Encouraging scholarship, strengthening faith identity, and interpreting contemporary issues in Baptist life.

Newman Scholar:
James Benson

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A Mini-Sabbatical at the Center
for Baptist Studies
"The Mercer Experience: A Blessing"

 by James Benson

Pastor of Arvon Baptist Church

 Arvonia, Virginia

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My time as a Newman Scholar on Mercer's campus was such a blessing for me in so many different ways. First, I was able to meet Buddy Shurden and Bruce Gourley. Buddy and Bruce were so encouraging for me, whether it was in relation to my project or when listening to me tell my personal story. Their affirmation and encouragement were great blessings. I also enjoyed spending time with them and their spouses in the evenings over dinner and getting to know them.

In addition, the great resource materials available at the magnificent Jack Tarver Library made researching my project not only enjoyable, but very informative as well. I was able to use materials from the early 19th century through 2005, and learned a great deal about Baptist life at various levels. I sincerely appreciate all the assistance the staff at the library gave me, especially Dr. Gardner in the Special Collections area. One of my regrets is not having spent more time with Dr. Gardner, as he is a wonderful resource in regards to Baptist history.

My research topic for the week was the role of women in ministry in Baptist life at the world and national levels, in Virginia Baptist life, and in the life of my local church and association (Arvon Baptist Church in the James River Baptist Association). The resources of the Tarver library, along with some provided by Buddy Shurden out of his own personal library, proved to be
invaluable.

The accommodations at the Lee Alumni House were incredible, and it was an honor for me to stay at such a wonderful, historical residence. Although it is located right on the edge of Mercer's campus, the house offered an awesome place of solitude for further study and reflection on what I was uncovering in my research.

Finally, I was so impressed with my first visit to the Mercer campus. To learn, while I was there, of its deep Baptist roots and continuing search for its Baptist identity was an added bonus I had not anticipated. As odd as it might sound to some, just taking in the Mercer experience was a blessing in itself.

I sincerely appreciate the hospitality shown by the faculty, staff, and students of Mercer University. The opportunity presented to me to research a topic I am very interested in, as well as the chance to recharge my physical, emotional, and spiritual batteries, is something for which I will forever be thankful.

I am honored to represent Arvon Baptist Church and Virginia Baptists as the tenth A.H. Newman Scholar, and the first from the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Center for Baptist Studies, Mercer University, 1400 Coleman Avenue, Macon, GA 31207      Phone (478) 301-5467