ECON 2019 Renews Focus on Reaching ‘Next Generation’ by Brian Blackwell Message Staff Writer

January 10, 2019 Volume 134 l Issue No. 1 TO REPORT A NEWS ITEM OR TO BUY AN AD, CALL 877.234.3832

www.baptistmessage.com ECON 2019 renews focus on reaching ‘next generation’ By Brian Blackwell Message Staff Writer

COVINGTON – Ed Newton, pastor of the Community Bible Church, San Antonio, Texas, will emphasize reaching the lost of the next generation during Student Night, Jan. 28, at the 2019 Louisiana Baptist Evan- gelism Conference. The pre-session will begin at 5:30 p.m. in “The Rock” youth building of First Baptist, Covington, and feature a pizza party, games and music by an area youth choir. The main Brian Blackwell photo session will follow Pastor Fred Luter has seen Franklin Avenue Baptist Church grow from 65 members when he began serving as pastor in 1986 to nearly immediately after- 3,100 in attendance for its Sunday morning worship service at its new location in New Orleans. The new $35 million facility includes ward with music a 3,500-seat worship center, fellowship hall, offices, kitchen, Sunday school rooms and youth and children’s areas. Luter is excited presented by the about the new possbilities of ministry that exist since the church relocated in December. First Covington choir and a message by Newton. Keith Manuel, evangelism and church growth ‘TALK OF THE TOWN’ director for Louisiana Bap- Ed Newton will be the speaker tists, said Student for ECON 2019 Student Night. New facilities, ministry area for Franklin Avenue Night will build on the challenge By Brian Blackwell Orleans East area is excited ship center, a fellowship hall, “to share Christ with others” presented in Message Staff Writer about us being here and we are offices, a kitchen, conference November during the 2018 Youth Evange- excited as well. It is one of the rooms, Sunday school rooms lism Celebration in Alexandria. NEW ORLEANS – Frank- most populated areas of the and youth and children’s areas. “We are investing in a nationwide youth lin Avenue Baptist Church city, and we are excited about The property also has 1,200 speaker for churches to come and be part of in New Orleans celebrated a doing all we can to revitalize parking spaces, a dramatic a large evangelistic event that is absolutely new chapter in ministry Dec. the community. The excite- increase from the 25 spots free,” Manuel said. “While we are targeting 9 when congregants gathered ment level was so high that we available at its former location, students, this night is for everyone as we for the first worship service in decided to have several weeks 2515 Franklin Avenue. Averag- seek a great harvest of the lost.” their new home, six miles from of special dedication services ing nearly 3,100 for morning Newton spoke at Student Night as part where they had ministered for in December to celebrate all services, the congregation of ECON 2017, held at Temple Baptist 21 years. that God has done through this formerly had to lease a nearby Church, Ruston, when dozens of students “It’s the talk of the town,” move.” parking lot to accommodate came forward at the invitation. Pastor Fred Luter told the The new $35 million facil- Baptist Message. “The New ity includes a 3,500-seat wor- See FRANKLIN AVENUE, page 4 See ECON, page 9 Cancer battle brings victory in Vidalia By Brian Blackwell During the course of the conversa- Message Staff Writer tion, Pecanty placed his trust in Christ. Afterward he asked to be baptized along- VIDALIA – Alton Pecanty was in a side his wife, Betty, at the First Baptist hospital room battling cancer when he Church, Vidalia, as a public statement of called his neighbor, Pastor Wes Faulk, to his faith. discuss his eternal future. See VICTORY, page 2 2 Louisiana News “I wanted to do this for a long time, and when my Victory from page one husband accepted Christ I knew this was the perfect Betty had committed to he had not trusted Jesus time for the two of us to live for Christ years before, before,” Faulk recalled. be baptized,” she said. “I but had not been obedient “Right there on life sup- am so thankful he made in being baptized. port, he prayed a sinner’s that decision to accept On Nov. 25, Faulk prayer and promised to get Christ and now we can beamed with joy after baptized when he returned spend eternity together in he baptized Alton, 78, to town. He made good Heaven. I wouldn’t trade and Betty, 74, calling the on his promise and was it for the world and would moment one of the most excited to be accompanied encourage anyone to get special in his 14 years of by his wife, who accepted saved today, because it’s serving as a pastor. Christ years ago but had not too late.” “In the midst of a failed to follow through Alton and Betty Pe- recent medical crisis with baptism herself.” canty are among 36 people from a hospital room in Betty said the baptism baptized since Faulk Houston, Mr. Alton, or was the most memorable became pastor at First ‘chicken man’ as we call moment since they were him, shared with me how married 56 years ago. See VICTORY, page 12

Brian Blackwell photo Pastor Wes Faulk baptizes his neighbor, Alton Pecanty, at the First Bap- tist Church, Vidalia, November 25. He also baptized Pecanty’s wife, Betty. Faulk said the baptisms reiterate the importance of forming a relationship with a neighbor or friend and consistently sharing Christ with them – a mission his congregation has embraced since he became pastor of First Baptist Vidalia in 2016. Insurance for Churches Since 1916

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January 10, 2019  www.baptistmessage.com  Louisiana Baptist Message Louisiana News 3

January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 4 Louisiana News Franklin Avenue from page one worshippers’ cars on Florida Boulevard Baptist Sundays. Church, Baton Rouge, “ at fi rst Sunday and First Baptist Church, at our new location Houston – until repairs our members came and were completed on hugged me to thank Franklin Avenue Baptist’s me for the parking,” facilities in April 2008. Luter laughed. “People In the aftermath of are really excited about Katrina, Luter led a reju- fi nally not having to get venation of the congrega- to church early to fi nd a tion at its former home, spot to park.” growing to nearly 5,900 Luter began serving at members with an average Franklin Avenue Baptist of 4,760 in Sunday ser- Church in September vices by the time he was 1986 when the congrega- elected president of the tion consisted of only 65 Southern Baptist Conven- members, mostly women, tion in 2012. He was the who were faithful at- fi rst African-American to tenders. hold that post. Just before Hurricane When land became Katrina made landfall in available in East New 2005, the church had be- Orleans, the congrega- come the largest South- tion opted to build a new ern Baptist congregation home there. Brian Blackwell photo in Louisiana, with more e church has started than 8,300 members and its outreach in the new Pastor Fred Luter stands in Franklin Avenue Baptist Church’s new 3,500-seat,126,000-square-foot worship cen- averaging 5,855 in weekly mission fi eld by holding ter. The recently completed $35 million facility includes a fellowship hall, o ces, a kitchen, conference rooms, worship attendance. backyard Bible clubs in Sunday school rooms, plus youth and children’s areas. e church had pur- an apartment complex. chased 90 acres of land Luter said next in the pastor. I had not been be their pastor. I did not faithful to God and his near the former Six Flags plan is to expand into the one before and I was just imagine the growth we Word, He will be faithful to build larger facilities surrounding neighbor- excited to have a congre- would experience. But I to you. to accommodate the hood, knocking on every gation that wanted me to have learned if you are “To God be the glory.” growth, but Katrina door to introduce the derailed those plans and congregation to neigh- scattered members across bors and build rapport in the country. the community. Many came together “My prayer is God to form “remote” congre- would use us to reach gations, meeting on other more lost and un- church campuses – First churched people,” he said. Baptist Church, New “Back when I fi rst started Orleans, Istrouma Baptist at Franklin Avenue I had Church, Baton Rouge, no clue about how to

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By Brian Blackwell building we had been in for New Antioch Baptist was Message Staff Writer 20 years but we prayed the the final confirmation from Lord would open the door to God they were to make the MONROE – Greater New move,” said Pastor John Rus- move from southern part Antioch Baptist Church sell. “My members had faith of Monroe to the northeast accepted God’s call to take in the leadership and vision area of the city near the a leap of faith in late June of the pastor. But most of all, campus of the University of and move from their long- we trusted God. Louisiana-Monroe. time home to another area “It’s been a blessing to On June 24, the few re- of Monroe, and the blessings have acquired this property maining members of College have been supernal. in the way we have and to Place Baptist shed tears of Since relocating, the continue the ministry,” joy with congregants from Lord has blessed the obedi- he continued. “The field is Greater New Antioch Bap- ence of the African-Amer- so big in this area. It’s just tist, each remembering the ican church re-plant with awesome to know we have past but also looking to the a 20 percent increase in a chance to play a part in future of renewed ministry attendance, including 15 new seeing a great harvest in our to this vital community. members by baptism since community.” “It was very emotional moving. during that time for the Brian Blackwell photo The success of the relo- NEW BEGINNINGS members of College Place,” Pastor John Russell has seen his predominantly African-American con- cated congregation might Russell said. “We thought Russell was installed as gregation, increase in attendance and baptisms since relocating Greater have been foreseen from the New Antioch Baptist Church from another area of Monroe in June. huge welcome the congre- pastor January 7 at a time See (RE)START, page 6 gation received at the new when he believed God was location, when more than calling his church to find a 750 individuals from the new location. Two weeks community attended the later, he learned College initial service. Place Baptist Church was The June 24 service was closing its doors after 74 a combination of the launch years of ministry, but was of Greater New Antioch and seeking another church the dissolution of College to continue meeting in its Place Baptist (a predomi- building. nately Anglo congregation), Initially, he met with which was transferring its College Place Baptist Pas- property to the incoming tor Stan Wyatt and James group. Jenkins, Louisiana Baptist Now running an average church planting director, of 150 in morning worship, Russell said. Then lay lead- Greater New Antioch mem- ers from both congrega- bers truly understand the tions came together and all importance of them taking involved felt the Holy Spirit the step of faith to move. was leading the two church- “We all had the emo- es to move ahead. A unani- tional attachment to the old mous vote by the Greater

January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 6 Louisiana News

(RE)START from page 5 honoring them was impor- Campbell. For many years, tant because they had spent Janet attended services at so many years in this com- the former location, but her munity and the university. husband, Mark, opted to re- at evening I was in the main at home. During a wor- back getting things lined up ship service in July at its new and when I walked into the location, Mark felt led to sanctuary I was like, ‘Wow!’ restore his fellowship with I had a moment where it hit Christ and he joined Greater me that this was really hap- New Antioch Baptist. pening.” “When I saw Mark com- Since their fi rst worship ing down the aisle, it was a service at the new location, shock to me,” Campbell said. the church has hosted 110 “To see him there brought children for Vacation Bible tears of joy because I had School, held a block party, prayed for so long that he coordinated a Trunk or would come to church with Treat in October for 150 who me. Now, we’re sitting to- attended and distributed gether on Sundays and pray- clothing to the less fortu- ing together at home. And nate. we have a common mission Submitted photo “ ere are a lot of needy to reach our surrounding Members of Greater New Antioch Baptist Church worship at their new location in Monroe. Since moving, the people in this community community for Jesus.” congregation has embraced its neighborhood by hosting a Vacation Bible School, block party, Trunk or Treat and we want to provide for Ronald Hunter, a mem- and food distribution. physical and spiritual needs ber of the church for 22 alike,” Russell said. years, believes the Greater who attends with his wife, “But I believe even with get his Word out from our New Antioch Baptist is JoAnne. “We have a heart the growth our church has church into the neighbor- NEW LIFE positioned to reap a great for those around us and go just begun to see the kind hoods so He will be glorifi ed harvest in its community. into stores to invite people of growth God will bless us and the Holy Ghost will put e relocation of Greater “We are seeing people to come join us for the mar- with,” he continued. “God a fi re into all of us for God’s New Antioch Baptist was come nearly every Sunday velous things God is doing put us there for a number purpose. We can’t wait to an answer to prayer in more from this neighborhood and here at Greater New Antioch of reasons, but that is one witness the multitudes of ways than one for Janet other areas,” said Hunter, Baptist. of the biggest reasons is to lives that will be changed.”

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January 10, 2019  www.baptistmessage.com  Louisiana Baptist Message Louisiana College 7 McGee completes noteworthy career at LC By Norm Miller institutional advancement. my children went to school students to hundreds of Louisiana College News “In one sense it seems here. It’s been a great time. donors,” said Rick Brewer, like 35 years have passed, Louisiana College has been Louisiana College presi- PINEVILLE – During and in another it seems my life, and I will cherish dent. “He’s done a great the 35 years he invested his just like yesterday,” said the memories very much,” job. He’s one of the most life on the Hill in Pinev- McGee, whose last o cial he said. easy-going people I’ve ever ille, Byron McGee became day was Dec. 31. “I’ve made McGee shared these worked with. e past inextricably linked with some great friends and sentiments Nov. 15, during three years of my service Louisiana College. worked with great col- the annual dinner of the at Louisiana College have A 1979 alumnus, Mc- leagues. e people work- Board of Visitors. been e ective, embold- Gee worked in the school’s ing here now are doing a “Byron went from admissions o ce for more great job under Dr. Brew- recruiting thousands of See MCGEE, page 14 than three decades and er’s leadership.” then in alumni relations “ e relationships I before concluding his have made over the years LOUISIANA CHURCH INSURANCE tenure by serving three mean the most to me. I Byron McGee years as vice president for met my wife Cay here. All “Three generations of Galloway’s serving LC thankful for growing donor base Louisiana Churches.” By Norm Miller said. “Words fall short in Rick Brewer and his lead- Louisiana College News expressing how grateful ership team.” we are for the open-hand- ough such fi nancial PINEVILLE (LCNews) ed generosity of Edgar and consideration of LC “is — Membership with the Flo Cason.” important and appreciated, Call us Board of Visitors is grow- “We’ve heard about I am also equally gratifi ed ing, individual donations for your church the good things happen- that increasing numbers insurance needs are on the rise in volume ing at Louisiana College,” of our stakeholders and and amount, and in gener- Flo Cason said. “And when al, Louisiana College’s do- we met with Rick and See DONOR, page 14 www.louisianachurchinsurance.com l 800.256.0700 nor base is on the upswing. Cathy, Edgar and I were “As the turnaround at convinced that LC is in the Louisiana College con- very best of hands.” tinues since 2015, alumni, Edgar Cason told donors, and friends are LCNews: “Our consider- getting on board -- and ation for Louisiana Col- some back on board -- lege is two-fold: We fully with the new direction on endorse the college’s vision the Hill in Pineville,” said for ‘Preparing Graduates LC President Rick Brewer. and Transforming Lives’ as “We appreciate the return we wholeheartedly support of so many prayer partners the leadership of President and fi nancial supporters.” e college recently received a substantial gift from the Cason Foun- dation, and within two weeks, the Foundation doubled the gift, Brewer

January 10, 2019  www.baptistmessage.com  Louisiana Baptist Message 8 Louisiana News

January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message ECON 2019 9 ECON from page one By the time the service Churches can log onto ended 34 spiritual deci- louisiananbaptists.org/ sions had been recorded: livestream and follow 10 individuals repented instructions from there for for salvation, 13 repented access. Last year, numer- to restore fellowship with ous churches hosted rallies Christ, 9 others made via livestream. other commitments and “ECON is an equipping 2 more declared a call to time not just for pastors vocational ministry. but for everyone,” Manuel Newton, who also will said. “We move it around be the main speaker at the to a different site each 2019 YEC in Alexandria, year so as many Louisiana has served as pastor of the Baptists as possible have 27,000-member, multi-site a chance to get top notch Community Bible Church training so they can reach since January 2016. their neighbors, co-work- No stranger to student ers, family and friends evangelism, Newton has with the Gospel.” served as a youth pastor, Other events faculty member at Student Student Night will Message file photo Leadership University in be among several focuses Orlando, Fla., and execu- at ECON on reaching Youth and student ministers gather at the front of the worship center in Temple Baptist Church in Ruston follow- tive director of the LIFT the next generation. The ing a time of decision, Jan. 23 2017. The student night session, which was preceded by a pizza party and special music, took place during the first day of the 2017 Evangelism Conference. At the conclusion of the decision time, TOUR, an extension of conference Jan. 28-29 will 34 spiritual decisions were recorded: 10 individuals repented for salvation, 13 repented to restore fellowship Student Leadership Uni- feature messages by father- with Christ, 9 others made other commitments and 2 more declared a call to vocational ministry. versity in partnership with sons David and Eric Han- LifeWay Students. kins and Fred and Chip turned-Christ follower David Phelps, an award- include: the state Senior For those unable to Luter; Argile Smith, senior who authored the best- winning Gospel artist from Adult Luncheon featuring attend Student Night, the pastor of Parkway Baptist selling book “The Case for Nashville, Tennessee, and, Phelps in concert; break- event will be livestreamed Church, Biloxi, Mississippi; Christ.” The praise and combined choirs. out sessions; and, various beginning at 7 p.m. and Lee Strobel, an atheist- worship lineup includes Other events at ECON fellowships.

January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 10 Classifieds Message

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January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message Louisiana News 11 ‘Loving the people’ is key to Louisiana Notables EDITOR’S NOTE: Do you have a Revival, Greenacres Baptist Church, Bastrop. Christ. Please send all résumés to openpo- Homecoming, a new pastor, a community REVIVAL [email protected]. Pastor: First Melville’s revitalization outreach or a concert? The Baptist Message David Rice. would love to share your church news with n First Baptist Church, Robeline: Revival, n Calvary Baptist Church, Shreveport: By Kirbi Cochran and have created a “good the rest of the state. It is very easy to do, just January 20-23, Sunday 10:30 a.m. and 6 2019 Night of Praise, January 11, 6 p.m. Message Staff Writer fellowship” that draws send in your information (who, what, where p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. Evan- Featuring Price Harris Ministries with Ca- others. and when) to [email protected] or gelist: Sam Moore. Special Music: WeR- lep Lewis, Summer Grove Baptist Choir, MELVILLE – For more Dutton also focused on call 318.449.4345. To get your event in the Called. Pastor: Brian Ray. The Needhams, The Allen Family, Bo than a decade, the First growing each member’s paper, please submit your information three n First Baptist Church, Haynesville: Reviv- Shed, Monk Trio, Larry Alton Trio. Pas- Baptist Church in Melville relationship with Christ, weeks prior to the event. al, January 27-30, Sunday, 10:45 a.m. & 6 tor: John Lary. had declined in numbers, keeping his messages p.m; Monday-Wednesday, 6 p.m. Evangelist: n Baptist Association of Greater Baptist dwindling to just nine simple with a clear life ap- ON THE MOVE The Lisembys. Bring your friends, family and Rouge, Baton Rouge: Disaster relief members as recently as plication. the lost for a week of uplifting music, and meeting for all blue hat and/or church 2015 and at risk of clos- “My heart’s desire is n Randall Gill has been called as pastor encouraging preaching of salvation. Pastor: DR coordinators, January 15, 7:00-8:30 ing its doors for good. But to see all their progress,” of New Bethlehem Baptist Church, Denham Jeff Tinsley. p.m. at the BAGBR Office, which is located at in just three years, the Dutton shared. “They have Springs. 10560 Airline Highway, Baton Rouge 70816. congregation has experi- come to a place where if n Chris Camp is the new pastor at Big Cane LAGNIAPPE RSVP [email protected] enced revitalization with you mention a need for Baptist Church, or contact Randy Osborn at 225.296.3943 more than 30 worshipers prayer, they are ready to n Lonnie Wascom has been called as the n Daniel Hall is available to fill the pulpit or 225.614.8707 (cell). Director of Missions: regularly attending Sunday pray right then – even in interim pastor of Walker Baptist Church, as either an interim or a full-time pastor Tommy Middleton. services. the middle of a service.” Walker. of a Southern Baptist Church, preferably in n Airline Baptist Church, Bossier City: Loui- Pastor Nathaniel Dut- Dutton credited a se- n Larry Baldridge is the new pastor at Life Union or Lincoln Parish. He has served in the siana Baptist Singing Men in concert, ton told the Baptist Mes- ries of revivals throughout Point Church, Cottonport. ministry for the past 40 years. You may con- January 18, 6:30 p.m. Pastor: Terry Young. sage he sensed a spiritual the association for helping n Jack Varnado has been called as the tact him by calling 318.278.9546 or email n Alto Baptist Church, Alto: Bring a malaise among the mem- his church as well as other interim pastor of Red Oak Baptist Church, him at [email protected]. Friend Day, January 20, 10:30 a.m. Broth- bers during his first Sun- congregations in the area Livingston. n Brookwood Baptist Church, Shreveport: ers in Christ will be in concert. A crock day in the pulpit in De- to renew spiritually. n Brian Prucey is retiring as pastor of Elm Seeking to fill the full-time position of pot luck lunch will follow the morning wor- cember 2015. Revival services were Grove Baptist Church, Bossier City. Discipleship Pastor. The Discipleship ship service. Music Minister: Jay Ellerman. “They were in a deep held at a different church n Shelby (wife Summer) Thomas is the Pastor will work in cooperation with the Pastor: Alan Miller. funk,” said Dutton, “They sixteen nights in a row and new youth pastor at Bethany Baptist Church, ministry staff of Brookwood to develop a n Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, New Or- were playing church: Come Dutton was involved in the Bethany. clear path to discipleship by overseeing all leans: Disaster relief ministry training, Sunday morning -- come planning and led worship n James Snyder moves from youth pas- environments designated to encourage and January 25-26, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. For more in- to Sunday school, come in each evening as well. tor to interim pastor at Elm Grove Baptist equip God’s people towards becoming: bib- formation or to register go to https://louisi- and listen to the service -- “We’ve got this thing Church, Bossier City. lically literate, spirit led, gospel centered, anabaptists.org/event/2019-disaster-relief- and go home. backward,” Dutton ob- n Courtney Rainey resigned as pastor at and culturally engaged followers of Jesus training-new-orleans/ Pastor: Fred Luter. “That was their church served. “Most people think life,” he said. a revival is when you win (Copy and post this friendly reminder) Dutton said the key to over a lot of people to his revitalization approach the Lord and get them Our FREE 24/7 Online Video Course has been to love them, baptized, but that’s not a with FREE downloadable planning “and they are responding revival, that’s evangelism. tools could help save the estate of to that,” adding that now “A revival is when a someone you love from being lost congregants are shar- paying for nursing home care – even ing love with each other See REVITALIZATION, page 13 Experience Counts! 920 Pierremont Rd, Suite 105 if they are already receiving care. 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January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 12 Louisiana News Harvest Fest plants Gospel seeds in Crowley By Brian Blackwell community and the congre- whole relationship of FBC to Message Staff Writer gation. the community of Crowley “We wanted the festi- and surrounding areas. FBC CROWLEY – Reaching val to show folks that our is respected like never be- some of the 100,000 people church is normal,” Pastor fore because of the effort put who attend the annual Inter- Cullen Clark said. “When we forth by the people to make national Rice Festival seemed finally do see a person visit the Rice Festival a family daunting, but members of the our church who came to the friendly event.” First Baptist Church in Crow- Harvest Festival, it’s not this Among the people who ley embraced the challenge huge leap for them because have put their faith in Christ using jambalaya, antique they already are familiar with after attending Harvest Fest tractor demonstrations and us. is Mona Dupuis, who at- train rides to plant Gospel Alan Knuckles, pastor at tended the inaugural one. seeds in the community. First Baptist Crowley from “We knew years ago that The 15th annual Harvest 1993-2000, returns every this was a safe place to take Fest, held on the grounds year to volunteer at Harvest our kids and for us to enjoy of First Baptist Crowley, Fest. He enjoys the cama- a good time away from a lot drew nearly 15,000 people raderie between the church of the other activities at the members and those attend- Rice Festival,” said Dupuis, who enjoyed a wide selec- Brian Blackwell photo tion of Cajun foods, Zydeco ing the festival. who now cooks during the music, family activities such A member of the First Baptist Church, Crowley, paints a young girl’s face dur- “An event like this builds Harvest Festival. “Now, I get ing Harvest Fest. The event drew nearly 15,000 people to the church campus relationships with the peo- to give back by being a part as a petting zoo and bouncy during the International Rice Festival in this south Louisiana community. houses and more. While ple in the community which of this wonderful outreach organizers did not see many of the Harvest Fest coordi- The festival began in 1995 opens doors for evangelism to our community. When commitments to Christ at the nators. “The harvest is seen when a few church members and personal ministry,” you know your service helps festival, the results usually not the following weekend, served water on the church Knuckles said. “This Harvest someone find an eternal are seen several months later, but 6-9 months down the grounds to Rice Festival go- Fest event during the Rice place in heaven it’s so fulfill- they said. road. When we see someone ers. Through the years, the Festival has changed the ing.” “For many people, it’s an come to Christ it makes all congregation added activities introduction to our church,” the hard work of planning and has used Harvest Fest to said Michael Doughty, one months in advance worth it. build a bridge between the Victory from page 2 Baptist Vidalia in 2016. He ers and city officials, and said the baptisms represent provides meals for those his members’ mindset of attending weekly meetings loving their neighbors for for Celebrate Recovery, a Christ. Christ-centered, 12-step re- The congregation, covery program for anyone whose average attendance struggling with hurt, pain is 400 on Sunday morn- or addiction of any kind. ings, carries out acts of Members also have partici- kindness for school district pated in disaster relief trips employees, first respond- to Baton Rouge, Houston and the North Carolina coast. “We don’t want to be the First Baptist Church of Vidalia but the First Baptist Church for Vida- YOUR NEWS. YOUR EVENTS. lia,” Faulk said. “I’m so thankful and proud of my church for embracing this In addition to receiving info vision and loving on our relating to missions and ministries community and others supported through your CP gifts, across the state and world. We are seeing the Spirit you'll ﬁnd helpful posts including: of God move through our church and out into the - Pump Up Your Social Media community, and seeing neighbors trust Jesus -- the - 2018 Church Planting Update most important decision of their lives.” Faulk said Pecanty has - 34 Worship MInistry Tips since been blessed to learn he is now cancer free. “Alton is joyful with everyone he meets,” Faulk added. “His example is one we can all follow – it is Don't miss what God is doing in and through you - Louisiana Baptists! never too late to trust Je- sus. Likewise, his response Sign up today: LouisianaBaptists.org/newsletter. shows the importance of never taking for granted an opportunity to share the Gospel with neighbors.” January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message Louisiana Churches 13 First Bossier rises from the ashes By Brian Blackwell ich brought the service back Message Staff Writer into focus, calling this time in the life of the congregation “a BOSSIER CITY - Mem- generational moment.” bers of the First Baptist “How we respond these Church in Bossier City are first seven days, how we facing a “new normal” after respond these next seven a fire destroyed 75 percent months, will really set a tone of their facilities, but Pastor for the future of this min- Brad Jurkovich believes the istry with our prayer, our congregation’s greatest days faith, our hope,” he said. “I are ahead. get excited about dreaming “We will move forward of building and developing First Bossier photo and rebuild,” Jurkovich ministry to reach even more said Dec. 16 during the first people for Jesus.” Brad Jurkovich, pastor of First Baptist Church, Bossier, offers thanks and words of hope during a Dec. 16, 2018 wor- During the Jan. 6 service ship service, seven days after a three-alarm fire destroyed 75 percent of the campus facilities. Jurkovich told mem- Sunday worship service fol- bers the congregation would move forward and rebuild and that “the church’s greatest days are ahead ot it.” lowing the devastating fire. Jurkovich said church staff “And I believe God will use met with their insurance and to break ground soon stations throughout Bossier student facility that will rock. First Bossier to reach thou- company to determine how afterward. City and Shreveport as a way While there will be a “new sands for Jesus in the coming to clear the damage, and he Additionally, the church of expressing gratitude to the normal” for First Bossier it years.” outlined plans for its chil- established a new mission first responders. will be exciting to see people On Dec. 10 a three-alarm dren’s and student ministries emphasis in the days follow- “I want to say to all the step up, serve, give and grow fire began at 5:30 a.m., origi- and adult Bible study groups: ing the fire. After the Dec. kids in the room today, one as we reach people for Jesus nating with an uninterrupt- -- The children’s minis- 16 service, more than 300 day soon you will have a and rebuild this campus for ible power supply backup try will use part of the Tiny ladies from First Bossier came brand new children’s facility the future.” battery for a computer. The Town preschool area, the foy- forward to sign up to be a that will rock,” he said during First Bossier has requested flames began in an office er and additional preschool part of First Women Strong. the Dec. 16 service. “To all the information on assisting the space near Faith Chapel — space until a new children’s They inaugurated the minis- students today, one day soon church should be sent to the original worship center facility is built. try by delivering food to fire you will have a brand new [email protected]. — and spread quickly to the -- The student ministry attic and other buildings will meet in an area near the including the childcare center worship center for Sunday and various youth facilities. morning Bible study and About 65 firefighters fought Wednesday night worship the blaze, finally extinguish- until a new facility is con- ing it about 3:30 p.m. that structed for them. same day. -- Adult Bible study The congregation held a groups will use a nearby meeting in the Bossier Civic facility and the Bossier Civic Center on Wednesday, Dec. Center, located about a block 12, to pray, worship and behind the First Bossier organize for recovery, but the campus, until a new multi- Sunday service was the first purpose venue is erected. post-fire gathering on cam- Funding will be provided pus. by insurance money and gifts There was an extended that members give toward the time for expressing grati- building projects. tude to first responders and Jurkovich said the church thanking officials for their hopes to unveil the plans for support Dec. 16, but Jurkov- its new facilities by Easter

Revitalization from page 11 church gets right with God, director of missions for the and then you will have evan- Louisiana Baptist Associa- gelism because the church tion, told the Baptist Mes- has got right,” Dutton sage, “God brought the right insisted. “What we saw was pastor at the right time,” churches coming together, in commenting about the praying together, worship- spiritual renewal of First ing together, and now they Melville. can go out in the commu- “A lot of churches who nity and bring them in.” need revitalization are filled Dutton said revival with great people, but they among his congregation has have just become compla- given him the opportunity cent,” he said. “Pastor Dut- to baptize five new believers ton is bringing solid biblical so far. leadership and just loving Jacob Crawford, the the people.” January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 14 Louisiana College sidered the experience a good friend and con- siana College “goes from of getting to know each fidant. He was with us here because it’s vital that McGee from page 7 of them better, “Because every step of the way.” Louisiana College con- I’ve realized just what With a “unique abil- tinue. ened, and supported Brewer told attendees great individuals you are. ity to genuinely connect “Now more than ever, because of Byron McGee. that he “wanted to honor You’ve got a heart for with students, Byron I’m convinced that we We have some big shoes Byron’s commitment this school. You’ve got a wore his professional need Christian higher to fill. We’re going to and faithful service” to heart for people to better hat very well,” Gunter education at this time in miss him.” Louisiana College by themselves.” said. “Louisiana College our culture,” McGee told Brewer told the Board naming the offices where was blessed with Byron the audience. of Visitors his “hat is admissions counselors, APPRECIATIVE OF LC because there are thou- “There are some great off” to McGee for hav- recruiters, and financial sands of others who have schools in this state. I’m ing worked one job for 35 aid employees work the He also expressed ap- been impacted by him not putting any of those years, but added, “I think “Byron L. McGee Admis- preciation for what Loui- and have the same story down,” he said. “But this he’s too young to retire.” sions Suite.” siana College has done that I do. My campus school is the school that He also lauded McGee Amid a standing ova- “for me and my family. I visits won’t feel the same young people should be for playing a key role in tion, McGee approached consider it a true privi- knowing that Byron is coming to because they’re launching the college’s the podium and began lege to have the oppor- not around.” going to get a great edu- Board of Visitors in Sep- to respond when his tunity to work here over McGee told the din- cation, and on top of that, tember 2015. 18-month-old grand- these years.” ner crowd, “This room- they’re going to learn “Our Board of Visitors daughter Livy wanted her McGee thanked the ful of people means the from Christian professors, grew from zero to almost granddaddy to hold her. Board of Visitors’ for world to me. I know you from a Christian perspec- 190 people in large part “C’mon, you can come their support of him, but as friends. I know you tive, from a Christian because of Byron’s people up here and be with me,” shared special gratitude as alums. I know you as worldview.” skills and the almost he beckoned. for their efforts on behalf colleagues. I know you Louisiana College countess relationships he With toddler in arms, of LC students. as employees. Those on needs “people who will has established over the McGee told the group “There cannot be the president’s leadership continue to support it, years,” Brewer said. what a privilege he con- enough help for our stu- team – Dr. Brewer and and I just know the good dents. They need it. They the team – what a great Lord is going to continue deserve it,” he said. group of folks to work to bless this school for McGee also was fêted with.” years to come,” he said. at a Nov. 29 dinner held “I couldn’t be hap- “I truly, truly ap- in his honor. pier for the direction of preciate everything this LC baseball coach the college. The school is school has done for me. Mike Byrnes shared at going in a good way,” he This school has been my the event that McGee said. “We overcame some home. I went to school would “from time-to- hurdles and I’m tickled to here for four-and-a-half time lead our team in death to have been a part years, left for three years, pre-game devotionals and of that.” and came back for 35,” did a great job.” McGee said he will McGee said. “Louisiana Byrnes presented enjoy seeing where Loui- College is a special place.” COMPLETE YOUR DEGREE ON-LINE McGee with a baseball jersey bearing an “11,” the number worn by McGee’s from page 7 – Accelerated Competency – – Outstanding Curriculum – son, Walt, who played Donor Based Degrees No on campus time required baseball for LC. friends in the region en- donors who will commit Tracy Gunter, a 1990 dorse and support what we to giving $20K by the year – Tuition Only $110 – – Programas Disponibles – alumnus who majored in are attempting to accom- 2020. Brewer said eight per Credit Hour en Español business, told LCNews plish at Louisiana College,” already have joined. that McGee was “the Brewer said. Exclusive of the Cason – 40 years experience – – Open Enrollment – most steady and con- Brewer noted that gift, recent donations to stant presence in the LC the Board of Visitors LC came in amounts of in Distance Education Start Anytime environment that I can he launched in 2015 has $100K, $50K, $20K, and think of. He was the first grown to 187 members $10K. person I ever met from who contribute almost “We are privileged to Louisiana College.” $250K annually in direct have friends like the Ca- LOUISIANA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY “Byron was also the tuition support for stu- sons and so many more,” first person from LC that 6301 Westport Ave. | Shreveport, LA 71129 dents. Brewer said. “Offering a my wife Susan (LC, 1990) The recently established college education is not 318.686.2360 | www.lbu.edu ever met, too. Byron was 2020 campaign seeks 20 something we can ac- complish in a vacuum. We need and appreciate all the financial and prayer sup- 3.75 x 5 Baptist Message ad.indd 1 3/6/15 11:15 AM port we receive from an ever-broadening base.” Brewer said he is “deep- ly appreciative of those who tell us they love and support Louisiana College, and pray for us, too. We value these affirmations. But when people step up and give of their means so generously and sacrifi- cially, we are humbled as well as encouraged that the college is headed back in the right direction.”

January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message Cultural News 15 New rules help churches avoid ‘parking tax’ By Will Hall Harvest pastors and staff China replaced its the high costs of living. Message Editor members published Dec. Cultural News one-child policy in 2016, China’s shrinking pop- 13 by World Magazine, al- allowing couples to have ulation has implications WASHINGTON leging a pattern of intimi- nounced Harvest would two children in response for its economic vitality (LBM)—The Treasury De- dation and mismanage- begin cooperating with to depopulation concerns. as well as for the world- partment issued rules in ment against MacDonald. the SBC.” However, the researchers wide economy, with pre- December 2018 intended According to World, said the state action was dictions now that India, to ease the tax burden for the disputes appeared too late and the down- not China, will overtake churches and charities to be reconciled in 2014 China’s population ward trend is irreversible the U.S. economy. that offer “reserved park- with an apology from reaches tipping point due to a shrinking num- It is less clear what ing” to employees. MacDonald and a pledge ber of women of child- impact the looming popu- The action was taken to improve oversight by BEIJING (LBM)—Two bearing age and a grow- lation crisis will have on in response to a bill Con- the church’s elders. researchers have reported ing hesitancy to have missions and ministries gress passed in December But now the former that China’s population larger families because of to the country. 2017 requiring non-profits Harvest leaders say they has shrank for the first to pay up to a 21 percent were “misled” and that time in 70 years. tax on transportation and there is “no evidence that Yi Fuxian, a researcher parking benefits provided the character issues in- at the University of Wis- to employees. volving MacDonald have consin-Madison, and Su Two rules in particu- been resolved.” Jian, an economist with lar offer specific relief and In 2012, MacDon- Peking University, used remedy for tax year 2018: ald was at the center of information from China’s -- “Until March 31, a debate about moral National Health Commis- 2019, taxpayers that have behavior because of his sion to determine that reserved employee spots participation in casino only 10.3 million people … may change their park- gambling, a practice he were born in China last ing arrangements (chang- later reported he had year, while 11.6 million ing signage, access, etc.) ceased, according to the died. to decrease or eliminate Christian Examiner. “The Chinese popula- their reserved employee Later, he was a mem- tion has started to de- spots and treat those ber of then-candidate crease for the first time parking spots as not re- Donald Trump’s Evan- since the founding of served employee spots for gelical Executive Advi- New China in 1949, the purposes of this notice sory Board but resigned aging problem has ac- retroactively to January 1, from it in October 2016 celerated, and economic 2018.” after news broke about vitality has weakened,” Yi -- Also, there will be Trump’s vulgar language told the Agence France- no penalty for failure to about a woman, as re- Presse. pay estimated taxes on ported by Christianity The news follows designated parking in Today. He subsequently recent reports of losses 2018 published an article, “Is from China’s work force Ultimately, only re- Donald Trump truly re- totaling about 20 million peal of the parking tax on pentant and does it even from 2011-2016 and re- non-profits will provide matter.” vised United Nations esti- permanent relief. In the Baptist Press stated mates that India’s popula- meantime, churches may MacDonald “has spoken tion will overtake China’s find helpful information at least four times since in 2024, an event pro- from this IRS notice: 2012” at the SBC Pastors’ jected to happen in 2050 https://www.irs.gov/pub/ Conference and that at as recently as recently as irs-drop/n-18-99.pdf. the 2015 event he “an- a dozen years ago.

MacDonald drops out of Pastors Conference IMAGINE CONTROLLING

CHICAGO (LBM)-- YOUR SOUND SYSTEM James MacDonald, pastor of the Harvest Bible FROM YOUR IPHONE! Church in Chicago, has withdrawn as a speaker for the 2019 SBC Pastors’ Conference. The Dec. 17 announce- ment that MacDonald “was stepping away from all outside speaking en- gagements for a season,” was made by conference Legendary Sound president Danny Wood, Systems Since 1968 pastor of Shades Moun- tain Baptist Church in Birmingham. The change followed CALL TO BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY! claims made by former 318-614-0422

January 10, 2019 l www.baptistmessage.com l Louisiana Baptist Message 16 Louisiana News

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January 10, 2019  www.baptistmessage.com  Louisiana Baptist Message