The Baptist Northern Association is a self-governing fellowship of autonomous Baptist churches in southern Africa sharing a common faith and co-operating in ministry. Basically, we’re churches that partner together to get things done.
David Somerset, Evans Odhiambo, Diego Rizzo, and myself went through to Rosettenville Baptist Church on Monday evening, 7 September 2026, to attend the BNA QGM.
Proceedings started with a meal. David and I sat with James Wetton from Kingsmead Christian Fellowship, as well Zach Swart and Richard Raphael from Grace Baptist Church Kempton Park. Also at the table was André Harley, the new Registrar at the Baptist Theological College.
After supper Michael Lear led worship, and then the BNA coordinator, Zak Mbethe, preached why autonomous baptist churches partner. He made the point that we Show Christ, Serve Christ, and Share Christ from John 13, Galatians 1, and Philippians 1.
The business side of things included voting in a new chair, and vice chair, Jonathan Killian from Grace Baptist Church and Jacque Louw from Pretoria North Baptist Church. Our finances are in a sound place. Money was put aside to equip churches with regulation medical kits, and a fund was created to support a seminary student in 2027.
Proposals to the Baptist Union of Southern Africa‘s assembly were presented. One relates to ongoing constitutional changes. Another to the development of a retirement complex at the campsite. And then a key proposal to strengthen the wording of the 1924 Statement of Belief on Scripture.
The meeting was well run. And the accepted proposals indicate advancement for the cause of the gospel. There is a general positive spirit amongst baptists at the moment. May the Lord use us as His instruments.
