April 21, 1999
BGCT offers suggestions for Y2K
___By Ken Camp
___Texas Baptist Communications
___Y2K is an opportunity to prepare for ministry, not an occasion for panic, according to a newly released publication by the Baptist General Convention of Texas.
___"Y2K" is shorthand for the year 2000 and surrounding concerns about possible disruption in communications, utilities and food supplies due to computer failures. "Y2K and Texas Baptist Disaster Relief Ministries" offers practical suggestions for churches and families regarding food, water, cooking and finances.
___"Rather than falling prey to a survival mindset, believers can operate from a servant mindset. At a time when alarmists predict an age of darkness, the church can be a lighthouse. At a time when some seek to profit from fear, churches can prepare for ministry," the brochure states.
___Texas Baptist Men President Bob Dixon developed much of the material based on his experiences working for three decades in disaster relief as the mission organization's executive director. Roger Hall, treasurer and chief financial officer of the BGCT, wrote the section on financial concerns.
___By preparing for the Y2K disruptions that are possible, churches and families are one step ahead in preparing for those ministry opportunities they inevitably will face, such as local disasters and benevolence, Dixon reasoned.
___If Y2K does create disruptions in delivery of goods and services in the middle of winter, basic winter storm preparations as suggested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency will be applicable, he said. If there are no serious power outages or food shortages, then churches and Christian families will be equipped for local natural disasters and for ongoing ministries to the poor.
___Dixon recommends that families store a one-month supply of drinking water, allowing one gallon per day per person. Rather than buying expensive bottled water, the brochure tells how to store tap water properly.
___He also suggests buying extra canned goods a little bit at a time, rather than spending exorbitant amounts on prepackaged mass quantities of food sold by those seeking to profit from Y2K hysteria.
___Regarding finances, Hall suggests keeping on hand two to four weeks of cash for unanticipated expenses.
___"While limited access to financial institutions is not likely, according to some industry analysts, some cash contingency funds might be of assistance," the brochure states. "Overreaction to Y2K concerns, such as pulling funds from retirement plans or investments, may not be in the best interest of individuals."
___The brochure concludes with an admonition to be spiritually prepared.
___The brochure is available from Texas Baptist Men, 333 N. Washington, Dallas 75246-1798; (214) 828-5357.Frontpage / Contents/ Masthead / Why We're Here / Links / Archive / E-mail us/ SUBSCRIBE!