Posted on Nov 4, 2003 | by Staff

NORTH POLE, Alaska (BP)--"Light Up Alaska" through prayer, missions, church development and evangelism was the theme of the 58th Alaska Baptist Convention at Moose Creek Baptist Church in North Pole Sept. 30-Oct. 1.

Leon May, pastor of Greater Friendship Church in Anchorage, was re-elected president by acclamation. Mark Goodman, pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Anchorage, was elected first vice president, and Bruce Rowell, pastor of First Baptist Church in Palmer, was elected second vice president. Ruby Stogstill, a layperson from First Baptist Church in Soldotna, was elected recording secretary.

The convention, which drew 136 messengers, approved a total budget of $1,927,021, including $692,973 in anticipated giving from the 73 Alaska Baptist churches and 28 missions.

No resolutions were passed at this year's Alaska convention.

A mission rally -- "Light Up Alaska ... With Willing Hands" -- kicked off convention festivities at First Baptist Church in North Pole Sept. 29, followed by the 54th Woman's Missionary Union of Alaska meeting with the theme of "God's Plan, My Part." Linda Hoffman of Fairview Loop Baptist Church in Wasilla was re-elected state WMU president.

The pastor's conference was Sept. 30 at Cross Roads Baptist Church in North Pole. Paul Foster, pastor of Anchor Baptist Church of Craig on Prince of Wales Island, was elected president.

Next year's state convention will be Oct. 5-6 at Muldoon Road Baptist Church in Anchorage.
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