There are some things in life that become so familiar we hardly notice them anymore — pages turning during a Sunday sermon, the rhythm of gathering with God’s people each week, or the quiet arrival of another issue of the Baptist Trumpet in a mailbox or inbox.
Because those things happen consistently, it can be easy to overlook how much they help keep us connected.
As gifts came in for Special Emphasis 2026, I found myself encouraged not simply because we reached our goal, but because of what those gifts represented — churches, families, individuals, and Sunday School classes investing in the mission we share.
When we began this year’s emphasis, we introduced the theme “From Connection to Commitment.” Over the weeks that followed, we reflected on how connection often begins quietly — through stories, awareness, prayer, encouragement, and faithful participation. Over time, those small moments begin to shape something larger.
That is exactly what we witnessed through this year’s Special Emphasis. Through the generosity of churches, individuals, and ministry groups across our association, God allowed us to exceed our $15,000 goal.
I am deeply grateful — not simply because a financial need was met, but because this response reflects something deeper: a shared belief that staying connected to the mission matters. Some gifts were large. Some were small. All were meaningful. And together, they became enough.
For more than 85 years, the Baptist Trumpet has strengthened that connection by telling the stories of what God is doing across our churches and ministries. Week after week, those stories inform, inspire, and involve us in the mission we share. Much of that work happens quietly — one issue, one article, one testimony, one prayer at a time — but quiet things can still have lasting impact.
As we look ahead, I’m thankful for what this year’s emphasis represents moving forward. Encouraging digital outreach opportunities are already beginning to open, and we look forward to sharing more in the future. Those developments are possible because churches and individuals invested in helping this ministry remain strong for the next generation.
Thank you to every church, individual, class, and family that participated. Thank you for praying, sharing, and giving.
Together, your faithful support is helping ensure that our churches remain connected to the mission we share — informed, inspired, and involved in what God is doing. Every gift helps further that mission and provides a stable financial foundation as we keep moving forward. Additional special offerings received through Aug. 31 will continue to count toward this year’s Special Emphasis.
Special Emphasis Update
Since our last update, the following gifts helped move us beyond our Special Emphasis goal:
2026 Special Emphasis • Goal — $15,000
Previously Reported $10,951
Eastside, Lonoke $260
Pleasant Valley, Greenbrier $2,000
Sand Springs, Damascus $165
Harold & Shelia Garvin $100
Lance & Martha Madden $300
Miriam Denise Rogers $228
Beacon, Blytheville $50
Bethel #1, Rison (WMA) $200
Cross Roads, Warren $335
First, Newark $406
Jim & Kathey Tapley $50
First, Gurdon $752
Landmark, England $175
Macedonia, Jonesboro $300
Mike & Mary Harmon $200
Total to Date $16,472
