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Baptist Message

"Helping Louisiana Baptists Impact the World For Christ"

Why Christianity and politics cannot help but intertwine

By Whitney Robertson As a junior in college, I have had the opportunity to do two main things the past three years — (1) observe and (2) learn. And as a junior at one of the most conservative yet politically involved colleges in the nation, I have seen the integration of politics and Christianity on more than one occasion. Whether it was hearing from presidential candidates, senators, congressmen or the president of my university promote a political ideal, we have been soaked in it all — from the far left to the far right. What I have observed is that Christians like to separate their faith from their politics. I cannot tell you how many people complain when we have a politician come to convocation or when President Falwell references the infamous Bible passage, Matthew 22:15–22. What I have observed is the fact that, outside of my father's preaching, I can count on one hand the number of sermons these past three years I have heard on topics such as voting, a Christian’s role in government, and/or more sensitive topics like abortion, gay marriage, or immigration. What I have observed is the amount of Christians posting on Facebook about how they are tired of seeing articles or posts regarding politics filter through … [Read more...]

Leadership key to success says Curtis

By Message Staff PINEVILLE - Whether in the office building or on the battlefield, proper leadership is vital to succeeding, Louisiana National Guard Major Adjunct General Glenn Curtis told a group of businessmen and women at the First Baptist Church in Pineville. Curtis shared at the monthly First@First Business Leaders Luncheon March 5 how leadership skills influence his decisions leading more than 11,500 members serving in the Louisiana Army and Air National Guard. As Adjutant General, he is responsible for the deployment and coordination of programs, policies and plans affecting the members of the Guard. “Leadership is key no matter what you go after, whether it’s a private business or running a church or running a military operation,” Curtis told the Baptist Message before his presentation. “Inside of that, being loyal is probably the most key attribute.” Stewart Holloway, pastor of First Baptist, Pineville, was struck with the attitude of humility Curtis modeled during his presentation. “My takeaway from Major Curtis’ talk was as much from what he didn’t say as what he said,” Holloway said. “It is evident that Major Curtis is an excellent example of a humble, effective leader. We can be proud that he is … [Read more...]

Governor to host premiere of adoption documentary ahead of its online release

By Louisiana Right to Life Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards will host a Red Carpet Premiere March 6 of the short documentary adoption film “I Lived on Parker Avenue” from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge. The film is scheduled to be released online March 8 at 7 p.m. “I Lived on Parker Avenue” is a film about the life of Metairie native and current LSU law student David Scotton, who journeys to Indiana to meet his birth parents, Melissa Coles and Brian Nicholas, for the first time. The story also tells the story of David’s parents, Susan and Jimmy Scotton, who adopted David at birth. New Orleans filmmaker Philip Braun III directed the film and Louisiana Right to Life Executive Director Benjamin Clapper produced it through Joie De Vivre Media and Louisiana Right to Life. “I Lived on Parker Avenue” has been showcased at the Docuslate Film Festival by Newfilmmakers Los Angeles and has been nominated for the "Best Documentary – Short Category" award. The film was also featured on a live segment on Fox & Friends. For more information on the "I Lived on Parker Avenue," visit the film website or Facebook page. … [Read more...]