The French adage “Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose,” or, the more things change, the more they stay the same rings as true today as it ever has. Unless there is a major voting glitch, we have a new president and there are things about the way we live and do our work that will change. But there remain the actions of sinful men and women in this world. There remain broken relationships and bitter people reacting to their past. There remain plenty of religions attempting to supplant the solution that God provides. There remains but one savior and he is the one and only, the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Gospel of our Lord Jesus never changes but the methods of communicating the message of God’s work are in constant flux. One change is the method for sharing the great work of cooperative missions with Louisiana Baptists.

Beginning in January ’09, LBCLive is changing from its current printed quarterly magazine format to a monthly Web magazine. For those who are not yet online or do not have high-speed Internet, a printed version will become a special section of the bi-weekly Baptist Message.

Louisiana Baptists are blessed to have a state newspaper with a heart of service and cooperation. Both publications remain intact and both have their important roles. One shares with you the news about Louisiana Baptist churches and associations and editorials draw attention to the importance of being the people of God in a pluralistic culture. The other features the mission stories and resource information to encourage your journey of faith.

Why would we make this change when LBCLive has been so lauded for its excellence? For several years now we knew this change was coming due to the explosive growth of Web publications and resources. Today people want information they can use in the format that fits for their busy lifestyles. This change is to further enhance excellent communications not weaken the message of God at work through his people called Louisiana Baptists. For those of you who prefer video information over text information, this change provides the opportunity for not only printed stories but video stories about God at work through his people. There will also be opportunity for feedback and comment from you.

Some of our churches would like to download pictures or video clips off the Website for use in their worship services or for their personal edification. Every monthly LBCLive issue will have something you can use to help you connect with what God is doing in and through his people.

How can you prepare for this change? Make sure we have your email address. With your email address we will alert you that each exciting issue of LBCLive is alive on the Web for you to view. Some pilot churches have already sent us all their deacons and Sunday School teachers in anticipation of the excellent resources.

You and your church could be the feature for an upcoming issue of LBCLive. Send us your story and/or the video about God working through your church on mission with God. Who knows, your story could be the one God uses to transform the heart of another.