By Baptist Message staff BATON ROUGE, La. (LBM) – Louisiana will remain in a modified version Phase 2 for at least four more weeks, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards said on Tuesday, Jan. 12. The current phase was set to expire Wednesday, but will now be extended for another 28 days. During his news conference, Edwards encouraged all employers to maximize the use of telework where possible and asked Louisianans to continue wearing masks, observe proper social distancing measures and avoid social gatherings. “It is time to buckle down,” Edwards said. “Collectively, while many individuals have been extremely careful and responsible, too many have not. And we can do a better job collectively.” Under the order that expires Feb. 10, attendance at churches will continue to be limited to 75 percent of a worship center’s seating capacity and businesses including restaurants, gyms and non-essential retailers will be limited to 50 percent capacity. A statewide mask mandate also remains in place for anyone eight years or older or with a major health condition. Social gatherings will be limited to 25 percent capacity and no more than 75 people indoors and 150 outdoors when physical distancing is not possible. … [Read more...]

By Baptist Message staff DEVILLE, La. (LBM) - A fire Saturday morning heavily damaged the worship center at Richey Baptist Church. The fire was discovered around 11 a.m., according to Pastor Grady Dodge. Fire crews from Effie and Ruby-Kolin responded to battle the blaze. No one was inside the buildings at the time. While most of the worship center was destroyed, Dodge said the steeple and a Bible located near the front doors miraculously survived. “The church is not the building but the people,” Dodge said. “Even after such a tragedy, we are even more on fire for Him. We are so proud of our community and will continue to be here for it.” Dodge said the church, which averages 150 for Sunday morning worship services, had insurance and plans to rebuild. The members hope to meet Sunday in its fellowship hall, which did not sustain significant damage. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Dodge said he is grateful for the many fire departments and especially the church’s youth who helped clean up the area after the fire was extinguished by early afternoon. “I want to give a huge thanks to all who helped,” Dodge said. “Everyone stood in prayers and we very much felt it.” … [Read more...]