Louisiana Senate Bill SR120

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/20/11
• Passed: 6/21/11

Caption

Commends Reverend Fred Luter Jr., Senior Pastor of Franklin Baptist Church in New Orleans, on being elected first vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Impact

The resolution recognizes Reverend Luter's influence in transforming the Franklin Avenue Baptist Church from a struggling congregation of sixty members to one that now boasts over seven thousand worshippers. This reflects the church's resilience and growth, especially following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, which destroyed the church's original building. Under Reverend Luter's leadership, the church has become one of the largest Southern Baptist congregations in Louisiana. This recognition may inspire similar congregations to invest in leadership diversity and community outreach.

Summary

Senate Resolution 120 commends Reverend Fred Luter Jr., the Senior Pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in New Orleans, for his significant election as the first vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention. This milestone marks a historic achievement within the denomination, highlighting the increased representation of African Americans in leadership roles. The resolution not only acknowledges Reverend Luter's election but also celebrates his long-standing commitment to his community and his remarkable journey as a pastor, which began in a challenging environment.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR120 is overwhelmingly positive. Supporters of the resolution celebrate Reverend Luter's achievements as symbols of progress and inclusivity within the Southern Baptist Convention. His election is seen as a step toward greater diversity in leadership within the church, reflecting a broader trend in society that advocates for equitable representation. The resolution serves not only as a commendation but also as a hopeful statement about the future of church leadership dynamics.

Contention

While SR120 is largely a celebratory resolution, its introduction may provoke discussions about the historical racial dynamics within the Southern Baptist denomination itself. As the first African American in such a high office, Reverend Luter's election signifies both progress and the ongoing challenges related to race within organized religion. These discussions could lead to further examination of inclusivity policies within the Convention and how they impact local congregations' interaction with their broader communities.