NORTHBOROUGH, Mass. (BP) – The Baptist Convention of New England has changed its name to the Baptist Churches of New England, per a vote by its board on March 17.
Founded in 1983, the BCNE’s new name reflects an updated approach to ministry, said its executive director, Terry Dorsett.
“While seemingly a small adjustment, this new name brings clarity to what the BCNE truly is and always hopes to be – an organization of churches in New England that exist to partner, equip and encourage churches in this region,” he noted.
The board also welcomed seven churches as new members of the Baptist Churches of New England. Spread among Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Vermont, the group includes Spanish and Brazilian congregations, said a BCNE statement.
Another vote allocated a $1 million gift by the Berkland Baptist Church network – which includes the historic Antioch Baptist Church in Cambridge – equally toward the areas of church revitalization, church planting and collegiate ministry. Funds from that gift will help transition part-time staff in those ministries toward full-time status as well as go toward future projects.