wfn.org | ABCUSA: Abbott to Conclude Service

["SCHRAMM, Richard" <Richard.Schramm@abc-usa.org>]

American Baptist News Service (10/9/02)--The Rev. Dr. Z. Allen Abbott,
director of Men's Ministries for National Ministries, American Baptist
Churches USA, will conclude his ministry with the home mission organization
on Oct. 11.  

Abbott joined National Ministries' staff in 1998.  From 1994 to 1998 he
served as director of ABMen with Educational Ministries.

According to the Rev. Dr. David Laubach, associate executive director for
Congregational and Evangelistic Ministries, "National Ministries remains
committed to maintaining relationships with regional men's groups, many of
which are engaged in effective program and mission."  Laubach noted in
particular the significance of the ABMen Disaster Relief Ministry and that
the involvement of the ABMen's Council would be critical to the future of
Men's Ministries.  

National Ministries currently is reviewing mission priorities and
effectiveness related to Men's Ministries and other program ministries.
Early next year National Ministries, in collaboration with the ABMen's
Council, will fund a study to evaluate how such work can best be done within
current budget constraints.

During Abbott's tenure Men's Ministries began an emergency disaster relief
ministry involving nine region-based trailers staffed by hundreds of
volunteers.  These trailers have provided relief for thousands of victims
whose lives have been devastated by disasters.	Most recently ABMen Disaster
Relief was involved in cleanup and recovery efforts in New York City
following the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks as well as flood disasters in
Mid-America and West Virginia.

National Ministries maintains certifications for the trailer ministry
through its Office of National Disaster Response and supports volunteer
relief work through Volunteers In Mission.  Information is available at
www.nationalministries.org or by calling 1-800-ABC-3USA/x2034 or 2449.

02ABN147

American Baptist News Service: Office of Communication, American Baptist
Churches USA, P.O. Box 851, Valley Forge, PA 19482-0851; (610)768-2077; fax:
(610)768-2320; www.abc-usa.org; richard.schramm@abc-usa.org