WASHINGTON (BP)–The Baptist World Alliance is getting ready to move from its present building in McLean, Va., in suburban Washington to Falls Church, Va., five miles away.
To mark the upcoming change, the BWA held its March 5-8 executive committee sessions at Columbia Baptist Church opposite the building it soon plans to occupy.
In 1999, the BWA General Council in its Dresden, Germany, meeting, approved the purchase of a new home for the BWA.
“This new building will provide what the present one lacks,” said BWA General Secretary Denton Lotz. “This includes enough space for existing and expanding ministries; a Baptist world library and prayer room; a media center; and a greatly improved conferencing facility to host Baptists from around the world.”
The BWA already has sold its current building and the actual move is planned for April.
BWA General Secretary Lotz reminded during the BWA executive committee’s Window on the World Banquet that $1 million has already been raised in generous and sacrificial gifts both large and small and another $1 million is needed. He called upon Baptist conventions, churches and individuals to complete the task.
Established in 1905 in London, England, the BWA moved to Washington in 1943 to escape the looming Second World War and the fear of German bombs. Since 1985, the BWA has occupied the McLean offices to which it moved from 16th Street in downtown Washington when the offices became too cramped.
“God has given us larger facilities,” said Korean pastor and BWA President Billy Kim, “but buildings do not bring the Holy Spirit. Unless we work better, the building does not count. God has brought Baptists together to win the world for Jesus Christ.”
Quoting from Philippians 3:14, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (NIV),” Kim reminded the Baptist leaders, who came from more than 15 countries, of the unfinished task of preaching the gospel.
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