American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware

10/21/2026

This past Saturday, I had dinner with Rev. Dan and Carol Cass before we worshipped at Greenfield Baptist Church on Sunday morning. It was a joy catching up with these dear friends during Pastor Appreciation Month. Pastor Dan has served at Greenfield for many years, long before we presented shepherds’ staffs at installations and ordinations, so it was fun to express our gratitude and give Pastor Dan a staff. I am very grateful for these partners in ministry in Northwest ABCOPAD. - Mark

10/17/2026

The ABCOPAD Women’s Ministries Leadership Team met at Camp Krisland this weekend to plan for 2027 and evaluate the 2026 Thrive Retreat. I am so grateful for this team and for the opportunity to work with them as their Regional Liaison. Laughter and words of encouragement filled the air as this team not only accomplished a full agenda of business but also took time to care for one another. Words are inadequate to express my gratitude for this dynamic, mission-focused group that loves Jesus and loves sharing the gospel. - Mark

10/15/2026

This past Sunday, I joined Rev. CG Coats and the First Baptist Church of Norristown as 6 students were baptized and 10 people (including those baptized) joined the church. One of the students being baptized was Pastor CG and Liz’s oldest son, Owen. It was a wonderful celebration as each person publicly professed faith in Jesus and shared their testimony about choosing to follow Christ. Rev. Bob and Donna Coats were present for the grandson’s baptism. You could feel the Holy Spirit in the sanctuary throughout the service as people witnessed this awesome outpouring of God’s presence. - Mark

10/11/2026

Last Sunday, I attended Central Baptist Church of Williamsport as the congregation celebrated Rev. Eleanor Siegrist’s ministry. Pastor Eleanor and her husband, Chuck, have made the trip from Altoona to Williamsport for 15 years to serve the congregation. Pastor Eleanor wanted to mark the conclusion of this fruitful ministry with Communion. I had a chance to bring a greeting from the Region along with Regional Pastor Rob Rice and GPS Tim Schwartz. We are very thankful for Pastor Eleanor, who has served Central, our ACTS Educational Ministry, and our Region with faithfulness and distinction. - Mark

10/09/2026

One highlight of our Biennial Leadership Conference was honoring recent retirees, including our beloved 40-year ABCOPAD Treasurer, Caryl Casey. Caryl received a standing ovation for her many years of faithful service. We also recognized Pastor Eleanor Siegrist, our long-tenured Regional Board Secretary, and Kris Lutton, who served for many years as our AB Foundation Representative. Rev. Dr. Pat Hernandez, currently serving with the AB Foundation, hosted a reception for retired Clergy and spouses to help us celebrate those who have served so faithfully in our Region. I am grateful to God for all of these friends and partners in ministry. - Mark

10/07/2026

The ABCOPAD Biennial Leadership Conference had something for everyone. The Praise Team, led by Pastor Brian Cunningham, ushered in God’s presence during every session. It was obvious this team wasn’t just performing, but truly engaged in worship. Pastor Brian brought out his saxophone and led the group in a moment of musical meditation as he played, “It is well with my soul.” The Mission Luncheon highlighted local, national, and international ministries, while our panel discussion brought home the theme, “Jesus for the Generations,” with panelists describing generational ministry. We installed new officers, and the event closed with Communion and a team of personnel prayer. You could feel Jesus’ presence throughout the gathering. Thanks be to God. - Mark

10/07/2026

ABCOPAD held its Biennial Leadership Conference this past weekend. From all accounts, it was an overwhelming success. Pastor Karl Vaters delivered a home run, encouraging, challenging, and equipping Pastors and congregational leaders doing small-church ministry. The Praise Team did an outstanding job leading worship, and our new venue at the Penn Harris Conference Center made everyone feel at home, with delicious meals and lots of treats. Already, people are buzzing about the 2028 event, asking if we could bring Karl back and expressing a desire to return to Harrisburg. Thankful and grateful for our Regional Family showing up and participating in this event. Thank you all, and know how much our leadership team and staff love you. - Mark

10/07/2026

10/05/2026

The Pulpit Supply Course starts on October 19. Check out this short video to see who it's for and why you should consider registering.

10/02/2026

Did you know that successful completion of the 8-week Pulpit Supply Course enables participants to be listed on ABCOPAD's official Pulpit Supply Speaker List, utilized across the Region to help local churches find trained lay-speakers? If you've been experiencing a call to preach, this is an excellent crash-course in public speaking, scripture study, and sermon writing & delivery, complete with 2 required sermons and direct feedback. Cost is only $100. Register on ACTSMinistrySchool.com.