By Message staff
ALEXANDRIA, La. (LBM) – Louisiana Baptist state missions and ministry directors and entity heads rolled out the welcome mat for more than 19 new pastors and eight spouses, Sept. 12.
Held at the Baptist Building in Alexandria, the event featured remarks by Louisiana Baptists Executive Director Steve Horn, introductions by state ministries and entities, a tour of the building and lunch for those in attendance. The event was open to any pastor or staff member who had transitioned to the role of pastor since 2020.
“The strength of our cooperation rides on the back of the strength of our relationships,” Horn told the Baptist Message. “Central to that cooperation is the strength of our relationships with pastors. And, how can we have strength in those relationships with those with whom we haven’t even met?
“So, our ongoing vision is to start that relationship as early as possible when a new pastor arrives for his first pastorate in Louisiana,” he continued.
“The intention of this event was to open the physical front door of our convention so pastors could hear the presentations from state missions’ directors and entity leaders and also tour our facilities,” Louisiana Baptists Pastoral Ministry Team Director Ray Swift said. “The program was designed to be educational, informational, inspirational and relational.”
Michael Burkes transitioned from student pastor to senior pastor of Unity Baptist Church, DeRidder, in August 2021.
“Having that fellowship with each other is vital and important,” he said. “If we can rally together, we can accomplish so much more than if we are going at it alone.”
