Baptist World Alliance Annual Meeting in Toronto, Canada, Addresses Justice, Peace and Global Crises

The Baptist World Alliance held its annual meeting in Toronto, Canada, under the theme “The Table of Christ: One Gospel, Many People.” Word&Way reported that the meeting brought together leaders from 65 nations, while The Baptist Paper’s coverage did not give a number. Goodfaith Media reported that Baptists from 60 countries gathered for the event. The reports differ on this count, and the sources do not explain the difference.

Word&Way said the meeting coincided with the World Cup and took place shortly after Canada was eliminated from the tournament. Attendees took part in morning worship that reflected diverse expressions of faith across cultures.

Word&Way also reported several accounts from the gathering. A Ukrainian leader described churches continuing to minister despite being targeted by drones during the Russian invasion. Pastors in India recounted the recent killing of three Baptist pastors after they attended a peace conference. In Lebanon, representatives shared their work with Syrian refugees amid ongoing bombings by Israel.

Alan Donaldson, leader of the European Baptist Federation, warned against the rise of Christian Nationalism. According to Word&Way, Donaldson described it as a form of nationalism that appropriates Christian symbols and seeks to exclude those who are different.

BWA General Secretary Elijah Brown gave the opening address. The Baptist Paper reported that Brown emphasized the need for community amid tension, fear and polarization in the world. He said the church’s response to isolation and loneliness should be to extend hands out in an invitation to the table, a call to practical hospitality (Hebrews 13:16).

The Baptist Paper also reported several leadership announcements. Brown said Stephen Stookey, director of theological education for the Baptist General Convention of Texas, had been appointed the first inaugural director of the Baptist World Alliance Program at Baylor University and its Truett Theological Seminary. Todd Still, dean of Truett Seminary, said the program’s launch followed a partnership announced and celebrated the previous year. Brown also named Ralph West, pastor of The Church Without Walls in Houston, as ambassador for preaching and multiplying congregations, and announced two Texas ministry leaders newly added to leadership roles within the BWA.

The Goodfaith Media report on the gathering was incomplete in the materials supplied and ended before describing the event’s proceedings.