Baptist and Reflector
FRANKLIN — In the midst of a worldwide pandemic, Tennessee Baptists gave a record amount through the 2019-2020 Golden Offering for Tennessee Missions.
As of Aug. 31, a total of $1,948,324 has been given from 1,202 churches (subject to final review of deposits on Aug. 31 and month-end closing). The previous record was set just a year ago when Tennessee Baptists gave $1,920,733 through the 2018-19 GOTM.
“This is a miraculous testimony to the generosity of folks in our churches, even in the midst of a global pandemic,” said Randy C. Davis, president and executive director of the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board.
“From the bottom of my heart I want to thank you, Tennessee Baptists, for your faithfulness and sacrificial giving.” (Related: Davis’ column about the record-breaking giving).
Randy C. Davis
Noting that the record was set as Tennessee Baptists dealt with COVID-19 and economic hardships caused by diminished work hours, furloughs or job loss, Davis said that “what makes this record giving to Tennessee missions even more remarkable is that you did it in the face of intense adversity.”
Vickie Anderson, executive director-treasurer of Tennessee Woman’s Missionary Union, agreed.
“In March when the seriousness of the pandemic was taking hold and things began to shut down, I don’t think any of us expected the Golden Offering to end as strong as it has or that we would see a new offering record,” she observed.
Vickie Anderson
“It is encouraging to see Tennessee Baptists continuing to give to the Golden Offering knowing that our state is a mission field that needs to be reached. But Tennessee Baptists aren’t just giving to state missions, they are praying about the needs, for new opportunities and for ministries across the state.
“They are doing missions and sharing about Jesus in their communities, in their county and association, and all across the state. Our gifts, our prayers, and our participation all work together to make a difference in meeting needs and reaching the spiritually lost,” Anderson said.
Davis added that it is apparent that Tennessee Baptists truly recognize that “any way you slice it, Tennessee is a mission field.
“Fortunately, every dollar you give stays in Tennessee and your Tennessee Baptist Mission Board staff takes serious care to make sure those resources are directed in the most strategic ways possible.” B&R
