Oct Congregational Conversation Delayed

by Layne Smith on October 12, 2025

The Transition Team and Strategic Planning Deacons (SPD) met recently regarding the potential recommendation from the SPD to right-size the governing/operating structure of MPBC. The end result of their recommended changes will be to involve more non-deacons in leadership positions. The governing and ministry structure will end up being more congregational in nature. The Transition Team supports this movement toward deeper congregational involvement.

The Transition Team determined that we need to delay this conversation as more time is needed to address the leadership/governance framework. So, the TT has decided to delay the meeting in October that originally was scheduled. We will have the next congregational conversation following Sunday morning worship, November 16.

About the Author

Layne Smith

Rev. Dr. Layne Smith has dedicated his career to serving congregations in transition, providing pastoral leadership and guidance to churches across North Carolina, Virginia, Texas, Oklahoma, and South Carolina. Before stepping into intentional interim ministry in 2009, he was a Senior Pastor for 26 years in Arkansas and North Carolina. He holds a B.A. from Oklahoma Baptist University, did graduate work at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Baylor University, and earned his M.Div. and D.Min. at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Layne and his wife, Dianne, have been married for over 50 years. They met while students in seminary and have two daughters and four grandchildren. Their family enjoys traveling and exploring international destinations together, and Layne also enjoys playing golf. 

Previous Page