By Jeff Herring, Executive Editor
As I reflect on the growth and transition taking place at the Baptist Trumpet, I am compelled to begin with a heartfelt expression of gratitude to Associate Editor Allan Eakin.
Allan joined the Trumpet staff in October 2020, just before I assumed the role of executive editor in November. We stepped into a new chapter of this ministry together, and from day one, Allan was my right-hand man.
During his tenure, Allan played a critical role in moving the Trumpet forward as we accomplished the following:
• Transitioned all publication content online
• Helped launch a customer portal for individuals and churches
• Rolled out a brand-new website
• Helped expand the weekly paper to 12 full pages
Behind every one of those accomplishments is Allan’s faithful service and dedication. When we created the role of associate editor, combining the duties of assistant editor and bookkeeper, we knew it would require a person with a unique skillset. Allan embraced it with humility and a heart to serve, and he exceeded every expectation.
As Allan transitions to full-time pastoral ministry at Celebration Baptist Church in Haskell, his last day on staff will be June 25. However, he has graciously agreed to remain available for consultation as we complete the transition to our new subscription system.
I will miss working with him every week, but I am thankful to count Allan not just as a partner in ministry, but a friend. I am confident he will remain a valued supporter of the Trumpet in the days ahead.
Allan shared, “The nearly five years that I served on staff at the Trumpet have taught me three things. First, the BMA of Arkansas has some really solid churches that are faithful to their Lord and to the associated work. Although our tribe may be smaller in number, it has a truly impactful presence worldwide. Second, tragically, many BMA pastors and churches have a diminished view of associationalism. We truly are better when we work together. Three, the Trumpet is essential to the health of our associated work. It keeps both pastors and church members informed about all things BMA. It is the go-to place for information. Thank you for allowing me to serve.”
The position of associate editor as it exists today was created in partnership with Editor Emeritus Diane Spriggs during her transition into retirement. As I prepared to take on the editor role, we recognized the need for a full-time position that combined editorial support and financial administration — something that was both strategic and highly relational. In short, we needed someone who could:
• Manage bookkeeping and subscription systems
• Assist with layout and editing
• Handle database, billing and web tasks
• Understand the mission and heart of the BMA
At the time, I told Diane, “There’s only one person I can think of who checks all these boxes.” That person was my twin brother, John Herring. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine how God would align the circumstances for him to eventually serve in this role.
Over the past several months, John has trained alongside Allan and me to ensure a seamless handoff. Beginning June 23, he will step into the role full-time, just as I will be out of the country for a VSM trip to the Philippines.
John brings a lifetime of BMA ministry experience. He has served as a youth pastor, worship leader, associate pastor and most recently, as a church planter and lead pastor of Refuge Church in Nixa, Mo. (See article on page 1.)
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Bible from Central Baptist College and a Master of Religion from BMA Theological Seminary. He’s also worked in retail marketing, financial planning and nonprofit leadership.
His wide-ranging experience is exactly what this role requires. John’s responsibilities will include subscription and circulation management and financial oversight, along with editorial and layout support each week. While he and his family plan to remain in Nixa, John will commute to the Little Rock office at least once a month for in-person responsibilities.
We’ve already had a few learning moments — including a classic rookie mistake when he accidentally listed someone in the Deaths column who turned out to be very much alive. (To be fair, I made the exact same mistake when I started. We fixed it — then laughed a lot.)
John and his wife, Alisha (Arkansas Jr. Miss GMA 1989 and Miss GMA 1996, who held officer roles in Arkansas and National GMA between 1993 and 1996) have been married since March 17, 2001. Alisha serves as a speech pathologist in the Nixa School District. Their son, Dalton, recently graduated from Nixa High School and will attend Central Baptist College this fall. He plans to major in music education and was selected to join the CBC Singers. Their daughter, Macey, will be a freshman this fall and just made the Nixa High School dance team. Though Dalton’s move to college might bring them to Arkansas more often, they do not plan to relocate at this time.
When discussing the new role, John shared, “I’m excited to use how God has shaped me to serve the churches of the BMA of Arkansas through the ministry of the Baptist Trumpet. I look forward to helping keep His people informed and inspired.”
Serving with John isn’t just a staffing change — it’s a gift. As twins, we’ve always been close. We’ve shared a lifetime of friendship, ministry and a calling to serve the Lord wherever He leads. Now we get to work side by side in a ministry we both believe in.
I’m deeply thankful for Allan’s legacy, excited for what John brings to this role and confident in the future of the Baptist Trumpet as we continue to serve as your connection to the mission.
We covet your prayers, support and continued encouragement as we press forward together.
