omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent. But different pastors are wired differently. One pastor may get great fulfillment out of counseling, while another dreads every minute of it. Find out the top ten things pastors don't like about pastoring at PastorsToday.com.

31 sites to find free stock photos for your church

Finding great photos for your church's site is not an easy task. This is especially true if you're on a tight budget and can't afford a typical stock photography site like iStockphoto. However, there are some really good options out there that are free. Check out this list of 31 free photography sites at DanielGirardier.com.

2014 CP, MIO giving is deadline Jan. 6, 2015

All Cooperative Program, Mission Illinois and other gifts received in the IBSA Business Office by 9 a.m. Tuesday, January 6, 2015, will be reported in the 2014 church giving totals, published in the Illinois Baptist and the 2014 IBSA Annual. Gifts received after 9 a.m., January 6, will be credited as 2015 giving. For more information go to IBSA.org/Business.

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.