By Elizabeth Clarke, LCU News PINEVILLE, La. (LCU News) – Louisiana Christian University will celebrate Black History Month with a celebration of worldwide cultures, Gospel concert, and rhythm and blues nights, and a basketball tournament. “Diversity is something we embrace at Louisiana Christian University, said LCU President Rick Brewer. “We have a diverse student body and a diverse faculty and staff. We look forward to taking time this month to focus on the important contributions of African Americans to our state, nation and world.” Culture from ‘Around the World’ will kick off Black History Month, Feb. 22, 7 p.m. in the Martin Performing Arts Center. “We invite all international students to come in their native dress,” said Joshua Joy Dara, associate vice president for engagement and enrichment. “This is an opportunity to showcase and learn about the food and culture of other countries, and we will showcase the talents and gifts of these students.” LCU’s Gospel Choir will be joined by the choirs of Nazarene Baptist Church in Alexandria and Zion Hill Church in Pineville. This event will include a video presentation of black legends, Dara said. Other Black History Month events include: The fourth annual … [Read more...]

By Will Hall, Baptist Message executive editor WASHINGTON (LBM) – The Employee Retention Credit is a tax refund that is available to churches who kept employees on the payroll during the pandemic of 2020-21. Initially, eligible employers had to choose between the Paycheck Protection Program or the Employee Retention Credit. Then in 2021 Congress allowed eligible employers to apply for both. So, the two programs can be used together to maximize benefits, but they cannot be used to compensate churches twice for the same wages in any quarter of either 2020 or 2021. Importantly, the PPP was a loan that converted to a grant if certain conditions were met. However, the ERC is a refundable payroll tax credit. The Louisiana Baptist Message has compiled the following information from multiple sources, and it is provided on a general information basis only. Churches should consult with their respective accountants for specific financial advice. ELIGIBILITY The timeframe includes March 13, 2020, through December 31, 2021, if a state mandate was in effect. The following Louisiana proclamations were issued by Governor John Bel Edwards: -- On March 13, 2020, all public gatherings of 250 or more persons were … [Read more...]