The Open Door

Last night Janice and I had the privilege of enjoying fellowship with the pastors and wives and lay leadership of Rehoboth Baptist Association at Westside Baptist Church in Warner Robins, where Mike Holloway is pastor. We were there to celebrate the outstanding ministry of Boe and Rosie Stanley. Boe is retiring after having served as the associational missionary of the Rehoboth Association for 17 years. In my opinion, there is not a finer example of a devoted, wise, knowledgeable and visionary associational missionary than Boe Stanley.

The first time I met Boe, I was in Warner Robins to preach on a Sunday morning shortly after arriving back in Georgia to assume my responsibilities as executive director. Boe said, "We have time before the church service; let's go for a short ride in my car. I want to show you one of our recent church plants. He took me to see the Friendship Baptist Church which was experiencing phenomenal growth. This church, where Tim Millwood is serving as pastor, is still growing at a rapid rate. Planting vibrant churches has been a hallmark of Boe's ministry with the association.

Other qualities of Boe's leadership have included a strong focus on missions and evangelism. He has led his association to new levels of involvement in volunteer missions. I remember well the extended Crossover event, which Boe led in his association the last time our convention meeting was held in Macon. Many came to faith in Christ through a several month effort that culminated at convention time.

Rosie has been Boe's constant companion and encourager. She is a delight to all who know her with her warm and gracious smile. She has been consistently positive in her relationships with others and in her support of her husband's ministry.

So where did this dynamic couple come from and how is it that they are so well suited for their ministry? They came from years of faithful service as Southern Baptist international missionaries to the Philippines. I have enjoyed talking with Boe and Rosie from time to time about their service on the international mission field. I have been personally inspired by who they are and have been for Jesus Christ.

It is difficult to imagine what it will be like not to have Boe and Rosie serving as associational missionaries among us. Thankfully, they promise to remain in the area and do what they can to be involved in Georgia Baptist Convention life and ministry. Boe announced that he will serve in an interim capacity until his successor is chosen. I was so glad to hear that. Then he added, "As long as it doesn't take too long to locate my replacement."

Boe, I've got a feeling that it will be a challenge to locate your replacement, but through God's leadership and in God's timing someone will be chosen and the glorious work of our Lord will continue among the fine churches of the Rehoboth Baptist Association!