Alabama Baptists Extend Partnership with Alaska, Approve Budget
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HUNTSVILLE, AL – November 12, 2025 - Alabama Baptists have voted to continue their partnership with the Alaska Baptist Resource Network (ABRN) and approved a budget for the upcoming year during their annual meeting. The decision underscores a commitment to supporting gospel work in Alaska and reflects the strong relationship cultivated between the two Baptist conventions.
The ongoing collaboration focuses on assisting Alaskan churches with resources and personnel, enabling them to effectively reach their communities with the message of the gospel. Alabama baptists initially engaged with the ABRN recognizing a shared passion for evangelism and a need for support in a geographically challenging and culturally diverse state. This extension ensures continued momentum for collaborative ministry efforts.
Alaska Partnership Progress
Jae McKee, director of missions and church planting for the ABRN, highlighted the positive working relationship with Alabama Baptist staff, noting their heart for the gospel.
McKee, originally from Alabama, has served as a key liaison throughout the partnership. He recounted a recent trip with State Board of Missions (SBOM) staff where they interviewed 15 Alaskan pastors, hearing about their passion and their compulsion to share the gospel with every person in the state of Alaska.
He expressed gratitude for the support provided by Alabama Baptists.
Scotty Goldman, director of the SBOM office of global missions, emphasized the continued need for involvement, stating, There’s still a lot of work to be done.
He acknowledged that Wilson and McKee can’t resource the whole state of Alaska by themselves
and encouraged alabama Baptist churches to actively participate in ministry opportunities.
awards and Recognition
During the meeting, Dr. Patrick Daugherty, an oncologist and member of Woodmont Baptist Church in Florence, received the Volunteer of the Year award for his extensive missions work across all seven continents. Additionally, the Tommy Puckett Award for Excellence was presented to five individuals who successfully transitioned Alabama Baptist disaster relief to a new software program.
The recipients of the Tommy Puckett Award included Melinda Maddox of First Baptist Church Clanton, Mike Chandler of Hunter Street Baptist Church in Hoover, Tami Power of Willowbrook Baptist Church in Huntsville, and SBOM staff members Mickey Crawford and Scott Whittington.
| award | Recipient |
|---|---|
| Volunteer of the Year | Dr. Patrick Daugherty |
| Tommy Puckett Award | Melinda Maddox |
| Tommy Puckett Award | Mike Chandler |
| Tommy Puckett Award | Tami Power |
| Tommy puckett Award | Mickey Crawford |
| Tommy Puckett Award | Scott Whittington |
Did You Know?
Alaska has the highest percentage of residents identifying as religiously unaffiliated in the United States, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for ministry.1
Pro Tip:
Explore specific ministry opportunities in Alaska thru the SBOM’s global missions office or the ABRN website to find ways your church can get involved.
What aspects of the Alaska partnership resonate most with your church? How can Alabama baptists best support the ongoing work in Alaska?
Background on Alabama Baptist Missions
The State Board of Missions (SBOM) of the Alabama Baptist Convention has a long history of supporting missions efforts both domestically and internationally. The SBOM partners with various organizations and conventions to extend the reach of the gospel and provide resources to churches engaged in ministry.The partnership with the Alaska Baptist Resource Network represents a strategic focus on reaching a unique and underserved population. This commitment aligns with the SBOM’s broader mission to impact every person in Alabama and the world with the transforming love of Jesus.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Alaska Partnership
- what is the primary goal of the Alabama-Alaska Baptist partnership? The primary goal is to support Alaskan Baptist churches in reaching their communities with the gospel and providing resources for effective ministry.
- how can Alabama Baptist churches get involved in Alaska missions? Churches can participate through financial contributions, volunteer trips, and prayer support. Contact the SBOM’s global missions office for specific opportunities.
- What challenges do Alaskan Baptist churches face? alaskan churches frequently enough face challenges related to geographical isolation, cultural diversity, and a high percentage of religiously unaffiliated residents.
- What is the role of Jae McKee in the partnership? Jae McKee serves as the director of missions and church planting for the ABRN and acts as a key point of contact for Alabama Baptist churches.
- What is the Tommy Puckett Award for Excellence? This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief efforts.
please share this article with your church family and consider how you can contribute to the vital work being done in Alaska. Your support can make a lasting difference!
- https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2016/11/03/americas-changing-religious-landscape/
