Is the Code of Ethics for American Baptist ministers no longer in force?
The first article in the Code of Ethics that an American Baptist minister signs states: I will hold in trust the traditions and practices of our American Baptist Churches; I will not accept a position in the American Baptist family unless I am in accord with those traditions and practices; nor will I use my influence to alienate my congregation/constituents or any part thereof from its relationship and support of the denomination. If my convictions change I will resign my position.” The Board of the former ABCPSW and the Board of Transformation Ministries (TM) has encouraged and persuaded many ministers who were bound by the Code of Ethics to break this vow in letter and spirit. The Code of Ethics is clearly in effect throughout the denomination. Ministers who move to another region will be expected to affirm and uphold the Code of Ethics, and if they are from the Southwest, their faithfulness to it will be examined. ABCOSH expects no less.
