Spring 2009

Like most of the country we have had a very cold, snowy winter. On Christmas Sunday we experienced a serious snowstorm with the temperature not reaching 0°, and wind chills of -40°, yet we saw over 200 visitors in our auditorium to hear the plain story of Christ's birth. I praise God for a hard-working congregation, and God blessing their efforts.

Two highlights we have each winter are our Father/Son and Mother/Daughter Banquets. It was a real blessing to me for us to have José Moreno, one of our graduates who pastors in Clio, Iowa, preach to our men and boys. He brought a good challenge and reminded me of the privilege we have to train men to go out around the world spreading the gospel. Mrs. Stan Roach from Achorage, Alaska spoke to the women at their banquet and was a blessing. It was good to have her husband preach on Sunday night. Both of these preachers have wonderful ministries.

We are planning for and looking forward to our annual Preaching Conference. I honestly believe that there is none better in the world for old-fashioned independent Baptists. Our preachers are fundamental and powerful. Our guests come from coast to coast and Texas to Canada. What grand fellowship we have encouraging one another. The special music is alive, but not compromising. Even the food is delicious. Why don't you plan to "come apart" at Fairhaven this spring? We need it.