SBC Executive Committee approves budget cuts and addresses church cooperation concerns

Anthony Dockery, chair of the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee, presided over the committee’s plenary session on Monday, Sept. 21, as part of their routine operations. The meeting took place in line with the Executive Committee’s “limited but essential function,” focusing on administrative and procedural matters.

During the session, SBC President Willy Rice, elected in June, addressed the committee. Rice, senior pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Clearwater, Fla., urged Southern Baptist churches to remain vigilant against the “grievous wickedness of sexual abuse.” He also announced plans to add an article on human sexuality to the Baptist Faith and Message and to emphasize evangelism in anticipation of the 2,000th anniversary of the Great Commission.

Jeff Iorg, president and CEO of the SBC Executive Committee, spoke about organizational changes. He emphasized the committee’s role as a facilitator, stating, “We are at our best at the Executive Committee when we facilitate the success of others. Our work should be done without notoriety or unnecessary controversy.” Iorg outlined efforts to align the committee’s workload with available resources and maintain focus on its core mission.

The committee’s budget reductions included measures such as reduced compensation and benefits, curtailed ministry efforts, increased fees for services, and new efficiencies. These changes were part of a broader effort to streamline operations and ensure financial responsibility.

On Tuesday, Sept. 22, the committee approved changes to the staff personnel manual and the staff retirement plan with GuideStone Financial Resources. These updates were part of ongoing efforts to refine internal processes and ensure alignment with the SBC’s strategic goals.

The Executive Committee also took action regarding The Link Church in Macon, Ga., determining that the church is no longer in friendly cooperation with the SBC. The decision was based on the church’s retention of a pastor who is deemed biblically disqualified due to actions inconsistent with the Convention’s beliefs regarding sexual abuse. Baptist Press attempted to contact the church for comment but received no response.

The committee expressed support for the SBC Pastors’ Conference, agreeing to continue examining “issues related to the Pastors’ Conference funding in the future.” This decision reflects the committee’s ongoing engagement with key aspects of SBC operations and ministry.

Source: Read the original report