A quote from a news item of Dr. Page's talk at the Small Church Leadership Conference.
In a time when attendance at SBC mega churches is declining and few seminary students are looking to pastor traditional churches, “the future of the Southern Baptist Convention is the small church,” Page said. A major demographic shift is that people want “small, relationally-driven fellowships” – which means a future of more small churches.
Page called for the “increased vocalization of the small church and pastor.” “You need to speak up,” he said. “It’s time that you not only speak up, it’s time that you stand up.”
Page challenged small church pastors to let go of their inferior complex and understand they have just as much right to be heard as any other pastor. Though the unwritten rule seems to be that “big people” get elected to big positions, this does not have to be true. “Why don’t you nominate someone in this room?” Page asked. “It’s time to have a small church pastor as president of the SBC.”
Amen!
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9 comments:
Insert Fred Sanford quote here. Fred clutches his chest suddenly and says, "It's the big one Edith. I'm coming home to see you soon honey."
I listened to his message on the website--great stuff.
David,
I had the same reaction when I heard it live. I never thought I would hear a SBC President be so encouraging to small church pastors.
Kevin,
As Dr. Page was talking you could have heard the proverbial pin drop. Gripping stuff.
Les
So, think he'll vote for Dr. Bill Wagner?
Rev,
I think his statement was more of encouraging the attendees to perhaps run for president in the future.
Les
Les,
I too was excited to hear what Frank talked about - like many in the audience I almost dropped to the floor when he made those comments. I am surprised that BP has not picked up on it yet. I will ask Micah to forward the talk to the MBC Pathway editor and see what happens with that.
Again, thanks so much for the effort of both yourself and your church. We could not have hopped for a better conference. I pray that you are getting your much needed rest this week - and by the way you look much more comfortable in your polo shirt!
Rob
One other thing Les - are you willing to allow YOUR name to enter the nomination?
Rob
Rob,
LOL! You're a funny guy.
Les
The problem I see is not that small church pastors won't run (this is a problem, but not the main one, in my mind).
It is name recognition...seriously, how many people knew who William Wagner was before his announcement? How many people not glued to BP and the blogs know who he is now?
The test will be if a viable (whatever that means!) small church pastor is nominated, even for a vice president, AND gets elected over "the name candidate"...
Andrew H.
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