Updated Monday, May 19, 2008

Nancy Curtis' comments counterproductive

I found Nancy Curtis' remarks extremely counterproductive to any effort on the part of WMU-NC in seeking a way forward for a new cooperative relationship with the Baptist State Convention and with N.C. Baptists in general who are still wondering what their relationship with WMU is supposed to be now considering their actions over the past couple of years. Ms. Curtis says on one hand that "There is no ego in this organization of servants," while saying at the same time "no one else does it better," "No one else really does it at all," and "If not WMU, who? There isn't anybody."

If Ms. Curtis' remarks are at all representative of others within WMU, I believe it is necessary to take a step back and acknowledge that there is no organization in this state or in God's kingdom that can legitimately claim to be the only vehicle through which valid missionary work is accomplished.

Frankly, statements such as those by Ms. Curtis at Missions Extravaganza are going to be received as quite offensive to many N.C. Baptists, who although not in some way connected to WMU, are none-the-less very devoted to supporting and participating in missions.

If we are really looking for a way forward, let's prayerfully seek the words that will help make it happen.

Patrick W. Purdy

Maiden, N.C.