Date: Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:50:59 -0400
From: William (Chip) Pate
Subject: Baptist Association: No Position on Referendum
I was surprised (and disappointed) see the post by Randy Voller, announcing that an organization called “Sandy Creek Baptist Association Against Liquor by the Drink” had registered as a political action group to oppose the mixed beverage referendum – clearly implying that the large association of local Baptist churches had voted in some way to become involved in the political campaign.
That perception was reinforced (if not intended) when I saw a full-page ad in The Chatham News opposing the measure. The ad was signed by “The Churches of The Sandy Creek Baptist Association” and listed the address of the Sandy Creek Baptist Association office – essentially stating that the association was responsible for the message.
While I’m still trying to get confirmation from the association office, a pastor familiar with the effort told me that the Sandy Creek Baptist Association actually has taken no position on the referendum.
I understand that Steve Moore, pastor of Emmaus Baptist Church and apparently listed as treasurer of the political action group, solicited donations via e-mail and did receive contributions from some churches in the association.
But I have been told that no association money has been used in the campaign, nor is the association, itself, backing this effort.
Chip Pate
PO Box 1414
Pittsboro, NC 27312