Curtis D. Sharp
Executive Officer for Denominational and Public Relations
214-720-2127
Curt.Sharp@GuideStone.org

First GuideStone P&C Program participant pleased with choice

March 16, 2009

DALLAS – First Baptist Church, Duncanville, Texas, became the first church to participate in the new GuideStone Property and Casualty Program which was officially launched last fall. Designed specifically for churches and ministries, the program is offered through GuideStone Agency Services, a controlled affiliate of GuideStone Financial Resources.

Rupert Robbins, associate pastor of First Baptist in Duncanville, explained that it was GuideStone Financial Resources’ commitment to churches that made him willing to consider GuideStone Agency Services’ P&C Program. He said he wasn’t pleased with the service he was getting from his previous agency, so when he received the call from GuideStone, he was willing to explore the possibility of a change. Pastor Keith Brister readily agreed.

“Because of their years of faithful, consistent service, pastors trust the GuideStone name. So when Rupert said we were going with GuideStone, I had total confidence,” said Brister.

Robbins reports he is pleased with his decision. “GuideStone offers more than just a product. They’re ministry minded. They have industry professionals who know what churches need and who understand the product. So the product fits the church far better than a product you find off the shelf. GuideStone offers a bundled package that more accurately describes where the risks and needs are in a church. It’s not one size fits all.”

“It’s obvious they have insight into what a church needs. You aren’t paying for things you don’t need, and you’re getting coverage where you need it more. GuideStone knows where we’re coming from, so their product is more customized for our environment.”

Robbins admitted that the church saved money with GuideStone, but he quickly asserted that money wasn’t the reason he made the change. “We chose it because it was a better fit, and we trust GuideStone to provide us the best possible product. The cost savings was just a blessing.”

When asked about their risk management strategy, Robbins answered quickly, “Prayer. We’re as vulnerable, if not more so, than any other entity. We trust in the Lord to protect us even in our vulnerability.”

But Brister and Robbins agree it’s nice to know they have an advocate who understands the church. “The foundation is trust. GuideStone knows us. They know what we do and they know why we do it. And bottom line, we know their goal is to free us up so we can give attention to our ministry.”

GuideStone Agency Services is licensed to write coverage in 19 states and has applied to write coverage in 17 additional states.

To get a quote for your church or ministry, call GuideStone Agency Services at 1-877-455-GSPC (1-877-455-4772). Or visit the Property and Casualty Web site to learn more about the program.

Word Version - First GuideStone P&C Program participant pleased with choice