I would not say "not helpful" but you need to understand what they can not tell you and what potential information is present.

May I suggest that you check out my upcoming article "The Joy and Frustrations of Indiana Baptist Church Records" in the Fall 2002 issue of the HOOSIER GENEALOGIST. This article covers three Baptist doctrinal distinctives that genealogists need to understand, and what Baptist church records will not and might possibly tell you.

The fall issue is due out in the next few weeks. You will be able to procure a copy through the following site:
http://www.indianahistory.org/pub/periodicals.html#genealogi...

Though the focus is on Indiana Baptists, there are principles presented that will be of assistance to research in any state.

Please excuse the blatant advertisement, but this will be of the most help.