Rita Wadlington, left, former WMU director at South Harriman Baptist Church, and Gina Ford, new WMU Director, stand with pastor James Griffith.
HARRIMAN — When James Griffith became pastor of South Harriman Baptist Church nearly two years ago, he knew he was coming to a church that believed in and supported missions.
One thing he observed, however, was the church’s support of the Golden Offering for Tennessee Missions was not near the level of support for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering or the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering.
The church has traditionally had a goal of $4,000 for GOTM and has met it, Griffith said.
Working with current WMU director Rita Wadlington and incoming director Gina Ford, they decided to set this year’s goal at $15,000, the pastor noted.
Griffith, who is on the board of directors of Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, knew of the importance of the state missions offering.
He felt the church did not really understand what GOTM did in Tennessee.
The church decided to kick off the 2023-24 emphasis on Aug. 13 and invited Randy C. Davis to speak. “Bro. Randy presented what the offering was used for and how it is used for the glory of God,” Griffith said.
Members of South Harriman Baptist Church responded in an amazing way.
In just four weeks, the congregation met and exceeded its $15,000 goal by $820, nearly quadrupling last year’s gift of $4,231.
“I was confident we would meet our goal but I didn’t think it would be that soon,” Griffith said.
He observed that the church “has been blessed to have the money. We just have to give it to the Lord for His Kingdom work.
“As a pastor, I’m very proud of our church and their heart to give for the spread of the gospel throughout our state,” he said. B&R
