​Here is the link to the Study Team Report commissioned by the SBCAL last June in Phoenix.  As the research and report came together, our excitement as a Study Team grew as we believe the Lord guided this process to produce an encouraging and helpful resource. The Report contains an introduction, but I would like to take a moment and pass along my personal gratitude to some folks who made this process more beneficial.  
 
First, I want to thank my fellow Study Team members who gave generously of their time, and engaged this topic with passion and curiosity. There were no hidden agendas, and I am thankful for how each person contributed to the final result. Each team member had a unique perspective and contribution. I also wish to thank Sherry Eason, who served the team as our Recording Secretary.  She attentively sat through hours of online and in person meetings and documented the entire process.  These extensive notes are available for anyone who desires to better understand how we accomplished our task.  Bob Bumgarner was particularly helpful as we turned the corner from research to recommendations.  His facilitation of the team conversation at this point brought clarity to the report.  Finally, I wish to thank Ray Gentry, our Executive Director, who also served on the team and participated in every team meeting and conversation.  His vision to initiate and steward this study is a testimony to his excellent leadership.   
 
On behalf of the team, we hope and pray that this report will be received in the spirit in which it is offered - not as a mandate to follow, but as a resource that was shaped by describing how associations are effectively assisting churches to better accomplish the Great Commission.  Further, we pray that this report will help the greater SBC spur one another on toward more good works of gospel engagement at the local level of Baptist missions.  
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​​Serving together,  
 
Rick Wheeler
Lead Missional Strategist
Jacksonville Baptist Association ​

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