What would be the point of talking about numbers if we did not first talk about integrity? I am told that in some churches integrity is missing in the reporting of numbers. What do I mean by that?

Well simply put, some churches will “re-baptize” people to make the person happy and well…it doesn’t hurt the old baptism numbers at all.

At Central, we DO NOT “re-baptize” people. If someone is baptized here that was baptized before, it is because they truly believe and have convinced a member of our staff that true repentance and salvation occurred after their first baptism. We examine this belief carefully with each person.

Also we accept baptism by immersion from other churches Southern Baptist or not, if the baptism is biblical and not related to a cult we accept that baptism the same as if the baptism occurred here at Central. Some churches increase their baptism numbers this way as well by making all new members get baptized at their church.

The other main issue in baptism numbers would be accountability for the people you baptize.  Do we care what happens to the person after they are saved and then baptized here at Central? Yes and I am pleased to say that we have an answer from our staff for all 57 baptisms and know where they are today.

This church year, which ended August 31, 2008, we baptized 21 Adults, 20 students in the 6^th grade and up and 16 Children 5^th grade and below. First we need to praise God because He allows us to engage in His work and without the Holy Spirit we would not see these things happen.

Secondly, I commend Daniel and the Student ministry workers for believing and working to see changed lives by the power of Jesus Christ. I commend Tab Howell for working diligently to follow up and see many adults baptized. We benefited from Tab’s labor in serving the Lord Jesus. I commend Pam and the children’s ministry workers for creating an environment where Jesus is lifted up and where children want to be on Sundays and Wednesday.

Last but not least, I commend the McWhorter family for packing out two cars to bring their neighbors to church and for being spiritual leaders in their family to see their children saved this year, all of whom were baptized here at Central. What a great year for the McWhorter family and for Central to welcome such hard workers for God’s Kingdom into our fellowship.

Also, Deloris Downs and Beth Fleming have headed up our baptism ministry and worked hard this year to see these baptisms take place. We are grateful to Deloris and Beth as well. Roy Downs also does so much to help us and asks every Sunday if we need water in the baptistery. Mr. Roy, many thanks!

Thanks to everybody because every one of you have done something by praying, giving, inviting or just by being friendly.

Give thanks to God for His allowing us to be a part of His great works!

Believing God for Greater Things!