TABCOM HALFNOTES
October 15, 2026
| | | | OCTOBER IS PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH | | ...and TABCOM wants to help you celebrate our awesome pastors! | | |
Have you picked up your pastor appreciation yard sign yet? You can get yours at the TABCOM office, or from any TABCOM staff member. Feel free to message or email us and we will connect you with someone who is going to be in your area.
Pastors are our Heroes! Thank you, Pastors!
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October 17 Old Colony Fall Mission Day at FBC Dighton
October 18 Red Oak Church West Springfield 150 th Anniversary
October 24 Central Association Gathering FBC Fitchburg
| | 250 Years of Faithfulness! First Baptist Church of Medfield Celebrates a Historic Milestone | | |
What a milestone! On Sunday, October 4, First Baptist Church of Medfield celebrated an incredible 250 years of faith, fellowship, and ministry!
The congregation stepped back in time for this historic occasion, with colonial costumes, music dating back to before 1776, and a festive picnic on the church lawn. A fife and drum added to the colonial atmosphere, while children enjoyed period games, bringing history to life for all generations.
Pastor Rev. Hunter Guthrie delivered a thoughtful message reflecting on God's faithfulness throughout the church's remarkable history—a reminder that while times may change, God's steadfast love remains the same.
Congratulations to Pastor Guthrie and the entire First Baptist Church of Medfield family on 250 extraordinary years! We celebrate your rich heritage and look forward with you to all that God has in store for the generations yet to come.
| | Two Congregations, One New Beginning: Welcome, Malden Community Church! | | |
Sunday, October 4, marked a joyful and historic occasion as First Baptist Church of Malden and Maplewood Baptist Church officially came together to form Malden Community Church!
The special Launch Service celebrated both the rich histories of these congregations and the exciting future they will now share. A fascinating historical presentation honored the journeys that brought these two church families to this moment of unity and new beginnings.
Following worship, the congregation gathered for the unveiling of their new church sign—a visible symbol of their shared identity and mission. In another meaningful moment, members joined together in reading their newly created church covenant, affirming their commitment to walk together in faith, fellowship, and service.
Under the leadership of Pastor Gary McClenthen, Malden Community Church begins this new season with a shared vision and a renewed sense of purpose.
Congratulations to Pastor McClenthen and the entire Malden Community Church family! May God richly bless this new beginning as two congregations become one, united in Christ and ready to serve their community together.
| | A Double Celebration! Concord Baptist Church Marks 110 Years and Honors 38 Years of Faithful Leadership | | |
What a glorious day of celebration, gratitude, and thanksgiving!
On September 27, members, friends, and distinguished guests gathered for a special banquet celebrating two remarkable milestones at Concord Baptist Church: the congregation's 110th Anniversary and 38 years of faithful ministry by Revs. Drs. Conley and Moreen Hughes!
The celebration brought together a wonderful gathering of church family, friends, and ministry leaders to honor the congregation's rich history and the extraordinary legacy of leadership and service demonstrated by the dynamic Hughs duo.
The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Haggray, Executive Director of American Baptist Home Mission Societies, adding to an already meaningful occasion.
As Concord Baptist Church celebrates 110 years of ministry, we also give thanks for the dedication, wisdom, and countless lives touched through the ministry of Revs. Drs. Conley and Moreen Hughes.
And as they enter this next chapter, perhaps retirement isn't quite the right word. We prefer recharging! After all, God's calling doesn't end with a change in season.
Congratulations to Concord Baptist Church on 110 years, and heartfelt appreciation to Revs. Drs. Conley and Moreen Hughes for 38 years of faithful service! May God continue to guide and bless you in the exciting days ahead.
| | GROTONWOOD CELEBRATION HIGHLIGHTS | | Seventy years of memories. Seventy years of ministry. Seventy years of lives transformed by God's love! | | |
What an incredible day of celebration, gratitude, and joyful fellowship!
On Monday, October 12, 2026, TABCOM family, friends, former campers, and supporters gathered for a very special milestone—the 70th anniversary of Grotonwood Camp & Conference Center!
From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Grotonwood was filled with laughter, excitement, and the warmth of community as guests enjoyed tours, rides, historical exhibits, and opportunities to reminisce about treasured memories. Old friendships were rekindled, new connections were made, and stories of God's faithfulness through the generations were shared.
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And what would a celebration be without wonderful food and music? A special thank-you goes to Daniel Kaleo and his amazing staff, who prepared a delicious catered lunch featuring baked chicken or salmon, accompanied by risotto and asparagus. The food was outstanding, and the fellowship around the tables made it even better!
Adding to the festive atmosphere was the talented Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Hicks, who delighted guests with music spanning the decades. We extend a special thank-you to him for sharing his musical gifts and helping make the day even more memorable!
For video highlights, please click the button below:
| | GOOD NEWS FROM OUR CAMPS & CHURCHES | | A Baptist Brought Jesus to Burma, His Spiritual Descendants bought His Birthplace | | |
An Afternoon of Classical and Sacred Church Music
Please join us for An Afternoon of Classical and Sacred Church Music with Cellist, Kett Lee and Dr. Geoff Hicks.
They will perform some classical pieces together and also several traditional religious and sacred hymns. Geoff is attempting to raise money for a missionary outreach program in Honduras.
The tickets are $15.00 and can be purchased at the door.
| | Celebrating God's Call: Rev. Shiloh Bradshaw Ordained to Ministry | | |
What a joy it is to celebrate those who answer God's call to ministry!
This fall has been a season of wonderful celebrations across TABCOM, and among those special moments was the ordination of Rev. Shiloh Bradshaw.
TABCOM was represented by Rev. Ron Bouthillette, Associate Executive Minister, who attended the Sunday ordination service and was especially moved by the meaningful personal touches woven throughout the celebration.
Ordination is a sacred milestone—not simply a recognition of preparation and calling, but an affirmation of God's work in the life of one who has answered the invitation to serve.
We rejoice with Rev. Bradshaw and give thanks for the churches, mentors, family members, and communities of faith that encourage and nurture those called into ministry.
Congratulations, Rev. Bradshaw! May God continue to strengthen, inspire, and guide you as you live out your calling and serve Christ and His Church.
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After another busy and fruitful summer comes to a close at Oceanwood, we pick right back up for our colorful fall season!
Once again, Oceanwood plays host to our long-time partners, Outdoor Classroom. For 3 months we will welcome new and familiar faces to explore our little paradise on the southern coast of Maine.
On the weekends we will host a number of faith-based retreats from around New England! Most recently, we welcomed the Vietnamese Christian Church of Worcester to our retreat.
| | NOVEMBER IS REGION OFFERING MONTH | | |
This November, set aside time in worship, business meetings, or coffee conversations for celebrating and supporting the region. We'll be sending a series of bulletin/newsletter inserts that highlight a priority for our ministry to and with our churches, a feature story, and an opportunity to pray--and give--for that priority.
We will also distribute a highlight video for you to share with and show to your community. We are "Rooted in Christ, Rising in Hope" through the generosity of congregations and individuals who believe in our shared calling.
Thank you for your gifts and offerings!
| | CHURCHES SHARING RESOURCES & COSTS | | |
(from Jennifer Sanborn, Director of Development)
Ouch! I just received my annual notification of the cost for my auto and home insurance policies. Despite not making a claim on either in years, both went up significantly--22% for home! My agent will scan options, remind me that everything has risen in cost, and I'll figure out how to pay the premium, but I'm mindful that our churches are facing similar increases....and church giving is impacted when personal/household costs are rising.
TABCOM is exploring how we can share resources, information, and costs, particularly related to our buildings. We are gathering information about churches’ experiences with building maintenance, renovations, and physical plant improvements. Our goal is to help congregations learn from one another, identify trusted service providers, and perhaps invest in joint solutions.
Please have a member of your staff or volunteer leadership complete this brief questionnaire by October 23rd to help us build a network of church building expertise. We'll provide an update in the November TABCOM Notes or HalfNotes about next steps, including a possible workshop on funding church renovations and preservations as well as potential group-purchasing options.
https://forms.gle/q9rV9MiKRCw39SJP6
| | If you know your A-B-C’s then we could use your H-E-L-P on Saturday, October 22nd beginning at 10:00 am. We are going to undertake the organization of our archives room. Getting all the boxes of records in alphabetically order by church. And the same with association records and partner organization records. It means moving boxes from one side of the archives to the other and putting the boxes of records in alphabetical order. Dress warmly and casually (the archives can be a bit chilly) and join us as we undertake this very important step in our inventory process. Any questions? Please feel free to contact me at badger@tabcom.org. | | REMINDER ABOUT SUPPLY PASTORS | | |
TABCOM keeps a list of pastors available to supply your pulpit when your pastor is on vacation or ill. The newest copy is available on the TABCOM website.
If you will be needing a supply pastor any Sunday between now and the end of the year it is suggested that you book them now. Do not wait until the last minute if possible.
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TABCOM LEADERSHIP DAY 2027:
Reimagining the Church
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Saturday, January 30, 2027 | 9:30 AM
What does it mean to reimagine the church for today's world while remaining firmly rooted in Christ?
TABCOM invites pastors, church leaders, and congregational members to join us for Leadership Day 2027, an inspiring gathering centered on the theme Reimagining the Church, grounded in Colossians 2:6–7.
We are excited to welcome Rev. Andy Bauer of Fireside Church in Amesbury, MA, as our featured speaker. Founded in 2020, Fireside Church is an American Baptist congregation offering a fresh expression of what it means to be the church in today's changing world. Rev. Bauer will bring valuable insights and encouragement as we explore new possibilities for ministry, community, and congregational life.
As churches navigate changing times, this gathering will challenge us to think creatively, embrace new opportunities, and discover how we can remain faithful to our calling while reaching new generations.
Join us on Saturday, January 30, 2027, at 9:30 AM, at First Baptist Church, 8 Lafayette Street, Wakefield, MA 01880.
Come ready to be inspired, encouraged, and challenged as we reimagine what God can do through our churches!
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SAVE THE DATE
August 23–26, 2027
Oceanwood Camp & Conference Center | Ocean Park, Maine
If you missed Pastor Camp this year, start making plans now. And if you were with us this year…you already know!
Come ready to rest.
Come ready to laugh.
Come ready to reconnect.
Come ready to breathe.
Come ready to encounter God in a different way.
Pastor Camp 2027—we can't wait to do it again!
| | TELL US WHAT YOUR CHURCH IS DOING! | | |
We would love to hear about the wonderful programs and initiatives happening in our TABCOM family of churches!
Sharing your stories not only inspires others but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among us. Whether it's a new outreach program, a successful event, or an ongoing ministry making a difference, your experiences can encourage and guide other congregations.
Please take a moment to share what your church is doing, so we can celebrate together and learn from each other's efforts. Your contributions will help us build a stronger, more united community in Christ.
Please send your information to robyn.mars@tabcom.org.
Don't forget to send photos!
| | GOOD NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS | | American Baptist Women’s Ministries of MA Spcial Meeting | | |
American Baptist Women’s Ministries of MA Spcial Meeting
On Saturday, November 7, the AB Women’s Ministries of Massachusetts will hold a Special Business Meeting.
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: First Baptist Church of Framingham, 1013 Worcester Rd., Framingham, MA.
This special meeting will focus on discerning the future direction of women’s ministry in Massachusetts.
All women are welcome to attend and participate in this important conversation.
| | The Center for Career Development in Ministry (CCDM) | | CYC 2026 Included Many From TABCOM | | |
The Christian Youth Conference (CYC) at Ocean Park welcomed 33 students this summer from churches across the Northeast and, for the first time, three students from the Midwest. Over two weeks, students experienced worship, learning, friendship, service, and plenty of classic CYC fun under this year’s theme, “Rise & Shine,” based on Isaiah 60:1.
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Students gathered daily for classes, chapel, devotions, camp meetings, and other programs, with highlights including Communion, Commitment Night, the Banquet, and the annual Fort Williams trip. They also enjoyed new and returning classes, new faculty, and such memorable activities as slip-and-slide kickball.
Rev. Steven Canfield of First Baptist Church of Pittsfield served as chaplain, while Melinda Parry of First Baptist Church of Wakefield serves as Dean of Conference.
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The Adoniram Judson Award was presented to Timothy Feng of First Baptist Church of Woburn, and the Ann Hasseltine Award went to MacKenzie Reynolds of Tabernacle United Methodist Church in New York.
Four of this year’s eight graduates came from TABCOM churches: Timothy Feng of First Baptist Church of Woburn, Anjyll Garvin of Messiah Baptist Church in Brockton, Sofia Munroe of First Baptist Church of Wakefield, and Chylé Rivera of First Baptist Church in Framingham.
TABCOM churches continued to play a significant role in CYC. Thirteen of the 33 students represented eight TABCOM churches, while six of the eight faculty members and seven cabin staff members also came from TABCOM congregations. Their participation reflects the ongoing partnership between CYC and TABCOM churches as we work together to encourage and equip the next generation of Christ’s disciples.
To join us next year, check out cycop.org.
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INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES (IM)
DISASTER RELIEF
| | WORLD MISSION OFFERING (WMO) | | |
Through the World Mission Offering, you and your church can help to rebuild, restore and renew through global mission.
Use the free, downloadable World Mission Offering resources below to help your church engage with the work that God is doing around the world through International Ministries global servants and international partners.
| | IM is providing $10,000 in One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) emergency disaster relief funds to assist IM partners in Nepal with food and supplies in the aftermath of the historic flooding. | | IM is providing $15,000 in One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) emergency disaster relief funds to assist IM partners in Venezuela with food and supplies in the aftermath of recent earthquakes. | | |
Clergy compensation sits at a unique and often confusing intersection of tax law, ministry calling, and faithful stewardship.
Ordained ministers generally hold dual status under IRS rules: they are employees for federal income tax purposes but self-employed for Social Security and Medicare under the Self-Employment Contributions Act (SECA). Add the special housing allowance available under Section 107 of the tax code, and even the most well-intentioned churches and pastors can find themselves navigating unexpected complexity. When compensation is structured incompletely or incorrectly, the consequences affect not just the pastor but also the pastor’s family, the church administrator’s daily work, and the church’s ability to care for those who serve them.
Read the full article here.
| | | | LATEST NEWS FROM AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES USA | | | |
Clergy Appreciation Month
And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:15 NIV
Dear American Baptist Clergy,
During Clergy Appreciation Month, I offer my heartfelt gratitude for the sacred work you do and the countless ways you faithfully serve God’s people. Thank you for the love and care you share with our churches, regions, seminaries, colleges, and throughout our denomination.
There are moments when your service brings great joy—when you witness lives transformed, communities strengthened, and people discovering renewed hope. There are also seasons of uncertainty and weariness that may not always be visible to those you serve. Yet, your dedication to share the gospel and to serve is steadfast.
You preach the Word, offer a listening ear, visit the sick, comfort those who grieve, celebrate with those who rejoice, advocate for those in need, and create spaces where people feel the love and grace of God. Through your leadership, you help congregations and communities discern where God is calling them and remind us that the Church is called to be a living witness of Christ in the world. Whether you serve in a congregation, region, chaplaincy, spiritual caregivers, world campus ministry, nonprofit, or another ministry setting, your faithfulness matters. Your leadership is inspiring. Your ministry builds community. You are an ambassador for Christ.
As you pour into others, I pray that you will also make room for God to pour into you. May you experience time for rest, renewal, joy, and holy encouragement. May you remember that you do not carry the work of ministry alone. We are part of the body of Christ, our American Baptist Family, connected by our faith, our calling, and our shared commitment to participate in God’s mission.
Thank you for answering God’s call. Thank you for your generous spirit, courage, compassion, perseverance, and faithful witness. May God strengthen you for the journey, renew your spirit, and remind you each day that the work you offer in faith has eternal significance
With deep gratitude and prayer,
Gina
Rev. Dr. Gina C. Jacobs-Strain
General Secretary
American Baptist Churches USA
| | OCTOBER WELLNESS WEBINAR SERIES | | This October, ABCUSA Office of the General Secretary is excited to invite you to a series of two separate webinars on Tuesday evenings at 8:00 PM ET, focusing on the important topics, Finding Purpose in Our Life Transitions and Filling the Gap: Children's Mental Health Resources for the Church. See more details below and visit abc-usa.org/events to register and learn more information. | | | 2026 EVERYDAY CONVERSATIONS: God's Grace | | Please join us at 3:00 pm (ET) on Thursday, December 3, 2026, as we look at the ways God’s unmerited favor is experienced and expressed in the life of believers, the church, and in ministry. | | | TABCOM’s REV. DR. DOUGLAS SCALISE NAMED PLENARY PREACHER FOR 2027 BIENNIAL MISSION SUMMIT | | |
We are delighted to share that TABCOM’s own Rev. Dr. Douglas Scalise, Lead Pastor of Brewster Baptist Church, has been selected as one of four plenary preachers for the 2027 ABCUSA Biennial Mission Summit, taking place June 10–13, 2027, in Rochester, New York. The gathering will center on the theme “Courageous Unity: Rooted in Freedom, Growing in Faith, Forward in Hope.”
Rev. Dr. Scalise, who has served Brewster Baptist Church since 1995, will preach during Sunday evening worship on June 13. In addition to his local church ministry, he serves on the ABCUSA Board of General Ministries and is a board member of The American Baptist Churches of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Baptist Charitable Society.
What a joy to see one of our own representing TABCOM and sharing the Good News with the wider American Baptist family! Congratulations, Doug! We will be cheering you on and praying for you as you prepare for this wonderful opportunity.
Read more here.
| | OUR ASSOCIATIONS AND CHURCHES | | We are seeking an Association Resource Coordinator for the Pioneer Valley Associaton. Please contact Ron Bouthilette (bouthillette@tabcom.org) if you are interested. | | |
Adoniram Judson Baptist Association
Rev. Dr. David Kilpatrick, Coordinator
C- (617) 799-0705, E-Mail: dklpat@umich.edu | Rev. Dr. Kilpatrick is also the Pastor of West Medford Baptist Church – West Medford
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First Baptist Wakefield is looking for a Music Director
First Baptist Wakefield is looking for a Music Director. If anyone is interested contact Doug Dry at 203-430-5988.
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Judson Youth Saturday Worship and Pizza (SWAP)
Saturdays
October 17
Novemver 21
December 19
| | | Judson Women's Toy Harvest | | |
It's time for our popular Judson Women's Toy Harvest, and this will be held at First Baptist Church Danvers on Saturday, Nov. 7th.
We will begin at 9 a.m. with registration, breakfast, a short business session, and a "catch-up" time.
Our program will be presented by Mar Imsong from Multicultural Ministries and the ACE Center for New Americans. Mar is a wonderful speaker, and he is looking forward to being with us. The toys and gift cards that we bring will go to his programs and to the children of inmates at the Middlesex House of Correction.
Please advertise this event in your church, and invite all of the women in your church. Bring friends also! We look forward to see you on Nov. 7th!
Judson Women's Toy Harvest
Saturday, Nov. 7th beginning at 9 a.m.
First Baptist Church, 1 Water Street, Danvers, MA
Blessings,
Marilyn Glover FBC Malden
Barbara Drauschke FBC Medford
Sabrina Ozit West Medford Baptist Church
Pat Fish FBC Melrose
| | Holy-ween at St. John's Baptist Church in Woburn | | |
Berkshire Baptist Association
Rev. David Anderson, Moderator/Coordinator
C- (413) 652-4179, E-mail: d_anderson@hotmail.com
Rev. Anderson is also the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church – North Adams
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Boston Southwest Association
Rev. Dr. Moreen Hughes, Coordinator
C- (978) 430-5355, E-mail: mphug@msn.com
Rev. Dr. Hughes is also the Associate Pastor and Minister to Women and Families of Concord Baptist Church in Milton
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The Boston Southwest Association meeting will be held on Saturday, November 14th, at Concord Baptist Church. Save the date!
Information Sessions will be held on Tuesday, October 20th and Tuesday, October 27th at 7 pm via Zoom (link was emailed) to discuss the open Executive Board seats and the nomination process.
Stay tuned as more information will be forthcoming.
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Central Baptist Association
Rev. David Cote, Coordinator
| | Sturbridge Federated Church Seeks Music Director | | |
Are you passionate about music and worship? Do you enjoy directing a choir, playing piano, and helping create meaningful worship experiences that blend cherished traditions with fresh, contemporary expressions of faith? If so, we would love to speak with you.
Our Music Director serves as an important part of the worship ministry, working closely with the Pastor, Choir, and accompanist to plan and lead music for Sunday morning worship services and special seasonal celebrations throughout the church year.
Read full description here
| | FREE MEDICAL CLINIC - OCTOBER 17 | | |
Old Colony Baptist Association
Rev. Jamie Spriggs, Coordinator
508-409-7672, E-Mail: jspriggs@spamset.com
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Pioneer Valley Baptist Association
OPEN POSITION - Association Resource Coordinator
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Samuel Stillman Baptist Association
Rev. Patrick McCorkle, Coordinator
C (781-643-3024), E-Mail: revpatrick05@outlook.com
| | FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF BEDFORD IS SEEKING A PT PASTOR | | |
The First Baptist Church of Bedford, MA is prayerfully seeking a part-time, solo Pastor (20 hours/week) to give primary oversight to discipleship and ministry operations.
We are a local church in Bedford, celebrating our 70th anniversary this year. Our mission is, “Becoming and producing disciples of Christ.”
CLICK HERE FOR FULL JOB DESCRIPTION
| | HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE SAINTS BORN IN THE MONTH OF OCTOBER | | OCTOBER HAPPINESS CALENDAR | | | | |
