Charleston Baptist Association (CBA)

The Executive Board of the Charleston Baptist Association met Tuesday, February 21 at Northbridge Baptist Church. I don’t think it would be too much of a stretch to say it was a historic meeting for Charleston Baptist. The CBA has lost a lot of momentum and steam over the past 20 years. Everything in life was changing and the Charleston Baptist Association was getting further and further behind the plan and purposes of God. It was similar to when David fought Goliath. King Saul graciously offered for David to wear his armor. It did not fit and slowed him down. The old Charleston Baptist Association, in some ways, did not fit and it was slowing the work down. So over a year ago, a team was put together to study where we were and where we were going and how is the best way to get there. They prayed, met with pastors, leaders, the Executive Committee, studied history in an effort to seek the will of God and to join what He is doing. As the old saying goes…now, the proof is in the pudding. But I must tell you I like the way it looks and tastes so far.

So, here is the change…simple and to the point. The Charleston Baptist Association exists to do 3 things. First, we exist to strengthen churches. A team will be put together that will be available to pray for and assist churches that want to reclaim the glory for God. For those who want to continue the vision that started the churches years ago, this team will be willing to come along side and offer help. The second charge is to strengthen pastors and church leaders. The speed of the leader is the speed of the team. Likewise, a team will be put together to assist the CBA churches in building stronger leaders. Third, but certainly not least, a team will be assigned church planting…starting new churches. This may sound very simple…it is, but I believe it is inspired simplicity. This is a focus I can get behind and support. In fact I have. I will be serving as the team leader for the strengthening churches-church revitalization team. Tom McConnell is the first member on this new team.

Our new Executive Director (formerly called the Director of Missions/DOM) is D. Craig Tuck. The Executive Director Search Team processed through 57 resumes, interviewed 8 that met all the requirements; then selected a final three for final consideration. Craig Tuck met all the requirements and competencies required. Craig has been Senior Pastor at Centerpoint Church here in Charleston and is well known to most of our pastors. I am more than pleased to welcome Craig to this mission and ministry. I look forward to the days ahead. To God be the Glory.

Pastor Tom