The Baptist Joint Committee’s mission of “defending and extending religious liberty for all” is what inspires my ongoing commitment to this important organization and its work. The essential importance of their mission affects so many elements of my life — my social media use, my conversations and even my marriage.I first met Brent Walker this past summer during the 2016 BJC Fellows Seminar. Prior to that meeting, I had seen him in videos on the BJC website, read a book of his lectures on religious liberty and heard nothing but wonderful things about him from friends who knew him. I was prepared to meet an incredibly talented, intelligent and accomplished man (which he certainly is), and I was amazed by how incredibly kind, humble and genuinely thoughtful he is in person! I’m so thankful for his willingness to share his knowledge and experience and for the opportunity to learn from him.
As someone who works in higher education, I find Brent Walker’s respect for education and deep knowledge and understanding of history and law to be very impressive. As someone who is involved in my own Baptist church, as well as interfaith efforts in my community, I’m especially inspired by his focus on reaching out to members of other faiths and his ability to make connections with many different religious organizations. As a Christian married to a Muslim, the need to protect and respect the religious liberties of all people and all faiths is personally very important to me. I’m thankful that Brent Walker and the BJC understand this, and I’m looking forward to continuing my support of this important mission.
