The South Carolina Baptist Convention’s Executive Board, meeting Tuesday, Oct. 14, at White Oak Conference Center near Winnsboro, unanimously approved a $32.15 million budget for 2004.

The proposed 2004 budget of $32.15 million did not increase from the 2003 budget.  The Budget, Finance and Audit committee brought the budget recommendation to the board.  For 2004 Cooperative Program gifts will be allocated 40% to the Southern Baptist Convention and 60% for the South Carolina Baptist Convention.  The Executive Board will present the proposed 2004 budget at the state convention annual meeting Nov. 11-12.

The board approved a Properties committee recommendation to purchase one acre of land along Highway 321 near White Oak, to secure a place for a directional sign for the conference center. 

In other business, the Planning and Ministries committee recommended to the board a three-year missions partnership with the International Mission Board region of South Asia, to begin in 2005.  Board members approved the partnership, which will include the countries of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Bangladesh.  The partnership proposal will be recommended to messengers at the annual meeting in November.