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| HOME CHURCHES EVENTS QUESTIONS STATE REP | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
1) When did the Empire State Fellowship begin?
October 5-7, 1942.
2) How did the fellowship originate?
Modernism continued to infiltrate the Baptist Missionary Convention and the American Baptist Convention in New York State. During the summer of 1941, nearly 25 pastors met for prayer and discussion at Canandaigua Lake. The decision was made to hold a state-wide meeting at Ithaca on October 5-7, 1942. 54 churches with a combined membership of nearly 10,000 united to form the Empire State Fellowship of Regular Baptist Churches.
3) Why is it called a fellowship?
The very word "fellowship" demonstrates a voluntary sharing together of that which is commonly enjoyed. Across New York State, Bible-believing Baptist Churched voluntarily share a united voice, convictions, and purpose in fellowship.
4) What is a Regular Baptist?
While some do not appreciate the value of a label, let's be honest, labels really do identify and are important. A Regular Baptist is one who adheres to the historic Baptist distinctives:
| B | Biblical authority | ||
| A | Autonomy of every local church | ||
| P | Priesthood of every believer | ||
| T | Two offices: pastor and deacon | ||
| I | Individual soul liberty | ||
| S | Saved church membership | ||
| T | Two ordinances: Baptism and the Lord's Supper | ||
| S | Separation of Church and State |
5) Do the churches lose their independence?
Never! Every church is 100% independent and remains fully autonomous.
6) What ministry does the State Representative perform?
Elected by the churches of the fellowship, the State Representative is available to assist pastors and churches. Imagine, every church regardless of its size, has in the person of the State Representative an assistant pastor. His dynamic ministry of preaching, counseling, and assistance is available upon requests.
7) What is the Council of Ten and what do they do?
The Council of Ten are ten men elected by the fellowship at the annual meeting. Thecouncil is responsible for the leadership and the program of fellowship. The council serves in the following areas: conference, youth, church relations, missions, and publication.
8) What opportunities does the Empire State Fellowship offer?
9) What does the Empire State Fellowship offer youth?
Young and old alike are appreciate the great conferences. Additionally, Talents for Christ and Youth Seminars are great opportunities for youth.
10) Why would a church choose to fellowship with the Empire State Fellowship?