Nancy Ammerman, a longtime analyst of Baptists and religious life in the United States, sees enduring lessons for the United Methodist Church today from the Southern Baptist Convention battles of the 1980s.

Student Missions blog: I had my plan already in mind. I would go on a trip close to home, one that was inexpensive and convenient for me. In my mind, the only discovery I would be making was finding a way to go on the trip I had my mind set on. Less than two days later, I had discovered so much more.

A Baptist Standard reader replies to Ali Corona’s Voices column responding to a Houston Chronicle report on the extent of sexual abuse in Southern Baptist churches.

“I am not dispassionate about abortion. I hold to a very conservative view of Scripture and the sovereignty of God and thus firmly declare the sanctity of life.” A Baptist Standard reader and pastor responds to Joshua Sharp’s op-ed.

Student Missions Blog: We were tasked to walk around the mall and find a person we could engage in a meaningful conversation. Out of the 200 or so people at the food court, a young woman in a bright yellow hoodie eating alone at the end managed to grab my attention.

Student Missions Blog: It has been nine years post-earthquake, and Haiti is still recovering from it. A lot of people in the rural areas do not have access to basic medical care. So, meeting their needs and being able to help alleviate some of their pain was gratifying. 

A Baptist Standard reader replies to Eric Black’s editorial, which examines a biblical justification for the border wall currently at the center of the partial government shutdown of the United States.

Student Missions Blog: I have a heart for children and babies. Throughout the week in New York, I never really got the opportunity to work with young kids. Even though I had an amazing week, I felt like something was missing.

Student Missions Blog: When we went Christmas caroling around the community, I was able to talk with a high school student. … When we got to a point in the conversation where I brought up Jesus, he told me he had issues in truly knowing whether God is real.

Student Missions Blog: A shoe delivery to an orphanage was delayed, but that didn’t stop student missionaries from giving orphaned children gifts of time and attention.

Student Missions Blog: Standing in the midst of the Harmons in Jamaica, I felt as though I was surrounded. I felt surrounded by poverty, by brokenness, by emptiness.

Student Missions Blog: The most rewarding experience took place in Jackson Heights when I came across a Buddhist monk praying aloud at a street corner.