From one President, to another 

The first part of the Baptists Together session saw the induction of new President Rupert Lazar, whose presidential theme “Anointed to do Good” is from Acts 10:38. There were also words from his predecessor Jenni Entrican

General Secretary Lynn Green explained that the President is someone who offers spiritual wisdom and helps us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.

They are ‘a symbol of unity’, and she said she was delighted to be welcoming Rupert, minister of East Barnet Baptist Church, as President.

‘Rupert is truly a man of God and has already been a blessing to us in many ways.'

Rupert, who was prayed for by outgoing President Jenni Entrican and Desmond Gordon, expanded on his theme during a lunchtime seminar. 

The prayers led to ‘When I survey the wondrous cross’ while Rupert signed the President’s bible.




Prior to Rupert’s induction there was an opportunity to express appreciation for his predecessor Jenni.

With her inspiring theme Daring Greatly, Lynn said that Jenni had served our Union ‘brilliantly’, thanking her for her spirituality and insight, love and care, letters and blog, your teaching, encouragement and prayer.

Jenni shared a little about her presidential term, saying, ‘It’s surprising how fast one year disappears – especially when you’re enjoying yourself!

‘I believe that Daring Greatly has been about encouraging people to be bold, courageous, reflective, to imagine with God new possibilities. It’s about seeing Daring Greatly already in action, in creative and sometimes costly ways.

‘I believe in Daring Greatly still – being upfront about where we are with God. May God help us have eyes to see where we are with him.’

She added, ‘I pray God’s rich blessing on Rupert. I’ve often prayed these words: God starts everything. Thank you my Baptist family for the privilege of being your President this year.’

Jenni will be continuing to serve as the Vice President of the European Baptist Federation.