Oklahoma Baptists urge president to withdraw mandate

“The (resolution) committee felt it needed to underscore that, regardless of the election, we understand the HHS mandate to be a threat to religious liberty,” he said.

The religious liberty resolution also called on the president to ensure religious liberty for military chaplains to minister according to their religious consciences without fear or coercion.

In other business

The Rev. Nick Garland, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Broken Arrow, was elected president of the state convention. Other leaders elected Tuesday are the Rev. Johnny Montgomery, senior pastor of First Baptist-Red Oak, first vice president; Danny Ringer, associate pastor of First Baptist Church of Elk City, second vice president.

Other resolutions approved Tuesday called for:

• Applauding the efforts of Oklahomans who play a role in recognizing that life begins at conception and encouraging Oklahoma Baptists to take a proactive role in promoting the sanctity of human life.

• Praying for and encouraging elected officials.

• Congratulating the Baptist Messenger, the convention's official newspaper, on its centennial.

• Affirming Sunday school as a primary ministry in the church for discipleship and evangelism.

• Expressing gratitude for the unselfish sacrifice and service of the U.S. military and their families.