ABC 33/40 - Birmingham News, Weather, SportsSouthern Baptist leaders ok optional alternative name: Great Commission Baptists

Southern Baptists are the largest protestant denomination in the country.

But, some don't like the name.  It's not a new issue.

The denomination first considered changing its name in 1903.   Leaders have seriously proposed it at least 13 times since.  Now, the Southern Baptist Convention hopes to compromise by adding the description Great Commission Baptists.

A panel says the name gives an official option to those who might not embrace the "Southern" name and identity.  A complete legal name change was ruled out because it would have been too costly and difficult.