section 4: reports and recommendations baptist convention of …€¦ · accountant’s...

2016AnnualReportoftheBaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware Section4

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Section4:

ReportsandRecommendations

BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware


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Section4:TableofContents

ReportoftheExecutiveDirectorDr.KevinSmith.....................................................................................54

HighlightsfromtheGeneralMissionBoard.................................................................................................55

BaptistConventionofMaryland/DelawareFinancialReview.............................................................56

BaptistConventionofMaryland/DelawareApproved2017Budget................................................67

BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017OperatingandStateMissionsBudgetComparison................................................................................................................................................................72

BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017SkycroftConferenceCenterBudgetComparison................................................................................................................................................................73

BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017OperatingandStateMissionsOfferingComparisonbyMajorExpenseCategory.......................................................................................................74

BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017SkycroftConferenceCenterComparisonbyMajorExpenseCategory.......................................................................................................75

Woman’sMissionaryUnionofMaryland/Delaware................................................................................76

ChurchMultiplication...........................................................................................................................................78

ChurchStrengthening,EquippingandEncouraging................................................................................79

ConventionOperations.......................................................................................................................................85

BaptistFoundationofMaryland/Delaware,Inc.........................................................................................87


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ReportofExecutiveDirectorDr.KevinSmith

WhatajoytoendtheyearasanexcitedandhopefulMaryland/DelawareBaptist!IamgratefulfortheGeneralMissionBoard’scall,inJune,toserveasExecutiveDirectoroftheBaptistConventionofMD/DE.Duringthesecondhalfof2016,Ihaveenjoyedmeetingchurchesandpastorsalloverourtwo-stateconvention.IhavebeenespeciallymovedbytheGreatCommandment&GreatCommissiondesiresofsomanythatIhavemet.DuringourannualmeetinginTowson,IpresentedsomecorevaluesthatIpraywillshapeourmissiontogethergoingforward,asweseektostrengthenandplantchurches.CoreValues:Cooperation,Affirmation,&MultiplicationCooperation-thebeliefthatourcapacityincreaseswhenMaryland/DelawareBaptistscooperatewitheachother,andwithournationalSouthernBaptistpartners.ThechurchplantingtaskofpushingbackspiritualdarknessisagreatworkdemandingtheunifiedeffortsofChrist’sfollowers,inorderthatwemightbeusefulvesselsfortheHolySpirit(whoisnottheauthorofconfusion).Thechurchstrengtheningtaskofpursuingchurchhealthandfruitfulnessis,likewise,agreatworkthatrequiresourcongregationstobeunitedandprayerfulasweaskGodtouseustoseepeopleconvertedandgrowingingodlinesstothegloryofJesusChrist. Affirmation-thebeliefthatlocalchurchaffirmationofmissionariesandchurchplantersisbiblical,andaneffectivemeansofstewardshipaccountabilitytoourCooperativeProgram,Maryland/DelawareMissionsOffering,andAnnieArmstrongOfferingsupportingchurches.“Churchesplantchurches”isnotmererhetorictous,wereallymeanit!NotonlydochurchesparticipatebygivingapercentageoftheirreceiptstotheCooperativeProgram,theyparticipatebynurturingthoseintheircongregationthatwillbefuturemissionariesandchurchplanters.Multiplication-thebeliefthatahealthychurchproducesdisciplesthatmakedisciples,andthatsomeofthosediscipleswillbeledtobemissionariesandchurchplanters,andthatthoseremaininginthesending-congregationshouldsupportthosethatgo.As2016ends,itisimportantthatwefocusonwhywedowhatwedo-becauseJesusChrist,theSonofGod,cameintotheworldtosavesinners!Weneedtohavestrategyandcorevalues.WeneedtheresourcesthatourcooperativeapproachtoministryasMaryland/DelawareBaptistsprovides.But,mostofall,wemustbeanimatedbytheChristmasmessagereflectedinMary’ssonginLuke1:“MysoulmagnifiestheLord,andmyspirithasrejoicedinGodmySavior…forHewhoismightyhasdonegreatthingsforme,andholyisHisname.”


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2015-2016SummarizedActivities/HighlightsoftheGeneralMissionBoard

TheGeneralMissionBoardispleasedtoservethechurcheswithinourConvention.WearethankfultoourGodforthewisdomHeprovidesasweseektohonorHiminallwedo.Thehighlightsofthelastyearfollow.TheGeneralMissionBoardapprovedthepurchaseof43acresoflandadjacenttoSkycroftConferenceCenter.Thepurchaseofthispropertywouldallowfornecessaryfutureimprovementsandpossibleexpansionoftheconferencecenter.Concerningstaff,Dr.KevinSmithwascalledtoleadtheBaptistConventionofMaryland/DelawareasExecutiveDirector.Dr.SmithisagraduateofSouthernSeminaryandmostrecentlyservedonstaffasTeachingPastoratHighviewBaptistChurchinLouisville,Ky.PriortohiringDr.Smith,theGeneralMissionBoardreinstalledTomStolleasInterimExecutiveDirectorafterthetermservedbyRickHancockhadconcluded.Missionarieswerecontractedthroughtheendof2016specificallytargetingunreachedMuslimandJewishpeoplegroupswithwhomtoshareChrist.The2017proposedbudgetisbeingrecommendedbytheGeneralMissionBoardforapprovalbythemessengers.ThisbudgetreflectsexpectedCooperativeProgramcontributionsof$3,750,000fromouraffiliatedchurches.AnadditionalonepercentofCooperativeProgramreceiptswillbesentoutofourregiontosupportthespreadingoftheGospelbothnationallyandinternationally.TheNorthAmericanMissionBoardhasagreedtoincreasefundingfornewchurchplantsby25percentovertheprioryear.Concerningthiseffort,theNorthAmericanMissionBoardwillbecontributing$800,000totheBaptistConventionofMaryland/Delawarefortheplantingofnewchurchesinourregion,anincreaseof$200,000inchurchplanterassistancecomparedtothepreviousyear’sbudget.Thisproposedbudgetalsoincludesfundingforchurchplantinginitiativestoincludeindividualsandfamiliesaffectedbydisabilities.Thishasbeenanexcitingyear.TheGeneralMissionBoardlooksforwardtoservingalongsidemanagementtoseevisionforthefuturebecomereality.WewillcontinuetoprioritizethesharingoftheGospelintheMid-Atlanticregion.TheGeneralMissionBoardisgratefulfortheopportunitytogiveguidancetotheworkofourmanyaffiliatedchurchesaswelabortogetherservingChrist.InHisService,Dr.MikeTrammellPresident,GeneralMissionBoard


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INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANT’S REVIEW REPORT To the General Mission Board of the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc.

We have reviewed the accompanying financial statements of the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statement of assets, liabilities and net assets – cash receipts and disbursement basis as of December 31, 2016, and the related statements of budgeted activities – cash receipts and disbursement basis, changes in net assets – cash receipts and disbursement basis, and cash flows – cash receipts and disbursement basis for the year then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements. A review includes primarily applying analytical procedures to management’s financial data and making inquiries of entity management. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit, the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion. Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with the cash receipts and disbursement basis of accounting and includes determining that the cash receipts and disbursement basis of accounting is an acceptable basis for the preparation of financial statements in the circumstances. Management is also responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements that are free from material misstatement whether due to fraud or error. Accountant’s Responsibility Our responsibility is to conduct the review engagement in accordance with Statements on Standards for Accounting and Review Services promulgated by the Accounting and Review Services Committee of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Those standards require us to perform procedures to obtain limited assurance as a basis for reporting whether we are aware of any material modifications that should be made to the financial statements for them to be in accordance with the cash receipts and disbursement basis of accounting. We believe that the results of our procedures provide a reasonable basis for our conclusion. Accountant’s Conclusion Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying financial statements in order for them to be in accordance with the modified cash receipts and disbursements basis of accounting. Basis of Accounting We draw attention to Note1 of the financial statements, which describes the basis of accounting. The financial statements are prepared in accordance with the cash receipts and disbursement basis of accounting, which is a basis of accounting other than accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Our conclusion is not modified with respect to this matter.

WeberMessick January 31, 2017


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Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc.Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Assets - Cash Receipts and Disbursement Basis

December 31, 2016

Current AssetsCash and Cash Equivalents 1,170,386$ Inventory 5,000 Prepaid Expenses 56,544

Total Current Assets 1,231,930

Property and EquipmentBuildings, Land and Furnishings - Skycroft Conference Center 4,193,842 Network Resource Center 2,045,548

Total Property and Equipment 6,239,390

Other AssetsBaptist Foundation of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. 2,331,194 Legacy of Faith Donated Property 478,349

Total Other Assets 2,809,543

Total Assets 10,280,863$

Assets

See Independent Accountant's Review Report and accompanying notes.2


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Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc.Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Assets - Cash Receipts and Disbursement Basis

December 31, 2016

Current LiabilitiesCash Exchange 694,593$ Skycroft Advance Bookings/Clearing 241,001 State Mission Offering 153,230 Payroll Benefit Withholdings 9,811 Current Portion of Note Payable 13,778

Total Current Liabilities 1,112,413

Long-Term LiabilitiesNote Payable 276,250 Less: Current Portion of Note Payable (13,778)

Total Long-Term Liabilities 262,472

Total Liabilities 1,374,885

Net AssetsUnrestricted 133,296 Unrestricted - Board Designated 8,772,682

Total Net Assets 8,905,978

Total Liabilities and Net Assets 10,280,863$

Liabilities and Net Assets



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Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc.Statement of Budgeted Activities - Cash Receipts and Disbursement Basis

For the Year Ended December 31, 2016

Actual Budget Over/(Under)

ReceiptsCooperative Program 3,699,138$ 3,875,000$ (175,862)$ Cooperative Gifts 50,547 120,000 (69,453) State Mission Offering 113,248 190,000 (76,752) North American Mission Board 965,056 878,983 86,073 Lifeway Christian Resources 54,996 60,000 (5,004) Skycroft Conference Center Operations 2,096,976 2,196,296 (99,320) Baptist Foundation of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. 15,000 19,000 (4,000) Strategic Resources 80,000 113,000 (33,000) Strategic Church Planting Escrow - 175,000 (175,000) Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. Endowment Income 96,000 208,000 (112,000) Interest Income 94 2,888 (2,794) Reserves - 35,000 (35,000)

Total Receipts 7,171,055 7,873,167 (702,112)

DisbursementsCooperative Missions 1,593,422 1,672,174 (78,752) Network Operations 126,962 100,500 26,462 Staff Benefits 713,585 873,993 (160,408) Facility Operations 1,123,206 1,152,200 (28,994) Guest Relations 345,844 382,439 (36,595) Food Service 630,866 668,500 (37,634) Administrative Services 161,610 193,623 (32,013) Communication Services 250,543 261,829 (11,286) Financial Services 235,492 265,550 (30,058) Church Strengthening Encourage and Equip 428,110 624,141 (196,031) Church Strengthening Evangelism 498,838 561,494 (62,656) Church Multiplication 1,060,741 1,116,724 (55,983)

Total Disbursements 7,169,219 7,873,167 (703,948)

Excess of Receipts Over Disbursements 1,836$ -$ 1,836$



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Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc.Statement of Changes in Net Assets - Cash Receipts and Disbursement Basis


Unrestricted

Unrestricted Board -

Designated Total

Net Assets, January 1, 2016 136,647$ 8,781,311$ 8,917,958$

Increase/(Decrease)

Current Year Operating Surplus 1,836 - 1,836 Property Tax Paid on Legacy of Faith

Property Received (5,187) 5,187 - Property Additions at Skycroft, Net of Note Payable - 48,750 48,750 Net Decrease in Investments Held at the Baptist

Foundation of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. - (62,566) (62,566)

Net Assets, December 31, 2016 133,296$ 8,772,682$ 8,905,978$ 133,296 8,772,682



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Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc.Statement of Cash Flows - Cash Receipts and Disbursement Basis


Net Cash Provided By Operating Activities 352,001$

Net Cash Used For Investing Activities (48,750)

Net Increase in Cash 303,251

Cash - January 1, 2016 867,135

Cash - December 31, 2016 1,170,386$ 1,170,386

Schedule of Net Cash Flows From Operating Activities

Current Year Budget Surplus 1,836$ Decrease in Accounts Receivable 57,247 Increase in Prepaid Expenses (622) Increase in Cash Exchange

(Excluding Skycroft Fixed Asset Additions, Net) 235,454 Increase in Skycroft Advance Bookings/Clearing 19,740 Increase in State Mission Offering Payable 41,636 Increase in Payroll Benefit Withholdings 1,897 Payments of Real Estate Tax on Legacy of

Faith Property (5,187)

Net Cash Provided By Operating Activities 352,001$

Schedule of Net Cash Flows From Investing Activities

Fixed Asset Additions at Skycroft 325,000$ Proceeds From New Borrowings (276,250)

Net Cash Used for Investing Activites 48,750$



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Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. Notes to Financial Statements

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Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Date of Management Review: Management has evaluated subsequent events through January 31, 2017, the date on which the financial statements were available to be issued. Organizational Purpose: As stated by the mission statement of the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. (the “Organization”), it will intentionally assist the starting and strengthening of congregations so that together they can fulfill Jesus' commands in Matthew 28:19-20 and Acts 1:8. Basis of Accounting: These statements are presented on the cash receipts and disbursements basis, modified as described later in this paragraph. The cash receipts and disbursements basis requires that revenues and the related assets be recognized when received rather than when earned, and certain expenses be recognized when paid rather than when the obligation is incurred. However, these financial statements have been modified to reflect certain items budgeted for 2016 even through the actual funds related to those items have not been received or expended as of December 31, 2016. The statement of budgeted activities – cash receipts and disbursement basis reports only those transactions that were budgeted for in 2016. Other non-budgeted 2016 activity is reported in the statement of changes in net assets. Property Owned: Property and Equipment is stated at cost. Assets in excess of $5,000 which have a useful life in excess of one year are capitalized. Depreciation is not recorded since the operating budget makes no provision for non-cash expenses. Management periodically reviews the utilization of assets and removes those that no longer have a useful life. Replacement of fixed assets is budgeted as needed, in each year’s operating budget. Inventory: Inventories are carried at lower of cost or market at December 31, 2016 on a first-in, first-out method.

Financial Statement Presentation: The Organization has adopted FASB ASC 958-205, “Financial Statements of Not-for-Profit Organizations.” Under FASB ASC 958-205, the Organization is required to report information regarding its financial position and activities according to three classes of net assets: unrestricted net assets, temporarily restricted net assets, and permanently restricted net assets. In addition, the Organization is required to present a statement of cash flows. Contributions: The Organization has also adopted FASB ASC 958-605, “Accounting for Contributions Received and Contributions Made.” In accordance with FASB ASC 958-605, contributions received are recorded as unrestricted, temporarily restricted, or permanently restricted support depending on the existence and/or nature of any donor restrictions. Investments: The Organization has elected to adopt FASB ASC 958-320, “Accounting for Certain Investments Held By Not-for-Profit Organizations.” Under FASB ASC 958-320, investments in marketable securities with readily determinable fair values and all investments in debt securities are valued at their fair values in the statement of assets, liabilities and net assets – cash receipts and disbursement basis. Unrealized gains and losses are included in the change in net assets. Income Taxes: The Organization is exempt from Federal taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Organization is required to file a return to report unrelated business income generated at the Skycroft Convention Center. At December 31, 2016 the provision for unrelated business income tax is $0. The Organization’s Federal tax returns generally stay open to examination for three years from the filing date.


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Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued) Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with the modified cash receipts and disbursements method used by the Organization, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Cash Equivalents: Cash for cash flow purposes is defined as checking, money market accounts and Certificates of Deposit with original maturities of ninety days or less.

Note 2 – Concentration of Risk

Cash Concentrations: The Company maintains cash balances in banks. These balances are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. As of December 31, 2016, the uninsured portion of this balance was $725,993. Geographic Concentrations: The Organization derives the majority of its income from individuals and churches in Maryland and Delaware. Note 3 – Baptist Foundation of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. This account represents funds transferred to the Baptist Foundation of Maryland/Delaware, Inc., which is the agency designated for the management of trust funds. Income earned from these funds is returned to the Organization or its designated agencies. Marketable securities invested with the Baptist Foundation of Maryland/Delaware, Inc. are stated at fair value and are summarized as follows:

Cost

Fair Value

Unrealized (Depreciation)/

Appreciation as of December 30, 2016

Fixed Income Funds $ 869,824 $ 846,532 $ (23,292) Equity Funds 1,390,536 1,484,662 94,126. Total $ 2,260,360 $ 2,331,194 $ 70,834.


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Note 4 – Cash Exchange This account represents miscellaneous funds received by December 31, 2016, which are being held for subsequent disbursement for activities designated by the Organization. Note 5 – Unrestricted – Board Designated Fund Balances As of December 31, 2016, the general fund had $8,772,682 unrestricted – board designated reserves summarized as follows:

Legacy of Faith Property Reserve $ 478,349 Capital Equipment Reserve 5,963,140 Endowment Reserves 2,098,420 Skycroft Endowment Reserves 232,773 $ 8,772,682

Note 6 – Fair Value of Financial Instruments Accounting principles generally accepted by Not-for-Profit organizations that have adopted FASB ASC 958-320 establish a framework for measuring fair value. That framework provides a hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. Financial assets valued using Level 1 inputs are based on unadjusted quoted market prices within active markets. Financial assets valued using Level 2 inputs are based primarily on quoted prices for similar assets in active or inactive markets. Financial assets valued using Level 3 inputs are based on significant unobservable inputs as determined by a third party. The Organization's financial instruments, none of which are held for trading purposes, include cash and marketable securities. The Organization estimates that fair value of all financial instruments at December, 31, 2016, does not differ materially from the aggregate carrying values of its financial instruments recorded in these statements.


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Note 6 – Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Continued) Fair values by investment level are as follows at December 31, 2016:

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total

Money Market Funds $ 60,392 $ 211,228 Common Stock: Industrials 103,830 103,830 Consumer Discretionary 105657 105657 Consumer Staples 69,052 69,052 Energy 68,000 68,000 Financial 162,801 162,801 Materials 43,043 43,043 Information Technology 205,742 205,742 Utilities 32,370 32,370 Real Estate 36,883 36,883 Health Care 125,765 125,765 Telecommunication Services 17,173 17,173

Total Common Stock 970,316 970,316 U.S. Government and Agency Securities 110,370 $ 92,999 203,369 Corporate Bonds and Notes 123,137 123,137 Asset Backed Securities 27,416 27,416 Mutual Funds: Floating Rate Bond 70,146 70,146 Foreign Large Growth 78,493 78,493 Foreign Large Value 91,922 91,922 Intermediate-Term Bond 282,339 282,339 Small-Cap Growth 44,317 44,317 Tactical Bond 193,690 193,690 World Allocation 68,318 68,318

Total Mutual Funds 829,225 829,225 Exchange Traded Fund – REIT 66,526 66,526 Private Equity Investments $ 50,813 50,813

Total $ 2,036,829 $ 243,552 $ 50,813 $ 2,331,194 Note 7 – Retirement Plan The Organization provides a tax qualified retirement plan for the benefit of eligible employees. Employees become eligible within six months of their starting date, with contributions equaling 11% of compensation in the current year. The plan is designated to provide employees with an accumulation of funds for retirement on a tax-deferred basis and provides for annual discretionary contributions. The expense for the current year was $154,704.


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Note 8 – Donated Property Received In 2000, the Organization received a gift of property which was recorded at management’s estimate of fair market value at the time of the gift. The Organization records an increase in the value of the property annually based on the amount of capitalized carrying costs. Additionally, management periodically estimates the fair market value of the property and adjusts the recorded value to the current estimated fair market value plus the capitalized carrying costs since the original date of the gift. The property was last evaluated and adjusted by management in 2013. Management estimates the value has not changed since that time. The property held for investment purposes and is not used in operations. The capitalized carrying costs of the property added to the estimated fair market value totaled $65,349 as of December 31, 2016. Note 9 – Skycroft Conference Center Owned and operated by the Organization, Skycroft is located on over 300 acres in Frederick County, Maryland. The center opened in 1977 to offer the opportunity to slip away into a quiet spot to reflect, to be re-created, to be refreshed in the beauty of “God’s great outdoors”.

On January 14, 2013, the Messengers of the Organization approved the sale of a perpetual conservation easement on the Skycroft property to the Civil War Preservation Trust and the State of Maryland. The Civil War Preservation Trust and the State of Maryland paid $1,100,000 to the Organization. The easement allows for usage, building, and updating in a 25-acre developmental envelope. Two stipulations in the easement are that the property can never be sub-divided, and second, the property can be sold to an organization for a similar purpose as it is currently being used or for the purpose of one single-family dwelling.

The Messengers of the Organization approved $1,100,000 of the funds received be used for improvements to the Skycroft facility. As of December 31, 2016, all of the funds have been used for that purpose. On December 30, 2016, the Organization purchased approximately forty-one additional acres of land to add to Skycroft for $325,000. The Organization obtained a note payable, secured by the land, to partially fund the purchase. The note is payable in monthly installments of $2,036, bears interest at 3.89% per year, and matures in 2031. Maturities on the note payable as of December 31, 2016 are due in future years as follows:

2017 $ 13,788

2018 $ 14,332 2019 14,907 2020 15,506 2021 16,129 Thereafter 201,598 Total $ 262,472


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BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017ApprovedBudget

SkycroftState Missions Conference

Operating Offering Center Combined

RECEIPTSCooperative Program 3,750,000 - - 3,750,000 North American Mission Board 1,030,000 - - 1,030,000 LifeWay Christian Resources 60,000 - - 60,000 Cooperative Gifts 120,000 - - 120,000 State Missions Offering - 125,000 - 125,000 BCM/D Endowment Income 127,000 - - 127,000 Strategic Resources 73,000 - - 73,000 Interest Income (Net of Bank Fees) (5,891) - - (5,891) General User Fees - - 1,629,539 1,629,539 Camps - - 567,800 567,800 HeBrews Coffee Shop - - 55,000 55,000 Baptist Foundation of MD/DE 19,000 - - 19,000 Reserves 35,000 - - 35,000 Total Receipts 5,208,109 125,000 2,252,339 7,585,448

DISBURSEMENTS SkycroftState Missions Conference

Operating Offering Center CombinedCooperative Missions 1,656,109 - - 1,656,109Missionary and Staff Benefits 572,349 - 213,714 786,063Executive Office 490,928 - - 490,928Convention Operations 911,925 22,800 34,347 969,072Church Strengthening 569,642 - - 569,642Church Multiplication 1,007,156 102,200 - 1,109,356Operations, Guest Relations, Food Service - - 2,004,278 2,004,278Total Disbursements 5,208,109 125,000 2,252,339 7,585,448


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DISBURSEMENTS Operating Offering Center CombinedCooperative MissionsSBC Cooperative Program 1,612,109 - - 1,612,109 Church Staff Protection 44,000 - - 44,000 Total Cooperative Missions 1,656,109 - - 1,656,109

Missionary and Staff BenefitsMissionary and Staff Social Security 75,380 - 54,797 130,177 Missionary and Staff Annuity 89,819 - 39,342 129,161 Missionary and Staff Insurance 392,150 - 116,575 508,725 Missionary Development/Support/Affirmation 15,000 - 3,000 18,000 Total Missionary and Staff Benefits 572,349 - 213,714 786,063

Skycroft Conference Center OperationsSalaries - - 321,776 321,776 Travel/Business/Field Service - - 7,787 7,787 Recreation Expenses - - 3,000 3,000 Electricity - - 106,000 106,000 Propane - - 92,500 92,500 Pest Control - - 9,000 9,000 Trash Removal - - 16,000 16,000 Equipment Replacement/Capital Repair - - 25,000 25,000 Insurance - - 48,000 48,000 Telephone/Internet/Web Hosting - - 52,000 52,000 Owned Vehicle Maintenance - - 9,500 9,500 Equipment - Maintenance Equipment - - 1,000 1,000 Equipment - Office Equipment - - 5,000 5,000 Facility Supplies - - 77,000 77,000 Office Supplies/Postage - - 11,000 11,000 Housekeeping Supplies - - 22,000 22,000 Reinvestment for Future Improvements - - 105,000 105,000 Attorney Fees - - 5,000 5,000 Fees and Permits - - 3,500 3,500 Advertising/Promotion - - 7,500 7,500 Property Tax - - 8,500 8,500 Total Skycroft Conference Center Operations - - 936,063 936,063

Skycroft Guest Relations Salaries - - 103,140 103,140 Camps - - 226,575 226,575 HeBrews Coffee Shop - - 40,000 40,000 Total Skycroft Guest Relations - - 369,715 369,715

Skycroft Food ServiceSalaries - - 230,000 230,000 Food - - 460,000 460,000 Equipment - Kitchen Equipment - - 8,500 8,500 Total Skycroft Food Service - - 698,500 698,500


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Executive Office Operating Offering Center CombinedSalaries/Housing Allowances 254,928 - - 254,928 Travel/Business/Office/Field Service Expense 47,000 - - 47,000 Independent Contractors 36,000 - - 36,000 Christian Life and Public Affairs Committee 1,000 - - 1,000 General Mission Board Expense 10,000 - - 10,000 Annual Celebration Expense 55,000 - - 55,000 Convention President's Expense 1,000 - - 1,000 Video Production 5,000 - - 5,000 Website Maintenance 16,000 - - 16,000 Database Maintenance 5,000 - - 5,000 BaptistLife Production 52,000 - - 52,000 State Missions Offering Promotion 8,000 - - 8,000 Total Executive Office 490,928 - - 490,928

Convention Operations TeamFinancial ServicesSalaries/Housing Allowances 162,145 - 12,047 174,192 Travel/Business/Office/Field Service Expense 17,000 - - 17,000 Accounting Fees 7,000 - - 7,000 Finance Operations 15,000 - 22,300 37,300 Stewardship Development 3,000 - - 3,000 Cooperative Program Development 15,000 - - 15,000 Capture the Vision 1,000 - - 1,000 Planned Giving 2,000 - - 2,000 Ministers Taxes 500 - - 500

Baptist Mission Resource Center OperationsSalaries 82,963 - - 82,963 Office Expense 6,000 - - 6,000 Repairs/Maintenance/Supplies 35,000 - - 35,000 Electricity 15,300 - - 15,300 Cleaning 12,000 - - 12,000 Trash Removal 6,900 - - 6,900 Condominium Fees 19,980 - - 19,980 Insurance 38,000 - - 38,000 Telephone/Internet/Web Hosting 48,000 - - 48,000 Information Technology Management Contract 25,200 - - 25,200 Offsite Storage 7,500 - - 7,500 Equipment Leases 29,084 - - 29,084 Equipment - Computer and Office 25,000 - - 25,000 History Committee 500 - - 500 Attorney Fees 15,000 - - 15,000 Contingencies 10,000 - - 10,000

Engagement and TrainingSalaries/Housing Allowances 112,853 - - 112,853 Travel/Business/Office/Field Service Expense 31,000 - - 31,000 Independent Contractors 46,000 - - 46,000 Team Training and Development 3,000 - - 3,000 Disaster Relief 20,000 - - 20,000 Church Planting Evangelism 30,000 - - 30,000 Existing Church Evangelism 70,000 - - 70,000 Skycroft Camp Evangelism - 22,800 - 22,800 Total Convention Operations 911,925 22,800 34,347 969,072


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Church Strengthening Team Operating Offering Center CombinedSalaries, Travel and Office ExpensesSalaries/Housing Allowances 270,142 - - 270,142 Travel/Business/Office/Field Service Expense 66,500 - - 66,500 Independent Contractors 67,000 - - 67,000

Discipleship PathwaysLead Like Jesus 4,000 - - 4,000 Dogwood Leadership Events 2,500 - - 2,500 Restore My Soul Retreats 2,500 - - 2,500 Worship Internships and Mentorships 3,000 - - 3,000 WMU Training and Ministries 5,000 - - 5,000 Blackaby Ministries Coaching and Training Event 2,500 - - 2,500

CoachingStrat Op 2,500 - - 2,500 Coaching Contracts 5,000 - - 5,000 Hispanic Leadership Coaching 1,500 - - 1,500

EquippingWalk Thru The Bible 2,000 - - 2,000 Learning Communities 3,000 - - 3,000 Equip.net - - - - Worship Leader Cohorts 6,000 - - 6,000 Digital Mentorships 2,000 - - 2,000 Worship Leader Boot Camps 3,000 - - 3,000 Worshipping Churches Training 7,000 - - 7,000 Preaching Equipping Network 1,500 - - 1,500 VBS/Backyard Bible Clubs 7,000 - - 7,000 Church Weekday Education 1,000 - - 1,000 Breathless 6,500 - - 6,500 Women's Ministry 1,500 - - 1,500 Girls Camp 2,500 - - 2,500 Boys Mission Camp/RA's 2,000 - - 2,000 Love Loud 7,500 - - 7,500 ESL 2,000 - - 2,000

GroupsBible Teaching 5,000 - - 5,000 Children's Ministry 4,000 - - 4,000 Small Groups 1,500 - - 1,500

RevitalizationAWAKEN 18,000 - - 18,000 Church Minister Relations 5,000 - - 5,000 Pastoral Care: Refuge/Mediation/Conflict 5,500 - - 5,500 Ministerial Counseling 17,500 - - 17,500

Strategic Church Strengthening InitiativesNew Initiatives 5,000 - - 5,000 Transformational Church 1,000 - - 1,000 African-American Fellowship 20,500 - - 20,500 Total Church Strengthening 569,642 - - 569,642


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Church Multiplication Team Operating Offering Center CombinedChurch Multiplication Team: Salaries, Travel & Office ExpensesSalaries 63,656 - - 63,656 Travel/Business/Office/Field Service Expense 22,500 - - 22,500

Church Multiplication Field MinistryChurch Planter Assistance 800,000 - - 800,000 Church Planting Development 80,000 - - 80,000 Planter Care 15,000 - - 15,000 Coaching 26,000 - - 26,000 Initiatives (Church Planting/Independent Contractor Fees/Special Needs) - 102,200 - 102,200 Total Church Multiplication Team 1,007,156 102,200 - 1,109,356

Total Disbursements 5,208,109 125,000 2,252,339 7,585,448

Over/(Under) 0 0 0 0

Includes 3% salary increase for employees classified as missionary or support staff. No salary increases for officers, directors, or team leaders.


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BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017OperatingandStateMissionsOfferingBudgetComparison

2017 Budget 2016 Budget 2015 ActualRECEIPTSCooperative Program 3,750,000 3,875,000 3,837,834 See Note 1North American Mission Board 1,030,000 878,983 717,087 See Note 2LifeWay Christian Resources 60,000 60,000 60,996 Cooperative Gifts 120,000 120,000 164,507 State Missions Offering 125,000 190,000 111,594 See Note 3BCM/D Endowment Income 127,000 208,000 145,000 Strategic Resources 73,000 113,000 80,000 Interest Income (5,891) 2,888 (7,670) Strategic Church Planting Escrows - 175,000 - See Note 4Skycroft Conference Center - 20,000 - Baptist Foundation of MD/DE 19,000 19,000 15,000 Reserves 35,000 35,000 - Total Receipts 5,333,109 5,696,871 5,124,348

DISBURSEMENTSCooperative Missions 1,656,109 1,672,174 1,615,450 See Note 5Missionary and Staff Benefits 572,349 668,003 513,973 Executive Office 490,928 507,452 557,763 See Note 6Convention Operations 934,725 1,108,377 1,092,298 See Note 7Church Strengthening 569,642 624,141 417,663 See Note 8Church Multiplication 1,109,356 1,116,724 898,468 Total Disbursements 5,333,109 5,696,871 5,095,615

Over/(Under) - - 28,733

2017 Budget Notes:Note 1: Projected Cooperative Program receipts down from 2016 budget and 2015 actual.Note 2: Church Multiplication and Evangelism support from the North American Mission Board. Increase reflects an additional $200,000 investment by NAMB in church multiplication efforts.Note 3: Projected receipts from churches to be reinvested in 2017 into Skycroft/Camp evangelism, church planting initiatives, and special needs people groups. Note 4: No budgeted release from escrowed dollars for additional funds given specifically designated to church planting as NAMB has increased their financial partnership to plant churches by $200,000.Note 5: Includes a 1% increase in the amount of Cooperative Program funds sent on to the national SBC to increase commitment to national and international missions efforts .Note 6: Communications has been merged into the Executive Office. The figures above have been restated for the 2016 budget and 2015 actual expenses to reflect this change.Note 7: Financial Services, Baptist Mission Resource Center Operations, and Engagement/Training (Evangelism) has been merged to create the Convention Operations Team. The figures above have been restated for the 2016 budget and 2015 actual expenses to reflect this change. The reduction in 2017 budgeted expenses is due to the defunding of multiple collegiate evangelism positions and the transfer of the Love Loud Missionary to the Church Strengthening Team.Note 8: Largely reflects reduction in available program dollars as compared to the prior year.


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BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017SkycroftConferenceCenterBudgetComparison

2017 Budget 2016 Budget 2015 ActualRECEIPTSGeneral User Fees 1,629,539 1,535,496 1,422,832 See Note 1Camps 567,800 590,800 576,826 See Note 2HeBrews Coffee Shop 55,000 50,000 58,275 Total Receipts 2,252,339 2,176,296 2,057,933

DISBURSEMENTSMissionary and Staff Benefits 213,714 205,990 205,720 Skycroft Conference Center Operations 936,063 885,172 832,556 See Note 3Skycroft Guest Relations 369,715 382,439 337,682 See Note 4Skycroft Food Service 698,500 668,500 694,051 Financial Services 34,347 34,195 16,610 See Note 5 Total Disbursements 2,252,339 2,176,296 2,086,619

Over/(Under) - - (28,686)

2017 Budget Notes:Note 1: Forecasting 2017 guests totaling 25,000 staying at least one night.Note 2: An estimated 2,400 students to be attending in 2016.Note 3: Increased staffing costs allocated over 2015 actual expenses.Note 4: Increased actual operating costs associated with camps over 2015 actual expenses.Note 5: Increased credit card processing fees.


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BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017ProposedOperatingandStateMissionsOffering

ComparisonbyMajorExpenseCategory

2017 Budget 2016 Budget 2015 ActualRECEIPTSCooperative Program 3,750,000 3,875,000 3,837,834 North American Mission Board 1,030,000 878,983 717,087 LifeWay Christian Resources 60,000 60,000 60,996 Cooperative Gifts 120,000 120,000 164,507 State Missions Offering 125,000 190,000 111,594 BCM/D Endowment Income 127,000 208,000 145,000 Strategic Resources 73,000 113,000 80,000 Interest Income (5,891) 2,888 (7,670) Strategic Church Planting Escrows - 175,000 - Skycroft Conference Center - 20,000 - Baptist Foundation of MD/DE 19,000 19,000 15,000 Reserves 35,000 35,000 - Total Receipts 5,333,109 5,696,871 5,124,348

DISBURSEMENTSCooperative Missions 1,656,109 1,672,174 1,615,450 Compensation and Staff Benefits Expenses 1,711,236 1,989,057 1,858,536 Non-compensation expenses 1,965,764 2,035,640 1,621,629 Total Disbursements 5,333,109 5,696,871 5,095,615

Over/(Under) - - 28,733

Cooperative Missions as a % of the budget 31.1% 29.4% 31.7%Compensation as a % of the budget 32.1% 34.9% 36.5%Non-compensation expenses as a % of the budget 36.9% 35.7% 31.8%


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BaptistConventionofMaryland/Delaware2017SkycroftConferenceCenterComparisonbyMajorExpenseCategory

2017 Budget 2016 Budget 2015 ActualRECEIPTSGeneral User Fees 1,629,539 1,535,496 1,422,832 Camps 567,800 590,800 576,826 HeBrews Coffee Shop 55,000 50,000 58,275 Total Receipts 2,252,339 2,176,296 2,057,933

DISBURSEMENTSCompensation and Staff Benefits Expenses 880,677 940,816 861,660 Non-compensation expenses 1,371,662 1,235,480 1,224,959 Total Disbursements 2,252,339 2,176,296 2,086,619

Over/(Under) - - (28,686)

Compensation as a % of the budget 39.1% 43.2% 41.3%Non-compensation expenses as a % of the budget 60.9% 56.8% 58.7%


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Woman’sMissionaryUnionofMaryland/Delaware

MelodyKnox,WMUExecutiveDirector

2016-2017Emphasis:ByAllMeansWatchword:“IhavebecomeallthingstoallpeoplesothatbyallpossiblemeansImightsavesome.Idothisforthesakeofthegospel,thatImayshareinitsblessings.”ICorinthians9:22).

2016-17Staff:MelodyT.Knox.....................................................................................................................ExecutiveDirectorGailNoda..................................................................................................................................MinistryAssistantFrankUlmer........................................................................................CampWo-Me-ToResidentManagerBenjaminBlock.............................................................................CampWo-Me-ToOperationsManagerDebbieJones.........................................................................................................CampWo-Me-ToSecretary2016-17WMUExecutiveBoardPresident.......................................................................................................................................BarbaraMatneyExecutiveDirector......................................................................................................................MelodyT.KnoxVicePresident.........................................................................................................................................DaleJonesPrayerCoordinator..............................................................................................................................MaryReebRecordingSecretary..................................................................................................................................................TeamsChurchRelationsTeam,Chairperson..................................................................................DarlineBallouMissionsEducationTeam,Chairperson.................................................................................JancyGlissonCampWo-Me-ToTeam,Chairperson...........................................................................MoniqueKirklandHistoryTeam,Chairperson.........................................................................................................SarahSheidy


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WMUExecutiveDirectorReport

AstheExecutiveDirectorforWMU,Ihavethehonorofencouragingchurchestoviewmissionsasalifestyleandnotasaprogram.GailNodaandtheWMUExecutiveBoardcontinuetoassistmeinanywaytheycantokeepmissionsaliveandwellinourchurches.

CampWo-Me-TolocatedinJarrettsville,Maryland,isownedandoperatedbyWoman’sMissionaryUnion,AuxiliarytotheMid-AtlanticBaptistNetwork.OurcampstaffisheadedbySpirit-filled,missions-mindedleaders.FrankUlmer,BenBlock,Eric&DebbieJonesareverycapableintheircommitmenttoserve.HerearesomeupdatesonCampWo-Me-To:

*PineLodgehadmajorrenovationsdone.(windows,furniture,etc.)

*Ourthemeforthe2016WomenonMissionSpringRetreatwas“Refuge.”OurkeynotespeakerwasKathySheldon,presidentofPennsylvania/SouthJerseyWMU.OurmissionaryspeakerswereJim&KimBusching,IMBmissionarieswhohadpreviouslyservedinVenezuelaandwouldberelocatingtoPeruastheirnewassignmentbytheendof2016.Therewere125ladiesinattendance.WehadaseasonofprayerfortheIMBmissionariesthatweretakingthevoluntaryretirement.OurmissionprojectwastocollectanofferingforfivemissionarycouplesthatchosetheVoluntaryRetirementIncentivewhohadpreviouslyparticipatedinassignmentsintheMaryland/Delawarearea.Wewereabletoabundantlyblessthemwithover$500.00eachwiththemoneycollectedforthisproject.

*HealthKits-Onceagainin2016,ministrieswereblessedbythegenerosityofourMaryland/Delawarechurches.Wereceivedover1,250healthkits,from28churchesinsixassociations.ThekitsweredistributedtoInternationalStudentMissions,thePortMinistryandtheInnerHarborMinistry.

*Mother/DaughterWeekendattendancewasatotalof10momsanddaughters.Itwasamini-campforthegirlsandmomstoexperiencewhattheoldergirlsexperiencefromsleepingincabinstoeatingintheDiningHalltoWorship,Missions,BibleStudy,Missionary,Swimming,Crafts,HayrideandS'moresaroundacampfire.

*GirlsCamp2016wasablessingfromGodtoallwhohadapartintheprocess.Thethemewas“RuntheRace"withthefocalverseof1Timothy4:8.Therewere61campers,plus25staffmembers.GaylaParkerwasourCampPastorandMissionary.SheengagedthegirlsinherworkinthePhilippianswithactivities,stories,picturesandsongs.EachnightsheusedBiblecharacterstoillustrateTRAIN.T-Trust(Trustwithheart,soulandmind),R-Reward(Runfortheprize...Jesus),A-Accomplish(Hiswill),I-InherittheKingdomofHeaven,N-NoDeath!!!!!(LifeEverlasting).DuringChapelthelastnight,Ms.Gayladidawonderfuljobofpullingeverythingtogetherfromtheweekandpointustothemostimportantdecision...Jesus!Wehadonefirsttimecommitmentandfiverededicationswithtwobeingcalledintoministry.

*TheAnnieArmstrongEasterOfferingforNorthAmericanMissions(TogetherforHisKingdom)andtheLottieMoonOfferingforInternationalMissions(thegospelresounds)materialsweremailedtoeachBaptistConventionofMaryland/Delawarechurch.Additionalmaterialsweremaileduponrequest.


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*Breathless2016washeldatSouthColumbiaBaptistChurchinColumbia,Md.Thisone-dayeventforwomenhad100attendees.LeighannMcCoyisanauthorandspeakerwhohelpswomenacrossthenationandoverseasdevelopaneverfailfaith.LeighAnnisaconferenceleaderforLifewayChristianResourcesandafrequentguestonradioprograms.Theladiesattendedbreak-outconferencesonrelevantsubjectsandmissions.WewereblessedwithJanetAllenandcompanywholedinworship.Inadditiontoattendingvariousbreakoutsessions,thewomenpurchaseditemsfromWorldCraftswhichhelpssustainwomenwithemploymentinvariouscountriesandattemptstokeepwomenoutofprostitutionandhumantrafficking.OurmissionprojectwastodonatethemoneycollectedattheeventtotheRomapeopleinRomania.ThismoneyallowedtheRomapeopletopurchasewoodtokeepwarmduringthecoldestdaysinthatarea.

ChurchMultiplicationMichaelCrawford,ChurchMultiplicationStrategist

I’mgratefultobeabletoserveonthemultiplicationteam.GodhasbeengoodtousandallowedustoseeHisfavorinourministry.Hereisabriefupdatefromthechurchplantingworld.Wecontinuetofocusourattentiononcoaching,cohortsandcommunity.Wehadourfirstoffourcohortsandtheywereincredible.Theplantersreallylikedthem.WeaddressedthesubjectofmoneyandalsotackledgivingtotheCooperativeProgram!Wehavepairedeveryfundedplanterwithacoach,andwearelookingforwardtoseeingthefruitthatcomesfromthis.Ourdesireistohaveeveryplantercoachedandcaredfor.Wewanttoknowthepulseoftheplanterandthebestwayforustogetthatisthroughcompetentcoaching.WearegratefulthattheNorthAmericanMissionBoarddecidedtopartnerwithustocloseupashortfalloffundingtoplant15morechurchesthisyear.OnMarch30,BarryWhitworth,MultiplyingChurchesTeamLeaderfromtheBaptistResourceNetworkinHarrisburg,Pa.,trainedMaryland/Delawarechurchplantersin16-8-4,whichisournewchurchmultiplicationstrategy.Inessence,itisanapproachtoseeingchurchesplantedwhereourChurchPlantingCatalysts(CPCs)exegete16communities,engageeight,andseektoseefourofthosecommunitiesestablishachurch.Weareexcitedaboutthis.I’mreallyexcitedaboutourMuslimandJewishstrategists.RabbiRobertPristoophasastrongleadonamanwhoisinterestedincomingtoReisterstowntoplantachurchtoreachtheJews!Ican’ttellyouhowhappyIamtoseethisallstarttocometogether.S.D.AbrahamiscontinuingtoworkwithsomeofourplanterswhoarereachingMuslimsandisalsoengagedinhelpingustounderstandhowtobetterengageMuslims.IamalsogratefulforMichaelMattarwhoservesasourAfricanstrategist.ItwasamazingtoattendthefirstspecialneedsconferenceinMarch.ToseeTomStolleleadingandsomanyinattendancewasablessingtomyheart.I’mexcitedtoseewhatGodisgoingtodowithallthis.Tolearnmoreaboutplantingchurchesforspecialneedsfamilies,inMay,Imetwithamanwhohasplantedadeafchurch.


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InAugust,Dr.KevinSmithhadtheprivilegeofspeakingto30plantersatoneofourplantergatheringsinBaltimore.AttheendofthemeetingourSendCityMissionaryRonLarsonaskedtheplantersiftheycouldsharesomepraiseswithallofus.PlanterafterplanterbegantosharehowGodwasusingthemtoleadpeopletoChristandgetbaptized.Godissogood!Thesestoriesarehappeningalloverourstates.Thisyearwehavefocusedoncoaching,cohortsandcommunity.Wehavethreeregionalcohorts(Baltimore,southernMaryland,EasternShore)focusingon16-8-4(exegesis,engagementandevangelism)aspresentedearlierintheyear.OurfinalcohortthisyearwillbeinNovemberandwewillfocusonmultiplication.Ourgoalatthebeginningoftheyearwastohaveeveryfundedplantercoachedandcaredfor.Weachievedthatgoal!InAugust,wehadourbrotherJamieLimatofromNAMBcomeandequipnewcoachesandtaketheexistingcoachestothe2.0level.Weareexcitedaboutthetrajectoryofourcoachingforourplanters.OurCPC’saredoingagreatjobthisyear.Wehaveinstitutedamonthlyreportthatseemstobeworkingwellforthemandourwholeteam.IftherewasanMVPawardtobehandedoutthisyearitwoulddefinitelygotoChrissieRedding.Shehasdonearemarkablejob.Shehaslearnedfastandnowhasagoodcommandofherposition.Thereisnowaywecouldhavehadthesuccesswehavehadthisyearwithouther.Godblesseduswithherpresence.Thankyou!Earlierthisfall,theMultiplicationTeamattendedthefirstSendCityAssessment.It’satwo-dayassessmentforplantersdesignedbyNAMB.WeareexcitedtohavelearnedandexperiencedthisnewconceptforSendCityplanters.ThisassessmentisrequiredforplanterswhoplantinSendCitiesanddesirefunding.TheBCM/Dwillcontinuetohaveourone-dayassessmentswhilethesearebeingdeveloped.

ChurchStrengthening,EquippingandEncouraging

RandyMillwood,ChurchStrengtheningStrategist

TheBaptistConventionofMaryland/DelawareexiststointentionallyassistinstartingandstrengtheningcongregationssothattogetherwecanfulfillJesus’commandsinMatthew28:19-20andActs1:8.TheChurchStrengtheningTeamofBCM/Dwasformedoutofthephrases“intentionallyassist”and“strengtheningcongregations.”WelongtoseetheGreatConfession,theGreatCommissionandtheGreatCommandmentsbecomeagreatrealityinourdayandourregion.Themostvitalsteptakenbythisgroupin2016wastohearfromtheLORDaclearmissionconcerningourpartinthisgreat,sharedwork.YourChurchStrengtheningTeamhelpschurchesglorifyGodbymakingdisciplesofJesusChristinthepresenceandpowerofGod’sHolySpirit.


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Weunderstandthesewordstomean…•toglorifyGodistorevealtheOneTrueGodbyrepresentingGodwellandtruthfully•tomakedisciplesofJesusChrististoseepeoplecometofaithinChristandtowalkbyfaithintothealwaysincreasing,redeemedimageofChrist(whois,Himself,themostsureandcompleterevelationofGod)and•suchahighcallingcouldonlyhappenlivinglifeinthePresenceofGod’sSpiritandservinginthePowerofGod’sSpiritOurplaceinthisgreatworkisan‘alongsideof’place.AsaChurchseekstoinvestinthesekindsofthings,thissmallteamwithover400cumulativeyearsoflocalChurchexperienceisreorderingourlivesandourrolestohelp.WithaconfidentsenseofGod-givenmissionclearlystated,thisgroupisbetterpositionedtoevaluatewhathasbeendoneandtodiscernwhatshouldbedone.Therearethreedistinctcategoriesofourwork:WehelpchurchesbyhelpingMinisters,Ministries,andlocalMissions.Atthepointwherethesethreecategoriesintersect,youwillfindtheheartofourwork:effectivedisciple-makingpaths;eternity-changinggroups;andrealChurchrevitalization.OursecondAWAKENcohortwaslaunchedthisyear–AWAKENisourmostcomprehensive,holisticapproachtoChurchRevitalization.Thepilotgroupsaw75percentofparticipatingchurcheseitherstopthedeclineorbegintoclimboffofaplateau.Thisyear’scohortiscurrentlycompletingtheircovenant,butasimilarreturnoninvestmentseemslikely.Themodelcombines:• a2-dayformation/discernmentretreat• 6workshopsover3daysdealingwithtopicslikehowchangeworks,redeemingconflict,andunderstandingstructuresthatfacilitateorhaltmissionadvancement• therecruitmentofateamofdiscerningleaderswithineachChurchinwhoselifethepastorinvests• salientreadings/resources;and• thedesignofanexternallyfocused6-monthplan,complementedbycoachingfromarevitalizingpastorInaddition,cohortmembersexchangeideaswitheachotherallalongthewaycreatingabest-practicesdynamic.Attheendofthe11-monthcovenant,cohortmembersassesstheirprogress,articulatetheirnextsteps,andbecomepartofagrowingAWAKENalumnicommunity,providingcontinuedlearningformanyyears.The2017AWAKENcohortisnowopenforregistration.Applicantsshouldexpresstheirinterestbeforethecohortcloses,andinordertoschedulethewinterandspringmeetingsonyourpersonalcalendar.Applynowatbcmd.org/awaken.ThreeRestoreMySoulretreatsinvolvedpastors/ministersfromabout30churches,plusadditionalretreatswithkeyleadersfromindividualchurches.Researchinrevitalizationhasdemonstratedthattheinnerlifeoftheleaderisoneofthechieffactors.Unfortunately,pastoralexpectationsleadtoattemptstofoldsoulcareintoregularpreparationrhythmsalmostweekly.TheRestoreMySoulretreatsofferministers(and,at


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times,theirmates)theopportunitytopullasidefortimewithGod,alone,deepeningthatmostimportantofhumanrelationships.OurdevotiontoanenrichedinnerlifeforanyonewhoprovidesservantleadershipinalocalChurch–pastororkeyvolunteerleader–willcontinuethroughtheRestoreMySoulretreats,withthreescheduledfor2017,andavailabilityforevenmorescheduledthroughyourlocalchurchandforyourleaders.Learnmoreatbcmd.org/restoremysoulretreats.ThreeLeadLikeJesusLeadershipEncounterswerecompleted,involvingpastorsandkeyleadersfromoveradozenlocalchurches.These1.5-dayeventsarealaunchingpadforleadershipdevelopmentasparticipantshaveemailsupportedreviewsformultipleweeksafterwards,canoptfor4smallgroupsstudies,andanextyeardevotionalguideallofwhichmovesthetenetsofthisleadershipdevelopmentprocessfromhead,toheart,tohands.ScheduleaLeadLikeJesusLeadershipEncounterforyourChurch(andothersnearyou)today.MeetusattheChurchStrengtheningtableintheexhibitarea,oratbcmd.org/llj.OurMinisterialCounselingserviceshavesupportedover30pastors/planters,literallysavingmarriagesandministriesalongtheway.Inaddition,diagnosticconversationshavebeenheldwithseveralchurchesinsignificantconflict,withstepstakenforChrist-honoringresolution.Todiscoverhelpavailableforyouoryourchurch,[email protected],between8-10percentofourBCM/Dchurchesaresaying“Goodbye”’toapastor,in-betweenpastors,orwelcominganewpastor.Researchindicatesthatthistransitionalperiodisoneofthemostimportantturningpointsinthelifeofachurchwithregardstorevitalization.Thereare,ofcourse,manydifferentkindsofinterims.ButthekindwecallaTransitionalInterimPastor(longertermed,withafullytrainedT.I.P.whohasagreednotbeacandidateforthejob)canhelpachurchacceptatruepictureofwhotheyare,wheretheyare,addressselectedchallenges(soanewpastorisnotsaddledwiththem),andultimatelybeaninstrumentoftheFathertofindtherightpastortoleadthischurchtoreachhercurrentmissionfield.ThisyearyourChurchStrengtheningTeamhostedaTransitionalInterimPastor(T.I.P.)trainingeventtoincreasethenumberofT.I.P.’savailabletoserveourchurches.Inadditiontothetrainingevent,newandformerT.I.P.’swereinvitedtoourfirsteverT.I.P.BestPracticeslunch.AseriesofnewT.I.P.BestPracticesluncheonswillbeheldintheSpringandFall,2017.TobeaddedtotheT.I.P.mailinglist,learnaboutT.I.P.trainingopportunitiesorrequestinformationaboutcovenantingwithaT.I.P.inyourChurch,emailRandyatrmillwood@bcmd.org.TheChurchStrengtheningTeamhasbeenexploringvarietiesofwaystohelpchurchesknowwhotheyareandwheretheyareinordertoreveal/glorifyGodbymakingdisciplesofJesusChristinthePresenceandPowerofGod’sHolySpirit.During2016wedidmorePortraitofaHealthyChurchhealthassessmentsandworkshops,andenteredintopartnershipwiththeLeavellCenterofNewOrleansSeminary,providingextensivedemographicandpsycho-graphicresourcestoourchurchesatagreatlyreducedrate.Withthesetwotools,alongsideofAnnualChurchProfiledataandavarietyofcommunityassessments,wearenowabletohelpyouseeandunderstandtheplacewhereGodhascalledyouthroughavarietyoflayersofdata.


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The2016MinistryWivesRetreatwasheldatAnnapoliswith120BCM/Dministrywivesparticipating.Theeventprovidedopportunitiesforconnectingwithfriendsyoudonotseeoften,establishingnewfriendships,extensiveprayer,andpresentationsdesignedtoaddresstheuniquecircumstancesofawifewhoismarriedtoaBaptistminister.Asinrecentyears,testimoniesdeclaredthehealingmovementofGod’sSpiritthroughouttheweekend.Lookforinformationcomingsoonfornextyear’sMinistryWivesretreat.NewInitiativesin2017:Tohelppastorsmakedisciplesanddevelopnewleaders,wehaveenteredintopartnershipwithBlackabyMinistriesandwillbehostingathree-dayCoachingWorkshopledbyBobRoyallandRichardBlackaby.TheBlackabyCoachingmodelisbuiltonthe“SevenRealitiesofExperiencingGod”andprinciplesdrawnfromtheBlackabytext,SpiritualLeadership.ThisfirsteverBCM/DeventwillbeMarch27-29,2017attheBaptistMissionResourceCenterinColumbia,Md.Registrationisnowopen.ProvidingaplatformforcontinuedgrowthandlearningforourBCM/DministersisanimportantobjectiveofourChurchStrengtheningTeam.InpartnershipwithDogwoodLeadership(alocalChurch-based,leadershipdevelopmentteamfromGeorgia),wewillhostourfirstinwhatwillbeanannualseriesofgrowthandtrainingeventsforministersandkeyleadersduringtheFall2017.WhileAWAKENisourmostcomprehensiveresponsetoChurchRevitalization,itisonlyoneofanumberofrevitalizationmodelstheChurchStrengtheningTeamisinvestigatingandinvestinginonbehalfofourlocalchurches.Othersinclude:• InpartnershipwiththeNorthAmericanMissionBoard,ourregionalrepresentative(andBCM/Dpastor)BradO’Brian,andourlocalassociations,wearepromotingare-start/legacyoptiontoselectchurches.• Asweidentifyhealthierchurcheswithhealthierpastors,weareexploringsatellitepartnershipswherepossible.• Whenthereisadistinctchangeinthecommunityaroundachurch(ethnically,racially,etc.)wearerecommendingourChurchMultiplicationTeamasawaytostartachurchwithinachurch.• Whenachurchisinpastoraltransition,wepromotethepossibilityofaTransitionalInterimPastor.• InpartnershipwithSoutheasternBaptistTheologicalSeminary,wehavestartedoursecondDoctorofMinistry/regionaltrack.Studentsfromthefirsttrackarenowinprojectstageand,ineverysinglecase,theprojectsaremissionallyfocusedwithrevitalizationimplications.InMay,ourMusic/Worshipserviceshostedatrainingeventthatfocusedonthetechnicalsupportaspectsoftoday’scorporateworshipexperiences.Over25leadersfromourmemberchurchesparticipated,manyofwhichhadneverattendedanyotherBCM/Devent.Oneoftheurgentrequestscomingoutofourvisitswithchurchesisthedesireforapipelineoffutureworshipleadersinourregion.Towardthatend,wehaveformedateamofleaderstoinvestinnextgenleadersforourchurches,aswellasdevelopingaprocessforthatjourney.OthernewWorship/Musicinitiativesin2017include:•NewlearningcohortopportunitiesforWorshipleaders,launchinginJanuaryand,again,inSeptember


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•WorshipTeamBootCampsinboththewinterandspring•AWorshipMentorseminarinwinter•APreachingLabinmid-FebruarywithanotherinSeptember•ATransitioningYourWorshipseminarinAprilFormoreinformationabouttheseorotherworship/musicinitiatives,ortorequestaconsultation,emailpgifford@bcmd.org.OurKidsMinistrystrategistreportedabout400VBSleadersequippedinthreeseparateVBSExpoeventsthisyear.Theseeventswerefarmorethantrainingeventsasparticipantsthemselvessharedideasonscheduling,promoting,developingnewleaders,andfollowinguponnewfamiliesdiscoveredduringthissummerdisciplemakingstrategy.AslateofVBSExposhavealreadybeenscheduledfor2017.TheseregionallyhostedeventswillequipveteranandrookieleadersforaneffectiveVBS.Learnmoreatbcmd.org/[email protected],churchesalsohostedagrowingvarietyofspecializedcampsforkidsthissummer.Theseincludedsports,music,mission,anddrama/productioncamps.TheChurchStrengtheningTeamevenprovidedBYKCmaterialto21ofournewchurchstarts.Ourestimateisovertwo-thirdsofBCM/Dchurchesintentionallyreachedintotheirlocalcommunitiesinthesewaysthissummer.Oneofournetworkinggoalsistoconnectchurcheswhohostsimilarstrategicevents,tooneanotherinordertoimprovelearningforyearstocome.Inadditiontoconsultingandcoachingwithpastorsandkeyleaders,thisyear’sBibleteachingeventsincludedacoordinatedregion-widetrainingeventdoneinpartnershipwithBCM/D,fourotherregionalstatepartners,andLifeWay.NextyearourChurchStrengtheningteamwillmovetousingtheword,“Groups,”torefertosmallergroupsthatyourchurchusesinthetransformativejourneyofevangelismanddiscipleship.ThesegroupsincludeSundaySchoolclasses,homegroups,micro-groups,seminars,andmissionalengagementgroups.StaytunedtotheBCM/DwebsiteandBaptistLIFEfordevelopmentofthisnewapproachtostrengtheningourchurches.The2016BreathlessconferencewasheldinColumbiathisyear,andinvolvedover100ladiesfromwomen’sministriesaroundourmulti-stateconvention.Participantsenjoyedabeautifultimeofworshipandteachingandmadeconnectionsforstrategicimprovementofeffortstoreachandgrowwomenthroughwomen’sministries.Nextyear’seventhasbeenscheduled.Follownewsoftheevent,orlearnaboutthenumberofwomen’sministryresourcesavailablethroughtheChurchStrengtheningTeam,atbcmd.org/women.Earlierthisyear,over100Kid’sministersandleadersfrom41diverseBCM/Dcongregationsgatheredtofocustheirannualtrainingon“movingchurchintotheneighborhood.”Out-of-regionpresenters,in-regionspecialists,andideaexchangesmadeforadynamic,fast-paced,experiencefortheparticipants.Asimilarexperienceisbeingplannedforwinter,2017.


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Inaddition,ourkidsministryconsultantandspecialtyteamshavecontinuedtoprovideexpertadvicetomembercongregationsregardingongoingconcernslikesafetyandsecurityandweekdayeducation.Learnaboutmanyofthoseresourcesatbcmd.org/preschool-children.ThisassignmentrepresentsanewareaofworkfortheChurchStrengtheningTeam.Thequickestsolutiontocirculardiscussionsinalocalchurchonplateauorindeclineisto“lookuntothefields,whichareripefortheharvest.”Thisyearourteamwillbedeepeningtheservicesweprovidetohelpyouandyourchurchlookintoyourmissionfield.AspeoplefromthewholeworldcontinuetoimmigratetoourregionoftheUnitedStates,wesawtheneedformorewaysofengagingthataudience.Towardthatend,in2016,weenlargedthenumberoftrainedEnglishasaSecondLanguage(ESL)equippersnowavailabletoassistourchurches.TwoESLworkshopshavealreadybeenscheduledfor2017(oneinJanuary,anotherinAugust).DiscoverhowyourchurchcanlearntoteachESLtothenewresidentsofyourcommunityatbcmd.org/esl,oremaileudovich@bcmd.org.Anaturalfollow-uptoESListohelpnewresidentsinyourmissionfielddesignapathtocitizenship.Suchaministryextendstheinteractionofyourchurchwiththeirfamilies,andprovidesevenmoreopportunitiestoshareChristwithpeople.Thankstothepassionandground-breakingworkofMichaelMattar(aBCM/DpastorandassociatewithMontgomeryBaptistAssociation),ourteamwillbelearningwaystohelpallofourchurchesdevelopexpertiseinthisveryspecializedformofministry.In2016,intense,long-termeffortshaveresultedinconnectinglocalchurcheswithurgent/crisisneedsintheircommunities(somerelatedtotheHowardcountytornado,othersregardingtheEllicottCityfloods).Theobjectiveofthesedisasterreliefeffortsistomovebeyondthefirstresponderservice(largelypopulatedbyvolunteersfromahostofplaces)tomorelong-termministrytothelocalcommunitybylocalchurcheswithGospelconversationsandeternalimplications.Over100participatedinthisyear’sMother/DaughterOvernightretreatandGirl’sCamp.Thisyear’sscheduleincludedsignificanttimesofworship,missions,Biblestudy,aswellasfunactivitiesforthekidsandmoms.GaylaParkerreturnedtoourregionasthemissionaryinresidencefortheretreat.MissionarystudiesincludedafocusonGod’sworkinRio,Brazil–extremelytimelygiventhisyear’sOlympicGames.Follownextyear’spreparationsatbcmd.org/girlscamporbcmd.org/mother-daughter-camp.AChurch/SchoolPartnershiptrainingeventinthespring,helpedlocalchurchestobeginorextendpartnershipswithlocalschools.Visionarypastorsandchurches,whoalreadyhavesuchministries,sharedtheirstories,exchangedideas,andlearnedofresources,providingexamplesofhealthylocalchurchesgoingtotheircommunitiesratherthanrepeatedlytryingtogetthecommunitytocometothechurchbuilding.Itis,inthatrespect,anoutstandingexampleoftheviralimpactofachurchintheirmissionfield…ofachurch“lovingtheirneighbors.”LookfortheChurchStrengtheningTeamtobediscoveringnewwaysandmeanstotakeadvantageofthisdoorintolocalcommunities.Duringthisyear’sWomenonMissionRetreat,about100ladiesengagedinpassionateprayerforInternationalMissionarieswhohadtakentherecentVoluntaryRetirementIncentive.The


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seasonofprayerledtoconcreteaction,whentheparticipatingladiesgave(duringtheretreat)andraised(immediatelythereafter)almost$3,000todivideamongfivefamilieswithBCM/Dties.Yourchurchcanalsolaunchamissionaryfocusedwomen’sministry(WMU).Formoreinformationemailmknox@bcmd.org.Withmissionsnewlyassignedtoitsteam,theChurchStrengtheningTeamisdiscoveringandinvestinginexternalstrategiesthathelpalocalChurchfocusontheirlocalmissionfield.Theseincludeanumberofhelpfulcommunityassessmentinstrumentsandprocesses.RemembertoprayforthemissionofChristinourpartoftheworld.Pray“everytimeyouremember”thissharedwork.But,alsoschedulenowafocusedWeekofPrayerforstate/regionalmissions.PlentyofresourceswillbeavailabletohelpyoudosoduringourannualWeekofPrayer,scheduledforSeptember10-17,2017.

ConventionOperationsTomStolle,CFO/COO

EnsuringasolidfoundationforallConventioneffortsistheConventionOperationsTeam,comprisedoftheincrediblysupportiveFinancialOfficeandBaptistMissionResourceCenterOperationsteams.ThisteamalsocoordinatesallConvention-relatedevangelismefforts,suchasdisasterrelief,specialneedsministry,networkconnectionministries,andtheever-expandingopportunitiesatSkycroftConferenceCenter.FinanceOfficeAccountingServicesMid-MarylandBaptistAssociationPilotProject:Beyondthescopeoffinanceday-to-dayoperations,BCM/D’sfinanceofficeismovingforwardwitha“pilotproject”ofprovidingaccountingservicestotheMid-MarylandBaptistAssociation,effectiveJanuary1,2017.Thiswillallowtheassociationtoallocateagreaterportionoftheirresourcestowardministrytotheirmemberchurches,resultinginacostsavings.Inadditiontoprovidingthissupport,thefinanceofficeprovidesfinancialaccountingservicestotheBaptistFoundationofMD/DEandtheRiversCorporateParkcondominiumassociation(anassociationthatincludestheBCM/Dasamember).CooperativeProgram(CP)Promotion:TheCooperativeProgramisSouthernBaptists’unifiedplanofgivingthroughwhichcooperatingSouthernBaptistchurchesgiveapercentageoftheirundesignatedreceiptsinsupportoftheirrespectivestateconventionandtheSouthernBaptistConventionmissionsandministries.ItisimperativethatwecontinuetoeducateourchurchesaboutthevalueandpurposeoftheCooperativeProgram.Accordingly,wesentoutmailingsinMarchandSeptemberwith50and61churchesrequesting6,220and9,375promotionalpiecesrespectively.PlannedGivingPromotion:InpartnershipwiththeBaptistFoundationofMaryland/Delaware,ourofficeextendedmultipleseminarofferingstoourchurches,emphasizingtheneedtoincreasefuturecommitteddollarstoBaptistcauses.StewardshipEducation:Educationcontinuestobeafocalpointofourservices,withavarietyofseminarsoffered.Wecontinuetomakeavailabletoourchurchesfinancialstewardshipseminars,whichpresentbiblicalprinciplesforgivingandmoneymanagement.Inaddition,


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multiplechurcheshaveparticipatedinminister’staxtrainingseminars,whichprovidehelpfulinformationtochurchpastors,treasurers,andotherchurchleadersconcerningestablishingandmaintainingasystemofinternalcontrol,safeguardingofchurchassets,andpreparingachurchbudget.Wealsomeetwithindividualchurchesonrequestthroughouttheyeartoassistourchurcheswiththeseimportantissues.BaptistMissionResourceCenterOperations:ThisteamconstantlysearchesforandemployswaystomaketheoperationofourfacilityinColumbiaefficientandsafe,andwithgoodstewardship.Mostrecently,weaddedincreasedbandwidthatourfacility.Theserecenttechnologychangeswillprovidegreatlyincreasedinternetspeedandphoneservicesatasubstantialsavings.Wealsoenhancedoursecuritysystems.Again,thisupgradedtechnologyhasallowedustomakeourheadquartersmoresecureforourstaff,visitingpastorsandguests.SpecialNeeds/DisabilityMinistrySpecialNeedsConference:InMarch,theBCM/Dco-sponsoredaspecialneedsconferencewiththeinternationallyrecognizeddisabilityministry,JoniandFriends.ShaunaAmickandSibCharlesfromJoniandFriendsprovidedexpertadviceandspecificrecommendationsforhowchurchescanbeinclusiveofindividualsandfamiliesaffectedbydisabilitiesandChristopherDuffley,achildwhoisblindandhasautism,ledworship.Over125peoplefromapproximately40churchescametothetrainingheldatSouthColumbiaBaptistChurch.AssistingChurches:TheBCM/DpartneredwithOgletownBaptistChurch,Newark,Del.,toprovidearoomespeciallydesignedforservingchildrenwhohavespecialneeds.Thespacewasbuilt-outandrebranded,withaportionofitbeingdesignatedespeciallyforchildrenaffectedbydisabilities.Thechildren’sareaiscalledTheBackyardandthespaceforthechildrenwithspecialneedskidsiscalledTheNest.SkycroftConferenceCenterCamps:Overoursummercampseason,Skycrofthostedover30churcheswhoattendedreCHARGE,ourresidentteenagecamp.Inadditiontocomingtocamp,studentsweresentoutonmissiontoassistsevenchurcheswithmissionprojectsandVacationBibleSchool.Over700studentsattendedthecamp,withalmost70decisionsforChrist.Wewerealsoabletoraiseapproximately$3,300toassisttwoaffiliatedchurcheswiththeirlocalmissioncamps.CentriKid,acampforchildrenbetweenthirdandsixthgrades,recordedattendanceofapproximately1,200studentswith23decisionsforChrist.PropertyPurchase:InSeptember,GeneralMissionBoardmembersvotedtoauthorizeupto$400,000tonegotiatethepurchaseof43acresofland,whichincludesanoldfarmhouse,adjacenttotheSkycroftConferenceCenterthathasbecomeavailableforsale.ThisadditionallandwouldprovideaneededbufferforSkycroftaswellaspossiblyprovideanupgradedwastewaterfield,whichwouldallowforfurtherimprovementsandexpansionofSkycroft’soperations.Evangelism(EngagementandTraining)DisasterRelief:TrainedvolunteersfromBCM/Dchurchesrespondedtoseveralnaturaldisastersinourregion,includingtheHowardCountytornado(June22-August6,supportingGethsemaneBaptistChurchandtheMid-MarylandBaptistAssociation);theWestVirginiaflooding(July3-August13),andtheEllicottCityflashflood(August2-present,supportingMetanoia,BethelandBethanyLaneBaptistChurchesandtheMid-MarylandBaptistAssociation).


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Inadditiontomeetingimmediatephysicalneedsofpeopleaffectedbydisasters,ourDisasterReliefvolunteersseektomeetspiritualandemotionalneedsthroughprayerwalking,engaginginintentionalspiritualconversationsandpresentingeachindividualorfamilyservedwithaBiblesignedbyeachmemberoftheteam.Wetryhardtomakethelocalchurch“achampion”intheeyesofthecommunity,workingtoequipandpositionthechurchforongoinglong-termministryinthecommunityoncetheemergencyphaseofthedisasterhasended.WewerealsoabletoassistbothMetanoiaChurchandBethelBaptistwithorganizingabackpackdrivewiththreeotheraffiliatedchurchestoprovidebackpackstostudentsdisplacedduetothefloodinEllicottCity.Engagement:WehavepartneredwithourlocalassociationstoprovidetrainingconcerningmulticulturalengagementandGreatCommissionLiving.WeconnectedwiththeNorthAmericanMissionBoardtobringinAslamMasih,SouthAsian&MuslimPeoplesChurchMobilizer,toleadapaneldiscussionintheEasternandMid-MarylandAssociations.Onanotheroccasion,Dr.ChuckLawlessofSoutheasternSeminary,ledadiscussiononGreatCommissionLivingintheEasternAssociationandalsointheArundelAssociation.OurteamwasalsoabletoassistBethanyBaptistChurchinWilmington,Del.,withastudentevent.Around250studentsfromseveralyouthgroupsandlocalschoolsattendedagospel-centeredBack-to-Schoolnight.Duringthisevent,focusedonstudentsfromthecityofWilmington,sevenstudentsmadeadecisiontoacceptJesusastheirSavior.Theinitiativefocusedonprayerforournation’ssenatorshasmadeconnectionsonCapitolHill.Letterswrittenbyourpastorshavebeenpersonallydelivered,andoureffortshavebeenappreciatedandnoticed.DuetothepresenceoftheEthics&ReligiousLibertyCommission(ERLC)onCapitolHill,emphasisultimatelywillbeshiftedtomakethesetypesofconnectionswithkeyleaderswithinMarylandandDelawarestategovernmentsinAnnapolisandDover,expandingthisimportantprayeremphasisintothearenaofourownstategovernments.

BaptistFoundationofMaryland/Delaware,Inc.BobEaton,President;BillPeacock,VicePresident/President-Elect;TomStolle,Director

For162years,theBaptistFoundationofMaryland/DelawarehasservedthecauseofChristthroughtheprudentmanagementofendowmentsthatbenefitBaptistworkinMaryland/Delawareandaroundtheworldandbyprovidingloanstoourchurchesandassociations.TheFoundationcurrentlymanagesassetsofalmost$10.4million($7.3millionintheEndowmentFundsand$3.1millionintheChurchLoanFunds.)Significantgrowthintheamountofmanagedassetshasoccurredfrom$3.8millionin1991.ForthefiscalyearendedSeptember30,2016,theFoundationdistributedapproximately$326,749toSouthernBaptistandMid-AtlanticBaptistNetworkmissioncausesfromtheEndowmentFunds.ThroughtheFoundation’sChurchLoanprogram,18Mid-AtlanticBaptistNetworkchurchesarebeingassistedwithover$2.3milliondollarsinloans.Theadvantagesofthesechurchloansare


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favorableinterestratesandlowclosingcosts.Inadditiontotheabovereferenceddistribution,theFoundationmakesadistributionannuallytotheMid-AtlanticBaptistNetworktobeusedtostartchurchesandtostrengthenexistingchurches.ThedistributiontobemadeforthefiscalyearendedSeptember30,2015totals$113,875.TheBaptistFoundationisnowpositionedtomanageendowmentfundsforchurchesandassociationswhilesavingthemmoneyonadministration.Evenchurchesorassociationswithmodestinvestmentneedsmaytakeadvantageofthesamediscountsofferedtomulti-milliondollarinvestorssimplybyusingtheservicesoftheBaptistFoundation.WeencouragechurchesandassociationstopartnerwithustocreateHeritageFundstoensurefundingfortheirfutureministryefforts.TheBaptistFoundationcontinuestoeducateourchurchesinestateplanning.IfyourchurchisinterestedinlearningmoreabouttheFoundation,arepresentativeoftheFoundationwillbehappytoprovideadditionalinformation.YoumayalsolearnmoreabouttheFoundationbyvisitingwww.bcmd.org/baptist-foundation.FromhereyoucanlearnmoreabouttheFoundation’schurchloan,estateplanning,andplannedgivingprogramsaswellasviewthemostrecentlyavailableauditedfinancialstatements.TheLordhastrulyblessedtheKingdomworkofourFoundationandConvention.WelookforwardtocontinuingtoserveMaryland/DelawareBaptistsinthesametrustworthymannerasourpredecessors.

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