by Eron Henry | Sep 4, 2024 | News
The 127th Lott Carey Annual Session, held from August 12-15 in Memphis, TN, brought together a diverse group of attendees, with 958 people registered, including 913 in-person and 45 virtual participants.
Mission service projects were a key component of the Annual Session, with strong attendance reported. The Bread of Life Initiative provided meals to the unhoused and those facing housing insecurity. Volunteers engaged in food preparation, setting up serving stations, ministering to individuals, and serving meals with compassion.
Those who went to the Fishes and Loaves Food Pantry packed emergency food boxes, sorted food pallets, and ensured the packing area was clean and organized. They also conducted a distribution event, breaking down pallets, bagging items, greeting families, assisting with paperwork, and placing items in vehicles.
Participants sorted and packed donated food items and repackaged bulk products into smaller, distributable sizes at the Mid-South Food Bank Volunteer Hub.
At the Purdue Center of Hope, volunteers taught Bible study, led children’s activities, supported women’s development programs, engaged in clean-up activities, moderate repairs, and administrative tasks such as file shredding.
During the Sound the Alarm Event, in partnership with the American Red Cross, volunteers installed smoke alarms, created escape plans, and shared fire safety information with homeowners near Christ Missionary Baptist Church, whose senior pastor is Lott Carey’s immediate past president, Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart.
Lott Carey also partnered with the Red Cross in its 2024 blood drive, collecting 32 units of blood, potentially saving 92 lives, with 25 whole blood units and seven power red units, achieving 106 percent of the target. The drive highlighted the importance of blood donations for individuals with sickle cell disease, particularly encouraging African American donors to participate.
These mission events made a deep impression and left a lasting impact on the city of Memphis and those who attended or participated.
by Eron Henry | Aug 22, 2024 | News
Lott Carey extends heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart, Christ Missionary Baptist Church, and the city of Memphis for the warm welcome and hospitality during the 127th Lott Carey Annual Session held from August 12-15 at the Renasant Convention Center.
Christ Missionary Baptist Church, the host church whose pastor is Dr. Stewart, provided much love and assistance, including scores of volunteers who served as ushers, greeters, registrants, etc., as well as providing transportation services.
The city of Memphis enabled the more than 900 participants from across the United States and overseas to worship, fellowship, learn, and network in a comfortable setting and ambiance.
Dr. Stewart, who was coming to the end of her three-year term as Lott Carey president, was the consummate host. She pulled out all the stops and for this Lott Carey is deeply grateful. Her commitment and dedication to Lott Carey is unquestioned and we are delighted that her goal of millions for missions was realized. In response, many churches gave generous donations in addition to substantial gifts from Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, and Compassion International.
We note that through her initiative, Dr. Stewart raised $50,000 from pastors and churches in the city of Memphis alone. These funds will go directly to Lott Carey global partners to meet specific needs in Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Kenya, and South Africa.
“The event was a resounding success, marked by inspirational worship, rich fellowship, wonderful learning experiences, significant contributions and impactful initiatives,” said Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rev. Emmett Dunn. “Lott Carey is deeply grateful to Dr. Stewart, Christ Missionary Baptist Church, and the city of Memphis for their unwavering support and hospitality during the Annual Session. Their welcome, hospitality and contributions have significantly advanced Lott Carey’s mission and impact globally.”
by Eron Henry | Aug 16, 2024 | News
Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Williams, Senior Pastor of Convent Avenue Baptist Church in Harlem, New York, has been installed as the new president of Lott Carey during the 127th Lott Carey Annual Session held August 12-15 in Memphis, TN.
He succeeds Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart, after serving as first vice president for three years and, before then, as second vice president, also for three years.
Dr. Williams’ involvement with Lott Carey began through his pastoral role at Convent Avenue Baptist Church, which has a long-standing association with the organization. He recalls, “We have an annual Lott Carey Day where the executive secretary-treasurer comes to preach for us every year, a tradition dating back decades.”
He is the fourth pastor of the church and the second to serve as Lott Carey President. Rev. Dr. Mannie L. Wilson, pastor of the church from 1961 until his passing in 1982, previously served as president of Lott Carey.
This engagement led Dr. Williams to attend Lott Carey annual sessions and eventually join the board, progressing through leadership roles to his current position as president.
Born in Akron, OH, Dr. Williams pursued his education in Kansas and began his ministry in Saint Louis, MO, where he was ordained and served his first congregation, Washington Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, for 16 years. He holds a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Eden Theological Seminary. His passion for ministry and mission was significantly influenced by Dr. Ronald Bobo, his ordaining pastor, who instilled in him a strong commitment to foreign missions.
Dr. Williams emphasizes the transformative power of mission work, aligning with Lott Carey’s motto of touching lives with the transforming love of Jesus Christ. He aims to highlight how mission transforms people, communities, and nations. “My tenure will emphasize transformation that happens through mission,” he states.
Balancing his pastoral duties with his new role, Dr. Williams acknowledges the challenges but also sees it as a blessing. He believes in empowering his congregation to carry on ministry work, ensuring that the church’s mission continues even when he is engaged with Lott Carey responsibilities.
Dr. Williams plans to prioritize recruitment of new churches and pastors, individual giving, and expanding Lott Carey’s presence in the South, Midwest, and West in the United States. He is committed to maintaining the organization’s integrity and transparency, ensuring that donations are effectively utilized for mission work.
He hopes to leave a legacy of transformative ministry, benevolent giving, and advocacy for justice. He expresses his gratitude to the Lott Carey family for entrusting him with this responsibility and pledges to serve faithfully, praying for continued support and collaboration.
by Eron Henry | Aug 15, 2024 | News
In his report to the 127th Lott Carey Annual Session held in Memphis, Tennessee, from August 12-15, Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rev. Emmett Dunn highlighted collective efforts in advancing the cause of Christ through global missions.
The construction of wells in Sierra Leone and Nigeria provided clean and accessible water to thousands, significantly improving public health and reducing the burden on women and children who previously had to travel long distances to fetch water. In Kenya, several churches were built, creating spaces for worship and community gathering. These churches serve as centers of community development, offering various programs to support local needs.
Recognizing the challenges faced by economically disadvantaged communities, a program to provide shoes for school children was initiated. This effort enabled hundreds of children to attend school with dignity and comfort, removing a significant barrier to their education. Additionally, essential healthcare services were provided through medical assistance programs in Kenya, addressing critical health needs and offering hope and healing to those with limited access to medical care.
In the United States, the focus was on building capacity among churches through the Thriving Congregation Program, providing resources needed to grow and sustain vibrant ministries. Significant financial resources were provided to churches in Nigeria, India, and Kenya, supporting initiatives like church construction, community development, and outreach programs, thereby strengthening partnerships and expanding global impact.
Rev. Dunn emphasized the critical role of the Christian church in addressing the world’s pressing needs amidst economic disparities, social unrest, political instability, and environmental crises. Global socioeconomic and political climate profoundly impacts communities, with millions living in poverty and lacking access to basic necessities. Political conflicts and instability have displaced millions, creating a refugee crisis that demands compassion and action. Social issues such as racism, gender inequality, and the erosion of traditional values further exacerbate these challenges. In this context, the church must reaffirm its role in engendering hope, justice, and peace, addressing both the spiritual and physical needs of people.
Engaging youth and young adults is crucial to the future of the church. This generation is passionate about social justice, equality, and meaningful change. The church must create spaces where young people can connect their faith with action, providing opportunities for them to lead and participate in mission work. This includes offering mentorship, leadership development, and platforms for youth to express their creativity and passion for the gospel.
To strengthen the mission of Lott Carey globally, it is essential to expand partnerships with local and international organizations that share the mission. Collaborative efforts can amplify impact, pooling resources and expertise to address complex global challenges more effectively.
Prioritizing projects that promote long-term, sustainable development in the communities served, including environmental stewardship, is crucial. Increasing advocacy efforts on issues such as poverty, inequality, and human rights can influence policy and bring about systemic change that aligns with Christian values. Investing in discipleship and theological education to equip believers with a deep understanding of their faith and its implications for mission will help cultivate a mission-minded community rooted in scripture and committed to living out the gospel in every aspect of life.
Rev. Dunn reflected on the importance of actions in defining identity. Actions speak louder than words, reflecting true values and priorities. Consistency between belief and action is crucial for integrity, and actions have a profound impact on the world. Understanding that “what you do is who you are” challenges us to live intentionally, examining actions and aligning them with values. This transformation involves allowing God’s Word and Spirit to shape values and, in turn, actions.
by Eron Henry | Aug 14, 2024 | News
In a significant act of generosity, the Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, has donated $1 million to Lott Carey to support the Ghana Baptist Freedom Initiative. The donation was presented by Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley and Rev. Marcia M. Norfleet, Assistant to the Pastor for Missions, to Lott Carey President Dr. Gina M. Stewart during the 127th Lott Carey Annual Session, held from August 12-15 in Memphis, Tennessee.
The Ghana Baptist Freedom Initiative, in collaboration with the Ghana Baptist Convention, aims to rescue and rehabilitate young girls from the Trokosi system, a traditional practice where girls are enslaved to atone for the sins of their relatives. The initiative, established more than 25 years ago, has successfully rescued hundreds of girls, providing them with education and vocational training to reintegrate into society.
The project, in consultation with the Ghana Baptist Convention, will focus on several key areas. It will support the operation of eight existing schools and build additional schools in areas where the Trokosi system is practiced. These schools aim to educate young girls and introduce them to Christian values, helping them understand the negative impacts of the Trokosi practice. Additionally, the vocational center provides life skills training in basket weaving, sewing, baking, and more. The facility will be rehabilitated to meet current demands, ensuring that rescued girls can become self-sufficient entrepreneurs.
A microfinancing program will offer loans to those who have completed vocational training, enabling them to start or expand their businesses. This financial support aims to lift families out of poverty and improve their standard of living. The Freedom Fund will ensure that resources are available to free more girls from the Trokosi system, with the cost of freeing one person being $500.
The funds donated by Alfred Street Baptist Church will be managed by Lott Carey’s special project account. Distribution will be based on budgetary allotments agreed upon by the Ghana Baptist Convention and Lott Carey.
The project will be overseen by the Office of the Executive Secretary-Treasurer/CEO of Lott Carey, in consultation with the Office of the Executive President (CEO) of the Ghana Baptist Convention. The management plan includes defining project scope, establishing timelines, identifying key roles, and ensuring regular communication and financial transparency.
It is expected to commence in the second half of 2024 and conclude in December 2028.
The funds were received from Alfred Street members who participated in the church’s annual fast, Seek 24. Members donated the cost from which they abstained during the fast, including food, leisure activities, entertainment, etc.
This generous donation from Alfred Street Baptist Church marks a significant step in the fight against the Trokosi system, offering hope and a brighter future to many young girls in Ghana.
by Eron Henry | Aug 12, 2024 | News
Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart ends her three-year term as President of Lott Carey during the Annual Session in Memphis, Tennessee, held from August 12-15. Her tenure has been one of visionary leadership, inclusivity, and impactful initiatives. The first woman to hold this esteemed position, she has navigated her presidency with a focus on unity, innovation, and the empowerment of emerging generations.
Her presidency has been marked by several notable accomplishments. She takes immense pride in how the Lott Carey team has united to elevate its mission, introduce innovative practices, and intentionally involve younger generations. By ensuring that the voices and perspectives of younger members are prominently represented, this visionary leader has helped to foster a culture of inclusivity at the Board level, reflecting diverse perspectives in leadership and decision-making processes.
One of the significant achievements during her tenure has been the substantial financial investments received through new partnerships. These investments have been crucial in sustaining international outreach and supporting disaster relief efforts. Dr. Stewart is also proud of the new relationships forged with pastors who have committed to investing in the work of Lott Carey while nurturing existing partnerships within the network.
Moreover, Dr. Stewart is pleased with the strategic use of technology to amplify Lott Carey’s message and engage congregations through virtual and social media platforms. This approach has expanded the organization’s reach and impact, ensuring that the mission incorporates a broader audience.
Among the newer initiatives spearheaded during her presidency, the launch of the Lott Carey Student Chapters is a significant development. This initiative, set to pilot at the 2024 Annual Session in Memphis, features a mission-focused, service-learning model that combines student-led experiential learning with hands-on service experiences. These chapters will be established on HBCU campuses, empowering new voices and ensuring the ongoing vitality and effectiveness of the mission organization.
To underscore the commitment to engaging emerging generations, Executive Secretary-Treasurer Rev. Emmett Dunn has secured the services of Rev. Trevor Beauford as Coordinator of Young Adult Initiatives. This role is pivotal in leading efforts to create spaces for young adults within Lott Carey.
Another presidential priority that has garnered enthusiasm is the “Millions for Missions” campaign. This continues to generate energy and excitement for the organization’s mission.
Dr. Stewart’s tenure has been characterized by nurturing meaningful relationships with key partners. The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and Brunswick Theological Seminary have each pledged commitments over a three-year period, and Compassion International has generously offered to aid in the construction of the David and Pamela Goatley School in Bopolu, Liberia.
Challenges and Unfinished Goals
Despite the many successes, the outgoing president acknowledges that some goals remain unfinished. One key priority was to raise one million dollars on President’s Night during the Annual Session. Although close, this milestone has yet to be achieved. She remains optimistic that this goal will be reached in the future.
The primary challenge has been limited resources relative to the organization’s vision. Despite this, Lott Carey has made a significant global impact, demonstrating that dedication and collaboration can overcome financial constraints. Additionally, Dr. Stewart hopes to see increased engagement from churches in the southern region of the United States and the revival of previous partnerships with churches.
While honored to be the first woman to lead Lott Carey, Dr. Stewart aspires not to be the last, emphasizing the importance of continued inclusivity and representation in leadership. She envisions an evolving role for women in the church, marked by incremental changes in influence and leadership. While many churches and denominations now ordain women, they remain underrepresented in leadership positions. Dr. Stewart emphasizes the importance of male allyship in dismantling sexism, patriarchy, and male dominance. Lott Carey has been a trailblazer in this area, being the first predominantly Black Baptist convention in the United States to elect a woman as its president. She hopes that this path of inclusivity and intentionality will continue, leading to more women ascending to leadership positions and driving structural change.
To young women, particularly young Black women aspiring to leadership positions in religious organizations, the mentor to many offers valuable advice. She encourages them to connect with churches, ministries, and organizations that embrace an egalitarian and inclusive vision of ministry. Serving in various roles within the church can help develop essential leadership skills and provide opportunities to lead and find mentors.
The dynamic preacher emphasizes the importance of integrity, ethical practices, commitment, responsibility, and team building. She reminds young women that their gifts will make room for them, and they never know who might be observing their efforts and advocating on their behalf.
Cherished Memories and Future Plans
Reflecting on her presidency, Dr. Stewart cherishes many memories, with one of the most treasured being a trip to Liberia and Ghana with Lott Carey supporters. The fellowship, worship, and ministry experiences were unforgettable, highlighting the impact of witnessing the organization’s work firsthand.
Looking ahead, Dr. Stewart plans to take a much-needed break to recharge and reflect on her presidential experiences and achievements. She will return to school to finish her PhD coursework, a long-standing goal paused during her presidency. She remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition for incoming leadership and continuing to support Lott Carey’s initiatives. While her role as president is ending, her dedication to the organization’s mission and vision remains unwavering.
As she concludes her term of service, she expresses deep gratitude to the Lott Carey family, Board of Directors, former and present Board Chairmen, former Presidents, officers, staff, volunteers, supporters, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support and commitment. Their steadfast prayers, active presence, words of encouragement, and generous partnership have been the cornerstone of collective achievements.
To international Lott Carey partners, the outgoing president pledges ongoing support and collaboration. She hopes that the legacy of faith and service will continue to inspire generations for years to come. As she passes the baton to Rev. Dr. Jesse Williams, she looks forward to contributing in new ways and supporting the remarkable work of Lott Carey.
Dr. Gina M. Stewart’s presidency has been a period of significant growth, innovation, and inclusivity for Lott Carey. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide the mission agency in its quest to make a global impact.
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