The Southern Baptist Convention appears deeply divided over progressive proposals on race and gender.

But local Baptist leaders say what the convention does will not affect their conservative views.

Most say neither they nor their congregations will support critical race theory, race or gender shaming or other progressive ideas.

Critical race theory holds that white people are guilty of victimizing people of color.

Local Baptists churches are autonomous of what the convention does.

A Southern Baptist Convention segment argues they should stay out of politics.

The other side says the SBC has drifted to the left.

To retain and attract new members, they say, they must return to conservative roots and stay engaged in conservative politics.

Local church leaders say their congregations’ racial and gender makeup reflect the community population.

Many congregations are conservative and Republican but they say a few members are Democrats.

A social issue they feel strongly about is abortion and support for the pro-life movement.

For many years, evangelicals have been a powerful, conservative bloc. As their political power grew, Southern Baptist memberships, like those of many religions, have been shrinking.

At the SBC meeting this weekend in Nashville, TN, a successor to President JD. Greear, whose term is ending, will be made.

The outgoing president sides with progressives.

“Do we want to be a Gospel people or a Southern, Republican culture people?” Greear said. “We ought not make it hard for Democrats to come to Jesus.”