August 30, 2022
A mission budget of $1.8 million was approved by the board during Lott Carey’s 125th Annual Session in New Orleans, Louisiana, from August 15-18.
The budget will support various projects in 11 countries. These include education of more than 12,000 students in India, Liberia, Nigeria, and Guyana; free medical care for leprosy patients in India; and HIV/AIDS education, prevention, care, and support in Ethiopia.
The board approved an individual membership drive to be launched in 2023. Among other things, it will build a strong network around Lott Carey programs and causes and provide fundraising support.
Individual members will be encouraged to engage in advocacy and perform ambassadorial roles on the behalf of Lott Carey in their local churches, organizations, and communities.
A scholarship for students at Lott Carey mission schools in the names of Dr. and Mrs. David Emmanuel Goatley was approved by the board, which granted an initial sum of $5,000 to its launch. Dr. Goatley served 20 years as executive secretary-treasurer for Lott Carey. Other solicitations will be received to boost the fund.
The Thriving Congregations initiative was officially launched at the Annual Session. Focus will be on churches’ response to changing social and cultural contexts, clarifying values, and on mission. It seeks to cultivate Christian practices that strengthen the vitality, faithfulness, and effectiveness of local churches.
The initiative will facilitate four cohorts consisting of eight to 12 congregational teams comprising pastors and lay leaders. Between 50 and 60 congregations are expected to benefit from the program, funded by a grant from Lilly Endowment.
The $1 million development fund launched by Lott Carey President Dr. Gina M. Stewart at the Spring Missions Conference in Atlanta in March, got a major boost during the Annual Session. Several donations were pledged or received, including $25,000 from the Conference of National Black Churches.
Dr. Stewart is encouraging churches to invest in increasing capacity and building the infrastructure of Lott Carey to enable its partners to effectively meet the needs of the people they serve.
The Annual Session was held August 15-18 and incorporated Bible Study, worship, mission education classes, mission service opportunities, and presentations on issues of concern such as human trafficking, voting rights and social justice. There were special events for children and youth, among other activities and programs.
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