On October 14, 2023, the CKNB Executive Committee gathered for their Fall Meeting at Anchor Baptist Church in Lexington, KY. This semi-annual event unites over 100 Baptist churches in Central Kentucky, creating an opportunity for fellowship, sharing ministry successes, and discussing strategies to enhance their mission. The core belief guiding this gathering is simple but powerful: we are indeed better together.
A Joyful Beginning
The gathering kicked off with an uplifting performance by the Anchor Baptist Worship Choir, directed by Pastor Carl Peters. The choir's beautiful harmonies set a welcoming atmosphere that energized the attendees for the day ahead. It’s moments like these that remind everyone of the collective spirit uniting the Central Kentucky Network of Baptists.
CKNB President Kyle Sullivan, also the Pastor of First Baptist Church in Paris, KY, officially opened the meeting with a heartfelt time of scripture reading and prayer, encouraging the attendees to engage with God’s Word as they seek guidance for their ministries. This focus on Scripture reflects CKNB's commitment to remain grounded in faith while empowering their congregations to reach into their individual ministry contexts.
A Review of Progress and Finances
After the spiritual opening, attendees reviewed and approved the minutes from the previous meeting. CKNB Treasurer Bill Ellis presented the Financial Report, offering transparency about the network’s financial health. About 90% of churches felt confident in their funding, thanks to this openness.
The presentation of the financial report transitioned seamlessly into welcoming new pastors. Among them was Bryan Watts, recently appointed at Porter Memorial Baptist Church, and Mickey Gaskin, who took on leadership at Immanuel Baptist Church on Winchester Road. These fresh faces signify the vitality within the Central Kentucky Baptist community, bringing new energy and perspectives.
Khum Biaklal shared exciting news about the development of the Cross Cultural Church in Lexington. This initiative, which aims to engage the community's diverse demographics, is vital in today’s multicultural society and reinforces the CKNB's mission to promote inclusivity in faith.
Strategic Leadership Changes
The meeting shifted to discuss future leadership in CKNB. The Associate Executive Director announced the new Leadership Team Members for 2025. Effective January 2025, David Stokes and David Barron will become Co-Executive Directors. This planned succession illustrates the committee’s foresight and commitment to ensuring strong leadership continues to guide the Network as we move forward together.
Leadership transitions can be daunting. However, CKNB’s proactive approach ensures stability and models partnership during this time. Members are optimistic that this leadership move will inspire innovative ideas and enhance collaborative ministries within the network.
Network at Work: Compassion and Revitalization Efforts
The much-anticipated “Network at Work” panel followed. Pam Polkey highlighted various compassion ministries, including the Irishtown Baptist Ministry Center, Feed the Hungry and the upcoming Central Kentucky Toy Project. She shared that roughly several individuals have recently accepted Christ through these outreach programs, emphasizing the real-world impact of CKNB churches.
Steve Bruce discussed ongoing church health and revitalization initiatives driven by the Barnabas Team. He stressed the need for continual assessment and support within congregations, underlining the importance of maintaining healthy churches for the overall vitality of the network. The work of the Barnabas Team has also extended beyond the geographical region of the CKNB to also assist churches in other neighboring associations.
Brad Pearce provided updates on partnerships between CKNB churches and the Kentucky Baptist Convention (KBC). These collaborations enrich individual church ministries and strengthen the collective mission of CKNB, maximizing their positive impact on the surrounding communities.
To close out the panel time, Chris Rieber, CKNB's Ambassador of Prayer Ministries, led in a time of focused prayer over the churches and the work taking place in Bourbon County. CKNB enjoys a partnership with 5 churches (First Baptist Church of Paris, Central Baptist Church, Shawhan Baptist Church, Silas Baptist Church and Millersburg Baptist Church) who faithfully stand as hubs of Gospel truth and hope. Time was spent in prayer for each church and their various ministry efforts for the pastors and leaders of each church, and for the overall health and culture of Paris to be impacted by the Gospel of Christ.
A Reminder and Challenge For the Work Ahead
After the business of the evening was settled, Kyle Sullivan returned to the pulpit to deliver the President's Message, based out of Romans 15. His challenging and timely message focused on God's express desire and plan among His church and the nations. Following the words and testimony of Paul in Romans 15, we were reminded that God's purpose is for the nations to praise Him as well as be called to obedience to Him. And, it is God's purpose that the churches partner together to pronounce His desire and the Gospel among the nations.
We are grateful for Kyle's leadership as President this year, and look forward to his service in 2025 as outgoing President and Affiliation Specialist. Hearing Kyle's heart for people and for Christ in his message helped everyone in attendance see that First Baptist of Paris is being well-led by their Pastor.
Celebrating Achievements
The Fall Gathering was more than a meeting; it celebrated the achievements made possible through collaboration. When over 100 churches come together, they create broader opportunities to share the gospel and address community needs.
Attendees departed with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing they belong to a network dedicated to compassion, growth, and spiritual wellness. Every contribution—big or small—plays a vital role in the larger mission of the CKNB.
Looking Ahead
As the meeting concluded, Executive Director David Stokes offered some summary thoughts on the meeting and upcoming year. He noted the overall theme of partnership -- which was mentioned several times from those who had the platform. It reminded all in attendance of a theme which is often repeated as CKNB groups gather... “We are better together.” This phrase embodies a collaborative philosophy that values each church's unique contributions to the collective mission.
David Stokes then invited outgoing President Kyle Sullivan and incoming President Joey Rogers to the platform along with incoming President-Elect Steve Price. The gavel was officially passed to Joey Rogers who dismissed the meeting in prayer.
With excitement, Central Kentucky Baptist churches look forward to future gatherings. They anticipate the spiritual lives they will transform through their combined efforts. The network is making significant strides in compassion ministries, church revitalization, and the establishment of new congregations to strengthen their outreach.
Reflecting on Togetherness
In summary, the Fall Gathering of the CKNB Executive Committee showcased the commitment and service demonstrated by the network of Central Kentucky Baptists. Through vibrant worship, transparent discussions, and a spirit of collaboration, the gathering highlighted the broad impact of these churches.
As they celebrate their achievements and prepare for future challenges, the focus on unity remains central. By pooling their talents, resources, and collective spirit, the CKNB is poised to continue making a significant impact in Central Kentucky and beyond. Their ongoing mission sends a clear message: whenever Central Kentucky Baptists unite, extraordinary things happen. Indeed, they are better together.
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