The Baptist Record - Journal of the Mississippi Baptist Convention since 1877 October 5, 2026

Small-town Mississippi church ignites culture of revival, sees 59 baptized

First Baptist Poplarville meets in the Brownstone Theater the last day of their revival in August. Fifty-nine people were baptized as a result the revival. (Photo credit: First Baptist Poplarville)

Small-town Mississippi church ignites culture of revival, sees 59 baptized

October 5, 2026

By Lindsey CarrawayWriting Specialist POPLARVILLE, Miss. — Three years ago, it was an emotional moment for Kipp Smith as he looked around the theater full…

Woolmarket Baptist Church a faithful presence on the Gulf Coast

Woolmarket Baptist Church (Photo credit: Seth Price)

Woolmarket Baptist Church a faithful presence on the Gulf Coast

October 2, 2026

FIRST-PERSON: Pastor appreciation that lasts all year

FIRST-PERSON: Pastor appreciation that lasts all year

October 2, 2026

Bible access restricted for over 500 million Christians, study of 106 nations finds

(Photo credit: IMB)

Bible access restricted for over 500 million Christians, study of 106 nations finds

October 1, 2026

FIRST-PERSON: Marks of a healthy church (and why you need it)

FIRST-PERSON: Marks of a healthy church (and why you need it)

September 30, 2026

GuideStone, ERLC applaud
Senate’s passage of Clergy Act
DALLAS — The U.S. Senate passed the Clergy Act Wednesday (Sept. 30), which sends the legislation to President Donald Trump for consideration. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the act in April. GuideStone Financial Resources applauded passage of the bipartisan bill that would provide eligible ministers who previously opted out of Social Security with a limited opportunity to elect future participation in the program. If the president signs it, the Clergy Act will take effect in 2029. The Clergy Act was co-sponsored in the House by Republican Vince Fong and Democrat Mike Thompson (both of California) and in the Senate by Republican Katie Britt (Alabama) and Democrat Maggie Hassan (New Hampshire). “Our faith leaders give everything to their communities … across our nation,” Fong said. “They deserve financial security in return. The Clergy Act gives clergy members who previously opted out of Social Security the opportunity to re-enroll and take control of their financial future. I am incredibly proud this legislation passed both chambers with strong bipartisan support, and I look forward to President Trump signing it into law. Thank you to Senator Britt for getting this across the finish line. It’s a monumental step towards taking care of the people who take care of our communities.”