For centuries, there has been a debate about whether leaders are born or made. Some people believe leaders are born because they have inherited an innate ability to effectively manage an organization. Others believe leaders are made because they have to apply their prior and current experiences to each new leadership position. What is clear is that, effective leaders are results-oriented who understand the essential components for running an organization. Considering the importance of leadership, the critical questions to be asked are: How can we revitalize the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.? Why is Reverend R.B Holmes Jr. campaigning to become president and leader of the National Baptist Convention? What is Reverend Holmes’ “12 Point Vision Action Plan” for revitalizing the convention?

To answer these questions, The Holmes Education Post (THEP) is releasing soon its new book, “How to revitalize the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.” The National Baptist Convention is the largest predominantly African-American Christian denomination in the United States. During its historic legacy, the convention has had 17 presidents beginning with Reverend W.H. McAlpine from 1880 – 1882 to Reverend Julius R. Scruggs from 2010 – 2014. On September 1 – 5, 2014, the election for the 18th president of the convention will be held during the 134th annual session in New Orleans, La. Each church, district association or state convention (entity) may be eligible to cast up to five votes to elect the new president.

THEP’s new book is written to serve as a model to support the needs of the churches of the National Baptist Convention. In this book, Reverend Dr. R.B. Holmes Jr. discusses his “12 Point Vision Action Plan” to become the next president of the convention. Holmes’ strong family background, extensive community service activities and church experiences as pastor for 37 years, past president of the National Baptist Congress of Christian Education for 10 years and past president of Congress of Christian Education for the Florida General Baptist Convention for six years have led him to become president of the National Baptist Convention. In one of Holmes’ action plan statements, Holmes says that, “We will target several urban and rural cities with a strategic plan that will create job training programs, faith-based schools, retirement homes, homes for first-time homeowners, grocery stores, mental health clinics/hospitals and financial institutions.”

Holmes has “talked the talk and walked the walk,” as echoed by pastors in this book. He has developed successfully all these ministries in his action plan through Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Tallahassee, Fla. or with other churches, community and organizational affiliations. In fact, Holmes strongly and humbly believes that he has the vision, strength, gifts and experience to build and re-energize the legacy of the National Baptist Convention. Holmes notes that, “We are living in some critical and challenging times, and it is important that the National Baptist Convention becomes a stronger voice and have a compelling vision that will save, strengthen and sustain Black Baptist churches; and specifically, provide programs, services and ministries that will meet the needs of these churches in the 21st century.”

Given the National Baptist Convention’s members and others a different perspective of Holmes, there is an inspiring section in the book that reflects on his childhood life. Who is this God-fearing man? What makes him so concerned about all humankind? What is the backbone to his spiritual growth and development? Did he know God at an early age? Specifically, what is said about Holmes in the eyes of his daughter and sibling? They tell all about Holmes like never before. It is a best kept secret that really defines why Holmes is a genuine Christian, pastor, husband, father, brother, son and leader; and why he is worthy of being the next president of the National Baptist Convention.

Reverend Holmes has consistently proven his effectiveness in leading, facilitating, guiding and managing a plethora of Christian and other organizations with measurable results. Given the opportunity to apply his wealth of knowledge, skills and understanding to the National Baptist Convention, he will bring prosperity and hope to people throughout the world. Holmes will provide relevant programs, services and ministries to revitalize the National Baptist Convention, USA. and, subsequently, improve the lives of humankind. If you are eligible to vote at the convention as a church, district association or state convention, let’s give him a chance!

To order the book, “How to revitalize the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.,” visit (next month) Authorhouse.com; Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble or call AuthorHouse Book Order Hotline at 1-888-280-7715. All proceeds will benefit Historically Black Colleges and Universities affiliated with the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc.

 Dr. Ronald Holmes is the author of six books, “Education Questions to be Answered,” “Current Issues and Answers in Education,”  “How to Eradicate Hazing,” “Professional Career Paths” “Your Answers to Education Questions” and “How to revitalize the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.” He is publisher of “The Holmes Education Post,” an education focused Internet newspaper.  Holmes is a former teacher, school administrator and district superintendent. He can be reached at [email protected].

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