Press Release - NoBA & IMB

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

For More Information Contact:

Sid Hopkins, NoBA National Chairman

770.963.8350; sid@gmba.org

Bobby Gilstrap, NoBA Communications

734.483.5275; 734.457.3040

b.gilstrap3761@sbcglobal.net

Network of Baptist Associations Establish Relationship with IMB

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – "It is encouraging to know of the growth of the Network of Baptist Associations,” stated Dr. Jerry Rankin, president of the International Mission Board. Rankin met with Sid Hopkins, National Chairman of the Network of Baptist Associations (NoBA) on Friday, August 17, 2007 at the International Mission Board’s Missionary Learning Center to discuss initiating a partnership between NoBA and IMB. After the meeting, Rankin said, “A changing society and growing diversity among our churches challenges every denominational entity to re-examine programs and objectives in order to be relevant and effective. NoBA reflects a commitment to work together in a synergy of partnership to that end. It is a privilege for the IMB to be connected to this visionary and innovative development."

Hopkins reflected on the meeting with Rankin stating that he discussed that the NoBA organization wanted to enhance the partnership relationship with International Mission Board by working closely together to inform associations of the work of IMB. Hopkins continued saying he also asked that IMB allow NoBA to give input from the field to help them better serve associations and Associational Directors of Missions. Both requests were well received according to Hopkins.

Several years ago, the International Mission Board created the division of State and Associational Relations so they could better relate to and partner with associations in getting the international component of the ACTS 1:8 Challenge accomplished. Terry Sharp, director of the State and Associational Relations division also attended the meeting and commented, “We are living in a golden moment of missions and I count it a joy to serve along side associations as they serve the churches. I am excited about partnering with NoBA because of their desire to assist churches with a comprehensive mission strategy that focuses locally, nationally, and internationally.”

The Network of Baptist Associations is a professional community of Baptist associations networking to strengthen each other for the work of assisting churches in accomplishing God’s mission. The organization which was officially launched in January 2007 now has almost 300 members from 40 states. NoBA seeks to provide Associational Directors of Missions, plus associational staff and officers, with resources and networking opportunities that will strengthen the ministry of associations in the United States. Associational staff members or associational lay leaders are encouraged to get more information or join the NoBA organization at www.NoBAsbc.org. Members have full access to hundred's of resources that help them to be effective in ministering to their associational churches.

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