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On Black History Month - The Matter of Race
February 7, 2011
Washington (BWA)--"Marcus Garvey is, without doubt," American integrationist W. E. Du Bois once asserted, "the most dangerous enemy of the Negro race in America and the world." Whatever interpretation one makes of his life and work, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, that great Jamaican national hero and architect of the Back to Africa movement, spoke and wrote credibly on the issue of race and much of what he had to say is well worth remembering. According to Garvey, "God and nature first made us what we are, and then out of our own created genius we make ourselves what we want to be. Follow always that great law. Let the sky and God be our limit and eternity our measurement." Not one to accept that any race should live in subjection to another, Garvey declared that "white men should be white, yellow men should be yellow, and black men should be black in the great panorama of races." This, he argued, is the only way that human beings will "compel the respect and appreciation of all, and so make it possible for each one to stretch out the hand of welcome without being able to be prejudiced against." Christians affirm God as the creator of the universe. The species called homo sapiens is the work of God's hands. Human beings have developed social constructs that have been used to classify these humans and one of these constructs is race. It is important to note, however, that perceptions of human beings in racial terms are extremely susceptible to prejudice. Not surprisingly, in 1998, the Executive Board of the American Anthropological Association adopted a Statement on Race in which they affirmed: "With the vast expansion of scientific knowledge in this century ... it has become clear that human populations are not unambiguous, clearly demarcated, biologically distinct groups... Given what we know about the capacity of normal humans to achieve and function within any culture, we conclude that present-day inequalities between so-called 'racial' groups are not consequences of their biological inheritance but products of historical and contemporary social, economic, educational, and political circumstances... Historical research has shown that the idea of 'race' has always carried more meanings than mere physical differences; indeed, physical variations in the human species have no meaning except the social ones that humans put on them." Over the years, the Baptist World Alliance has had much more to say about racism than about the idea of race itself. Are we able to agree with the oft-repeated claim that was affirmed, for example, at the Baptist World Congress in Los Angeles, California, USA, in 1985? The BWA explained that "racism and the Christian Gospel are incompatible. We ground this conviction biblically in the doctrine of creation whereby every human person is given dignity as made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and in the doctrine of redemption whereby we proclaim salvation in Christ, crucified and risen, for people of all races and colors (Colossians 3:11), and the ... purpose of God to unite all creation in him (Ephesians 1 and 2)." People of any and every race do well not to forget Marcus Garvey's dictum made in the context of an awareness of multiple racial classifications among humankind: "If you have no confidence in self, you are twice defeated in the race of life." |
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BWA calls for concessions in Egypt
February 4, 2011
Washington (BWA)--Leaders of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) are lamenting the continuing unrest in Egypt and are calling on all parties to the conflict for restraint and a cooperative spirit in resolving this crisis. They are calling upon the Egyptian political, religious and civic leaders to make the concessions needed to spark the process leading to a peaceful resolution.
"As part of the Christian family, the BWA is unswerving in its commitment in the cause of human rights and freedom," BWA General Secretary Neville Callam said. "Therefore, we stand in solidarity with those who employ peaceful means to secure respect for these basic human ideals" he said. "As we face mounting uncertainty in Egypt, I join with the European Baptist Federation and Mounir Yacoub, vice president of the Egyptian Baptist Convention, in requesting prayers of Christians around the world.
On January 25, tens of thousands of persons initiated street demonstrations, marches and rallies in Cairo and other cities in Egypt. These followed similar demonstrations that began in Tunisia in December 2010, and have since spread to Yemen in late January.
The demonstrators in all three nations have demanded the resignation of their countries' presidents. Under pressure, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali of Tunisia has since resigned, unlike Hosni Mubarak of Egypt and Ali Abdullah Saleh of Yemen.
Botros Faltaos, president of the Bible Baptist Denomination, which is based in Alexandria, Egypt's second largest city, informed the BWA that "some Baptist churches in Egypt have been closed since January 25 because of what has been happening. The people and pastors," he said, "are very worried because there is no protection from the government because the government is trying to protect itself."
Faltaos is asking for prayers for a peaceful transition of power to a government "that will help all citizens" and that "will respect people's right to their religious beliefs."
Nabeeh Abassi, former president of the Jordan Baptist Convention, related news "from an evangelical friend in Egypt." The letter to Abassi states that both Christians and Muslims participated in the demonstrations that began on January 25, where large crowds "gathered in Tahrir Square to spark what is now called 'Anger Friday.'
Abassi's source appealed for prayers for Egypt. "We do beg for your continued prayers that God will show mercy on Egypt and grant us stability and peace. There are many safety concerns and there is the possibility that Islamic groups could use this opportunity to establish an Islamic state." But he claimed that "there have been good things that have already resulted from this. There is an unbelievable sense of community among people, regardless of religion."
Travel has been severely curtailed. Hanna Massad, pastor for the Gaza Baptist Church in Palestine, reported that planned travels from Amman, Jordan, back to Gaza, have been disrupted due to the unrest in Egypt. "I got my flight ticket to go to Gaza ...through Cairo, Egypt, but I am not able to travel at this time. The border between Egypt and Gaza has been closed for the last several days because of the problems in Egypt," Hassad reported in an email to the BWA.
"We urge the protesters to ensure that their protest is based on the principle of nonviolence and we expect the Egyptian government to take the necessary, peaceful steps to end the conflict," Callam said. "We expect no less from a country with as long and proud a history as Egypt, which has contributed so much to the cultural heritage of humankind."
Washington (BWA)--Leaders of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) are lamenting the continuing unrest in Egypt and are calling on all parties to the conflict for restraint and a cooperative spirit in resolving this crisis. They are calling upon the Egyptian political, religious and civic leaders to make the concessions needed to spark the process leading to a peaceful resolution.
"As part of the Christian family, the BWA is unswerving in its commitment in the cause of human rights and freedom," BWA General Secretary Neville Callam said. "Therefore, we stand in solidarity with those who employ peaceful means to secure respect for these basic human ideals" he said. "As we face mounting uncertainty in Egypt, I join with the European Baptist Federation and Mounir Yacoub, vice president of the Egyptian Baptist Convention, in requesting prayers of Christians around the world.
On January 25, tens of thousands of persons initiated street demonstrations, marches and rallies in Cairo and other cities in Egypt. These followed similar demonstrations that began in Tunisia in December 2010, and have since spread to Yemen in late January.
The demonstrators in all three nations have demanded the resignation of their countries' presidents. Under pressure, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali of Tunisia has since resigned, unlike Hosni Mubarak of Egypt and Ali Abdullah Saleh of Yemen.
Botros Faltaos, president of the Bible Baptist Denomination, which is based in Alexandria, Egypt's second largest city, informed the BWA that "some Baptist churches in Egypt have been closed since January 25 because of what has been happening. The people and pastors," he said, "are very worried because there is no protection from the government because the government is trying to protect itself."
Faltaos is asking for prayers for a peaceful transition of power to a government "that will help all citizens" and that "will respect people's right to their religious beliefs."
Nabeeh Abassi, former president of the Jordan Baptist Convention, related news "from an evangelical friend in Egypt." The letter to Abassi states that both Christians and Muslims participated in the demonstrations that began on January 25, where large crowds "gathered in Tahrir Square to spark what is now called 'Anger Friday.'
Abassi's source appealed for prayers for Egypt. "We do beg for your continued prayers that God will show mercy on Egypt and grant us stability and peace. There are many safety concerns and there is the possibility that Islamic groups could use this opportunity to establish an Islamic state." But he claimed that "there have been good things that have already resulted from this. There is an unbelievable sense of community among people, regardless of religion."
Travel has been severely curtailed. Hanna Massad, pastor for the Gaza Baptist Church in Palestine, reported that planned travels from Amman, Jordan, back to Gaza, have been disrupted due to the unrest in Egypt. "I got my flight ticket to go to Gaza ...through Cairo, Egypt, but I am not able to travel at this time. The border between Egypt and Gaza has been closed for the last several days because of the problems in Egypt," Hassad reported in an email to the BWA.
"We urge the protesters to ensure that their protest is based on the principle of nonviolence and we expect the Egyptian government to take the necessary, peaceful steps to end the conflict," Callam said. "We expect no less from a country with as long and proud a history as Egypt, which has contributed so much to the cultural heritage of humankind."
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BWA elected to board of United Nations body
Washington (BWA)--The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) has been elected to the new board of the Conference of NGOs in Consultative Relationship with the United Nations (CoNGO).
CoNGO, formed in 1948, is an independent, international, nonprofit association of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Its mission is to facilitate the participation of NGOs in United Nations debates and decision making, and assists a wide variety of NGOs that are in consultative status with the UN.
The BWA, which has held consultative status with the UN since 1974, and has been a member of CoNGO for years, was one of 20 international NGOs elected to the new board's three-year term.
The organization fosters cooperation and dialogue among all NGOs and with groupings of NGOs related to the UN system; works on behalf of NGOs to develop and enhance their relationship and cooperation with the UN and its various organs; and provides a forum for NGOs with common interests to come together to study, plan, support and act on issues relating to the principles and programs of the UN and its network of agencies.
CoNGO, an active grassroots civil society organization within the UN system, plays an important role in the struggle to make more room for the presence and consideration of the interests of civil society in the UN decision making processes.
The election of the BWA to CoNGO's board enhances the presence of the BWA in the UN system, placing the BWA in a strategic position to promote its human rights concerns in collaboration with other representatives of the international community.
The elections were held during the 24th General Assembly of CoNGO in New York, which took place from January 17-19. BWA Director of Freedom and Justice Raimundo Barreto and Luiz Nascimento, BWA's representative at the UN in New York, attended the meetings.
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Confronting the scourge of cancer
February 2, 2011
Washington (BWA)--World Cancer Day is marked on February 4, supported by the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and other international organizations in order to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its detection, treatment, and prevention.
The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) is consistent in its commitment to working for improved health. Specific resolutions were produced at many of BWA's various meetings, including 1982 in Nairobi, Kenya; 1994 in Uppsala, Sweden; 1998 in Durban, South Africa; 2003 in Swanwick, England; and 2010 in Honolulu, Hawai'i. By these resolutions, the BWA encourages Baptists to work for access to health education and health care for all people.
In addition, the BWA, through Baptist World Aid, has donated funds on a regular basis for health promotion, education, prevention and treatment.
In 2000, major health organizations convened the World Summit Against Cancer of the New Millennium in Paris, France. The summit's concluding Charter of Paris outlined 10 articles calling for an "invincible alliance...between researchers, healthcare professionals, patients, government, industry and media," to fight cancer. The Charter of Paris endorsers chose February 4 as an annual awareness day.
Each year, more than 12 million people worldwide receive a cancer diagnosis and 7.6 million die of the disease. The World Health Organization estimates that by the year 2020, there may be as many as 20 million new cases of cancer each year. Seventy percent of these patients will live in countries that between them will have less than five percent of the resources for cancer control.
The Charter of Paris warns that cancer will continue to become an increasingly important contributor to the global burden of disease, despite the fact that many cancers are preventable through control of tobacco use, diet, infection and pollution. It is estimated, for instance, that infections - many potentially preventable - cause 15 percent of cancers worldwide and 22 percent of cancers in the developing world.
World Cancer Day is meant to encourage public policies that support the fight against cancer and urge prevention measures that can stem the rising tide of the disease by implementing tobacco control, diet modification, infection control and environmental protection.
Among the determinations outlined by the Charter of Paris is the discrepancy between survival outcomes among the various places of the world. These discrepancies are noted not just between countries, but even between health institutions in the same cities. Wide variations in care - both access to care and standards of care - are considered a major cause of concern.
The parties endorsing the Charter of Paris affirmed that every individual has the right to a standard of living adequate for "the health and well-being of himself and his family, including...medical care." The parties then committed to promote quality cancer care for all, whether that should be education, prevention, treatment, or end of life care with dignity.
Already, a number of BWA member bodies and other Baptist institutions are committed to the prevention and treatment of cancer and other diseases, and the care of those who are terminally affected. We affirm these efforts, even as we lift them up as examples for all Baptists everywhere. It is also our hope that Baptists will set good examples by adopting lifestyle choices that will minimize, or perhaps, even prevent, the scourge of cancer.
Washington (BWA)--World Cancer Day is marked on February 4, supported by the World Health Organization, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and other international organizations in order to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its detection, treatment, and prevention.
The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) is consistent in its commitment to working for improved health. Specific resolutions were produced at many of BWA's various meetings, including 1982 in Nairobi, Kenya; 1994 in Uppsala, Sweden; 1998 in Durban, South Africa; 2003 in Swanwick, England; and 2010 in Honolulu, Hawai'i. By these resolutions, the BWA encourages Baptists to work for access to health education and health care for all people.
In addition, the BWA, through Baptist World Aid, has donated funds on a regular basis for health promotion, education, prevention and treatment.
In 2000, major health organizations convened the World Summit Against Cancer of the New Millennium in Paris, France. The summit's concluding Charter of Paris outlined 10 articles calling for an "invincible alliance...between researchers, healthcare professionals, patients, government, industry and media," to fight cancer. The Charter of Paris endorsers chose February 4 as an annual awareness day.
Each year, more than 12 million people worldwide receive a cancer diagnosis and 7.6 million die of the disease. The World Health Organization estimates that by the year 2020, there may be as many as 20 million new cases of cancer each year. Seventy percent of these patients will live in countries that between them will have less than five percent of the resources for cancer control.
The Charter of Paris warns that cancer will continue to become an increasingly important contributor to the global burden of disease, despite the fact that many cancers are preventable through control of tobacco use, diet, infection and pollution. It is estimated, for instance, that infections - many potentially preventable - cause 15 percent of cancers worldwide and 22 percent of cancers in the developing world.
World Cancer Day is meant to encourage public policies that support the fight against cancer and urge prevention measures that can stem the rising tide of the disease by implementing tobacco control, diet modification, infection control and environmental protection.
Among the determinations outlined by the Charter of Paris is the discrepancy between survival outcomes among the various places of the world. These discrepancies are noted not just between countries, but even between health institutions in the same cities. Wide variations in care - both access to care and standards of care - are considered a major cause of concern.
The parties endorsing the Charter of Paris affirmed that every individual has the right to a standard of living adequate for "the health and well-being of himself and his family, including...medical care." The parties then committed to promote quality cancer care for all, whether that should be education, prevention, treatment, or end of life care with dignity.
Already, a number of BWA member bodies and other Baptist institutions are committed to the prevention and treatment of cancer and other diseases, and the care of those who are terminally affected. We affirm these efforts, even as we lift them up as examples for all Baptists everywhere. It is also our hope that Baptists will set good examples by adopting lifestyle choices that will minimize, or perhaps, even prevent, the scourge of cancer.
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International Holocaust Remembrance Day - Rejecting Anti-Semitism
January 25, 2011
Washington (BWA)--January 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, so designated by the United Nations (UN) by Resolution 60/7, passed by the General Assembly in 2005.
The resolution warns against "the dangers of hatred, bigotry, racism and prejudice." It urges UN Member States "to develop educational programs that will inculcate future generations with the lessons of the Holocaust in order to help to prevent future acts of genocide," and "rejects any denial of the Holocaust as an historical event, either in full or part."
The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) also rejects all types and forms of anti-Semitism, and calls on Baptists everywhere to reject anti-Semitic ideas and actions and all forms of racial and ethnic discrimination and to work to eradicate anti-Semitism and racism wherever they are found.
In 1934, BWA member organizations met in Germany as Hitler was consolidating his power. There, the BWA issued a prophetic appeal against "racialism," despite the appeal's apparent challenge to a suppressive and threatening Nazism. In 1947, the Seventh Baptist World Congress met in Copenhagen, Denmark, and passed resolutions denouncing race extermination and anti-Semitism and appealed to the nations to open their doors to Jewish refugees.
The observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day marks the date in 1945 when the largest Nazi death camp in Poland (Auschwitz-Berkenau) was liberated by Soviet troops and the extent of the genocide committed during World War II began to be widely known. At least 18 governments had already designated January 27 as Holocaust Memorial Day when the UN took this action in 2005.
It is estimated that Nazis systematically murdered six million Jews (two thirds the population of Jews in Europe at the time); half a million Romanies (also known as "Gypsies"); and a quarter of a million mentally ill or handicapped persons; in addition to Africans, Asians, thousands of Christian ministers, and persons killed because they were homosexual or political and religious dissidents.
Today, watch groups that report anti-Semitism allege that incidents are on the rise in several countries. Holocaust "deniers" persist in claims that historical events were fabricated.
Meanwhile, the number of ethnic groups that are displaced or persecuted are growing. These include Myanmar refugees on the Thailand border and several groups that are internally displaced in some African nations. Further, the Romani people still face harassment, violence, and economic and educational discrimination, as do Muslims, Jews, and Christians, and those of other religious persuasions, wherever a majority practice prejudice against minorities.
Resolution 60/7 calls for Holocaust Remembrance Week, established as part of the Outreach Division of the UN Department of Public Information. UN Secretary General Ban-Ki Moon, on one such observance said, "We must also go beyond remembrance, and make sure that new generations know this history. We must apply the lessons of the Holocaust to today's world."
The Baptist World Alliance Division of Freedom and Justice tirelessly exercises the BWA's NGO special consultative status before the UN as the voice of Baptists against hate and discrimination, and works for human rights for all people, regardless of race or religion. A BWA decade emphasizing a Christian call for racial equality was completed in 2010.
Washington (BWA)--January 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, so designated by the United Nations (UN) by Resolution 60/7, passed by the General Assembly in 2005.
The resolution warns against "the dangers of hatred, bigotry, racism and prejudice." It urges UN Member States "to develop educational programs that will inculcate future generations with the lessons of the Holocaust in order to help to prevent future acts of genocide," and "rejects any denial of the Holocaust as an historical event, either in full or part."
The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) also rejects all types and forms of anti-Semitism, and calls on Baptists everywhere to reject anti-Semitic ideas and actions and all forms of racial and ethnic discrimination and to work to eradicate anti-Semitism and racism wherever they are found.
In 1934, BWA member organizations met in Germany as Hitler was consolidating his power. There, the BWA issued a prophetic appeal against "racialism," despite the appeal's apparent challenge to a suppressive and threatening Nazism. In 1947, the Seventh Baptist World Congress met in Copenhagen, Denmark, and passed resolutions denouncing race extermination and anti-Semitism and appealed to the nations to open their doors to Jewish refugees.
The observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day marks the date in 1945 when the largest Nazi death camp in Poland (Auschwitz-Berkenau) was liberated by Soviet troops and the extent of the genocide committed during World War II began to be widely known. At least 18 governments had already designated January 27 as Holocaust Memorial Day when the UN took this action in 2005.
It is estimated that Nazis systematically murdered six million Jews (two thirds the population of Jews in Europe at the time); half a million Romanies (also known as "Gypsies"); and a quarter of a million mentally ill or handicapped persons; in addition to Africans, Asians, thousands of Christian ministers, and persons killed because they were homosexual or political and religious dissidents.
Today, watch groups that report anti-Semitism allege that incidents are on the rise in several countries. Holocaust "deniers" persist in claims that historical events were fabricated.
Meanwhile, the number of ethnic groups that are displaced or persecuted are growing. These include Myanmar refugees on the Thailand border and several groups that are internally displaced in some African nations. Further, the Romani people still face harassment, violence, and economic and educational discrimination, as do Muslims, Jews, and Christians, and those of other religious persuasions, wherever a majority practice prejudice against minorities.
Resolution 60/7 calls for Holocaust Remembrance Week, established as part of the Outreach Division of the UN Department of Public Information. UN Secretary General Ban-Ki Moon, on one such observance said, "We must also go beyond remembrance, and make sure that new generations know this history. We must apply the lessons of the Holocaust to today's world."
The Baptist World Alliance Division of Freedom and Justice tirelessly exercises the BWA's NGO special consultative status before the UN as the voice of Baptists against hate and discrimination, and works for human rights for all people, regardless of race or religion. A BWA decade emphasizing a Christian call for racial equality was completed in 2010.
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Attack on Baptist pastor leads to riots
January 19, 2011
Washington (BWA)--At least 10 people are dead, approximately 2,000 houses burned, and an estimated 50,000 people displaced following clashes between two tribes in the North East Indian states of Assam and Meghalaya.
Baptists have mobilized resources to assist the displaced and those otherwise affected.
The disturbances between the Garo and Rabha tribes began on January 1 following an alleged attack on a Garo Baptist pastor in Meghalaya who was returning from a family wedding earlier on December 22. "Many villages have been torched and people left homeless," reported Wanne Garrey of the Garo Baptist Convention. Church leaders, she said, were "trying their best to calm down the situation."
The incidents occurred in the East Garo Hills region of Meghalaya and the Goalpara district of Assam, both bordering each other. The region has a large Baptist population. Much of Northeast India, including the states of Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur, has significant concentrations of Baptist Christians.
"The Garo Baptist Convention has started its relief work," Garrey reported. "It is very sad and many are still living in temporary relief camps in pathetic condition though some have returned home. Healing will take time as many have lost their property."
The area was placed under heavy curfew for several days. Even though the curfew has since been lifted, the banning of the assembly of more than five persons will continue to be in force.
Shambu Singh, a government official, reportedly claimed that the ethnic clashes between the two warring tribes were "very well planned and there may be some organizations behind it."
Two peace committees consisting of persons drawn from the affected areas in both states have been constituted. The committees have district officials, religious leaders and civil society groups from both the warring tribes as members.
Washington (BWA)--At least 10 people are dead, approximately 2,000 houses burned, and an estimated 50,000 people displaced following clashes between two tribes in the North East Indian states of Assam and Meghalaya.
Baptists have mobilized resources to assist the displaced and those otherwise affected.
The disturbances between the Garo and Rabha tribes began on January 1 following an alleged attack on a Garo Baptist pastor in Meghalaya who was returning from a family wedding earlier on December 22. "Many villages have been torched and people left homeless," reported Wanne Garrey of the Garo Baptist Convention. Church leaders, she said, were "trying their best to calm down the situation."
The incidents occurred in the East Garo Hills region of Meghalaya and the Goalpara district of Assam, both bordering each other. The region has a large Baptist population. Much of Northeast India, including the states of Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur, has significant concentrations of Baptist Christians.
"The Garo Baptist Convention has started its relief work," Garrey reported. "It is very sad and many are still living in temporary relief camps in pathetic condition though some have returned home. Healing will take time as many have lost their property."
The area was placed under heavy curfew for several days. Even though the curfew has since been lifted, the banning of the assembly of more than five persons will continue to be in force.
Shambu Singh, a government official, reportedly claimed that the ethnic clashes between the two warring tribes were "very well planned and there may be some organizations behind it."
Two peace committees consisting of persons drawn from the affected areas in both states have been constituted. The committees have district officials, religious leaders and civil society groups from both the warring tribes as members.
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Baptists respond to Australian and Brazilian floods
January 14, 2011
For Immediate Release
Baptists respond to Australian and Brazilian floods
Washington (BWA)--The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) is encouraging Baptists in Australia and Brazil as they grapple with the after-effects of severe flooding that devastated parts of their countries.
BWA General Secretary Neville Callam said "the Baptist World Alliance is saddened by the loss of life and the dislocations that have occurred in both Australia and Brazil. We are heartened that our Baptist brothers and sisters in these countries are rising to the challenge to offer prayer and material support to those who have suffered."
A series of floods caused from record rainfalls and a compromised dam have affected the Australian state of Queensland since December 2010. The deluge resulted in severe damage in about 70 towns, including the capital, Brisbane, the deaths of at least 30 citizens, and the evacuation of thousands.
Baptist Union of Queensland General Superintendent David Loder indicated that maintaining contact in the affected areas proved difficult because of "phone outages and phone congestion."
At the time of reporting, there was news from only 15 percent of the Baptist churches, or about 35 congregations, that are in the disaster zone in Queensland. Loder declared that this "nowhere near represents the story of the tragic events that have been experienced by people in these communities."
Of the churches from which reports were gleaned, only a few experienced minor damage. "We thank the Lord that, as far as we know, there has been no loss of life in our Baptist family," Loder said. He stated, however, that "many church people will have been evacuated, isolated and suffered property loss and damage."
The Baptist Union of Australia, Queensland Baptists, and the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, one of six regional fellowships of the BWA, have appealed to their constituencies for donations and funds to assist victims of the flooding.
In Brazil, flooding in the mountainous regions of the state of Rio de Janeiro beginning on January 11 led to massive mudslides and the deaths of more than 500 persons, mainly in the cities of Teresópolis, Nova Friburgo, Petrópolis and Sumidouro.
The Brazilian Baptist Convention through its Social Action Department, the Home Mission Board, and the Baptist Convention of Fluminense, is mobilizing and garnering support for people who were left homeless as a result of torrential rains in Rio de Janeiro. Appeals have been sent to Brazilian Baptists for prayers and to donate water, food, hygiene products, diapers, and clothing. A number of collection points have been opened at several Baptist churches to receive in-kind donations.
"We need a massive mobilization of Brazilian Baptists who are close to places affected to welcome our brothers in Christ," a release from the Brazilian Baptist Convention states. The Central Baptist Church in Teresópolis, one of the cities that suffered heavily, is housing 37 persons who were displaced by the flooding.
Rio de Janeiro has been badly affected by a series of devastating floods in recent times. At least 85 people died in floods and mudslides in January 2010, and a further 212 deaths occurred in another flooding episode four months later, in April.
Callam, who is on a trip to Chile, will survey areas where BWA gave assistance following the massive earthquake in that country in February of last year. He reflected that "times of disaster and great tragedy are occasions for Christians, including Baptists, to display the love and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ, who came to minister to those who needed God's love."
For Immediate Release
Baptists respond to Australian and Brazilian floods
Washington (BWA)--The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) is encouraging Baptists in Australia and Brazil as they grapple with the after-effects of severe flooding that devastated parts of their countries.
BWA General Secretary Neville Callam said "the Baptist World Alliance is saddened by the loss of life and the dislocations that have occurred in both Australia and Brazil. We are heartened that our Baptist brothers and sisters in these countries are rising to the challenge to offer prayer and material support to those who have suffered."
A series of floods caused from record rainfalls and a compromised dam have affected the Australian state of Queensland since December 2010. The deluge resulted in severe damage in about 70 towns, including the capital, Brisbane, the deaths of at least 30 citizens, and the evacuation of thousands.
Baptist Union of Queensland General Superintendent David Loder indicated that maintaining contact in the affected areas proved difficult because of "phone outages and phone congestion."
At the time of reporting, there was news from only 15 percent of the Baptist churches, or about 35 congregations, that are in the disaster zone in Queensland. Loder declared that this "nowhere near represents the story of the tragic events that have been experienced by people in these communities."
Of the churches from which reports were gleaned, only a few experienced minor damage. "We thank the Lord that, as far as we know, there has been no loss of life in our Baptist family," Loder said. He stated, however, that "many church people will have been evacuated, isolated and suffered property loss and damage."
The Baptist Union of Australia, Queensland Baptists, and the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, one of six regional fellowships of the BWA, have appealed to their constituencies for donations and funds to assist victims of the flooding.
In Brazil, flooding in the mountainous regions of the state of Rio de Janeiro beginning on January 11 led to massive mudslides and the deaths of more than 500 persons, mainly in the cities of Teresópolis, Nova Friburgo, Petrópolis and Sumidouro.
The Brazilian Baptist Convention through its Social Action Department, the Home Mission Board, and the Baptist Convention of Fluminense, is mobilizing and garnering support for people who were left homeless as a result of torrential rains in Rio de Janeiro. Appeals have been sent to Brazilian Baptists for prayers and to donate water, food, hygiene products, diapers, and clothing. A number of collection points have been opened at several Baptist churches to receive in-kind donations.
"We need a massive mobilization of Brazilian Baptists who are close to places affected to welcome our brothers in Christ," a release from the Brazilian Baptist Convention states. The Central Baptist Church in Teresópolis, one of the cities that suffered heavily, is housing 37 persons who were displaced by the flooding.
Rio de Janeiro has been badly affected by a series of devastating floods in recent times. At least 85 people died in floods and mudslides in January 2010, and a further 212 deaths occurred in another flooding episode four months later, in April.
Callam, who is on a trip to Chile, will survey areas where BWA gave assistance following the massive earthquake in that country in February of last year. He reflected that "times of disaster and great tragedy are occasions for Christians, including Baptists, to display the love and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ, who came to minister to those who needed God's love."
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Haitian relief continues
January 12, 2011
For Immediate Release
Haitian relief continues
Washington (BWA)--Baptist World Aid (BWAid), the relief and development arm of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA), has spent almost US$680,000 for critical help to Haitians over the one year period since the massive earthquake that devastated Haiti on January 12, 2010.
The 7.0 earthquake killed an estimated 230,000, maimed and injured hundreds of thousands more, and left more than one million Haitians homeless, most of whom are still living under tents and in other temporary shelters.
BWAid spent money on emergency relief, medical supplies and medical care in the immediate aftermath of the quake, and increased its grants for medical assistance after the outbreak of cholera in the northern Caribbean country in October last year.
In addition, BWAid is expending resources to help resuscitate Delmas 19, a depressed area in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, which was particularly devastated by the quake. A complex is being built on land owned by the Haitian Baptist Convention (HBC), one of two BWA member bodies through which the BWA is doing its relief work. The complex includes a school that will accommodate 250 students, and an orphanage.
Other partners in the revitalization of Delmas 19 are the HBC, Hungarian Baptist Aid, and the Virginia Baptist Mission Board from the United States.
Funds have also been provided by BWAid for the construction of houses, rebuilding of a school at the House of Hope Orphanage at Gressier, near Port-au-Prince, and to help to rebuild the female dormitory at the Northern Haiti Christian University, a school owned and run by the HBC, in Limbè, in northern Haiti.
BWAid is working in partnership with the HBC and Baptist Haiti Mission, another BWA member body, in an educational campaign about cholera, the digging of wells, and in water treatment in at least 11 communities across Haiti, (http://haiti.ngoaidmap.org/organizations/15).
The BWA expects to spend close to an additional one million dollars on relief, reconstruction, and development costs as it continues its long term commitment to Haiti.
For Immediate Release
Haitian relief continues
Washington (BWA)--Baptist World Aid (BWAid), the relief and development arm of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA), has spent almost US$680,000 for critical help to Haitians over the one year period since the massive earthquake that devastated Haiti on January 12, 2010.
The 7.0 earthquake killed an estimated 230,000, maimed and injured hundreds of thousands more, and left more than one million Haitians homeless, most of whom are still living under tents and in other temporary shelters.
BWAid spent money on emergency relief, medical supplies and medical care in the immediate aftermath of the quake, and increased its grants for medical assistance after the outbreak of cholera in the northern Caribbean country in October last year.
In addition, BWAid is expending resources to help resuscitate Delmas 19, a depressed area in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, which was particularly devastated by the quake. A complex is being built on land owned by the Haitian Baptist Convention (HBC), one of two BWA member bodies through which the BWA is doing its relief work. The complex includes a school that will accommodate 250 students, and an orphanage.
Other partners in the revitalization of Delmas 19 are the HBC, Hungarian Baptist Aid, and the Virginia Baptist Mission Board from the United States.
Funds have also been provided by BWAid for the construction of houses, rebuilding of a school at the House of Hope Orphanage at Gressier, near Port-au-Prince, and to help to rebuild the female dormitory at the Northern Haiti Christian University, a school owned and run by the HBC, in Limbè, in northern Haiti.
BWAid is working in partnership with the HBC and Baptist Haiti Mission, another BWA member body, in an educational campaign about cholera, the digging of wells, and in water treatment in at least 11 communities across Haiti, (http://haiti.ngoaidmap.org/organizations/15).
The BWA expects to spend close to an additional one million dollars on relief, reconstruction, and development costs as it continues its long term commitment to Haiti.
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Martin Luther King Day 2011
January 13, 2011
For Immediate Release
Martin Luther King Day 2011
Washington (BWA)--Baptists are being encouraged to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Martin Luther King, Jr. and to honor his prophetic legacy.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was inaugurated by the United States in 1983 and is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is close to the time of King's birthday, January 15. The 2011 observance will be on January 17.
In 1993, the General Council of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA), meeting in Harare, Zimbabwe, passed a resolution that called on Baptists around the world to celebrate King's anniversary and to renew the commitment to struggle nonviolently for justice and peace.
In 1999, the BWA Special Commission on Baptists against Racism and Ethnic Conflict promoted the International Summit of Baptists Against Racism at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, in Atlanta, Georgia, the church where King was raised and ordained to the Christian ministry.
King stands among the most influential Christian leaders of the contemporary world. A civil rights leader and a public theologian, he saw himself first and foremost as a Baptist Christian minister trying to save the soul of his nation. But his legacy and influence went far beyond the United States and the Christian church, as exemplified by the Nobel Peace Prize, which was awarded to him in 1964.
His life and influence cannot be limited in terms of race, nationality or faith. They have been appropriated by many people in different parts of the world, inspiring other minority and under-represented groups to apply the principles of civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance to their own context. In the words of African American theologian James Cone, King belongs to the world, particularly "to the world of the poor and disinherited."
King's life and thinking continue to be relevant for all Christians trying to make a difference in the world today. By relating his cause for civil rights in the US with the global struggles for social and racial justice, he became the champion of those seeking dramatic changes in living conditions for the masses. Seeing all life on earth as intertwined, he was able to affirm the indivisibleness of justice: "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
King saw racism, poverty and militarism as the common axis of structural evil oppressing not only African Americans in the US, but poorer populations all over the world. He called poverty a curse that has no justification in our age, comparing its moral impact to the cruelty of cannibalism. He not only spoke against the evil of racism and called for the end of racial segregation, he also called for the immediate abolition of poverty. He spoke about the need for a "divine dissatisfaction" against "the tragic walls that separate rich and poor, and that push people to live in the indecent and unsanitary conditions of the slums."
King based his hope for the ultimate outcome of this struggle in his biblically grounded belief. Inspired by the witness of Martin Luther King, Jr. to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the BWA encourages Baptists around the world to renew their determination to continue to work tirelessly for peace and justice, and to contribute to the formation of a more humane world.
For Immediate Release
Martin Luther King Day 2011
Washington (BWA)--Baptists are being encouraged to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Martin Luther King, Jr. and to honor his prophetic legacy.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was inaugurated by the United States in 1983 and is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is close to the time of King's birthday, January 15. The 2011 observance will be on January 17.
In 1993, the General Council of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA), meeting in Harare, Zimbabwe, passed a resolution that called on Baptists around the world to celebrate King's anniversary and to renew the commitment to struggle nonviolently for justice and peace.
In 1999, the BWA Special Commission on Baptists against Racism and Ethnic Conflict promoted the International Summit of Baptists Against Racism at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, in Atlanta, Georgia, the church where King was raised and ordained to the Christian ministry.
King stands among the most influential Christian leaders of the contemporary world. A civil rights leader and a public theologian, he saw himself first and foremost as a Baptist Christian minister trying to save the soul of his nation. But his legacy and influence went far beyond the United States and the Christian church, as exemplified by the Nobel Peace Prize, which was awarded to him in 1964.
His life and influence cannot be limited in terms of race, nationality or faith. They have been appropriated by many people in different parts of the world, inspiring other minority and under-represented groups to apply the principles of civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance to their own context. In the words of African American theologian James Cone, King belongs to the world, particularly "to the world of the poor and disinherited."
King's life and thinking continue to be relevant for all Christians trying to make a difference in the world today. By relating his cause for civil rights in the US with the global struggles for social and racial justice, he became the champion of those seeking dramatic changes in living conditions for the masses. Seeing all life on earth as intertwined, he was able to affirm the indivisibleness of justice: "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
King saw racism, poverty and militarism as the common axis of structural evil oppressing not only African Americans in the US, but poorer populations all over the world. He called poverty a curse that has no justification in our age, comparing its moral impact to the cruelty of cannibalism. He not only spoke against the evil of racism and called for the end of racial segregation, he also called for the immediate abolition of poverty. He spoke about the need for a "divine dissatisfaction" against "the tragic walls that separate rich and poor, and that push people to live in the indecent and unsanitary conditions of the slums."
King based his hope for the ultimate outcome of this struggle in his biblically grounded belief. Inspired by the witness of Martin Luther King, Jr. to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the BWA encourages Baptists around the world to renew their determination to continue to work tirelessly for peace and justice, and to contribute to the formation of a more humane world.
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Callam offers support to Egyptian Coptic ChristiansB
January 10, 2011
Callam offers support to Egyptian Coptic Christians
Washington (BWA)--Baptist World Alliance (BWA) General Secretary Neville Callam has extended the hand of support to Christians in Egypt who suffered attacks a few minutes into January 1.
Callam, in writing to Pope Shenouda III of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, expressed shock at "the hostile attack on worshippers" that took place as they were leaving the Church of the Two Saints congregation in Alexandria, the second largest city in Egypt, following the celebration of the Christmas liturgy.
A suicide attack on the congregation occurred shortly after midnight on January 1 by Muslim extremists that left at least 32 people dead and nearly 100 injured.
Callam, in his letter to Pope Shenouda III, assured the Christian Coptic leader of "our unshakeable solidarity with the Coptic Orthodox Church family and with other Christian churches facing threats or acts of persecution."
The BWA leader cited a resolution passed by the BWA General Council in Uppsala, Sweden, in 1994, and stated that the BWA has had a longstanding concern "for the denial of the right of religious liberty to the Coptic Orthodox and other Christians in Egypt." The 1994 resolution expressed alarm at the denial of religious liberty to minority groups in several countries, including Egyptian Christians.
"We join in the call for the Egyptian authorities to take decisive action in keeping with their obligation to respect religious liberty as a human right," Callam said.
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country with Islam as its state religion. The Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria is the largest and oldest church in Egypt, and belongs to the Oriental Orthodoxy family of churches. Between five percent and 10 percent of Egyptians are Christians, with 90 percent of those belonging to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria.
The Egyptian Baptist Convention, a BWA member body, has 18 churches with 2,100 members.
Callam offers support to Egyptian Coptic Christians
Washington (BWA)--Baptist World Alliance (BWA) General Secretary Neville Callam has extended the hand of support to Christians in Egypt who suffered attacks a few minutes into January 1.
Callam, in writing to Pope Shenouda III of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, expressed shock at "the hostile attack on worshippers" that took place as they were leaving the Church of the Two Saints congregation in Alexandria, the second largest city in Egypt, following the celebration of the Christmas liturgy.
A suicide attack on the congregation occurred shortly after midnight on January 1 by Muslim extremists that left at least 32 people dead and nearly 100 injured.
Callam, in his letter to Pope Shenouda III, assured the Christian Coptic leader of "our unshakeable solidarity with the Coptic Orthodox Church family and with other Christian churches facing threats or acts of persecution."
The BWA leader cited a resolution passed by the BWA General Council in Uppsala, Sweden, in 1994, and stated that the BWA has had a longstanding concern "for the denial of the right of religious liberty to the Coptic Orthodox and other Christians in Egypt." The 1994 resolution expressed alarm at the denial of religious liberty to minority groups in several countries, including Egyptian Christians.
"We join in the call for the Egyptian authorities to take decisive action in keeping with their obligation to respect religious liberty as a human right," Callam said.
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country with Islam as its state religion. The Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria is the largest and oldest church in Egypt, and belongs to the Oriental Orthodoxy family of churches. Between five percent and 10 percent of Egyptians are Christians, with 90 percent of those belonging to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria.
The Egyptian Baptist Convention, a BWA member body, has 18 churches with 2,100 members.
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Callam admonishes Nigerian president to protect Christians
January 7, 2011
Callam admonishes Nigerian president to protect Christians
Washington (BWA)--Baptist World Alliance General Secretary Neville Callam has strongly urged the president of Nigeria to ensure the security and protection of all its citizens, including Christians.
In a letter addressed to Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Nigerian president, Callam expressed grave concern at the attacks in the cities of Jos and Maiduguri where Christians, including Baptists, were attacked and killed on Christmas Eve, December 24.
Callam insisted that those who committed these acts of violence should be brought to justice, and that the president "take all necessary measures to eliminate the conflict and violence with their accompanying human rights violations."
Indicating that one of the churches attacked was the Victory Baptist Church in Maiduguri, the capital and the largest city of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria, Callam informed the Nigerian president that the pastor and several members of the congregation were among those killed, while the pastor's house was set on fire.
"This kind of violence that broke out during one of the most important Christian celebrations, Christmas, claiming many innocent lives, is unacceptable," Callam told the Nigerian leader. "We urge Your Excellency to ensure the protection and security of all citizens in the areas of conflict, [and] introduce more programs that ensure peace and reconciliation."
Callam also sent a letter of encouragement and support to Ademola Ishola, general secretary of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC). "It was with great shock and profound sorrow that we heard the news of the tragic and unprovoked attacks against Christian churches in Jos and Maiduguri," Callam said. "We are immensely saddened by this new episode of violence against our brothers and sisters in northern Nigeria... which have become so frequent. On the behalf of the Baptist family around the world, we extend our prayers and solidarity to the families of those who died, and to those who have been injured."
Baptists and other Christians, mainly in northern Nigeria, have come under increasing attacks in recent years. Approximately 1,000 persons died from what were allegedly religious clashes in 2001.
In November 2008, some 300 persons were killed, at least 12 of them Baptists, and five Baptist churches burned, during riots sparked by local election results. In July 2009, major religious violence committed by the Islamist group Boko Haram in four cities in northeast Nigeria, including Maiduguri, left more than 700 people dead.
In January 2010, approximately 500 persons died from clashes between Muslim and Christian factions, with an estimated 5,000 persons displaced by the fighting. Six Baptist members were among those killed while seven Baptist churches were burned. Also in March last year, more than 500 Christians were killed, most being women and children, in villages close to Jos, the administrative capital of Plateau State.
The attacks in December have left dozens killed in both Jos and Maiduguri. The violence, suspected to be carried out by Boko Haram, have continued into January, including against a number of police stations. Several police officers have reportedly been killed.
Nigeria, where there are two BWA member bodies, has the largest number of Baptists in Africa. The NBC has 2.5 million members in 9,500 churches. The Mambilla Baptist Convention has 23,000 members in 255 churches.
Callam admonishes Nigerian president to protect Christians
Washington (BWA)--Baptist World Alliance General Secretary Neville Callam has strongly urged the president of Nigeria to ensure the security and protection of all its citizens, including Christians.
In a letter addressed to Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Nigerian president, Callam expressed grave concern at the attacks in the cities of Jos and Maiduguri where Christians, including Baptists, were attacked and killed on Christmas Eve, December 24.
Callam insisted that those who committed these acts of violence should be brought to justice, and that the president "take all necessary measures to eliminate the conflict and violence with their accompanying human rights violations."
Indicating that one of the churches attacked was the Victory Baptist Church in Maiduguri, the capital and the largest city of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria, Callam informed the Nigerian president that the pastor and several members of the congregation were among those killed, while the pastor's house was set on fire.
"This kind of violence that broke out during one of the most important Christian celebrations, Christmas, claiming many innocent lives, is unacceptable," Callam told the Nigerian leader. "We urge Your Excellency to ensure the protection and security of all citizens in the areas of conflict, [and] introduce more programs that ensure peace and reconciliation."
Callam also sent a letter of encouragement and support to Ademola Ishola, general secretary of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC). "It was with great shock and profound sorrow that we heard the news of the tragic and unprovoked attacks against Christian churches in Jos and Maiduguri," Callam said. "We are immensely saddened by this new episode of violence against our brothers and sisters in northern Nigeria... which have become so frequent. On the behalf of the Baptist family around the world, we extend our prayers and solidarity to the families of those who died, and to those who have been injured."
Baptists and other Christians, mainly in northern Nigeria, have come under increasing attacks in recent years. Approximately 1,000 persons died from what were allegedly religious clashes in 2001.
In November 2008, some 300 persons were killed, at least 12 of them Baptists, and five Baptist churches burned, during riots sparked by local election results. In July 2009, major religious violence committed by the Islamist group Boko Haram in four cities in northeast Nigeria, including Maiduguri, left more than 700 people dead.
In January 2010, approximately 500 persons died from clashes between Muslim and Christian factions, with an estimated 5,000 persons displaced by the fighting. Six Baptist members were among those killed while seven Baptist churches were burned. Also in March last year, more than 500 Christians were killed, most being women and children, in villages close to Jos, the administrative capital of Plateau State.
The attacks in December have left dozens killed in both Jos and Maiduguri. The violence, suspected to be carried out by Boko Haram, have continued into January, including against a number of police stations. Several police officers have reportedly been killed.
Nigeria, where there are two BWA member bodies, has the largest number of Baptists in Africa. The NBC has 2.5 million members in 9,500 churches. The Mambilla Baptist Convention has 23,000 members in 255 churches.
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A Christmas Message from the BWA
December 15, 2010 |
Washington (BWA)--It is the season of joy! Treasure the opportunity you have to listen to the beautiful music. Share the rich warmth of family and friendship. Offer gifts to friends, loved ones and people in need. Echo the refrain, 'Tis the most wonderful time of the year! Yet, step back from the glitter and glamour so evident in some places during these days and take one good long look at the image of the child in the manger. Does it not provide a powerful stimulus for us to revisit the nature of powerlessness? This child is wrapped in the robes of mystery. This tiny child is God made flesh before our very eyes. He is omnipotence wrapped in strips of cloth, omnipresence placed to a drinking trough for animals, omniscience confined to a bed of straw! This little child finds common cause with those who have no place to lay their weary head. At his birth, the trappings of nobility are nowhere to be seen; the signs of privilege have disappeared into oblivion. The child in the manger is an object lesson in the mystery of powerlessness! The time would come when this powerless child of Bethlehem would be recognized as the Savior of the world. Whether he was lying in a manger or hanging from a cross, he would appear to be a victim of circumstance, a person to be pitied, and a model of helplessness. Yet, true power is absent unless it shines forth through the wrappings of powerlessness. Real self emptying and self denial are possible only for those who truly know the power of God. A life of sacrificial service rendered with joy is the only option for those who come to know the powerlessness of the Christ child. This powerlessness is not to be confused with the helplessness that knows nothing but the misery of desperation. It is instead the submissiveness that consists in voluntary entrance into the community of the homeless poor in order to transform it into a seedbed of rich possibilities. This is the powerlessness that knows the trenches, sits at ease with the dispossessed, and enjoys the company of those pushed to the periphery of society. What we see in the manger and what we celebrate at Christmastime is the awesome power of powerlessness! When we experience this powerlessness, the Holy Spirit empowers us to truly become the servant of all. Then, through the service we render, we can help transform the world. The little baby in the manger is a powerful sign of God manifesting the divine love that opens the way to life for all the world. He became poor so that we, through his poverty, might become rich (cf. 2 Corinthians 8:9). Neville Callam BWA General Secretary |
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Korean Christians condemn missile attack
Washington (BWA)--Christians in South Korea have condemned the November 23 shelling of the island of Yeonpyeong by North Korea that killed at least four South Koreans, two of them civilians.
"The major Christian organizations released statements condemning North Korea's cruel bloodshed that caused a national crisis," wrote former Baptist World Alliance (BWA) President Billy Kim. "Nationwide, prayer meetings are being held for the peace of the Korean Peninsula."
Christians are helping those who were affected by the missile attack, providing food, water and shelter, Kim said. "Korean churches and Christian organizations are actively involved in providing humanitarian relief."
Kim, who was BWA president from 2000-2005, stated that church offerings are being collected to assist in repairing the Marine Chapel that was damaged during the attack. The Suwon Central Baptist Church pledged US$20,000 toward the repairs.
"I will appreciate continued prayers for peace over the Korean peninsula," the former Baptist world leader stated.
"The major Christian organizations released statements condemning North Korea's cruel bloodshed that caused a national crisis," wrote former Baptist World Alliance (BWA) President Billy Kim. "Nationwide, prayer meetings are being held for the peace of the Korean Peninsula."
Christians are helping those who were affected by the missile attack, providing food, water and shelter, Kim said. "Korean churches and Christian organizations are actively involved in providing humanitarian relief."
Kim, who was BWA president from 2000-2005, stated that church offerings are being collected to assist in repairing the Marine Chapel that was damaged during the attack. The Suwon Central Baptist Church pledged US$20,000 toward the repairs.
"I will appreciate continued prayers for peace over the Korean peninsula," the former Baptist world leader stated.
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Baptists urged to observe Human Rights Day
December 9, 2010
Washington (BWA)--The Baptist World Alliance calls on Baptist churches around the world to make time during this season of celebration to reaffirm our commitment to human rights through the observance of Human Rights Day.
Human Rights Day is celebrated annually across the world on December 10 in honor of the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the first global enunciation of that kind, on December 10, 1948.
For more than three decades, the BWA has encouraged Baptist churches to highlight this emphasis by promoting Human Rights Day. We urge all Baptist churches around the world to reaffirm this historical commitment by observing Human Rights Day on their days of worship on December 11 or 12.
2010 is the 62nd anniversary of the UDHR. The declaration has served as an ideal to be pursued by every nation, and has inspired the implementation of laws at national and international levels to protect the basic rights of individuals and peoples. A global movement for human rights has sprung from it, and has generated greater awareness not only of the intrinsic rights of every human being, but also of the existing violation of those rights in various places around the world.
Today, the principle of the sovereignty of the national state is understood vis-à-vis the respect for the basic rights of the individual. When those rights are not respected, the international community is urged to act through the mechanisms of international law and popular mobilization in favor of those whose rights have been violated irrespective of their nationality.
Human rights advocacy, however, is a continuous process and struggle. It is a constant battle against the evil of dehumanization and of disrespect for God's image in each person.
Theologically speaking, human rights spring from the theological understanding of human dignity, which is a gift from God to all human beings. Human rights are the socially constructed instruments through which human dignity is protected and promoted.
Human rights are reflected in the Judeo-Christian tradition, which includes the idea of the dignity of human beings created in God's image; the promotion in the Decalogue of respect for God and for the neighbor; the claim of the Hebrew prophets in defense of the poor, the widow, and the foreigner; and the incarnation of Jesus Christ and his call for the reconciliation of the world.
Furthermore, although we value the symbolism of the International Declaration of Human Rights, as Christians, we understand that declarations of human rights need to be fleshed out by men and women continuously committed to stand up for the oppressed.
Baptist theologian Thorwald Lorenzen stated, "The concern for human rights is intimately interwoven with the history and theology of Baptists." The origins of the Baptist vision were closely linked with the claim for religious liberty, for freedom of conscience, for freedom of opinion, and with freedom of assembly.
Already in 1612, Baptist pioneer Thomas Helwys had written down the first document in the English language that argues for freedom of religion for all people. His brave and bold words echo in the corridors of history to this day: "Men's religion to God is between God and themselves; the King shall not answer for it; neither may the King be judge between God and man. Let them be heretics, Turks, Jews or whatsoever, it appertains not to the earthly power to punish them in the least measure."
By observing Human Rights Day, Baptists join together in a strong voice to remind the world of our love for freedom for everyone and our commitment to justice everywhere.
Resources are available on the BWA website, www.bwanet.org.
Washington (BWA)--The Baptist World Alliance calls on Baptist churches around the world to make time during this season of celebration to reaffirm our commitment to human rights through the observance of Human Rights Day.
Human Rights Day is celebrated annually across the world on December 10 in honor of the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the first global enunciation of that kind, on December 10, 1948.
For more than three decades, the BWA has encouraged Baptist churches to highlight this emphasis by promoting Human Rights Day. We urge all Baptist churches around the world to reaffirm this historical commitment by observing Human Rights Day on their days of worship on December 11 or 12.
2010 is the 62nd anniversary of the UDHR. The declaration has served as an ideal to be pursued by every nation, and has inspired the implementation of laws at national and international levels to protect the basic rights of individuals and peoples. A global movement for human rights has sprung from it, and has generated greater awareness not only of the intrinsic rights of every human being, but also of the existing violation of those rights in various places around the world.
Today, the principle of the sovereignty of the national state is understood vis-à-vis the respect for the basic rights of the individual. When those rights are not respected, the international community is urged to act through the mechanisms of international law and popular mobilization in favor of those whose rights have been violated irrespective of their nationality.
Human rights advocacy, however, is a continuous process and struggle. It is a constant battle against the evil of dehumanization and of disrespect for God's image in each person.
Theologically speaking, human rights spring from the theological understanding of human dignity, which is a gift from God to all human beings. Human rights are the socially constructed instruments through which human dignity is protected and promoted.
Human rights are reflected in the Judeo-Christian tradition, which includes the idea of the dignity of human beings created in God's image; the promotion in the Decalogue of respect for God and for the neighbor; the claim of the Hebrew prophets in defense of the poor, the widow, and the foreigner; and the incarnation of Jesus Christ and his call for the reconciliation of the world.
Furthermore, although we value the symbolism of the International Declaration of Human Rights, as Christians, we understand that declarations of human rights need to be fleshed out by men and women continuously committed to stand up for the oppressed.
Baptist theologian Thorwald Lorenzen stated, "The concern for human rights is intimately interwoven with the history and theology of Baptists." The origins of the Baptist vision were closely linked with the claim for religious liberty, for freedom of conscience, for freedom of opinion, and with freedom of assembly.
Already in 1612, Baptist pioneer Thomas Helwys had written down the first document in the English language that argues for freedom of religion for all people. His brave and bold words echo in the corridors of history to this day: "Men's religion to God is between God and themselves; the King shall not answer for it; neither may the King be judge between God and man. Let them be heretics, Turks, Jews or whatsoever, it appertains not to the earthly power to punish them in the least measure."
By observing Human Rights Day, Baptists join together in a strong voice to remind the world of our love for freedom for everyone and our commitment to justice everywhere.
Resources are available on the BWA website, www.bwanet.org.
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A call for prayer for countries holding elections
Washington (BWA)-- The Baptist World Alliance calls for prayer regarding several presidential and general elections that have been held or that are planned in a number of countries.
Brazil in South America; Moldova in Europe; Egypt, Côte d'Ivoire, Tanzania and Guinea in Africa; Myanmar in Asia; and Haiti in the Caribbean, all held elections over the past several weeks and days. Sudan, the largest country in Africa, is scheduled to hold a referendum on January 9 of next year to determine if the country should be divided between north and south or remain as one.
The BWA rejoices that in some of these elections, the votes were conducted peacefully and the will of the people was respected. The BWA also takes note of concerns raised by observers and participants that some national elections have been less than fair and were not free from fear. Electioneering, in some instances, caused great instability. Indeed, deaths have reportedly taken place during election campaigns and the conduct of elections themselves.
Baptists and other Christians in these countries are not unaffected by the instability and the violence that take place during election time. Some Baptists may have been victims. We would hate to think that Baptists have been perpetrators. What we do know is that Baptists, like other citizens, have, and do, exercise the franchise to vote. We strongly support the exercise of this franchise. We also urge election officials and political leaders to ensure that elections are conducted in the absence of fear, and that the published results reflect the will of the people.
Accordingly, we call upon Baptists everywhere to pray for countries that conduct and hold elections, remembering that, in many instances, their Christian brothers and sisters are involved as well. We especially ask prayers for Haiti as this country holds an election even while it grapples with the after effects of the massive earthquake that occurred on January 12, as well as with the recent outbreak of cholera that has killed more than 1,600 and affected thousands more. Yet, in the midst of this, Haiti had the fortitude to conduct elections on November 28 to elect a new president, senators and deputies.
We also ask for special prayers for Sudan as citizens in the south, which has thousands of Christians including Baptists, vote as to whether the south should secede, thus creating two new nations. We ask Baptists to pray that the government in Khartoum will respect the will of the people in this referendum planned for January 9, 2011.
As Baptists, we affirm our support of the cause of freedom, human rights and justice, including those inhered in the right of citizens to elect leaders of their own choosing.
Brazil in South America; Moldova in Europe; Egypt, Côte d'Ivoire, Tanzania and Guinea in Africa; Myanmar in Asia; and Haiti in the Caribbean, all held elections over the past several weeks and days. Sudan, the largest country in Africa, is scheduled to hold a referendum on January 9 of next year to determine if the country should be divided between north and south or remain as one.
The BWA rejoices that in some of these elections, the votes were conducted peacefully and the will of the people was respected. The BWA also takes note of concerns raised by observers and participants that some national elections have been less than fair and were not free from fear. Electioneering, in some instances, caused great instability. Indeed, deaths have reportedly taken place during election campaigns and the conduct of elections themselves.
Baptists and other Christians in these countries are not unaffected by the instability and the violence that take place during election time. Some Baptists may have been victims. We would hate to think that Baptists have been perpetrators. What we do know is that Baptists, like other citizens, have, and do, exercise the franchise to vote. We strongly support the exercise of this franchise. We also urge election officials and political leaders to ensure that elections are conducted in the absence of fear, and that the published results reflect the will of the people.
Accordingly, we call upon Baptists everywhere to pray for countries that conduct and hold elections, remembering that, in many instances, their Christian brothers and sisters are involved as well. We especially ask prayers for Haiti as this country holds an election even while it grapples with the after effects of the massive earthquake that occurred on January 12, as well as with the recent outbreak of cholera that has killed more than 1,600 and affected thousands more. Yet, in the midst of this, Haiti had the fortitude to conduct elections on November 28 to elect a new president, senators and deputies.
We also ask for special prayers for Sudan as citizens in the south, which has thousands of Christians including Baptists, vote as to whether the south should secede, thus creating two new nations. We ask Baptists to pray that the government in Khartoum will respect the will of the people in this referendum planned for January 9, 2011.
As Baptists, we affirm our support of the cause of freedom, human rights and justice, including those inhered in the right of citizens to elect leaders of their own choosing.
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Statement on the release of Aung San Suu Kyi
Washington (BWA)--The Baptist World Alliance takes note of the release of Myanmar opposition leader and Nobel Peace Laureate, Aung San Suu Kyi, from house arrest by the government of Myanmar.
The BWA rejoices at this new development, and expresses the hope that, as a symbolic gesture, the release of Ms. Suu Kyi will lead to greater freedoms for the people of Myanmar, including the release of the more than 2,000 political prisoners in the country. We also hope that the release of Ms. Suu Kyi will be the first step toward full democracy, respect for human rights, and national reconciliation for people of all ethnic groups.
In a 2006 resolution passed by the BWA General Council in Mexico City, the BWA recognized the historic Baptist links with Burrma/Myanmar, dating back to the work of Adoniram Judson and his colleagues in the nineteenth century. The BWA also affirmed its solidarity with the civil population of Myanmar as they suffered under hardships imposed by the military regime in power since 1962.
The resolution further urged that the United Nations "take appropriate action for the protection of the lives and rights of Myanmar citizens, including their right to religious freedom."
Noting the incarceration of Ms. Suu Kyi since 1990 and the victory of the NLD in the general election of 1990, the BWA resolution called on the Myanmar authorities to "lift the house arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi, the legally elected president in 1990."
Now that Ms. Suu Kyi has been given her freedom, the BWA urges the government of Myanmar to take further and urgent steps to expand the rights and freedoms of all its citizens, in keeping with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The BWA calls on all Baptists to continue to pray for the end of all human rights abuses in Myanmar.
Baptist World Alliance
Eron Henry, Associate Director of Communications
Neville Callam, General Secretary
Website: www.bwanet.org
Email: communications@bwanet.org
Phone: +1 703 790 8980
Fax: +1 703 893 5160
November 16, 2010
The BWA rejoices at this new development, and expresses the hope that, as a symbolic gesture, the release of Ms. Suu Kyi will lead to greater freedoms for the people of Myanmar, including the release of the more than 2,000 political prisoners in the country. We also hope that the release of Ms. Suu Kyi will be the first step toward full democracy, respect for human rights, and national reconciliation for people of all ethnic groups.
In a 2006 resolution passed by the BWA General Council in Mexico City, the BWA recognized the historic Baptist links with Burrma/Myanmar, dating back to the work of Adoniram Judson and his colleagues in the nineteenth century. The BWA also affirmed its solidarity with the civil population of Myanmar as they suffered under hardships imposed by the military regime in power since 1962.
The resolution further urged that the United Nations "take appropriate action for the protection of the lives and rights of Myanmar citizens, including their right to religious freedom."
Noting the incarceration of Ms. Suu Kyi since 1990 and the victory of the NLD in the general election of 1990, the BWA resolution called on the Myanmar authorities to "lift the house arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi, the legally elected president in 1990."
Now that Ms. Suu Kyi has been given her freedom, the BWA urges the government of Myanmar to take further and urgent steps to expand the rights and freedoms of all its citizens, in keeping with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The BWA calls on all Baptists to continue to pray for the end of all human rights abuses in Myanmar.
Baptist World Alliance
Eron Henry, Associate Director of Communications
Neville Callam, General Secretary
Website: www.bwanet.org
Email: communications@bwanet.org
Phone: +1 703 790 8980
Fax: +1 703 893 5160
November 16, 2010
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Christians in Baghdad living in fear
November 2, 2010
Washington (BWA)-- Baptists and other Christians in Baghdad say they are living in fear following an attack on a Roman Catholic Church in the Iraqi capital that left more than 50 Christians dead. The massacre occurred on October 31 when al-Qaida-aligned gunmen attacked worshipers from Our Lady of Salvation Chaldean Catholic Church in central Baghdad leaving at least 58 dead, the majority of them worshippers, including two priests, and another 75 wounded. Tony Peck, Baptist World Alliance (BWA) regional secretary for Europe and general secretary for the European Baptist Federation (EBF), reports the pastor of the Baptist Church in Baghdad informed him that the "Christian community is now very fearful for its safety" and that "some of the Baptist believers are talking about moving away from Baghdad to North Iraq, others to Jordan and Syria." Baptist churches in the Middle East are affiliated with the EBF, one of six regional fellowships of the BWA. Peck fears that "this very understandable response would leave the Christian church in Iraq even weaker than before." It has been estimated that since the invasion of Iraq by the United States and its allies in 2003, approximately half the Christian population have fled the Middle Eastern country, leaving an estimated 550,000 believers. Many of those who remain are increasingly harassed and often experience violence. News reports suggest that part of the motivation for the attack was the plan by a pastor in Florida in the United States to burn the Quran, Islam's holy book, in September. The pastor abandoned his plans, under pressure. "It shows again how Christians in the West must be wise and considerate in the way they engage critically with Islam," Peck declared. In the wake of the attack, Baptists in Baghdad are considering changing the day of worship from Sunday to Friday, the traditional day of worship for Muslims, and a practice already adopted by Christians in several Muslim-majority countries. "We deeply regret the unjustifiable murder of Roman Catholic Christians during worship last Sunday in Baghdad," said BWA director of Freedom and Justice, Raimundo Barreto. "We affirm our profound solidarity with the Christian community in Iraq as they mourn those who lost their lives. We assure our brothers and sisters in Iraq of the prayerful support from the larger Christian family around the world," Barreto stated. "As followers of Jesus Christ we advocate for true and lasting peace in that region. We call on Christians all over the world to diligently work to prevent any escalation of violence, by not repaying evil with evil, but by overcoming evil with good" (Romans 12:17, 21). Peck asked the Baptist pastor in Baghdad to assure believers in the city of the prayers of the worldwide Baptist family. |
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BWA General Secretary visits three countries in Europe
Washington 27 Oct,2010
| BWA General Secretary visits three countries in Europe |
| Washington (BWA)-- Baptist World Alliance (BWA) General Secretary Neville Callam visited Bulgaria, Austria and Spain in October. Callam spoke at a conference to celebrate the 130th anniversary of the founding of Baptist witness in the town of Russe in northeastern Bulgaria between October 7 and 9, and preached at the Baptist Church in Sophia, Bulgaria's capital, on October 10. He commended Bulgarian Baptists on "the remarkable history of the Baptist movement in Bulgaria." He recounted the contribution of Baptist pioneers in the southern European country, including V.A. Pashkov, Martin Heringer, and Georgi Chemonev."We give God thanks for your faith and faithfulness," despite challenges faced by Christians in the country of 7.5 million people, Callam told the gathering. Callam updated the Bulgarians on the level of growth being experienced by Baptists worldwide. "Between 1985 and 2009, membership of Baptist churches associated with the BWA has grown significantly," Callam said. African Baptists grew from 1.3 million to 7.6 million members; Asia and Oceana grew from 1.8 million to 5.4 million; and South American Baptists numbered 1.7 million members in 2009 from a previous figure of 677,000 in 1985. "Some of this growth reflects the addition of new BWA member bodies from these areas, but most of it is a sign of the growth of the Baptist churches in these areas," Callam stated. Such growth did not happen by accident, Callam claimed. "Many Baptist Christians are leaving their homes and traveling to foreign lands to spread the Gospel." For instance, there are 650 Korean Baptist missioners in 47 countries, and 563 Brazilian Baptist missioners in 65 countries. "Baptist Christians in South Africa are bearing witness to the gospel in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, Swaziland, and Malawi," he informed the assembly. Many Baptist Christians, Callam said, "are living out the demands of their faith even while facing persecution," rendering "costly service for the benefit of humankind to God's glory." Callam visited with the Baptist Union of Austria from October 11 to 14 where he congratulated Austrian Baptists on their faithfulness and commitment to the cause of Christ and their involvement in the worldwide Baptist movement. "We are grateful to God for what has been accomplished here through Baptist witness," he stated. "Yours has not been an easy journey. From time to time, you have faced opposition," he said, recalling that, in times past, Baptists were expelled from Vienna, Austria's capital. Callam informed the Austrians that, of the number of Baptists around the world, 2.1 percent are in Europe. The largest number of Baptists is in North America at 57.1 percent with Africa having 20.2 percent, the second largest total. Asia/Pacific comes next with 14.5 percent, Latin America at 5.3 percent, and the Caribbean at 0.8 percent. In addressing the 58th convention of the Evangelical Baptist Union of Spain in Valencia, held October 14-17, Callam highlighted the work of the BWA in fostering unity and fellowship, mission and evangelism, relief and development, freedom and justice, and theological reflection. "As Baptists, we are a missionary people and we believe that the mission of God is the fundamental reason for our existence," Callam declared. "This is vital for our purpose under God. The Baptist World Alliance is a vehicle to encourage all Baptists in the task of making disciples of all nations." The Christian commitment to mission is grounded on the understanding of God as Creator, Callam told the Spanish delegates. "God is owner of all that is." As such, we are stewards, "given trusteeship of the resources of life and creation," making us "answerable to God for the ways in which we exercise responsibility for all that has been entrusted to us." Stewardship, Callam emphasized, "Is concerned with every sphere of life, every aspect of life, every moment of time, and all that we think, feel, say and do." Tony Peck, BWA regional secretary for Europe and general secretary for the European Baptist Federation also attended the meetings in Bulgaria. The BWA, founded in 1905, is a fellowship of 219 Baptist conventions and unions in 120 countries. |
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Baptists involved in Chile rescue mission
Washington (BWA)-- Baptists in Chile have been involved in the quest to rescue the 33 workers who were trapped inside a mine for more than two months in the South American country.
The Union of Evangelical Baptist Churches of Chile (UBACH) dispatched one of its pastors, Marcelo Leiva, to the site where he has, for the past several weeks, had ongoing telephone conversations and prayer sessions with the trapped mineworkers.
"He has been able to talk to them by phone, praying with them and reading the Bible," said Raquel Contreras, president of UBACH and president of the Baptist World Alliance Women's Department. Leiva has been staying in a tent at the rescue mission site, and has also spent time with family members of the trapped mineworkers. "He stays there overnight, sleeping in tents, sharing the gospel, and extending the love of God to the families," Contreras told the BWA.
Contreras claimed that one of the miners "became a Christian," and "wrote his wife saying that she should talk to the pastor because he has become a new man and he wanted his wife to become 'new' too."
"Pastor Marcelo talked to her and guided her to know Jesus," the BWA women's leader reported.
One of the engineers involved in the drilling process is a Baptist church member in Chile. Baptists sent MP3 players into the mine with Christian songs, hymns and sermons, as well as Spanish language Bibles.
The Social Network of the Chilean Baptist Union, formed by UBACH and which has been involved in the reconstruction efforts following the massive earthquake that affected Chile on February 27, has been coordinating the outreach to the miners and their families.
Thirty three mineworkers got trapped inside the San José copper-gold mine in Copiapó, in Northern Chile, on August 5. It is expected that the men will be rescued over several days this week if everything goes according to plan. The protracted extraction process is the result of more than two months of intensive rescue plans and preparations.
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