I have read the various letters regarding the study of a name change for the Southern Baptist Convention. We’re so tied to our “Southern” traditions that we have forgotten that we have churches in every state in the United States, as well as some in Canada. A well-meaning missionary once insisted on calling churches in a country in which we served “Southern Baptist,” although the missionaries were the only “Southern Baptists” in them. Our national Christians laughed at the idea.
As a name, “American Baptist Convention” is already taken. Because we are all over North America, I think it would be wise to consider calling it the “North American Baptist Convention.”
I’m a lifelong Southern Baptist who believes that traditions are good until they become idols. Our denomination has grown beyond its origins and includes many nationalities. We who live and serve in the South need to recognize and embrace those who have chosen to partner with us in reaching North America and the peoples of the world together.
What do you think? Click here to send a letter to the editor addressing this or another subject.