ERLC Names Interim President Amid Immigration Policy Shift
The Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) has appointed Gary Hollingsworth as interim president. Hollingsworth, former executive director of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, begins the role on October 1. His appointment follows the July resignation of Brent Leatherwood, who led the ERLC for four years. Miles Mullin, who served as acting president, will return to his role as executive vice president and chief of staff.
ERLC Ends Longstanding Partnership With Evangelical Immigration Table
During a recent trustees meeting, the ERLC announced it is ending its collaboration with the Evangelical Immigration Table (EIT). The decision marks a significant change in the commission’s approach to immigration advocacy. Mullin explained that the partnership created ongoing controversy, affecting not only the ERLC and EIT but also Southern Baptist churches. He emphasized the need for an independent path forward to better serve their congregations.
New Task Force to Reexamine Immigration Through a Biblical Lens
In response to a motion from the SBC Annual Meeting in June, the ERLC will form a new immigration reform task force. The group will function independently from the ERLC’s broader advocacy and will examine a biblical stance on immigration. Mullin reaffirmed the importance of immigration as a priority for the commission, stating that future efforts will align with Scripture, the Baptist Faith & Message, and resolutions from the Convention’s annual meetings.
Supporters Praise Return to Autonomy
Supporters of the move applaud the ERLC’s return to independent action. They argue this shift allows the commission to represent Southern Baptist values without outside influence. Many believe the decision will help reduce internal conflicts and reinforce biblical authority in public policy discussions.
Critics Warn Against Isolation and Political Pressure
Detractors, however, voice concerns that leaving the EIT could signal a retreat from cooperative solutions on immigration. Some warn that the ERLC may become more susceptible to political pressure without the support of a coalition. Others argue the move could limit the ERLC’s ability to build consensus around compassionate immigration reform.
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ERLC Ends Partnership with Evangelical Immigration Table, Names New Interim President
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