In the life of Alaska Baptists there are three distinct, autonomous yet, interdependent entities. These are the local church, the local Association and the State Convention. Each entity is vitally important in reaching Alaska for the Lord…it is sort of like a three legged stool, through precarious shifting of weight and a lot of wobbling you may be able to balance on two legs but, in order to be stable and to utilize the stool correctly, you need all three legs. So it is with the local church, association and convention…all three are vital to reaching people for Christ…without one, we may be able to wobble along, but we are constantly struggling to keep balance.

     May 18-24 is the week the Southern Baptist Convention has designated for a week of emphasis on the local Association. This year’s theme is “The Baptist Association-Live With Urgency. Seize Your Divine Moment”. In Alaska, we must live with urgency, 95-97% of our population is unchurched and, out of the number, 95-97% of those do not know Jesus Christ as Lord.

     It is agreed that the Association and the Convention do not exist to do the work of the local church but we do exist to resource and serve the local church. Our purpose is to assist the church to fulfill the vision that God has given to reach their local community. Please do not hesitate to call upon us, as we desire to partner with you.

     In Alaska we have four Associations and Associational Directors of Missions: David George with the Chugach Association; Gary Bearce with the Hatcher Pass Association; Paul Wells with the Tanana Valley Association; Don Shannon with the Tongass Association. Do not hesitate to call upon your Associational Director of Missions; their heart is to serve your church.

     Remember, as a Convention, Association of local Church, we cannot do everything but we all can do what we can, with what we have, where we are, for the glory of God.”
Blessings!