In addition to a resolution of appreciation for Carlisle Driggers, who will have completed 17 years of invaluable leadership to the South Carolina Baptist Convention when he retires in February, the 1,226 registered messengers to the annual meeting Nov. 14 also approved resolutions concerning the summer reading program of Clemson University, illegal immigration, church-staff relationships and education.
Jack Wilkerson, on behalf of the Executive Committee, presents a resolution honoring Carlisle Driggers.Driggers, executive director-treasurer of the SCBC for the past 15 years, and his wife Jeanette were commended for their devotion and commitment to Southern Baptists, South Carolina Baptists and toward expanding the Kingdom of God. The resolution noted that Driggers was instrumental in the birth of the Empowering Kingdom Growth movement.
Messengers also affirmed Clemson University for offering an opt-out alternative for students who objected to an assignment in its 2006 Summer Reading Program for incoming freshman who found it morally offensive. They requested “that all other institutions of learning respect the moral sensibilities of their students to the point of always offering alternative assignments” for those that undermine Christian morals and values.
Addressing illegal immigration, messengers called upon elected officials to “agree upon comprehensive immigration reform which will recognize and protect our borders” and to deal “fairly and swiftly” with an estimated 11 million illegal immigrants. They also encouraged churches to reach out to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of all immigrants by starting English classes and by assisting them in seeking citizenship.
Citing relational issues “due to the inability to develop and maintain healthy relationships within the church” as the reason most often given for staff terminations, and expressing the desire for fellowships to maintain a “credible witness of the love and peace,” messengers committed themselves to deal with relational issues in ways that are redemptive to all involved.
Finally, messengers urged parents to stay informed concerning public policy issues related to education and “actively make their voices heard in the debate about how their children are educated.” While encouraging prayer for those who homeschool or who enroll their children in Christian schools, they also requested prayer for Christian parents, teachers and administrators who “continue to be salt and light” in public schools.
View photo gallery of 2006 SCBC Annual Meeting.
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