Zenas’ Brief – June 2023

So, You’re Sending Messengers!

What’s a messenger and what should the messenger expect?  A “messenger” is a delegate appointed by an affiliated SBC church to attend the SBC Annual Meeting on the church’s behalf.  Much goes on at the annual meetings, messengers will meet people, hear speakers, visit vendors, and hopefully have a fun and informative time. Being a messenger has definite legal aspects and responsibilities. The collective messengers are similar to a legislative body, like Congress, they make decisions through asking questions, speaking, and voting.

When messengers arrive at the meeting, they first need to check in at the Credentials Desk and upon registration will be given a packet of materials including an itinerary, copies of reports, and documents, resolutions, anticipated actions, and more. The messengers need to become familiar with those. Each day, a newsletter will be distributed that gives updates and information about the day’s activities. There will be several sessions at which Baptist entities (for example, the International Mission Board) will make reports, elections will be held, motions or resolutions will be proposed, discussed and voted on, etc.  Look, learn, and listen….and vote as God leads.

In choosing messengers, ensure that you are picking people who exemplify the qualities of 
1 Timothy 3:8. We also recommend confirming travel plans, reimbursements, and insurance for messengers.

The SBC Annual Meeting is a great opportunity to learn what others are doing, experiencing,  thinking…and especially to enjoy “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4: 3). Afterwards, it would be great if your messengers let us know their thoughts and experience. Thanks for going!