By Kevin James of Norcross, Georgia
I have known about the work of the Baptist Joint Committee for over ten years now, mostly through the work that I do as associate director of the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. I first started to monetarily support the Baptist Joint Committee three or four years ago.
For me, the BJC represents the finest of equilibrium in an often confusing and difficult world of religious rights. It isn’t easy to uphold both non-establishment and free exercise without tending to over balance to one side or the other which — in effect — endangers or outright ruins both. I appreciate the BJC’s efforts of instruction to churches and others interested in religious liberty that I have heard, and I have found them helpful to me and my understanding and awareness of the issues.
Choosing to become a monthly donor seemed the most practical thing to do. I was giving once a year and — at times — I would forget and the BJC would kindly remind me. I felt I shouldn’t have the BJC waste time and resources on nudging a supporter who gives but can’t seem to get his act together and be on time. In becoming a monthly donor, one participates on a consistent basis in forwarding the mission of promoting and protecting religious liberty for all. I am supporting a much needed and vital ministry to the ever-changing challenges facing our religious freedoms today.
Baptists have had a very long tradition and influence upon the country’s understanding of the proper role of church and state that came to a separation of church and state. They have championed that cause ever since, and it is exemplified in the BJC’s work and purpose. I deeply respect and appreciate that lineage and want to see it continue.
Seventh-day Adventists and the BJC have often linked together in their shared interest to preserve and protect our faith freedoms we have in this great country. Our mutual respect and appreciation of each other’s contributions to this cause has bound us in friendship, making the work of both better for it.
Make a lasting investment in religious liberty by becoming a monthly donor today. Visit BJConline.org/Give-Monthly to set up your gift or contact Development Director Taryn Deaton by email at [email protected] or by phone at 202-544-4226 for assistance.
From the November/December 2014 Report From the Capital. Click here to return to the first article.
