There are many things an African-American preacher might say to the worlds
largest Protestant denomination, perceived by many as having at best a tenuous
track record in racial equality.
There are many things an African-American preacher might say to the worlds
largest Protestant denomination, perceived by many as having at best a tenuous
track record in racial equality.
Fred Luter pondered that question after accepting the invitation
to preach the convention sermon at the 2001 Southern Baptist Convention last
week in New Orleans.
“I thought about what I should say and wondered if I should
try to fix whats wrong with the Southern Baptist Convention,” said
Luter, pastor at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in New Orleans.
But after prayer, Luter said he decided to do something that
would not offend anyone. “Im going to lift up Jesus. Nobody can get
mad about that.”
The chance to deliver the sermon was a great honor – but
there was a time when Luter did not receive praise for his ministry.
Luter said he remembers the days when he was the subject of
strong reproach from other African-American pastors in the city for his association
with a predominantly white denomination. “Uncle Tom” and “Puppet
on a String” were just a few of the names some called Luter behind his
back. He admitted the comments used to bother him, but now, he attributes them
to envy.
It is understandable Luters ministry could stir such
a feeling. At a time when many African-American churches are struggling to attract
men, the mens ministry at Franklin Avenue is growing, challenging men
to be godly husbands and fathers.
Luter leads it by example, showing devotion to his wife, Elizabeth,
and his children, Kimberly, 19, and Chip (Fred III), 16.
Changing lives is what is important, not issues like being
a black church in a predominantly white denomination, Luter said.
However, he said he does see his invitation to preach the convention
sermon as a tribute to African-Americans who preceded him in the Southern Baptist
Convention.
Luter said he hopes his sermon will open possibilities for
other minority ethnic Southern Baptists. “I want people to know that we
are a part of this convention and that we can be a part, not just in numbers
but fully participate in convention activities.”
Luter also said he hopes the historic sermon sends a signal
to the world – that the racial climate among Southern Baptists continues
to move away from its past.
