Carolyn Tomlin
Since 1835, the Baptist & Reflector has told the story of Tennessee Baptists. Through wars, cultural shifts, and seasons of ministry growth, the paper has helped keep churches informed and connected.
Through seasons of national crisis and cultural change, the Baptist & Reflector has continued to inform and encourage Tennessee Baptists. With this long history, we now rely on this publication to be a voice that connects us to various ministries.
Randy Kellough, pastor of Woodland Baptist Church in Haywood County, said, “Pastors can benefit by seeing the happenings and reviews of events taking place throughout the state and the Southern Baptist Convention.
It also helps them communicate information about issues that impact the lives of members, and perhaps initiate mission-related actions observed in other ministries.”
There are numerous ways the B&R serves Tennessee Baptist churches. With more than 3,000 churches in the Tennessee Baptist Convention (TBC), here are several ways the paper offers value to Tennessee Baptists. The paper is a powerful voice that reaches thousands of members twice a month.
- It is a resource for pastors and teachers. From the Leader Board section addressing pastors’ questions to articles on cultural issues and Sunday School commentary, the B&R provides practical ministry insight.
- It reports how churches are reaching people for Christ. Stories highlight effective outreach, ministry to children and youth, church revitalization efforts, and other ways congregations are impacting their communities.
- It provides financial accountability. The B&R reports how Cooperative Program and Golden Offering for Tennessee Missions funds support ministry in Tennessee and around the world.
- It provides monthly prayer prompts. The “Prayer Matters” column guides readers in praying for those without Christ, for pastors and for the church. Readers are encouraged to save and use the prompts throughout 2026.
- It features a column from Randy C. Davis, TBMB president and executive director. He addresses evangelism, issues affecting Tennessee Baptists, leadership, and biblical insight for discipleship.
- It highlights Tennessee Baptist universities. The B&R shares news and updates from Union University and Carson-Newman University.
- It includes classified ads. Churches list openings for pastors, worship ministers, youth leaders, and other ministry positions, along with contact information for submitting a résumé.
These are only a few of the reasons Tennessee Baptist churches need the Baptist & Reflector.
I’m thankful my church is a subscriber. It is one of the best ways to stay informed about how Tennessee Baptists, working together, are fulfilling the Great Commission. B&R
