LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) – Southern Baptist leaders are asking members to put aside their squabbles over political and social issues when they meet next week in Kentucky.

The two-day Southern Baptist Convention begins Tuesday in Louisville.

The nation’s largest Protestant denomination has faced stagnant membership numbers in recent years. But convention President Johnny Hunt is seeking to reverse that by energizing missionary efforts and streamlining the national structure.

Even with the emphasis on missions, the convention won’t escape politics altogether.

One resolution is asking the denomination to acknowledge the historical importance of President Barack Obama’s electoral victory despite the convention’s opposition to his policies.

—

The Southern Baptist Convention: www.sbc.net/

The Great Commission Resurgence document: www.greatcommissionresurgence.com/

AP-ES-06-19-09 0602EDT