Tenants Starting with 'm'

In many ways the synod is like a parish. It draws its life from the many unsung heroes who give of themselves for its mission. Most congregations have a "Harry" or a "Doris." Harry was a retired construction worker who spent the last 10 years of his life keeping the congregation beautiful. You could always see him painting or fixing or chatting with the neighbors as he worked in the church's garden. The children in the school called him "Mr. Harry" and he often joined them in chapel.

Doris was the glue which held the parish together. You have one in your church, too. She organized the altar guild. She volunteered at the local hospital and engaged many of her friends in this ministry. She took leadership of the annual Christmas sale and was also a surrogate aunt to children.

Thanks to God for all the Dorises and Harrys and others in the pews each week, whose faithfulness to God makes the church what it is today.

Since 1911 the Ministers and Missionaries Benefit Board has served those who work for Baptist churches and affiliated organizations. The Board's mission to American Baptist Churches ministers, missionaries and lay employees and their families has grown steadily over the years. The combination of benefits and personalized service has bolstered members through both national and personal financial and social storms. In 2000, an IRS ruling opened the MMBB plans to related organizations, and MMBB embraced this opportunity to expand its benefits and services to new groups.MMBB understands the unique blessings and challenges of the ministry, and supports plan members throughout their lives. Hallmarks include skilled professional money management, educational opportunities and service provided by responsive member service representatives. MMBB communications keep members and employers informed and in touch. MMBB knows the ministry, and MMBB cares.

Our mission is to help people develop the skills and convictions they need to shape a just, peaceful, and democratic society. Morningside Center's work has been concentrated in two areas:

• Teaching children and adults skills in conflict resolution and intercultural understanding.
• Promoting critical thinking, social awareness, and action in the classroom and beyond.