AN OPEN LETTER TO SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONSERVATIVES OF VIRGINIA

                                                                                                                                                                   Vol. VIII, No. 6, June/July 1995

[Editorial Introduction: Following is a very important request from Rev. Bob R. Melvin, president of the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia. He is asking for our suggestions as to how the SBCV should strengthen and expand its ministries and base of church participation. Don't leave it to someone else! Everyone is busy, and there is a natural tendency to let slide matters which have no short-term return. But you may be the only person to whom God has given a key idea. Let's flood the question with prayer and flood Bob Melvin with recommendations. TCP]

June 26, 1995

Upon my election as your President in September 1994, God impressed upon my heart the need to meet with as many of you as possible across the state. I felt directed to hear from you and solicit from you your vision and expectations concerning the future direction of the SBCV.

Many of you were able to attend these informal sessions. I listened to your concerns and benefited in a measurable way from your input.

One of the results from my "listening" sessions with you was to appoint a study committee charged with the responsibility to determine the procedure and requirements involved in establishing a new state convention. They worked diligently.

Bob Jackson, Chairman of the Study Committee, will make a full report to the Annual Meeting of the SBCV on November 7th at 1st Baptist Church, Norfolk.

In connection with his report, the SBCV Executive Committee will bring to you the following recommendations:

“The Executive Committee of the SBCV recommends that the SBCV continue to strengthen its ministries and expand its base of church participation. The SBCV remains open to the leadership of God regarding its future within Virginia and the SBC. The Executive Committee is now evaluating its total ministry activities to determine how to increase its impact for Christ in Virginia and around the world, and will bring specific recommendations as to how to accomplish this at the Fall 1995 Annual Meeting. "

In connection with the above recommendation and in preparation for the next quarterly meeting on August 17, I write this "open letter".

Many of you were unable to attend my previous "listening" sessions. Those who did attend are now able to further formulate specific ideas and directions you desire for the SBCV.

Therefore, with "SPECIFIC" being the operative word, I invite and encourage you to write me as soon as possible detailing and defining your "SPECIFICS". I solicit from your very heart "SPECIFIC" ways and areas that you desire to see the SBCV minister to and serve the needs of your church.

Your further input is important to me and your response is sought with earnest expectations.

My address is:

                         Bob R. Melvin

                         Spotswood Baptist Church

                         4009 Lafayette Blvd.

                         Fredericksburg, VA 22408-4227

Your Executive Committee eagerly anticipates and values your recommendations and suggestions. I pray for God's blessings on you, your church, and the SBCV.

Standing with you on the inerrancy and infallibility of God's Word, I remain.

                                                                     In Him,

                                                                     Bob R, Melvin, President

                                                                     Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia

P.S. Please let me hear from you and your recommendations no later than August 11, 1995. Thank you.