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FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 207 STATE STREET WATERTOWN, NEW YORK 13601
August 19, 2006
For Immediate Release
The Board of the First Baptist Church is saddened that a private church matter has once again been aired in the public arena. In September of 2006 First Baptist Church will offer Sunday school classes at 9:30 a.m. for all age groups. To meet the vibrant growth of our congregation the Board has made various changes. As a church we believe that God has a special role for both men and women within the church setting. Currently 55% of the Diaconate Board members of First Baptist Church are women. Additionally, by September, 87% of all Sunday School teaching positions will be filled by female educators. We believe that organizing our church in accordance with the teaching of scripture will enable us to continue to reach out to our community in the name of our loving Savior Jesus Christ.
In the specific case of Ms. Lambert the Board’s decision to remove her from a teaching position was multifaceted and the scriptural rules concerning women teaching men in a church setting was only a small aspect of that decision. Christian courtesy motivates us to refrain from making any public accusations against her.
The Board remains grateful for our growing, vibrant membership and welcomes everyone to our Church. We wholly stand by our mission to establish a dynamic spirit-filled fellowship for all ages, based on Biblical principles, whose witness is to the saving power of Jesus Christ, and whose effect is a “Lighthouse on the Square” that touches spiritual needs worldwide in God’s name.
The Diaconate Board supports our Pastor and his continuing efforts to preach the Gospel, administer the ordinances, watch over the membership, promote the interests of the Church, organize and develop its strengths with the best possible service and remains grateful for his continuing efforts.
Very truly yours,
Diaconate Board, First Baptist Church
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