South Carolina Baptists, including denominational leaders, pastors and church staff members, are expressing approval following the election of Fred Luter as the first African-American to serve as president of the Southern Baptist Convention. Some of their comments are compiled here.
Fred Luter is a gifted preacher and leader. He will be a tremendous asset to the Southern Baptist Convention in giving visionary leadership on a national level in the same manner as he has shown on a local level at his home church in New Orleans. His knowledge and experience from his time as a pastor in a diverse and multicultural city will give our denomination great insight during his time as our SBC president.
– Brad Atkins
President, SCBC
It was thrilling to be a participant in the election of Dr. Fred Luter. While he is not the first racial minority to be elected convention president (that distinction goes to Johnny Hunt, a Lumbee Indian) it is nonetheless a bright light on the path of Southern Baptist history. Dr. Luter’s election, while being historic, in no way indicates that all is well related to the issue of multiethnic ministries within our convention. We still have a long way to go, but thank God that we appear to be headed in the right direction.
– Jim Austin
Executive director-treasurer, SCBC
Dr. Fred Luter is the servant-leader we need for times like these. Hurricane Katrina destroyed much of New Orleans, and many of Dr. Luter’s congregants at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church were displaced to Houston in the aftermath. Dr. Luter led and cared for both congregations during the long recovery period. He continues that support today. He received my support because we need the kind of leader who isn’t seeking headlines but is found on the front lines. We can learn much from him.
– Sonny Holmes
Immediate past-president, SCBC
I believe the election of Fred Luter makes a positive statement about how far our denomination has come in both racial harmony and diversity. At the same time, I think it should be noted that it was not his race that qualified him for this position. What qualifies Fred Luter to be president of the SBC are his leadership abilities, Christian character, and consistent involvement in convention life over many years as a faithful pastor of a cooperating and growing Southern Baptist church.
– Fred Stone
Former SCBC president
History is being made with the election of Fred Luter as the first African-American Southern Baptist Convention president. He has always been an effective preacher of the gospel in conferences over the years. His messages have encouraged and challenged us all. His smile and excitement about the things of the Lord are contagious. Like leaders before him, he will need our prayers.
– Keith Davis
Chairman, SCBC Executive Board
The election of Fred Luter as SBC president is among the most significant decisions ever made by Southern Baptists. He is the right man at the right time. He is a missional, visionary leader. He is an incredibly gifted pastor who loves reaching people for the Lord and equipping them for their spiritual walk. He will be a great leader for our denomination and will do well in serving to advance God’s kingdom.
– Johnny Rumbough
Dir. missions, Lexington Association
I was so happy to hear about Dr. Fred Luter’s election as president of the Southern Baptist Convention – not because he is black, but because he is able and qualified. God is no respecter of persons, but if we surrender to Christ and follow God’s leading, there is no limit to where he will take us. I am also happy that God is moving in the hearts of our convention and leading us to have love for all of mankind, regardless of race, creed or color.
– Earl Lewers
Retired pastor
(Editor’s note: Lewers was the first African-American pastor to serve as moderator of a Baptist association in South Carolina.)
South Carolina Baptists also took to online social media to comment on Luter’s election:
Probably the best move the SBC could make. Luter has proven himself a man of good repute, godly leadership & SBC dedication. (Twitter)
– Evan Hill
Pastor, Hopewell, Anderson
Luter is a step in the right direction; it helps place the past behind the SBC so that we can focus on Jesus. (Twitter)
– Denver Hunter
Youth leader, New Hope, Camden
As a pastor I think it is great! He is a conservative Bible teacher. I am well pleased by the election. (Facebook)
– Bryan Fields
Pastor, First Baptist, Elloree
Beautiful – “that they all may be one.” (Facebook)
– Andrea Krigbaum
Min. music, First Baptist, Gowensville