January 14, 2003

JEFFERSON CITY - A reduction in force will result in the loss of 20 positions at the Missouri Baptist Convention, David Clippard, executive director announced Jan. 7.

Clippard made the announcement to the entire MBC staff in the Gold Room at convention headquarters.

"No one has grieved over this more than I have," Clippard told the approximately 90 people in attendance. "I've only been here since September, so I didn't create this, but if you want to take it out on someone, then take it out on me."

The reduction of staff comes after the MBC fell more than $2 million short - about 15 percent -- of its 2002 budget goal. Clippard subsequently announced that the convention finished 2002 in the black, despite a worsening state economy that has seen charitable giving drop due to massive layoffs in government and industry.

All 20 employees affected by the reduction have been told privately, in person by Clippard or one of the four new associate executive directors.

He said fair and appropriate severance packages and extended benefits to those impacted would be offered.

"All the reserves were spent and we had nothing to draw from and it appeared in November we would have a reduction in force and no severance help at all," Clippard told the staff. "But the Lord has been gracious to us. We cannot do as much as we would like, but we are able to give transition help."