The State Convention of Baptists in Indiana celebrated their 60th anniversary at their Annual Meeting this year, held October 8-9 at Highland Lakes Baptist Camp. 160 messengers and 53 guests were in attendance representing 80 churches across the state.

The theme, “Exalting Jesus: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” was drawn from John 17:22-26, “ 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. 24 “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. 25 “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. 26 I have made you[a] known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

Attendees heard messages from three speakers: Convention President Bruce Reynolds, pastor of Old Town Hill Baptist Church, Muncie; the annual sermon from Rev. Alan Scott, pastor of Oak Hill Baptist Church, Evansville; and SCBI Executive Director Dr. Steve McNeil.

The approved 2019 budget of $3,879,000 represents a 3.15% decrease over the 2018 budget amount. The 2019 budget anticipates $2,290,759 in CP receipts from churches, $857,000 from NAMB and $64,000 from LifeWay Christian Resources. The convention voted and approved to decrease the amount forwarded to the SBC to 35%.

Resolutions Committee member, Josh Goeprich, presented a resolution in appreciation of Highland Lakes Baptist Camp for their hospitality and service during the 60th meeting of the State Convention of Baptists in Indiana.

Bobby Pell, pastor of Northwoods Church, Evansville, was elected the new SCBI president. Completing the new slate of officers are first vice president Randy Forsythe, pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Portage; second vice president Josh Goepfrich, pastor of Warsaw Baptist Church, Warsaw; and recording secretary Sara Burk, a member of Grace Baptist Church, Evansville.

The 2019 Annual Meeting will be held October 28-29 at Highland Lakes Baptist Camp.