O * H * I * O AMBASSADORAMBASSADOR Volume 59 Number 4 July-August 2019 “The Voice of Ohio Free Will Baptists Proclaiming The Words of Christ to a Lost World” NationalNational ConventionConvention IssueIssue 2019 National Association of Free Will Baptists July 21-24

Cincinnati, Ohio

Things Are Possible”. This is true! We can experience National revival and we can have the greatest National we have Association See Convention ever witnessed­­because the Lord is here and with Him, Schedule on page 20 all things are possible! Welcomed So welcome to Cincinnati. We are glad you are here. to Ohio Feel at home, and feel free to worship God. You are The Free Will Baptist Denomination has had an active among His people. This week may we all strive to presence in Ohio almost from the state’s inception. honor our Lord and when you leave Ohio may we be Ohio joined the union in 1803 and two years later the able to say that God surely met with us there. Welcome or the fifth time in our association’s history, we are first Free Will Baptist Church was born. For 213 years to Ohio! F planning to host the 83rd National Association of Free Will Baptists have been witnessing the saving Free Will Baptists. The four previous Nationals met in grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Five Speakers Will Develop Dayton in 1975, Columbus in 1983 and in Cincinnati in Teaching Free Grace, Free Salvation, and Free Will to 1997 and 2009. It is a great honor for the 18 confer­ all men! National Theme ences, 129 churches, and more than 7,000 members of The 2019 convention speakers will address passages the Ohio State Association to host this year’s National The name “Ohio” comes from the Iroquois Indian centered on the convention theme, “Lifted Up.” Each Association of Free Will Baptists. We hope you will be word meaning “Something Great”. We have been pray­ passage will challenge Free Will Baptists to Lift Up blessed by being here. ing for “something great” to happen at this year’s Their Eyes (Psalm 121:1), Lift Up the Discouraged National Association. We have been praying that God (Hebrews 12:12), Lift Up the Son of Man (John 3:14; In Ohio you will find people who love the Lord Jesus would bless this meeting with revival and that this John 12:32), Lift Up the Promise of Christ’s Return Christ with a desire to follow and serve Him. You will would be the greatest National we have ever seen. This (Luke 21:28), and Lift Up Our Eyes to the Harvest also find some very loyal Free Will Baptists who love would be a good place for this to happen. (John 4:32). this denomination and desire to cooperate with others to see it prosper and grow. The motto for the State of Ohio is “With God, All Ohio Participants in the Make An Impact on Cincy National Association Make plans to arrive a day early and participate in Impact Cincinnati. This one­day out­ Sunday morning July 21st, Ambassador Bookstore reach event will be held Saturday, July 20 throughout the Greater Cincinnati area. This Manager Paul Keener will be teaching the Adult is our opportunity to leave a spiritual impact not just a financial impact­­in the Cincinnati Sunday School Class in the convention center. New area. Road FWB Pastor Tom Dooley will be preaching in the Tuesday evening service July 23rd. Porter Youth Pastor Derrick Lute will be speaking for the Sunday Morning Volunteers should contact Jeremy Luthy: Email: [email protected] Vertical 3 meeting June 21st. Secretary’s Schedule July 9 Coalton FWB Area­Wide Meeting, Tim Simpson, Pastor Together We Can July 14 Mt. Sterling FWB AM Service, J.D. Bowman, Pastor July 19 National Executive Committee Meeting Possessing the July 20­24 National Association of Free Will Baptists Ascribe July 28 Faith FWB Homecoming, Tony Vanover, Pastor Right View August 4 Island Road AM Service About God August 11 Samantha AM Service, Wiley Perkins, Pastor ye August 11­17 Gahanna FWB Revival, Curtis Booth, Pastor August 18 Newark FWB AM Service, John Davis, Interim Pastor We sure do seem to have a lot of greatness August 25 New Hope FWB AM Service ­ George Grice, Pastor problems today! You can see it in God September 1 Island Road AM Service people’s faces; the worry and unhap­ unto our September 15 Good Hope FWB Homecoming, Paul Peterson, Pastor piness. This is especially true for young people. They seem to be the September 15­18 Franklin Conference Revival meeting at Westerville FWB most unhappy! September 22 Bells Chapel FWB Homecoming, Willie Gene Hayes, Pastor

We are also witnessing much confu­ The Ohio State Association of sion. People are confused about the importance of life, what is right and FWB Office & Ambassador wrong, and even the difference Deuteronomy 32:3 Bookstore will be between a man or a woman. CLOSED I think that at the core of this is having a faulty concept about God. When a man doesn’t really July 19-28th view God as He truly is then he finds himself making up his own god out of his own imagina­ We will tion! Then he ends up with the age old problem of following after idols. No wonder we see so much anger and confusion! REOPEN Monday, July 29th Man has been doing this for centuries, making idols that rival the true God. We see it in the Old Testament when gods like Baal, Ashtoreth, Dagon or a host of other “gods” people worshipped in EDITOR Edwin Hayes STATE CTS BOARD place of the true God of the Bible! This led them into grievous sins and open rebellion against 7554 Slate Ridge Blvd Jason Luthy­Chairman 2026 God. Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068 Aaron Justice 2025 (614) 751­1190 Deanna Price 2024 To combat this, the Old Testament Prophet Jeremiah wrote “But let him that glorieth glory in this, [email protected] Derrick Lute 2023 that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judg­ STATE MODERATOR Mark Price* Marcus Bailey 2022 ment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.” Note in this 2710 Dogwood Ridge Road Mike Ellis 2021 verse that Jeremiah records that mankind glories in things of this earth like wealth, a position, a Wheelersburg, Ohio 45694 Mark McCarty 2020 name, or a nationality. But he said, if we are going to glory, the best thing would be to glory in (740) 935­0328 understanding and knowing God! That is what we all should be pursing and making the goal of [email protected] NOMINATING COMMITTEE our lives. ASSISTANT MODERATOR Tom Dooley* Adam McCarty 2020 4697 Crabwood Drive Randy Keffer 2020 When we have the right concept of God our lives will be blessed. Austintown, Ohio 44518 Roland Luthy 2020 Our marriages will be much stronger and our children will be (330) 792­5700 much happier. Our society will not be divided and the church will [email protected] NATIONAL GENERAL BOARD MEMBER CLERK Bryon Justice* Edwin Hayes 2021 have a true understanding of our purpose here on this earth­ to 4857 State Road worship and glorify our great God in heaven! Medina, Ohio 44256 STATE MISSIONS BOARD (330) 618­9609 Jerry Sargent 2026 What happens when people do not have the right concept of God? Look at the religious leaders bjustice­[email protected] Kenny Cordell 2025 concept of God in the time of Christ. You had the Pharisees who viewed God as an exacting ASSISTANT CLERK Manuel Lopes* Wendell Combs 2024 taskmaster. That is why they wanted to make sure that the people “crossed every ‘t’ and dotted [email protected] Tim Stout 2023 every ‘i’.” They made people’s lives missable! Then you had the Sadducees who viewed God as Bill Crank 2022 distant and weak. They didn’t believe in the existence of angels or the power of the resurrection. GENERAL BOARD Mike Gladson­Chairman 2021 This robbed people of their hope. Charles Crider* (Little Miami) 2021 Paul Ray Etterling II 2020 Donnie Massie (Lawrence) 2021 Look at what has happened to our society as the true concept of God is being removed from the Ed Barney (Jackson) 2021 The AMBASSADOR is the official publication of the: public square. When the thought of God is removed, it does not leave a vacuum. Someone or Mike Martin (Great Lakes) 2021 something will take His place! Notice all the passion in our society about politics, sports, science, Bill Chadwick (Franklin) 2021 OHIO STATE ASSOCIATION pleasure and material things. Many have made these (and other things) their god! I think that Robert Prichard (Cuyahoga­Lorain) 2021 OF FREE WILL BAPTISTS because of this we are witnessing a decline in just about every area of life. Look at the condition Russell Street* (Central Ohio) 2021 of our marriages and our families. Listen to the coarse speech even among our leaders and espe­ Jeremy Luthy* (Tri State) 2021 7554 Slate Ridge Blvd. cially the young people. See the way people are at each other’s throats! Witness the light attitude Ronnie Conn Jr. (Northeastern) 2021 people have about sin. See the dishonesty that abounds, it is almost expected. Randy Keffer (Capital City) 2021 Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068 Bruce Copley (Northern Ohio) 2020 What will understanding and knowing God do for us as a people? First, it will truly set our think­ Leon Stevens (Trinity) 2020 The Ambassador is committed to promoting the ing straight. We will be able to clearly see what is right and wrong and what is profitable or what Jamie Fortner (South Central) 2020 cause of Jesus Christ and the Ohio State Association is worthless. We will see the importance of accountability and the upcoming judgment. We will Dan King* (Porter) 2020 of Free Will Baptists by presenting articles, be looking and longing for His return. Aaron Reed (Pine Creek) 2020 announcements and pertinent news to inform our Matt Sury (State Line) 2020 member churches and constituents. When we focus on God we will not take Him and His word for granted. We will have a greater Blaine Etterling (Cornerstone) 2020 respect, reverence and worship for His holy presence. When we truly see Him for who He is, we Bill Wolford (North & Western) 2020 will stand in awe of Him (See Isaiah 6:5, and John in Revelation 1:17). The many problems we *Executive Committee We reserve the right to edit or reject materials Ambassador struggle with in life will seem much smaller and insignificant in the light of His glory! We will submitted for publication in the . The find true joy in life. views expressed are not necessarily the view of BOARD OF DIRECTORS the Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists. When we have the right concept of God our lives will be blessed. Our mar­ Peter Dunn 2026 riages will be much stronger and our children will be much happier. Our Mitch Salyers 2025 The publication deadline is NOON as follows: society will not be divided and the church will have a true understanding of Eugene Crouch 2024 January 1st, March 1st, May 1st, July 1st, our purpose here on this Bill Hayes­Chairman 2023 September 1st and November 1st. Edwin Hayes earth­ to worship and John Wallace 2022 glorify our great God in Mike Mounts 2021 All gifts given to the Ambassador should be heaven! Mark Bailey 2020 Executive Secretary sent to the above address. OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 3

Friday Evening, June 21st The 2019 Rejoice from Welch College sang before the 7 PM service. The Ohio Youth Conference conducted their service at the same time as the adults in the gym. FWB Family Ministries Director Rev. Jim McComas presented Rev. Forest Dyer a plaque in appreciation for his Ohio State long time service in representing FWB Family Ministries. In the adult service, Assistant Moderator Tom Dooley opened the worship with songs led by Music Director Jacob Association Lute and pianist Tobianne Stout. The Association received the annual State Ministry Offering. Undivided from the Canaan Land Church provided the special music. National Moderator Tim York preached a message on the subject, “Believing the Same Meeting Word.”

Saturday Morning, June 22nd Re­cap The Saturday morning session was begun by North FWB Associate Pastor Kyle Chadwick who gave a devotion. Moderator Price then called for the committee reports The 81st Ohio State Association was held June 21­22nd at the Heritage FWB Church in followed by our annual election. All the general officers were re­elected (Mark Price­ Columbus. The theme from this year’s meeting was, “Standing As One!” taken from Moderator, Tom Dooley­Assistant Moderator, Bryon Justice­Clerk, Manuel Lopes­ Nehemiah 8:1. Assistant Clerk. Revs. Leon Stevens, Donnie Massie and Bill Wolford were newly elected to the General Board. Rev. Pete Dunn was re­elected and Rev. Mark Bailey was Friday Morning, June 21st elected to the Board of Directors, Rev. Jerry Sargent was re­elected to the State Mission Porter FWB Pastor Rev. Mark Price gaveled the session to order on Friday morning, Board and Jason Luthy was re­elected to the Ohio Youth Board. The Executive June 21st. The delegates heard reports from Ohio Missions, Ohio Youth Conference, Committee elected Revs. Charles Crider, Jeremy Luthy, Dan King and Russell Street. Ohio Board of Directors and the Ohio State Office that morning. All the departments The association then adjourned for worship. Bro. Bryon Justice provided the special showed good progress in their ministries. The worship service was led by Assistant music. Mansfield Pastor Mark Bailey brought a message on, “Serving on the Same Moderator Tom Dooley. Mike and Sandy Mounts from Harrison FWB were the special Team” which was well received. singers. Calvary FWB Pastor Mike Martin brought the message entitled, “Loving the Same Lord”. The convention then broke for lunch provided by the Ohio Women Active The Ohio Association adjourned until the 2020 meeting at Heritage FWB Church in for Christ. Columbus on June 26­27th. The full minutes for the Ohio State Meeting can be found at www.ohiofwb.org. Friday Afternoon, June 21st Ohio State Meeting by the Numbers After lunch Canaan Associate Pastor Aaron Justice gave a devotion. The Ohio Women Active for Christ report was given. Delegates were selected (A. J Dooley, Manuel Lopes, Registration State Ministry Offering Geri Beal, Mark McCarty and Geri Baker) for the 2019 National Association meeting Ministers 52 Visitors 66 $5,899.00 from 48 in Cincinnati and the Ohio State Letter was prepared. New bylaws for the Ohio Deacons 14 Ohio Youth 85 Churches or Ministries Association were approved. The National Department reports were given along with sev­ Delegates 23 Total Registration 241 eral miscellaneous reports before the delegates adjourned from business for the day. OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 4

ing in a camp meeting at the Van Lear FWB ZALESKI church in Van Lear, KY. Prayers are appreciat­ “The LORD is my light and my salvation; Church ed. Pastor whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of Sunday, August 11th, will be our 40th home­ my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1 coming at Antioch! Pastor Jim will be preach­ Changes Aren’t you glad we can go to Jesus and He will News ing, The Blankenships and Undivided will be take our fears away? Satan is out to do all he can singing. Dinner will be served after the morning to bring us down, but Jesus is our strength to Bethesda Chapel Dan King Retires worship. All are welcome. defeat Satan. Bethlehem Without Pastor God bless till next time. We thank the Lord and praise Him for all the Blackfork Without Pastor Jim Blankenship, Pastor answered prayers and blessings He has given. Brookdale Without Pastor Linda Blankenship Reporter We ask for you to pray for our pastor, Mark Cleveland Robert Prichard Retires Rood and his wife Teresa and their children. Joseph Egnor is Elected CANAAN (CAPITAL CITY) They are all a blessing to us. We need to uplift Eifort Without Pastor The past months have been busy ones for the all our pastors and their families in prayer. We Fairview Without Pastor Canaan church. We have had opportunities for have truly been blessed by our pastor’s message First Springfield Mark Rucker Retires ministry and service at every turn. Our pastor of Jesus and the cross. Island Road Earl Coleman Resigns had an unexpected hospital stay. He has recu­ Our hearts have been uplifted by all the girls’ Newark Without Pastor perated and is doing very well. We celebrated special singing. We had our VBS June 10­14th. Victory James Thompson Resigns Moms, Dads and Grads. We rejoiced to see par­ The theme was “Giddy Up Junction, taking Mike Gillen is Elected DOGWOOD RIDGE (PINE CREEK) ents bring forward their little ones for dedica­ God’s Love To New Frontiers.” The youth had a Zion #3 John Landrum Greetings from Wheelersburg! tion. We mourned with the family of Rev. Paul lot of fun with the western theme and learning On May 25th our congregation took part in the Daniels when his son Scott was ushered into July; the theme for this years is Roar. “When about Jesus and His love for them. Wheelersburg Memorial Day parade. We had a glory. Please pray for the Daniels family at this life is unfair, scary, changes, sad, and We gave Gideon Bibles to all the youth. We great time meeting so many new faces and time. good…God is good!” For more information, are making plans for our Sunday School Picnic. showing the love of God to others. The torrential rains in Northern Ohio have please call 330­825­6837. Our church looks really nice after Jeff Harris Our youth has had great turnouts for their finally stopped. The flood waters are subsiding Our homecoming will be held on August 4th power washed it. Good job Jeff! events. On Mother’s and Father’s Day they and summer has arrived. At Canaan, you Bro. Clayton Bunn will be preaching, and the Remember Nancy Rood and her sister, Gail in offered breakfast with their parents before always know it's summer when VBS decora­ Parsons Family will be singing. your prayers. They are very special to us and we Sunday School. tions appear. We look forward to this time of There is always something exciting and new miss them when they are not able to attend. VBS will be July 15­19th from 6­8:30pm. celebrating with and through children. It's happening here at Liberty just as our life with We are planning for our homecoming Aug. Everyone is welcome! always a joy to watch kids be kids and worship Christ should be. We should never cease to 11th. We invite you to join us. Your soul will be The annual “Back to School Bash” will be on the King of Kings and Lord of Lords as only a thank Him and praise Him for all that He does. blessed by the preaching and singing. You can Sunday, August 18th. child can. Please pray for our kids and workers Until next time. also be filled with chicken and a lot of other We hope this letter finds everyone well. Please the week of July 15th. We are privileged to lift Cecil Farmer, Pastor special dishes at the dinner. keep us in your prayers as we continue to spread up the name of Jesus! Chelsea Stillings, Reporter Please continue to pray for our youth, our the good news of the gospel. Mike Gladson, Pastor nursing home ministry, our national leaders, the Jeremy Moore, Pastor Lisa Justice, Reporter MARYSVILLE (CENTRAL OHIO) military and their families. Becky Conley, Reporter “From the rising of the sun unto the going Remember Grandparent’s day September 8th. LIBERTY (CUYAHOGA­LORAIN) down of the same the LORD’s name is to be Do something special for yours or someone FAITH (CUYAHOGA­LORAIN) Greetings from Liberty FWB Church! praised.” Psalms 113:3 else’s grandparent. Tell someone you love them Another beautiful day God is blessing us with. We are so thankful for what the Lord is doing; We are happy to report that our revival went and really mean it! On May 11th we all enjoyed the Mother­ we are seeing souls saved, healing of the sick, well. We had great singing and preaching each Mark Rood, Pastor Daughter banquet. The fellowship was great and feeling his presence during our worship night. Two were saved during our revival and Linda McKibben, Reporter and the food was too! services. some rededicated. Praise the Lord, He is awe­ The Calvary’s Path was with us in the We are still rejoicing over the second “All In” some. OAK HILL (JACKSON) evening service May 19th. It was a wonderful Youth Camp that was held June 3­7th. The Andrew and Amy Cordell, along with other Greetings. We celebrated our Mother’s Day time in the Lord. theme was “My GOD is BIG Enough” adults took the youth to the Columbus Zoo May 12th and had a wonderful Sunday School Bro. Victor and Sister Christine Rhodes had an (Ephesians 3:20) Bro. Joe Tolbert did a won­ Friday, June 14th. Everyone had a great day. attendance. Our oldest mother, youngest mother adoption party for their new daughter, Kaitlyn. derful job minding the Lord. Souls were saved Our annual church picnic was at Ohio Caverns and the mother with most children present She is a sweet young girl. she is so blessed to be and renewed and we are thankful for the mighty June 23rd.We enjoyed lots of good food and fel­ received a hanging basket. Each mother present in a good Christian home where she will be way God moved. lowship with everyone. received a potted flower. loved. We are looking forward to our upcoming God’s Messengers were with us July 7th in On May 19th, Bro. Dave Reese preached. His The Lord blessed us to get new song books events for the remainder of the summer. Our our am service. They are always a blessing topic was on Abraham from Hebrews 11:8­14. and new chairs for the fellowship hall. God is so men have began their softball season. It is when they visit. May God bless all. We held a revival May 22­26th with Bro. Tim good! always a good opportunity to fellowship with Paul Bogenrife, Pastor Simpson and Bro. David Schug preaching. We have had some sickness in the church. Pray churches in our area. Our VBS will be held in Helen Murray, Reporter Bro. Tim preached from II Corin. 4:8­18 and on for them and their families. We all need each “Dead Dog” from II Sam. 9:8. Bro. Dave other, one day at a time. Long Time Cleveland Pastor and preached on, “A Certain Man” from Luke 10:30 On May 26th Bro. Bill Alford preached in our Former Ohio Moderator Robert and “The Valley” from I Sam 17:14. We were evening service. It was a very good service. blessed to have Bro. Jimmy Howsen sing for us We celebrated Father’s Day June 16th. Prichard Retires each night. On May 26th Kyle and Brittani “Our help is in the name of the LORD, who Schaffer from Columbus sang and Bro. Chris made heaven and earth.” Psalm 124:8 Rev. Robert Prichard, Pastor of the Cleveland LeMaster preached. We had a wonderful time Lester McMahan, Pastor in the Lord every night of the revival. The Geraldine McMahan, Reporter FWB announced his retirement effective June 30th. church was uplifted and revived. Bro. Prichard has pastored the Cleveland Church June 2nd we had a Mother’s and Father’s Day ANTIOCH (CENTRAL OHIO) since 1975. (He also pastored the Bedford FWB dinner. Bro. Danny Boggs preached the morn­ Greetings in the name of the Lord! Church from 1965­1975 when both churches ing service and Brandon DePriest sang and Our VBS was a great success with our average merged.) For both churches that totals 54 years! preached in the afternoon. Everyone enjoyed a attendance being 62. All the kids enjoyed every good day of fellowship. June 16th Bro. Ron evening. A big thank you and shout out to all Parker preached the Sunday morning service our teachers and helpers in every area. We Brother Prichard also founded the Spring Valley from Ephes. 2:6­7, “Killing the Father” and could not do this with their participation. Christian School and has served as administrator of Pastor Robert Prichard Bro. Rich Bishop preached on Sunday night on On Sunday morning, June 23th Bro Edwin the school since it’s founding. receives a plaque from the topic, “What does God expect from me?” Hayes delivered a powerful sermon. Before we We thank God for our visitors. We love each the Cleveland Church had our carry in dinner after service, a couple He has served the denomination in many capacities one. dedicated their lives on the steps of the church. on the conference and state level. He was the Ohio State Association Moderator Until next time, may God bless you. “The just A great service and wonderful fellowship was man walketh in his integrity: His children are enjoyed by all. from 1993 to 2006. He currently serves on the Ohio General Board. blessed after him.” Proverbs 20:7 Sunday, June 30th, we baptized five. What a Tim Simpson, Pastor great blessing. He and his wife, Lona plan on staying at the Cleveland Church. Sandy Clark, Reporter Starting on July 21st Pastor Jim will be preach­ OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 5

Condolences friend Sherry Marx; many more extended fami­ Ordained as a pastor in 1980 in Tulare, CA, he Dayton FWB Church, where she taught Sunday ly and friends. worked in at Home Missionary in Sacramento, school for many years. She and her late hus­ His service was held May 31 in Reynoldsburg. CA and later as Pastor at Garden Grove Free band, Orvel, were pioneers for the church spon­ Will Baptist Church and was the Senior Editor sored camp and spent countless hours building Barrett Conner for Randall House Publications from 2003 to shelters, cooking meals and hosting men, Fitzsimmons, 9 year­ 2016. He was a member of The Donelson women and youth during the summer. Grace old son of Brad and Fellowship, and wrote "Finding Hope In The was an immensely talented seamstress and took Lana (Hobby) Darkness". Surviving to carry on Jonathan's great delight in quilting, knitting, and crochet­ Fitzsimmons, passed legacy is his wife, Dianna Yandell of Antioch; ing. She was also an avid gardener, taking great away peacefully at son, Joseph Taylor (wife, Amy) Yandell of pride in tending to her tomatoes, half runner Cathy Dale Dayton Children's Thousand Oaks, CA; daughter, Cassandra Jayne beans, cucumbers, beets, and potatoes. Her Crawford, Age Hospital, surrounded (husband, Nathan) Horath of Noble, OK; grand­ claim to fame was her canned beans. Her 67, of Sciotoville, by his loving family children, Christopher Sullivan­Yandell, Noelle expertly tended flower gardens were a blessing went to be with May 28th. His coura­ Yandell, and Andrew, A.J., Landon, and Jaxon to all that had the pleasure of fellowshipping in the Lord May 9th geous three­year bat­ Horath; parents, Lankin and Wilmatine Yandell her backyard. at SOMC tle with cancer has been well known through the of Visalia, CA; his mother and father in­law, Funeral services were held at June 27th, with Hospice in Barrett Strong! movement. Barrett recently fin­ John and Carolyn Redfearn of Grove, OK; sib­ Pastor Wally Mason officiating. Portsmouth. She ished third grade at Northwestern Elementary lings, Susie and Dan Steigman of Redding, CA, was born January School. He loved playing most sports including, Gary Cherry of Visalia, CA, and LouAnn and Rev. Claude T. 26, 1952 in football, wrestling, soccer, basketball and base­ Marty Houk of Visalia, CA; and several nieces Crain, age 79 of Portsmouth to ball. Barrett enjoyed fishing, video games, and nephews. Huber Heights, Carl and Georgie dinosaurs, and watching Michigan football. In A Celebration of Life was held June 26th at went home to be (Smith) addition to being a wonderful son to his parents, The Donelson Fellowship with Pastor Robert J. with the Lord on Crawford. She was a 1970 graduate of Minford He was part of the Forest Valley FWB Church Morgan officiating. June 20th. He was High School and attended Welch Bible College family. Barrett was a big brother to sisters, born August 3, 1939 in Nashville, TN. Cathy then spent 30 years as Braelynn and Braydee; grandson to Keana and Austin Michael in Wilder, TN to the a missionary in France. Cathy enjoyed going to Roy Preston, John Fitzsimmons (Marsha), and Drakulic, age 15, of late Carl and tea houses and preferred black tea. She was a Jeff and Linda Hobby; nephew to, Kristen Erie, Pennsylvania, Pauline Crain. In addition to his parents, Claude faithful servant who loved the Lord and was Fitzsimmons, J Hobby (Mike) and Meredith obtained ultimate vic­ was preceded in death by his brothers: Clyde loved by everyone she met. (Tim) Grieser; and cousin to Abbie, Annie and tory and healing June Crain and Calvin Crain. Cathy is survived by a brother, Michael A.J. Grieser. He was preceded in death by 25th, as Jesus wel­ Claude is survived by his wife of nearly 60 Crawford of Lake Placid, FL; sister, Lorie numerous great grandparents. comed him home. years, Charlotte Crain; daughter, Cynthia Crain; (Chris) Staten of Prichard, WV; grandniece, A celebration of Barrett's life was held at the Austin was a young grandson, Zachary Crain; brothers and sisters: Sydney Crawford of Canton, PA; special aunts, high school June 1st with Pastor Del Wallace man of great integrity Barbara (Chester) Combs, Charles "Rudy" Patty Bender, Dorothy Spence, Eileen presiding. who lived out his (Gail) Crain, James (Shirley) Ford, Claudette Crawford; In addition to her parents, she was faith in Christ. He (Chuck) Loyd and Carol Crain; many nieces, preceded in death by a niece, Kelly Crawford Thomas Scott Daniels, was an active member nephews, other relatives and friends. and sister­in­law, Paula Crawford. 55, of Rittman, went of his youth group at Flagship Free Will Baptist Claude was a Horticulturist for the City of Funeral services were held May 14th in Home to be with the Lord Church, where he also faithfully served as an Dayton, and retired after 35 years of service. He Sciotoville with Pastor Mike Mounts officiat­ June 6th, at Autumnwood usher. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed was a minister in the FWB Church; was a ing. Nursing and movies, reading and being read to, and archery. Sunday school teacher and deacon; and was a Editor’s Note: We in the state of Ohio are very Rehabilitation Center in Austin was born on August 9, 2003 to Anthony member of First Dayton FWB Church. Claude appreciative of the service and testimony of Rittman after a lengthy ill­ and Marie (Castle) Drakulic. In addition to his and his wife devoted their lives to working for Sister Cathy Crawford. For many years she ness. Scott was born June parents, he is survived by his siblings: Tyler, Christ and winning lost souls to Christ for the faithfully represented Ohio, International 23, 1963 in Prestonsburg, Addison and Trenton Drakulic; grandparents: furtherance of His kingdom. Claude was an Missions, and most of all her Lord. She was a KY to Paul T. and Dave and April Castle of Sunbury, OH and Gary extremely proud grandfather to his grandson, tireless worker for Christ and was always con­ Marcella (Ratcliff) and Vicky Peters of Harborcreek; great­grand­ Zachary. cerned about the people she would meet and Daniels and was a 1982 graduate of Rittman parents: Davey and Ruth Ann Castle and Lillian Funeral services were held June 24th what their spiritual condition was. At her funer­ High School. On June 4, 1988 he married Drakulic as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, al, she had prepared a tract on how to be saved Denise Casteele and she survives. He had family and friends. He was preceded in death by to be given to everyone who attended. She had worked at J R Wheel in Norton and was a mem­ great­grandparents: Phil and Mary Dougan and her signature attached. Sister Cathy will truly ber of Canaan FWB Church. Scott loved build­ Arlene Conaway and great, great­grandparents, WESTERVILLE (FRANKLIN) be missed. ing model B­17 Airplanes, was WW II History Woodrow and Nora Hayes. Greetings from Westerville! buff and enjoyed watching the Cleveland Services were held June 28th in Erie, PA with Several of our youth have been busy practicing Robert W. “Bobby” Indians. Dary Grimes and Mike Sammons officiating. and gearing up for the big competition at the Siders, Jr, 63, of Surviving are his wife, Denise; his daughters, National Convention in July. They will be com­ Columbus, passed Ashley Daniels and Chelsey Daniels both of the Grace (Spurlock) peting in several categories. away on May 25th. home; his father, Rev. Paul Daniels of Rittman Roberts, age 92, a Sunday, May 29th we honored our three grad­ Robert was born and sisters, Carol Daniels and Kimberly Daniels resident of uates, Kylie Etterling, Lyndsay Barnard and February 28, 1956 to both of Rittman. He was preceded in death by Beavercreek for over Akeem Armin. Pastor Paul presented each a Rev. Robert & Jean his mother in 2012. 50 years, passed away Bible from the church. Siders. At the age of Services were held June 10th at Canaan FWB peacefully June 24th The Master’s Men had their annual yard sale 14, Bobby began Church, with Pastors Mike Gladson and Scotts, at the Oakwood on June 1st which was a great success! working with his lifelong friend, Rev. Jamie Fryberger will offi­ Village in Springfield. On June 9th during our am worship service, father in construction with Ruscilli. He and his ciating. She was born in Mike Roberts from Welch College visited. He father started their own construction business of Jackson, KY on February 9, 1927, the daughter gave a very nice presentation of the college and B&B Construction, and then Bobby went to Rev. Jonathan of Lester and Ella (Morris) Suprlock, who pre­ then a very inspiring message. work for Corna Kokosing Construction in later Yandell 60, of ceded her in death. She was also preceded in The WAC sponsored a carnival and bake sale years. His love of music took him to many dif­ Antioch, TN passed death by her loving husband, Orvel Roberts, her June 15th on the church grounds. It was a nice ferent churches sharing his beautiful voice. He away June 20th. sister, Leona Siebel and two brothers, Andy day that was greatly enjoyed by all who attend­ was also an avid motorcycle lover, and enjoyed Jonathan was born Spurlock and Willard “Red” Spurlock. Grace is ed. The proceeds went to our youth attending riding with his friends and family. All in all, on October 30, 1958 survived by her son and daughter­in­law, David the National. Bobby has many hobbies, but most of all he in Oklahoma City, and Evelyn (Doolin) Roberts; three grandchil­ Please remember out church family in your loved spending time with his daughter, his OK, the son of dren, Bryan Roberts, Eric and wife Emily prayers. Our deacon, Noah Roberts is not well grandkids, and his family. He is preceded in Larkin Yandell and Roberts, Kristy and husband, Justin Truitt; three and our SS teacher Dave Castle lost his grand­ death by his father Rev. Robert Siders, Sr. He is Wilmatine Yandell. He attended Hillsdale Free great­grandchildren, August Roberts and Henry son, Austin Drakulic to cancer. Thanks you! survived by his mother Jean Siders; daughter Will Baptist College, which is now known as and Alice Truitt. She is also survived by her Our great God sustains us with His mercy and Melissa Siders; grandchildren Kyle Siders, Randall University in Moore, OK. Jonathan Aunt Frida Thompson, close friend, Lois love. We’re having good services and visitors Kristopher Thornton, and Darnell “DJ” married the love of his life, Dianna Redfearn, Doolin, and nieces and nephews. are most welcome. Thronton, Jr.; sister Sarah (Darryl) Harris; close and they were getting ready to celebrate 42 Grace was a devout and faithful woman of Paul Etterling, Pastor friend and mother of his daughter Malinda years of marriage. God. She was a longtime member of First Grace McKinster, Reporte (Mark) Collins; extended Suttle Family; close OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 6 Available Ohio Youth Conference News

Free Will Baptist With the 2019 Ohio Association of Free Will Baptists in the books, we would like to thank Singing Groups the Free Will Baptists of the state of Ohio for your continued support of the Ohio The following singers and singing groups are available to come and Youth Conference. Thank you for receiving our report and adopting our proposed sing in your church for revivals or special services. 2020 budget.

Baldwin Family Bluegrass Singers, Rosedale, Call Chuck Baldwin (937) 926-3177 [email protected] Born Again Gospel Singers, Harry or Irene Litton (740) 927-5319 Covered By Love, South Webster, Call Rhonda Smith 740/961-3412 or 740/961-3413 www.coveredbyloveonline.com Cross Pointe Trio, Lancaster, Call Bill Pitts (740) 438-7750 [email protected] We were happy to announce that Ashley Sammons and Kylie Etterling will be www.crosspointetrio.com receiving $1,000 from OYC to be applied to their accounts at the end of the fall quar­ David Giddens, Marysville, (937) 642-2121 [email protected] ter at Welch College. Day 3, Scott & Sheri Noel (740) 574-6635 [email protected] Enabling Grace, Woodstock, (Country and Bluegrass Gospel) (937) 717-8783 Our Friday evening service was another success as we were joined by Rejoice! min­ Faith Gospel & Contemporary Christian Music, Sidney, Call Pam Moorman (937) istry team, from Welch College, and our speaker, Tyler Penn. We were happy to 492-1059 [email protected] report that we had about 80 in attendance for our evening worship, and most stayed as Faith in Action, Marion, Call Marjorie Abrams at (740) 383-5405 or Pleasant Hill we enjoyed pizza and games after the service. We hope to see our Friday evening FWB, (740) 363-5295 Attention: Marjorie Abrams or Bob Chaffin or email service continue to grow, as we give the youth of Ohio a chance to enjoy this time of [email protected] fellowship as a part of the annual State meeting. God's Ambassadors, Gahanna, Call Judy Spires (614) 475-4689 Gospel Ambassadors, Rittman, Call Greg Marcum (330) 927-9057 July 21­24 – This year’s Ethan Hutchinson, Somerset, (740) 892-4001 National Association of www.ethanhutchinsonofficial.com/fr_home.cfm Free Will Baptists and the Jerry Branscomb, Chillicothe, (740) 637-1228 Vertical III Conference Justifyed, Lancaster, 43130 (614) 271-4599 [email protected] will be held in Cincinnati! Facebook under group name: Justifyed We are excited to be host­ Just Forgiven Singing Ministries, Dayton, (Southern Gospel) (937) 280-3840 ing the V3 Conference, or (614) 309-2512 and will be looking for help accomplishing the tasks we have been given. Please be in Headed Home-Singing For The Lord, Oak Hill, Call Jim Evans (740) 682-6109 or prayer for this year’s Conference speakers, including Ohio’s own Derreck Lute! Robert Gamble (740) 682-0042 Derreck will be leading things off by speaking in the Sunday morning V3 service. We Lord Willing, Wellston, (740) 395-7728 [email protected] look forward to a great convention. Mike Blanton & Evidence, Grove City, (614) 871-2795 Mike Kisling, Hillsboro, (937) 393-2084 Please do not hesitate to contact any board member with questions or concerns. We Nina Nash, Leesburg, (Southern Gospel Sound Tracks) (937) 780-6865 are here to serve you! [email protected] New Covenant Trio, Columbus, Call Gary Preston (614) 774-3109 or (614) 774-3039 [email protected] HUNDRED DOLLAR FRIDAY NIGHT Ounce of Hope, Delaware, (Southern Gospel) (740) 363-4576 OFFERING FOR OHIO Paul James Sound, Columbus, (614) 668-8916 [email protected] STATE MINISTRIES www.pauljamessound.com Ruth Hammond, Grove City, (614) 440-0694 [email protected] Rob Goodman, Newark, (740) 345-3233 Our offering totaled $5,899.00 from at least Rowena and George Walker, Dayton, (937) 258-8317 48 churches, ministries or conferences. Steve Russell, Marengo, (740) 972-6729 [email protected] Steve Fyffe, Xenia, (937) 374-9032 [email protected] The offering was divided among our three Ohio State Departments: Sword Family, Middleburg Heights, (440) 747-7436. 50% to our State Mission Program Terry Collins & Victory, Hillsboro, (937) 840-9808 40% to our State Office The Castle/Maxwell Project, Grove City, Call Dan Castle 614/746-4982 10% to our Ohio Youth Conference or email [email protected] The Blankenship Family, Mount Sterling, (740) 869-2423 The Family of God, Logan, Call Steve E. Goss (740) 603-1583 Thanks go to the following churches and conferences who gave to the State The Hambys, Dublin, (Southern Gospel) (614) 873-1215 Ministry Offering: Akron, Ambassador, Antioch, Beatty, Bethesda Chapel, The Spiritual Echoes, Circleville, Call Rick Moore (614) 595-9776 or Delores Moore Bloom, Carey, Columbus First, Compassion, Cornerstone Conference, (614) 491-9502 Eastside, Eifort, First Chillicothe, First Clyde, Forest Valley, Garden City, Violet Maynard Family, (614) 496-1618, [email protected] Galion­Unity, Hamilton Glades, Harrison, Heritage, High Street, Hillview, www.violetmaynard.com. Lighthouse­Elsmere, Lima, Lockbourne, Madison, Mansfield, Marysville, Undivided, Grove City, Call Mike or Sheri France (614) 352-3368 McArthur, Mount Hope, Newark, New Hope­Chillicothe, New Road, North, [email protected] Ohio Youth Conference, Porter, Reynoldsburg, Rittman Community, Sciotodale, Shelby, South Charleston, Springfield, Turkey Creek, Unity, If you would like your group to be included, please send me your group name, Wakefield, Westside, Woodstock and Woodland Chapel. what local FWB Church you are a member of, your address, and phone number and I will add you the list in the next issue of the Ambassador. If your church gave to the State Ministry Offering and is not listed above, please let us know. OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 7

COALTON (JACKSON) We always want to thank our guest preachers Greetings to all in the name of the Lord. We Donnie Smith, Jim Pertuset and Roger Clark just completed a week of Bible School and for sharing God's message. Our church was enjoyed a good time of fellowship and learning delighted to hear the beautifully blessed voice about God’s love at “Giddy­Up Junction”. We and testimony of Jodie Hannah. All are wel­ had a great turn­out of children. come to come join our small church family. We honored our mother’s and father’s on their In July, we have planned our homecoming for designated days. We are thankful for men and the 28th at 10am. We look forward to preaching women who bring their children up in the ways from Chris Oiler and spiritual uplifting music of the Lord. We held our annual fish fry in May from His Singing Servants. Our church would and had a good time of worship and fellowship. like to send a congratulatory message to Chris We are thankful for the singers Covered by Oiler for becoming the new pastor of Minford Love and the uplifting message delivered by Community Church. Bro. Allen Simpson. So wonderful to see the Remember, if you are in need of guidance or younger generation working for our Savior. knowledge, let our amazing Pastor Crad serve The churches of our conference held a picnic you. where church services were outside and we had “Now faith is the substance of things hoped a wonderful meal and fellowship together. for, the evidence of things not seen.” God’s blessings to you as we all continue His Hebrews 11:1 work. Craddock Frye, Pastor The Jackson Conference Revival will be host­ Erin Blower, Reporter ed at Coalton FWB Church beginning August 19th. Services start at 7:00PM. Bro. Corey HILLSBORO (CORNERSTONE) Carroll is scheduled to deliver the messages Hello from the Hillsboro FWB Church! and Covered by Love to be singing nightly. We have a pretty good turnout for VBS this Tim Simpson, Pastor year. We had an average of 30 kids each night. Sandra DeHart, Reporter Each year the children have a challenge to meet between the girls and the boys to see who can LOCKBOURNE (TRINITY) I heard, there were over 5,000 people at the school. They really need our prayers. We want bring in the most money. The girls won! All Greetings from Lockbourne FWB Church. viewing. That is so amazing how love brings to congratulate Grace Carder and Levi Porter together they raised $461.00, and have decided Our youth group had a wonderful evening people together. Our pastor performed the who graduated in June, this year. Grace is plan­ to donate the money to the victims of the around a nice bonfire in May. We are blessed funeral. It was very emotional. ning to attend, Kent State, and Levi is planning Dayton, Ohio tornadoes. We even had one child with some awesome young people and it is such The damage from the tornados was terrible in to join the Army. They were presented with new come back the following Sunday. a blessing to watch them grow and mature in the certain areas. First Dayton FWB Church was a Bibles and given the charge by Michael Gillen. Toward the end of July we are having a Family Lord and also build relationships that will last a drop off point to bring donations to help those Please remember them in prayer! Day at the church on the 20th. We will have lifetime. who lost all or part of their home. We collected On June 9th, during the evening service, we food, games and good fellowship with one We were blessed on Mother’s Day to have enough items to, almost fill a van. On June enjoyed a wonderful message by Ethan Smith another. Then on July 28th, it is our homecom­ Doug and Nancy Montgomery’s daughter, 22nd, the items were delivered. and the songs sung by the group called, ing Sunday. There will be lunch served after the Melissa visit us and bring the gospel in song. We have several people in our church who Covered By Love. service on the grounds. On August 10th from We are looking forward to having the entire have some sort of cancer and other health We are getting ready for this year's VBS start­ 9am­2pm, we are having our rummage sale at Montgomery Family provide special singing issues. We have children, too, that need prayers ing on July 29­August 2nd. The theme is “The the church. for us. What a blessing that will be. for healing and recovery from surgery. Amazing Race!” The kids have a great time of Bro. Marvin Meddock has been doing the jail June 9th was our annual Sunday School picnic On August 8th, we are having our 4th annual fellowship, lessons, crafts, recreation and ministry for over 20 years now. His face lights and the theme was Heroes for Christ. Special blood drive in memory of Barrett. The hours are snacks! We love to see the parents come to the up after each visit at the jail. Marvin loves guests visited us such as Captain America and 3 to 7 p.m. in our church gym. If you are inter­ program, to find out what the kids have learned working for the Lord, and it shows every day! other Avengers characters. Everyone enjoyed ested in donating, you can schedule on line at, about God's love and much more! Have a great Prayers and God bless you! lots of good food, games and activities and great donortime.com and enter sponsor code 1500. summer, and as always, remember to pray for Jamie White Reporter fellowship. Thanks to all who made the day a Del Wallace, Pastor the shut­in's and the lost! Richard Burns Pastor great success. Jeanne Hauf, Reporter Mike Gillen, Pastor Bro. Clay Baldwin and singers visited recent­ Jean Holmes, Reporter UNITED (CAPITAL CITY) ly and what a wonderful service we had. The VICTORY (CAPITAL CITY) Blessings from United FWB Church in Lord continued to work throughout the singing It is wonderful when we have love and unity STONEY RUN (PINE CREEK) Massillon. Summer has definitely arrived. Our and Bro. Baldwin’s preaching and several peo­ with brothers and sisters in Christ! It makes the Hello from your friends at Stoney Run FWB youth bowling was a big success for young and ple came forward to have their needs met. God, Church fitly joined together. After eight years of Church in West Portsmouth. We thank God for old. We all had a good time of fun and fellow­ once again, met needs and met with us in a very serving as pastor of Victory Church, we are sad this opportunity to share all of our wonderful ship at our picnic outing. The kids cooled off special way. Bro. Clay and his wonderful that Jim Thompson will be stepping down blessings. swimming in the sunny 86’ afternoon. singers were used as vessels of the Lord that from full time pastor because of health prob­ We just finished our VBS “Giddyup Bro. Ronnie Thornberry brought the message day. lems. We greatly appreciate Jim and his wife, Junction.” It was another wonderful experi­ for us at a Wednesday evening’s service. Be in Bro. Corey Carroll preached at Lockbourne, Bev for their faithfulness and dedication to the ence for all those involved. The children prayer for him as he answers the call and begins and again the Lord met with us in a very special Lord. Michael Gillen will be taking over as full enjoyed learning about God through inspira­ his journey to become a youth pastor. way. We were blessed to have his daughter sing time pastor. tional lessons. On the last day, the children We invite you to our revival in August each for us as well. God has been so gracious to our Before we know it, the end of August will be enjoyed games and delicious snow cones from night begins at 7PM. Mike Gillen will be church and we give Him all of the praise and here and our youth will be heading back to “The Cool Bus.” preaching August 8th and Bro. Billy glory for His many blessings. Williamson will be singing. On August 9th Leon Stevens, Pastor Rev. Forest Dyer Bruce Copley will be bringing the message and Janelle Sagraves, Reporter Honored by FWB the Gospel Ambassadors will be singing. Travis McKenzie will preach August 10th and FOREST VALLEY (LITTLE MIAMI) Family Ministries at Paul James Sound will provide song. The Greetings from Forest Valley FWB Church Ohio State Meeting ladies of the church will also have a donation I don't think the rain is ever going to stop long bake sale all three nights. Please be in prayer for enough for our farmer to plant our fields.That is our revival. “But I have prayed for thee, that thy a real shame. At the Friday Evening Service at faith fail not: and when thou art converted, On Mother's Day, RaeAnn Jent kicked off the Ohio State Meeting on June strengthen thy brethren.” Luke 22:32 “Blessings in a Bottle”, in support of the 21st, Free Will Baptist Family Sunday evening, September 1st we will have a Pregnancy Resource Clinic in Springfield, Ministries Director Rev. Jim special singing with Trae and Whitney at 6 Ohio. We were to put change, checks or cash in McComas presented a plaque honoring Rev. Forest Dyer for his longtime service of PM. the baby bottle and return them on Father's Day. representing Family Ministries to the churches of the state of Ohio. Join with us in prayer for our ill in the church It's for a very good cause. This is the third or and continued prayers for our search to find a fourth year she has done this. larger building for our growing church. I'm sure you have heard that our three year Brother Forest has also served as pastor of Beatty FWB and is currently serving as Prayers for you all. cancer warrior, Barrett Fitzsimmons, went to pastor of South Charleston FWB Church. Randy Keffer, Pastor meet the Lord on May 28th. He wasn't quite 10. Linda Webb, Reporter OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 8

Attention: Ambassador Reporters Available DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE! The deadline for the FWB Ministers September-October Issue will be The following ministers are available to fill the pulpit for pastors Noon, September 1st who have to be away from their church. Many are interested in conducting revivals as well.

Travis McKenzie, Ohio Home Bill Alford, Strongsville, Oh (440) 572-1614 Lee Aldridge, Londonderry, Oh (740) 887-4065 Missionary to Ashland, Ohio Anthony “Tony” W. Blackburn, Mechanicsburg, Oh (614) 623-0031 Mike Blanton, Grove City, Oh (614) 871-2795 God’s work is growing! Larry Brown, London, Oh (740) 852-0586 Chad Booth, Ashland, Oh (330) 715-8403 God continues to bless the ministry of Compassion Church Ron Brown, Hillsboro, Oh (937) 402-4452 and our need for a facility. As we approach the two­year mark Roger Childers, W Liberty, Oh (937) 869-4890 of ministering in Ashland Ohio, let me bring everyone up­to­ Steven Conn, Hayesville, Oh (419) 651-9639 speed on what God is doing through your faithful prayers and Andrew Cordell, Marysville, Oh (937) 215-4037 generous financial partnership. In February of 2017, we began having Wednesday Roger Crusie, Greenfield, Oh (937) 981-3529 night Bible studies in the conference room of a local hotel. We also started having wor­ Mike Daniel, Englewood, Oh (937) 836-0540 ship services on the third Sunday of each month in the cafeteria of one of our local ele­ Martin Denes, Chillicothe, Oh (740) 701-2124 mentary schools. This set­up continued until the fall of 2017. As our official launch Luther Dingess, Fort Gay, WV (304) 648-5901 date, September 17th, drew closer, I knew that meeting in the school and hotel would Freddy Dutton, Columbus, Oh (614) 276-0200 no longer work for us. Michael Ellis, Columbus, Oh (614) 917-7309 James England, Columbus Oh (614) 846-6654 That’s when we first saw the abandoned church building on Ashland Avenue. It was Packy Gibson, Hillsboro, Oh (937) 393-2730 a mess! But with God’s help and the help of a lot of friends and family in Christ we Randy Hall, Hillsboro, Oh (937) 365-1657 were able to turn it into a beautiful house of worship. The only downside to this situa­ Edwin Hayes, Reynoldsburg, Oh (614) 751-1190 tion is that there is no opportunity for further growth in this 4,000 square foot facility. Carl Jenkins, Cleveland, Oh (216) 351-2475 The main reason is because it doesn’t belong to us and isn’t for sale! We rent this build­ James Johnson, Rittman, Oh (330) 331-6088 ing, which was a God­story all by itself. Jason Jones, Marysville, Oh (937) 241-1622 William Jones, Marysville, Oh (937) 594-1331 The building is also land­locked and sits on a secondary side street—not a very con­ Paul Keener, Westerville, Oh (614) 891-4382 ducive situation for growth and ministry expansion. We currently are using every Robert Legg, Dayton, Oh (FWB Family Ministries-Rep) (937) 648-9600 square inch of this facility. And until we recently expanded our parking lot, adding ten Alton Loveless, Columbus, Oh (573) 330-7728 more parking spaces, we were at our maximum capacity. Rodger Marsh, Leesburg, Oh (937) 661-1169 Wayne Mays, Hilliard, Oh (614) 607-0634 We have been blessed to have several new families join us in the past months and the Tom Murphy, Commercial Pt, Oh (614) 218-5435 church is growing at a steady pace. Given all of this, we’ve been looking for the next Robert Prichard, Cleveland, Oh (216) 347-1559 step in finding a permanent home for Compassion Church. Freddie Ray, Omstead Falls, Oh (216) 355-2137 Tom Spradlin, Portsmouth, Oh (FWB Family Ministries-Rep) (740) 776-6677 This is where God showed up once again. From the first time I drove through the city Lowell Spencer, Ontario, Oh (419) 545-2449 of Ashland on one of my many “Prayer drives” I have felt led to reach the north east­ Russell Street, London, Oh (614) 440-0045 ern quarter of Ashland. This is probably the “roughest” part of town. Our current facil­ Alex Stevens, Greenup, KY (606) 473-5417 ity sits just on the southern edge of this part of the city. In December, while looking at Talo Teo, Zanesville, Oh (740) 487-5735 a realty website, I discovered that 7.5 acres of vacant land had become available in the Bill Turner, Carlisle, Oh (513) 746-5866 area of town I’ve been led to reach. Tim Updike, Wellston, Oh (740) 384-3277 Dan Widdig, Lucasville, Oh (740) 259-5160 The simple fact that a stretch of land that is this size and being for sale inside the city Josh Young, South Solon, Oh (937) 829-1723 limits is nearly a miracle all on its own! This set things in motion to see if we could even build a church on this land, and if we could pay for it. God has proven Himself faithful once again. When I presented the proposal to the Ohio Home Mission board and our church congregation, everyone agreed to purchase this property. After what seemed like an impossible process, I am happy to report that we now own that piece of property located on US Highway 511.

Our next step will be raising the finances to build the facility for our congregation to worship. We know that God has been faithful to provide throughout the journey so far, and we are confident that He will continue to supply His blessings as we move forward in reaching Ashland for His glory!

Thank you all for your continued partnership with this ministry! Your prayers and financial support are not in vain. God’s work is growing in Ashland, Ohio!

In Christ’s service, Travis McKenzie OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 9

PLEASANT HILL (CENTRAL OHIO) and the grave! We had three new converts since “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, our last report and three baptized. Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? We thank the Lord also, for the safe return of Then said I, Here am I; send me.” Isaiah 6:60 Pastor Mark and our deacon Jeff Bradford and I wonder how many of us would answer the their family. They were on a cruise enjoying same: “Here am I, send me?.” sunny weather while we were left behind need­ The Easter Play, “Judgement Day” had a very ing canoes! During their absence, we had the realistic affect on the church. During play prac­ pleasure of visiting ministers, Andrew Phipps Daryl Grimes tice, one of the pastor’s granddaughters was and Scott Hutchinson. Both men did wonder­ saved! What a blessing for the cast of the play, ful jobs. Family but even a greater blessing for the pastor and his Our annual yard sale was June 20th­22nd. It wife. was a great success! It’s never about the money, Missionaries to Erie, We had VBS June 10­14th with a good atten­ only about sharing Christ with our community. PA dance of children and adults. They all had a Continue with us in prayer for our upcoming Exciting Things are Continuing good time. events. Youth camp is July 7­12th. VBS is July We held our annual Sunday School picnic on 22­25th. And our fish fry and auction is August to Happen June 16th, Father’s Day. Fun and fellowship 10th. Come and join us as we reach out to oth­ Two summers ago Julio and his family attended was had by all. The men lost the money march ers needing Jesus! our annual Block Party. A few weeks later they and had to do the grilling of the brats, hamburg­ We pray for God’s protection for each of you began attending Flagship Church and have been ers and hotdogs. They were very good! Hats off during the summer season. with us ever since. of his heart. Please pray for Julio, Aurora and to the men! Until next time, if the Lord should tarry. their three children as they continue to grow in God bless until September. Mark Tuggle, Pastor their faith and serve at Flagship. Bob Franklin, Pastor Sandy McDowell, Reporter Marjorie Abrams, Reporter Your prayers and gifts are making an eternal SCIOTODALE (PINE CREEK) difference in people’s lives! BLACKFORK (LAWRENCE) Summer is here! Greetings from Blackfork Church. Hope this During the last few months we are praising the How to Become a finds you all well. Lord for three souls saved and two that have fol­ Financial Partner First, we want to thank all the preachers who lowed the Lord in baptism. came to preach for us, Mike Bevins, Paul In March we were blessed to have the Carney Browning, Steven Blagg, Nathan Boggs, Family (missionaries to Japan) share with us. *Call (740) 352-3510 and I can Jimmy Cremeans, George Cade, Dale On April 13th our Hands in Service puppet Julio was confirmed as a Catholic and baptized guide you through the process Henson, Jessie Rawlins and Billy McFann, team competed in the state competition and we as a baby, but came to realize his need for Jesus Also, Bob Allen taught for us. congratulate them on advancing to the National. to be his own personal Savior. He asked me if *Visit www.homemissions.net On May 27th Steve (Kiser) and I celebrated On April 14th Rev. Rusty Larter presented a he should get baptized again and I explained to and click on “Automatic our 47th wedding anniversary. The Lord has special drama narrative of the crucifixion him that we practice “believer’s baptism.” Withdrawal” and follow the on blessed us with three children, eight grandchil­ through the eyes of Peter. People should get baptized AFTER they place screen prompts dren and great grandson. He has also blessed We had fantastic turnout for our annual com­ their faith in Christ as a public declaration of Joyce Slone with another birthday. She turned munity Easter egg hunt and hot dog luncheon. their new life in Him. He along with two of his *E-mail me at 81 in June. We celebrated our risen Savior and King on children, his nephew and one of his neighbors Our homecoming will be August 11th. All are Easter Sunday. We worshiped him for his amaz­ were all baptized on the same day. [email protected] invited. You’ll be glad you came. ing love as the choir performed, “Amazing “The LORD is my strength and my shield, my Love, How Can it Be.” This was followed by a Julio gave a brief testimony and confessed that *Please contact Home Missions heart trusted in him, and I am helped, therefore wonderful message by Pastor Aaron. he had been a “lukewarm Christian” long if you need a new envelope. my heart greatly rejoiceth, and with my song Our World Mission offering April 28th was enough! He was ready to follow Jesus with all will I praise him.” Psalm 28:7 our chance to give so God’s Word can go out. Joyce Ann Kiser, Reporter On Graduation Sunday, May 26th, in the AM service we honored high school and college This is a potential floor plan REYNOLDSBURG (FRANKLIN) graduates for their achievement. In the PM serv­ for our new building. It will Summer at RFWB means VBS, youth camp, ice we were blessed to have Dr. Robert be an all­purpose building of family vacations, front porch sings and 4th of Newman, Gideon, speak to us. about 9,000 sq feet. July parades. We remain committed to reaching On Father’s Day we honored all our fathers the lost and drawing kids and families into with special gifts given to the youngest father, church with love, programs, prayer and out­ the most senior father, and the father with the reach. God is increasing our efforts and we are most children present in the service. blessed to see new families attending church. On June 23rd, Rejoice from Welch College Our children's and youth ministry are growing. performed. It was a time of worship in song and We thank those invested in these programs the Word. through their hard work, prayer and financial During summer, everything seems more support. We thank Pastor Jerry for his direction vibrant, hopeful, and liberating. Warm weather, and passion for our church. We thank God most bright sunshine, and longer days are a few rea­ of all for loving us, healing us and being faith­ sons we love summer! Enjoy your summer! ful always. Aaron Reed, Pastor Church camp for the youth is July 10–14th. Debbie Hawes, Reporter We are having our 3rd Annual Car Show on July 27th at 11:00am and VBS is July 29­August 2nd BEECH GROVE (FRANKLIN) this year beginning with dinner at 6pm and the We do not have any special announcements at programs at 7pm. this time and no reports. Jerry Sargent, Pastor Our business meeting was held June 2, 2019 Kim Wiley, Reporter and we added a new trustee to our current list, Bro. Mike Toller has accepted the position and CENTERBURG (CAPITAL CITY) we are pleased to have help in maintaining the Visit us on the web Happy 4th of July to all! What does freedom church grounds. mean to you? Freedom of speech, freedom of Pam Adams helped with the homecoming worship, freedom to serve whoever and whatev­ service by singing in the morning service and www.OhioFWB.org er your heart desires? God gave us the freedom again in the afternoon. Thank you Pam! The of choice. Choose wisely. I choose the Son, carry­in dinner was delicious, thanks to all of that’s my freedom! “If the Son therefore shall our good cooks! or our Facebook Page make you free, ye shall be free indeed”. John The Beech Grove people hope that everyone 8:36. has a blessed summer. We want to thank our Lord, Jesus Christ for Joe Pinkerton, Pastor the souls who chose freedom from death, hell Gloria Kidder, Reporter OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 10 Ohio To Host 2019 National Association July 21-24 Cincinnati, Ohio

Your help is needed! *Hospitality Greeters *Ushers *Booth Workers *Prayer Committee

Please Contact the Ohio State Office at 614/751-1190 for more information FREDDY DUTTON MINISTRIES “Holding Forth The Word of Life”

1700 Hale Court Columbus, Ohio 43228 614/276-0200 or 614/738-0683 email: [email protected]

This year begins 16 years of serving in full­time Evangelism and Soul Winning! Our full­time evangelistic ministry was organized and began in "2003". At that time, we had no financial sup­ port or appointments. We had a great burning desire to touch our generation with the gospel of Jesus Christ! We have faithfully honored and served the Lord in this calling. We can truly say that God is so faithful as He continues to care for us in such a powerful and miraculous way! During these 16 years, we have been blessed to see approximately 5,400 powerful altar deci­ sions,. We have been privileged to minister on a weekly basis with approximately 150 churches and pastors and have driven over half a million safe miles. We are so grateful and thankful for the Lord's divine watch and care over us!

As I reported to you during 2018, I was becoming ill and not managing traveling very well, but kept pushing and continued traveling and preaching. After seeing several physicians and neu­ rologists, last November I was officially diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. The physicians have determined that I have had this disease for years as a result of exposure to Agent Orange. I served our country during the Vietnam War and was in Army Aviation on helicopters. This resulted in direct exposure with the chemical "Agent Orange" that was being sprayed to kill all foliage. Are you receiving the "America needs Revival" and I continue to pray that we can see this happen in our lifetime! Coming up next year, I will be celebrating 50 years of service in my calling into the ministry of the Lord! I can truly say that with Terry always being with me serving and using her God given gifts and talents to assist me in all things, "we have been faithful, and I have been faithful to the highest calling of preaching the gospel and ministering in many capacities"! Sometime this fall we are planning a celebration of our "50 Years" in the ministry. When we get the date estab­ lished, we want everyone to come and be a part of this celebration.

Please pray for us! Our prayers are always with our dear friends and saints of God across Ohio. We thank you and are so grateful for the many acts of kindness you show us! "We love you and If you would like to receive all the Ohio FWB News, just send thank God for your love in return to us!" your email address to For Revivals, Conferences, Homecoming and other special services, [email protected] please contact me at the above address. OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 11 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 12

SOUTH COLUMBUS (TRINITY) Greetings from South Columbus FWB 2019 HOLY GROUND FREE WILL BAPTIST YOUTH FOR CHRIST CAMP Church. Located at: 5150 RIBER RD, HILLSBORO, OHIO 45133 It’s graduation season. Congratulations to our graduates Jill Carter and Brandon Michael. Pray for these young adults as they start this new journey in their lives. This is also vacation season and many of our congregation are enjoying a well deserved vaca­ tion, please pray for their safe travels. It has been a busy time here in South Columbus. We enjoyed Covered By Love, June (Bldg- Worship, Devotions, Recreation, etc.) (New Kitchen/Dining Hall Building) (Completely new Kitchen facilities) 9th and Bro. Ethan Smith brought our mes­ sage. We also enjoyed a movie night, with good food and fellowship, and looking forward to our July and August movie night. We are looking forward to Corey Carroll bringing our message July 7th and God's Ambassadors singing for us July 14. Trinity Conference meets August 3rd. Our (Improved Pond facilities) homecoming is August 25th. Service times are 10AM Sunday School and 11AM worship serv­ Newly built, fully furnished kitchen and dining area, as well as the huge pond is now available for swimming and pedal ice. boats! A Pastor from a camp in 2012 was so impressed with our improvements in these areas that he said he wished Tim Stevens, Pastor other FWB churches were aware of our new (Kitchen/Dining hall) and improved (the Pond) facilities. Kathy Messer, Reporter

SWAUGER VALLEY (PINE CREEK) For leasing and information on the above camps call Larry Glenn (937) 478-3815, Donna Glenn (937) 475-2710, Greetings from Swauger Valley. The Lord’s Rev. Steve Nickels (937) 478-1182, Pastor Tim Hamilton (937) 559-1966 goodness ever abounds. We have enjoyed the or E­mail us at [email protected]. blessings of the Lord in worship, Bible study and services! What a joy to serve Him and tell 2019 Camps others about Him. July 7–12: Sr. Co-ed Camp (Ages 13-20 boys/girls) July 14-19: Jr. Boys Camp (Ages 8-13) VBS was an amazing time to share the treasure July 21-26: Jr. Girls Camp (Ages 8-13) we seek; the love of Christ and His salvation Please let us know if you would like to view a camp presentation. plan with a great group of kiddos. We look for­ ward to VBS each year and joy of telling His story in such a special way. A ministry of Northridge Free Will Baptist Church, 4800 Payne Ave, Dayton, OH 45414 Swauger Valley’s annual homecoming service will be July 28th with Bro. Bob Bradley and May 4th we hosted the Little Miami River LIGHTHOUSE (TRI­STATE) NORTHRIDGE Kyle and Brittany Schaeffer singing. Conference. Greetings to all my fellow Free Will Baptists, Blessing from Northridge FWB Church! Our youth team will be traveling to Tennessee We have a luncheon after morning worship it is a pleasure to write this report and we are The neighborhoods surrounding our church to do volunteer work at the Oaks and the Hope every first Sunday each month. We have very praising God as always. were hit pretty hard by the tornados that came Center in July with our fellow FWB brothers good food and fellowship and are thankful for On May 5th we had a retirement dinner for through in May. There were approximately 23 and sisters. everyone who brings food. We are blessed! Sister Susan Courtney following our Sunday families who attend our church that were affect­ May God bless! Thank you precious Jesus. morning service. The ladies provided a great ed by tornados. Mike Simpson, Pastor We have movie night every month. We dinner and we enjoyed a great time of fellow­ The tornados hit the week before we were to Laura Simpson, Reporter watched good movies, have good fellowship ship. We, also celebrated Mother’s Day in May. hold VBS. Instead of having the usual VBS and we have refreshments and popcorn. We May 9th we had a graduation dinner for David activities, our church leadership decided to have PURITAN (SOUTH CENTRAL) thankful and appreciate everybody make it pos­ Lin Tyree. We were so pleased to celebrate this kid­friendly meals, crafts, and games for the Summer is here and the weather is getting hot. sible. time with him and his family. children. Any adults who were hungry were Our church has been busy working for our We have a monthly songfest with very good Brod Bobby took a well­deserved vacation in also welcomed to a warm meal. Lots of food, Lord. singing, Then we have refreshments and fellow­ June and we were pleased to welcome Bro. items, and cash were donated and passed out to We honored our four graduates, Rick Jayjohn, ship. Rufus Williams as our guest preacher. He did a whoever stopped by the church and needed Elijah Willis, Andrew Baldwin, and Hannah June 9th we had a church service at Bro. great job. Bro. James Bristow taught help, as well as gift cards for items people were Fortner, from high school and Alexis Wiseman Lowell and Sis. Clara Henderson’s home. Wednesday night Bible study and did a great in need of (such as gas for generators and med­ from the 8th grade with a cookout and time of We had good attendance and a good service. job. icine). What a blessing to be able to give at a fellowship. We wish them well as they start the The LORD sure blesses His children. It We celebrated Father’s Day with gifts and time when so much by so many was needed. next chapter in their lives. was a blessing have church service at their baked treats for our men. June 26th we had On a brighter side, on Sunday evening, June On Memorial Day, we honored our veterans in home. movie night and everyone brought food and 23, we were blessed to have Moshe the Hamden parade. Thank you to all veterans May God richly bless everyone. snacks. Lomentaria (a “Messianic Jew” and minister for your service to our country. In June, we Jim Conley, Pastor Bobby Courtney, Pastor from Israel) in service with us and preach for us. enjoyed Bro. Paul Keener teaching and preach­ Dean Lewis, Reporter Nancy Reiner, Reporter We hold three youth camps July 7­26th and the ing for us. We also had our first “Prom” and counselors and campers are excited and ready everyone who attended looked wonderful and for camp season. What a difference the camp had a great time of fellowship. BOOKKEEPING has made in so many lives. We are also excited Continue to remember our sick and shut ins as ACCOUNTING to have Zenobia Curtis home for the summer we have several battling cancer and other sick­ NOTARY PUBLIC from Cap Haitien Haiti. She was a teacher there ness. Enjoy the summer and always give the last year. The Lord also blessed three of our Lord praise! Blessings to all. ministers to help build a church in Kochi, Japan, Jamie Fortner, Pastor M. J. LOWE’S the last few months. Rhonda Fortner, Reporter It is always our prayer that the lost see their INCOME TAX SERVICE need for a Saviour. Also, please pray for all the FELLOWSHIP TABERNACLE 3213 SOUTH HIGH STREET people who lost so much in the tornado. (LITTLE MIAMI) COLUMBUS OHIO 43207 Tune in to our weekly radio ministry on Greetings from Fellowship Tabernacle. Sunday at 2:30pm (Station WGNZ 1110 AM The LORD is sure blessings our services in and 104.3 FM) His special way. JIM & JEAN LOWE Phone 1­614­491­6280 Join us in service on our church web page – We offer prayers for all those who are sick and OWNERS FAX 1­614­491­4554 www.Northridgefwbc.org and click on live those who have lost family members. streaming. We are thankful for all those who come and [email protected] In His service. and preach for us and those that minister to us Tim Hamilton, Pastor in songs. Corky Cosmos, Reporter OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 13

BLOOM (PINE CREEK) Our spring and summer blessings are continu­ ing with many great services. Our revival with Thought for the Month Cal Ray Evans was wonderful, and we enjoyed the many visitors from other churches who “And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should joined with us. We heard preaching and singing from a young preacher, Shayne Wilds and be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the Gideon speaker, Mike Skaggs, Roger books that should be written. Amen.” John 21:25 Lavender, Mike Allen and Shawn Campbell, our youth minister have all given us the word of God these past months. ISLAND ROAD (CUYAHOGA LORAIN) revival with Rev. Tim Stout was absolutely FAITH (SOUTH CENTRAL) We have had two saved since our last report, Greetings to all in the sweet name of our wonderful! If you missed that one, we have two Greetings from Faith FWB Church! and they have continued to come regularly and Savior Jesus Christ. There isn’t much to report more scheduled. Be with us for revival Sept. 8­ We had Family Day on May 5th with special enjoy worshipping our Lord. from our church this summer. We are doing fair­ 11th with Bros. Bill Pitts, Tom Dooley and singing from Sis. Sherry Mosley. We had a Hannah Spergin blessed us with special ly well at this time, since our pastor stepped Mike Mounts. The Ministers’ Trio will be potluck dinner following the morning service. singing; and the following High School down back in the spring. God has truly been providing our music. Services will be 6:00pm The ladies of the church went to Golden Corral Graduates were given Bibles, Allison Cheek, blessing us with wonderful guest preachers on the 8th and 7:00pm on the other days. Then on May 13th in celebration of Mother’s Day. It McKenzie England, McKenzie Kennedy, Lance every Sunday! mark your calendar for revival again with Rev. was a good time for all the ladies to enjoy fel­ Rogers, Hannah Spergin, Molly Thompson. We know that God will supply preachers for us Edwin Hayes to be held on November 24­26th, lowship and reflect on the blessings of mother­ College graduates honored were Levi until He sends the man he chooses for pastor. with service beginning at 6:00pm on the 24th hood. Middleton and Emily Seitz. We are planning and praying to have a revival and 7:00pm the other two days. Congratulations to our two graduates this year! We want to congratulate Keith and Johnda towards the end of summer or early fall. The “The Great Race”, our VBS, will be held We honored Bro. Jacob Tucker and Sis. Elisha Durham with new son, Brantley. A baby dedica­ Lord has put this on our heart. August 7–9th, from 6:00–8:30 p.m. Rev. Mike Sellards on Sunday, May 26th. They were both tion was held as Denny and Gidget Cade wel­ We are not discouraged but the Holy Spirit has Mounts will be teaching our adult class. presented with a King James Study Bible. We comed twin baby boys into their home been encouraging us and telling us that He has On October 6th at 4:00pm, the Dumplin Valley are proud of both of them! Maverick and Maddox, and praying that their plans for this church to prosper and to make us Trio will be with us in concert. And on It’s a busy time planning for VBS! This year’s adoption will be complete later this year. a soul winning station in these last days. We are November 17th, at the 10:30am service, The theme will be Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Our Mother's Day banquet was a blessing, and willing to obey and follow the guidance of the Woodsmen Quartet will be with us. Journey to Share the Truth. We will be having we appreciate all the ladies that made it possible Lord and excited to see what he has in store for We know we will be seeing you when we host VBS July 8­12th from 6:00 to 8:30pm. Family this year. us. Please keep our church in your prayers. the Central Ohio Conference November 2nd at night will be Saturday, July 13th at 6:00pm. Be We appreciate the messages from Pastor Thank you. God bless you all. 10:00am. in prayer for Sis. Angie Vanover (our director) Kenny and Associate Pastor Allen each week; Audrey Carey, Reporter We also want to invite you to join us once and all those involved. Our goal is to spread they give us the truth that is needed today as we again at our Christmas Dinner on December God’s word to the children and to see souls all pray for more souls to be saved here and in FREDERICK (PINE CREEK) 13th, at the Lodge at Lake Choctaw. We had saved. our sister churches everywhere! During May and June, Pastor Rusty’s sermons such a wonderful time last year – with 76 in We are also looking forward to celebrating our Kenny Klaiber, Pastor and Don Meadows’s Sunday school lessons attendance. We are looking for another great 47th Anniversary of the establishment of our Diana Claxon Stonerock, Reporter have inspired and challenged us to grow spiritu­ evening with even more attendees. church on July 28th. We look forward to hear­ ally. Don Meadows and Ron Henthorn, fill in If you’re ever in the area, please stop in and ing Bro. Edwin Hayes preach for us! the pulpit occasionally for Pastor Rusty, deliv­ join us for service on Sunday mornings at We are thankful for God’s blessings on our MOUNT STERLING (TRINITY) ered helpful sermons. 10:30am and Sunday evenings at 6:00pm or on church and in our lives. We ask His blessings Greetings from Mt. Sterling FWB Church. At our Wednesday evening Bible study, Pastor Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm for the Andy on all of you. Summer has arrived and so has the heat. Rusty is teaching basic Bible truths for new Griffith Bible Study. In His service. Our church would like to congratulate the Christians and reminding us how we can live Michael Baldwin, Pastor Tony Vanover, Pastor Class of 2019. We had a total of 10 graduates out our Christianity. Among topics discussed Nena Dillon, Reporter Teresa Gibson, Reporter this year. We are so proud of them. were Baptism, Stewardship, The Fruit of the Since school let out our youth group and chap­ Spirit and Putting on the Full Armor of God. First Springfield Pastor Mark Rucker and erons went on an overnight trip to the Ark A hog roast and bean dinner was held June Encounter and then to Kings Island. They all Good food, fellowship and the music of Almost Bethesda Chapel Pastor Dan King Retire had a great time. There were added blessings. Also, since school let out all the churches in We honored our two high school graduates. With Over 30 Years of Service the community have been providing free lunch­ We presented Hannah Oliver and Braydon es for the children of the community at the Mt Queen with Bibles and enjoyed fellowship with Sterling Community Center. Our church pro­ them sharing cake and ice cream. Remember First Springfield FWB Pastor Mark Rucker vides lunches on Thursdays. Keep all the little them in prayer as they begin this new chapter in retired after 34 years of service at the end of ones in your prayers. It is sad to think about their lives. April. He began as pastor of the First how many children go hungry during the sum­ Movie Night is held the last Friday monthly. Springfield Church in 1985. mer months. Along with inspiring movies, we have good fel­ Edwin Hayes preached our morning service lowship and good food. Everyone is invited to on July 7th. join us for our next movie at 7:00 on July 26th. The church had an open house to honor We have a lot of things planned for the next August 25th is homecoming day. Beginning Brother Mark and his wife, Sister Patsy on couple of months. with our morning service at 9:30am, it will be a May 5th. We have special singers coming to our church day of fellowship, food, special singing and on July 13th @ 6pm. The group is called The preaching. We welcome all to share in the bless­ Detty Sisters. These little girls are 2, 6, 8 and ings of this day. 10 and have voices like angels. If you can, we We request your prayers for our members who Bethesda Chapel Ohio Executive Secretary would love for you to join us. are ill: Jr and Etha Howard and Glay and FWB Pastor Daniel Edwin Hayes and July 17th @ 6pm we will have our communion and feetwashing service. Clorine Cameron. King retired after 33 Pastor Mark Rucker September 15th is our homecoming service “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding years of service. He abundantly above all that we ask or think, please come for the preaching, singing and good according to the power that worketh in us. Unto and his wife Sue came fellowship in the Lord. Afterwards we him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to the Bethesda Church in 1986 from the Tick Ridge will have dinner downstairs. All are invit­ throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” FWB Church. ed. Ephesians 3:20–21 September 21st we will have a carnival at our Rusty Larter, Pastor church. Planning of this event is still in the Janet Meadows, Reporter Brother Dan serves the denomination on the Ohio works. More to come about it at a later date. General Board and Executive Committee. God is so good! REDEEMER (CENTRAL OHIO) “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” We have been having a wonderful year but we His last Sunday at Bethesda Chapel was held on June II Corinthians 5:7 Pastor Dan King JD Bowman, Pastor are definitely looking forward to the events we 30th. have planned for later in the fall! Our May Brandi Graham, Reporter OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 14 International Franklin Conference Mission News Revival September 15­18 IM Board Annual Session Yields Much Fruit The Board of IM, Inc. met in its annual session, April 29­30, 2019, in Antioch, Tennessee. During Sunday Service at 6:00 pm the two­day meeting, the board received reports, interviewed candidates, discussed policy, and acted on proposals from the administrative staff. The board engaged in productive, in­depth dis­ Monday­Wednesday Services at 7:00 pm cussions concerning long­term funding needs as well as the joys and challenges of developing international ministry teams. Westerville FWB Church

“I thoroughly enjoy wrestling with missiological issues,” reflected General Director Clint 390 E College Avenue Morgan, “but nothing compares to the joy of hearing the testimonies of candidates as they come Westerville, Ohio 43081 Edwin Hayes before the board or the thrill of seeing their elation when they are approved to serve.”

Candidate shepherd Neil Gilliland, Ph. D. brought eleven candidates to the board for interviews. For more information contact (614) 626­2078 As a result: Rev. Jerry Sargent, Executive Secretary of Franklin Conference

The board reinstated Debbie Griffin as a career missionary to Japan. Debbie, initially appointed 2020 will be approved at the December 2019 board meeting. in 1985, faithfully served 26 years as a missionary in Japan. In 2011, in response to the request of family members and God’s guidance, she resigned to care for her mother. Mrs. Griffin joined The board reelected Jeff Manning as chairman, Jeff Nichols as vice chairman, and Mark Price Heaven’s chorus in November 2017. The Japan missionary team looks forward to Debbie rejoin­ as secretary. ing their effort to reach the second­largest unreached people group in the world. Board members in attendance were: Janice Banks (TX), Will Harmon (AR), Danny Gasperson Born in Cuba, 22­year­old Keren Delgado grew up in Cuba, Panama, and Russellville, Arkansas. (NC), Cameron Lane (AR), Jeff Manning (NC), Jeff Nichols (TN), Mark Price (OH), and Keren served in Bulgaria during the summer of 2018 through IM’s College Missions Program Rodney Yerby (AL). and discovered an opportunity to teach Spanish as a second language. The board approved Keren as a two­year intern to Bulgaria. Keren will graduate May 10, 2019, with a B.A. in intercultural IM Announces New Director of Mobilization studies from Welch College in Gallatin, Tennessee. She will receive certification in teaching General Director Clint Morgan announced Danny Gasperson, Spanish as a second language in Spain before transitioning to Bulgaria. of Asheville, North Carolina, has accepted the position of direc­ tor of mobilization. As part of his duties, he will also become the Floridian Jacob received approval as a two­year intern in southern France with Shane and Joy administrative director of The Hanna Project. Gasperson began (surname withheld) under The Hanna Project. The 22­year­old is scheduled to graduate from his new role on July 1, 2019. Welch College in Gallatin, Tennessee, in May with a degree in English. Jacob wants to use English as a means to improve the lives of North African immigrants in France. Morgan noted, “We are excited to have Danny join our home team. His work in missions, church mobilization, and disciple­ Casey Jones, a 33­year­old Oklahoma native, served a short stint with IM a decade ago in ship clearly reveal his passion for missions. We look forward to Central Asia. Health issues brought an abrupt end to his ministry. Unable to serve overseas, he the great impact his work and heart will have on IM’s efforts to began serving immigrants in the Tulsa, Oklahoma, area. The board reinstated Casey as a career “labor with the Body of Christ to fulfill the Great Commission.” missionary seconded to American Dream Center, an organization founded to provide advocacy, education, and help to refugees and immigrants. Gasperson has pastored Zephyr Hills Free Will Baptist Church in Asheville for 19 years. He and his wife Jackie have promoted missions awareness and involvement during their tenure. Danny Ohio native Rachel Burns received board approval as a professional servant/educator seconded once said, “We thought we were a ‘missions­minded church’, but discovered we were just a to Resourcing Christian Education (RCE) at Dakar Academy in Senegal. The 25­year­old gradu­ church that didn’t mind missions. As we examined our priorities and oriented them to God’s pri­ ated from Welch College with a B.S. degree in elementary education in 2016. She has taught for orities, missions went from being part of the program to the heart of the program. Our people three years at Ashland City Elementary School in Ashland City, Tennessee. developed personal ownership of missions.” That heart for missions became evident as the con­ gregation sponsored an annual prayer summit. Missionaries discovered Zephyr Hills attendees The board approved transitioning Matt and Courtney Lindsey to professional servant/educators truly knew them—their prayer needs, their family members, their particular missionary efforts, seconded to RCE in Japan. In April 2018, the couple received a partnership blessing to serve and their fields of service. As a result, missionaries love to participate in this local church through RCE. The Lindseys play a vital role in the new Hope Alive church plant in the endeavor. Morgan affirmed, “We’d love to see Danny help churches across the country make a Tokorazawa City area of Tokyo. similar journey.”

The board approved 22­year­old Brenton Driscoll and 21­year­old Debbie Trifonova as two­ Though a congregation of fewer than 100 people, Zephyr Hills is consistently one of the top year interns to Bulgaria. The couple plan to marry this summer on July 12. Brenton, a missionary donating churches to the WMO (World Mission Offering) and overall missions support. In 2018, kid from Japan whose parents serve with OMF International, will graduate with a B.S. degree in Zephyr Hills gave more than $32,000 to IM, ranking in the top 20 donating churches in the Christian ministries from Welch College later this year. Debbie, the oldest of IM’s national mis­ nation. Their $19,200 WMO offering placed them at number four in the country. Gasperson regu­ sionaries Trif and Vanya Trifonov’s children, will graduate on May 10 with a B.A. in English, larly promoted IM and THP at association meetings and other FWB churches. He also encour­ also from Welch College. aged churches in western North Carolina to participate in a Perspectives course, broadening their vision, understanding, and participation in the Great Commission. He has led multiple overseas The board interviewed Jonathan and Michelle Chereau. Jonathan, of French descent, was raised trips with The Hanna Project, primarily in Central Asia. Many of his church members have par­ in a Christian home and in the Saint Nazaire FWB church with missionary Jerry Gibbs as his ticipated in mission trips both overseas and in the States. pastor. Jonathan served with Operation Mobilization for two years. Michelle grew up in the Villalba FWB church outside Madrid, Spain. Jonathan and Michelle married in 2012. The couple The 59­year­old was elected to IM’s board at the 2018 National Association of Free Will Baptists. lived and worked in Spain for several years, before moving to France. Mentored by missionaries His acceptance of the Director of Mobilization position will necessitate the election of a new Robert Bryan and Dennis Teague, Jonathan and Michelle serve on the church council of the St. board member at the 2019 convention in Ohio. Sébastien church. Discussions between the general director, France field leadership, and the board are ongoing to determine the best way to classify this committed couple. Danny graduated with a B.A. from Welch College in 1984. He earned his M.A. from Bob Jones University in 1985. Married for 37 years, he and his wife Jackie have two children, a son­in­law, “What a blessing it was to hear missionary candidates talk about their desire to be obedient to and two grandsons. God’s calling,” stated Board Chairman Jeff Manning. “If this meeting was any indication of the future of IM and its involvement in fulfilling the Great Commission, I’d say the future is very Gasperson informed his church of the new position on Sunday, May 12. “Pray for Zephyr Hills,” bright!” Danny asked, “as they make adjustments and seek a new pastor. Jackie and I are eternally grate­ ful to our wonderful Zephyr Hills Church family who faithfully loved, encouraged and supported An unmodified approval of the audit was received from Blankenship CPA Group. The board us for the past 19 years. We, too, desire your prayers as we transition into this new stage of min­ approved a $7.5 million framework budget for 2020 to be presented at the July 2019 convention istry. I am thrilled and honored to join the IM family to learn from and labor with them as we of the National Association of Free Will Baptists in Cincinnati, Ohio. The operational budget for strive to make God's Name famous to the ends of the earth.” OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 15

Junction the second week of June. A huge thank Hospital you to everyone that gave their time to make it happen. Greetings from the Our fathers were honored with gift cards from Update Lowes on their special day. Ohio Women Active for Congratulations to Chris McGrail and Lorie Taylor who were married at the White Gravel Christ State Board. Ohio Women Active for Christ Mines the same afternoon. Until next time, blessings from the little white church in the cornfield. Jimmy Dummitt, Pastor Jenny Dummitt, Reporter News and Upcoming Events

GRACE Hello to our fellow brothers and sisters from Recap… Grace FWB Church. We hope everyone is doing Carolyn Meade, wife of Southwest FWB well and continuing to enjoy the blessings of the Our State meeting was held on Thursday June 20, 2019 at 1pm at Heritage Free Will Pastor John Meade was in the hospital in May Lord. He truly blesses each of us every day. Baptist Church. One Sound from Westerville Free Will Baptist Church provided our and had major surgery June 2nd. She is now Warm weather is finally here. There is so much special singing (Aslyn Mounts, Emily Sammons, Haley Wellman and Jessica home recovering. beauty out with the flowers and the trees, God Musetti). These young ladies did a great job! They will represent us at our National does awesome work, His beauty is all around Convention this month. We enjoyed a wonderful message from Ruth McDonald, IM Noah Roberts, a deacon from the Westerville us. missionary to Japan. We had a productive time of business. We also had a time of FWB Church took a fall in May and fractured We continue to pray for your churches and ask his pelvis. He has been in the hospital and your continued prayers for our church as well. celebration to honor President Sarah Sargent and her years of exceptional service to through rehab. He is now home. We all need each others prayers. Let's continue OWAC as she focuses on other ministries God is calling her to. to pray for our country and our leaders. Please Canaan FWB Pastor Mike Gladson was in the pray for Sis. Kim as she is continuing to recov­ Looking Forward… hospital in May. He was released, but had to go er from surgery. Also her mom has been in and back for surgery on May 15th. He is now home out of the hospital and nursing home. Pray for recovering. Sis. Kathy and her mom, and Bro. Bill. Let's OWAC Annual Fall Retreat will never forget to pray for our lost family and be held September 13­14 at the Rev. Tim Cassity from the Porter Church friends and our sick. Berlin Grande in the heart of broke his ankle and underwent surgery. He is We pray you all enjoy the summer and all the Amish country! Our theme is now home recovering. kids stay safe during summer vacation. Thank “God Speaks Still”. Our theme you all for your continued prayers. verse is Psalms 46:10. We are Janice Beverly, from the Hillview Church We invite you to come worship with us. excited to have Ana Batts as our suffered a stroke May 15th and spent one night Sunday school is 10:00­11:00am and worship is in the hospital. Janice is the mother to Chapel at 11:00am. Blessings to all. speaker. Ana is a pastor’s wife in Hill FWB Pastor John Beverly and the mother Elaine Booth, Reporter Nashville, TN and is also a speaker in law to Hillview Pastor Bill Hayes. at the Shine Conferences. We are WAKEFIELD (PORTER) also looking forward to hearing Cheri Hayes, wife of Hillview Pastor Bill Hello to our fellow believers and I pray you from our special singer which I’m Hayes had surgery on her ankle in June. are all enjoying the summer weather; a lot rain, going to leave as a surprise! Your church should have already received your retreat but thank God he is in control and not us. We letter. If you didn’t feel free to email me at the address below. Remember the Lighthouse Pastor Bobby Courtney’s grand­ were blessed in May to see Duke and Gail Alley retreat is a month earlier than normal so payment is due in full by August 5th. We daughter, Weni (11 months old) had surgery and their son Matthew join the church. We were hope to see each lady there. (See retreat ad on page 11.) May 17th to correct a kidney problem. His also blessed to have our parking lot paved and great grandson Mason (four years old) had sur­ striped and Bro. Duke Alley fixed a new sign gery on May 19th to repair a hernia had to cor­ for us. We appreciate his work. We had a good Going once, going twice, sold! rect a breathing problem. Both are doing well. attendance for Mother's Day and passed out flowers to all the mothers. Former Williams Road FWB Pastor Larry We were sorry to hear of the passing of mis­ Back by popular demand is our Purse and Dessert Auction. Does anyone feel like a Sparks has been taken to Hospice Care. sionary Cathy Crawford but know she is sundae on Saturday? It will be held on November 2, 2019 from 2­4pm at Hillview secure at home with her Savior that she wit­ Free Will Baptist Church. Located at 14441 National Rd. SW, Etna, OH 43068. We Gene Castle from the Westerville Church was nessed about in France. May 22nd we started would love to see your ladies group there. The proceeds from this event have yet to taken to Mt. Carmel E Hospital June 21st and having Bible study on Wednesday nights start­ be determined we will communicate that information in the September edition of the underwent tests. ing in Genesis to help the new Christians learn; Ambassador. as well as helping established Christians. Ruth Ann Castle, bookkeeper at the Ohio Bro. Charlie Tackett preached both Sunday Your sister in Christ, State Association Office and member of the services for us while Bro. Lowell was on his Jessica Musetti, OWAC Secretary Columbus First Church is having severe spine annual fishing trip with his boys. He was tickled and back problems. She is being treated for it that he caught the biggest fish this time! [email protected] and may have to have surgery. Our sister Melissa Alley has been quite ill with very high blood pressure. She had a light stroke HAMILTON GLADES (PORTER) in mid June and was in the hospital several Summer greetings from Hamilton Glades. days; but thank God she is recovering. She still FELLOWSHIP TRACT LEAGUE We've had plenty of rain this spring and sum­ needs prayer for her high blood pressure. Our mer but the Lord knows what we need. deacon’s wife, Sis. Mary Collins was hospital­ Sister Francine did a good job coordinating ized June 23rd with severe intestinal problems. our Mother/Daughter banquet in May, with fun Thankfully she is home now and they are trying For all of your TRACT needs games and good food. We had a good atten­ to determine her base problem. Sharon Mullett dance on Mother's Day. Our mothers were got out to church June 16th for the first time in given beautiful flowers picked out by our months after being laid up with a severely bro­ Call Rep. Tim Lapish at 1-614-937-5746 flower committee of Leslie, Shannon and ken ankle. These and several others with assort­ Shelia. ed afflictions still need prayer. or 1-513-494-1075; The next weekend several of us attended the In May several of us attended the Porter conference at Bethesda and enjoyed their hospi­ Conference at Bethesda Church. I hope you all tality. We had one high school graduate this take time to enjoy all the beautiful flowers that year. Congratulations to Ethan Stone, and best are in abundance now. God has created a truly Available for pulpit supply wishes as he joins the armed forces. lovely world. Let's keep on serving him. [email protected] We had a very successful VBS at Giddyup Lowell King, Pastor Barb Conley, Reporter OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 16

Congresswoman and Dr. Black Receive Welch’s Strong and Courageous Award Evangelist Congresswoman Diane Black and Dr. David Black were presented the Strong and Courageous Award honoring their Christian faith and service in Sumner County, according to Mike Blanton Dr. Charles Lea, Special Assistant to the President. The award was presented during the May 13 second annual Mike Blanton and Welch College Strong and Courageous Banquet, sponsored by Sumner Regional Medical Center and HighPoint Health Evidence System. available to sing at your church! (614) 871-2795 Available for services, revivals and campmeetings!

biblical studies, theology, or ministry can be directed to Dr. Jeff Cockrell, Program Coordinator of the M.A. in Theology and Ministry, at (615) 675­5255 or [email protected].

In introducing the award recipients, Lea noted the many accomplishments and Christian example Welch College Graduates 52 in Commencement Exercises of this special couple. Congresswoman Black has helped people through her service as a regis­ tered nurse, her instruction as an educator at Vol State Community College, and her work as a Welch College conferred degrees on 52 students in its second Commencement exercises on the state representative, state senator, and member of the United States House of Representatives. new campus in Gallatin, TN, according to Provost Matthew McAffee. The Student Activities Center space was converted into a 700­plus seating auditorium for the Baccalaureate service on Dr. David Black, a nationally renowned toxicologist, is the founder of Aegis Science Thursday evening, May 9, and the Commencement ceremony on Friday morning, May 10. The Corporation, which he led from its formation in 1990 until September 2016. Dr. Black is well college awarded degrees in multiple programs, including two­year associate’s degrees, four­year known for his collection of Bibles and historical documents linking his love of country and the bachelor’s degrees, and the Master of Arts degree in Theology and Ministry. Fifty­two percent of Christian faith. the class graduated with honors.

Approximately 250 individuals attended the sold out community event on the Welch College campus. The evening began with a special rendition of the national anthem performed by State Representative Terri Lynn Weaver. Welch College ensemble Rejoice! provided music before Congressman John Rose presented a challenge and testimony.

The ancient leader of Israel, Joshua, portrayed by Greg Wilson, also made an appearing to share with the audience. Welch President Matt Pinson shared the college’s mission as a Christian com­ munity of faith and learning. Event patrons, along with event speakers, enjoyed an opening recep­ tion hosted by President and Mrs. Pinson in the Presidents Dining Room in Celorio Hall.

Although donations continue to be received, the Strong and Courageous event has raised over $80,000 for student scholarships at Welch.

Welch College Signs Articulation Agreement with New Orleans Seminary

Earlier this month Welch College signed an articulation agreement with New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (NOBTS) for transfer of credit, according to Kevin Hester, Dean of the School of Theology and Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness at Welch. Dr. Bruce Ashford, provost of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina, delivered this year’s Commencement address. Ashford urged graduates not to withdraw “This agreement, signed May 2019, will provide an easy pathway for Welch College graduates from culture but to transform every square inch with the gospel of the kingdom of Christ. Dr. into graduate degree programs at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary,” Hester said. “This Mark Stripling, pastor of North Little Rock Free Will Baptist Church in North Little Rock, transfer­of­credit agreement is a pre­approval of Welch College courses for comparable New Arkansas, reminded the graduating class at Baccalaureate of God’s faithfulness, calling them to a Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary courses.” life of thankfulness and service to Christ. “Graduates from Welch College’s Master of Arts (M.A.) in Theology and Ministry may transfer On Thursday afternoon, May 9, six graduate students received the M.A. in Theology and Ministry twenty­seven hours of the thirty­three­hour program into the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) program and participated in the hooding ceremony, held in the Presidents Dining Room of Celorio Hall. at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Such a graduate could complete his or her first Dr. Jeffrey Cockrell, program coordinator of the M.A. in Theology and Ministry, reflected on year of seminary study at Welch College and complete the remainder of NOBTS’s three­year their course of study throughout the program and the importance of scriptural exegesis and its M.Div. in two additional years of study.” faithful application to life and ministry in a secular age. A reception followed for graduates and their families. The agreement also states that graduates of Welch College’s bachelor’s degree programs in min­ istry studies with a grade of “B” in associated courses will receive up to twenty­three hours of President Matt Pinson recognized retiree Sandy Goodfellow on his retirement for thirty­nine credit or 25% of the required coursework in NOBTS’s accelerated M.Div. program. All Welch years of faithful service as director of plant operations of Welch College. His work in this role graduates with sufficient coursework will enjoy advanced standing at the seminary. The agree­ was crucial to the successful relocation of the college to Gallatin from its West End campus. ment also allows students who have taken Welch Greek and Hebrew courses to move seamlessly Martha Fletcher, executive assistant to the president, was honored for her ten years of distin­ into more advanced language courses as NOBTS. guished service. Dr. Ron Callaway, Program Coordinator of Intercultural Studies, was named Academic Advisor of the Year for the second year in a row. President Pinson also honored Mr. “Our work with New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in securing this articulation agree­ John Carter by naming him Professor Emeritus of History. Mr. Carter recently retired from his ment provides an important external confirmation of the excellence of our existing biblical, theo­ decades of service as history program coordinator and is only the fourth retiree to receive this logical, and ministry programs on the graduate and undergraduate level and will prove very help­ designation along with Mr. Leroy Forlines, Dr. Robert Picirilli, and Mr. Ralph Hampton ful to our graduates moving forward,” Hester said. “New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary is (deceased). a conservative Baptist seminary which has given voice to the Arminian side of the Baptist tradi­ tion. I pray that this relationship will be fruitful for both institutions for many years to come.” The college congratulates the 2019 graduating class and commends them to the service of Christ’s kingdom. Questions about Welch College’s M.A. in Theology and Ministry or undergraduate programs in OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 17

GAHANNA (CORNERSTONE) significant, and we are so grateful to them for Greetings from Gahanna FWB Church. We are their generosity. After some new construction so thankful for God’s love and comfort. and flooring, we were able to be back in the The ladies auxiliary recognized our high sanctuary the last Sunday in June – just in time school graduates, Traci Jackson and Caleb to coincide with our Sunday School picnic. Coakley with a reception on June 2nd after the God has provided for us in so many ways evening worship service. Pray for these gradu­ throughout this process, and we are thankful for ates as they begin their new journey in life. His guidance and direction! VBS will be held July 15– 19th. We pray these Our Vacation Bible School will be held the last children will learn about God and remember week of July (22–26th), from 6:30 – 8:30pm him in the years to come. nightly. Our theme this year is “The Climb.” We are looking forward to our homecoming, Looking forward to seeing all who can attend! Sunday, August 11th. Family and friends will Matt Pond, Pastor be joining in a fellowship dinner following our Heather Brown, Reporter Sunday morning service. Our Church Revival will be held the week of MCGUFFEY (NORTH & WESTERN) August 12 – 18th. Rev. Edwin Hayes will be “This is the day which the LORD hath made; preaching nightly. There will be special singers we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Ps 118:24 each night to praise the Lord in song. We are Greetings from McGuffey FWBC to all our praying for a spirit­filled service each night. brothers and sisters in Christ. We hope every­ Everyone is invited to hear the word of God. one had a blessed Easter Sunday, feasting on a Prayers for a blessed summer. message of resurrection: He’s alive and we are Curtis Booth, Pastor forgiven! Bonnie Justice, Reporter We started May off with a Family Day on Sunday. We had a slide show of pictures of CLEVELAND (CUYAHOGA­LORAIN) loved ones who have already gone on to be with Logan Ellison was our Jesus. We had a wonderful fellowship meal winner for the Growing Our after service with each family carrying in their Sunday School campaign specialty dish. for the Spring quarter on We want to express thanks to Bro. David May 12th. All kids who had Trusty who continues to teach Sunday school perfect attendance for April for us each week. He knows the word very well were entered in a drawing to and does a great job sharing his understanding win $100. of it with us. May May God bless us all as we look forward to 26th Caroline and Ezio summer. Rosset become members of Don Webb, Pastor our church. They bring with Sue Smith, Reporter them two sons, Trent and Sebastian. were blessed by the return of Bro. Rufus and Fellowship Gospel. Special thanks to The FIRST CHILLICOTHE On June 2nd we were rejoic­ Sister Dema Miller. Conley’s, Fellowship Tabernacle and Bev from (SOUTH CENTRAL) ing to see Ezio Rosset bap­ Of course, most know several tornadoes Freedom Church, not only for their donations Happy 4th of July from First FWB Church! tized. destroyed parts of our city and communities but a day of fellowship and support with help­ Summer is officially here, and we are all enjoy­ On June 16th, Pastor Robert Prichard Memorial Day, May 26th. It touched far too ing hands. ing the weather the Lord has blessed us with. announced his retirement effective June 30th many close to our church, but spared members Condolences and needed prayers for the fami­ We pray that you have an opportunity to appre­ after pastoring for 54 years. Rev. Joseph Egnor from tragic loss. lies of Rev. Claude Craine and Sis. Grace ciate the beautiful flowers that have come to full was selected as our new pastor. We are so thankful for God’s blessings. Since (Spurlock) Roberts. bloom. June 21st Bro. Carl Spence went to heaven. then our pastor has been working fiercely gath­ Mark Long, Pastor On a Sunday night in June, our church had the He was a longtime faithful member of our ering, distributing kind words to the homes in Marcella Keaton, Reporter privilege of hearing Richard Coss speak. He church. He will be greatly missed. our communities. It goes with saying Sister spoke about his life experiences that included Joseph Egnor, Pastor Regina Long was close by. SHELBY (NORTHERN OHIO) his past to the present. Mr. Coss’s experiences Mercedes Perez­Egnor, Reporter We sponsored a tornado relief to communi­ Over the last two months, we’ve been gearing were captivating to listen to and his message ty with necessities, food and singing on June up for several summer activities, including the was powerful. Mr. Coss is traveling across the SOUTH CHARLESTON (LITTLE MIAMI) 22nd. Northern Ohio Youth Camp and VBS. United States sharing his story. Our hope is that Greetings from South Charleston. Thanks goes to Bro. Tony Branscomb for host­ However, much of our time has been spent fin­ he will be able to spread his message of hope to We hope this finds everyone walking in faith. ing the different groups of singers and Bro Bo ishing up renovations to our sanctuary and sev­ others and we pray for his safe travels. “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” I Cor. 5:7 Garland for grilled hot dogs. eral Sunday School rooms due to mold issues. Our youth is continuing their efforts to partic­ We are very blessed at South Charleston. Our We would not been able to help as many with­ God blessed us to find a mold remediation com­ ipate in the FWB National that is hosted in congregation be small, but Bro. Forest Dyer out the donations from the following: Forest pany who did the job for us absolutely free. Cincinnati. They have just about raised enough has stepped in and has done a great job at lead­ Valley, Northridge, Calvary, Independent The cost for this remediation would have been money to be able to go. Our church would like ing the church. His faith and determination has to thank Chelsea Irvin in all her hard work in kept us all going. He has been a great Free Will making this possible. Our children are looking Baptist Christian for around 68 years and has forward to this event later this month. preached many of those years. He does a fine Our men and women’s groups are meeting job and we love him dearly. He has been able to every month on a Wednesday night. The next bring in some very faithful men of God to meeting will be held on July 17th and everyone preach for us. is invited to join these meetings. It is a wonder­ We want to send out a special thanks to Bro. ful way to fellowship one with another. Jim Stepp and Bro. Russell Street for all they Our Wednesday night Bible study just finished both have done for the church. God has been up a series known as “Spiritual Gifts.” For good! eight weeks we studied the different gifts and Forest Dyer, Pastor how they can be used in the church and in the Brenda Young, Reporter world around us. June 26th we took a test to find out specifically what our spiritual gift was. FIRST DAYTON (LITTLE MIAMI) Everyone enjoyed taking the test and finding Greetings from First Dayton FWB. out those answers. On July 10th we will be In May Angela and Lisa decorated our church starting a new series to study. We invite every­ to honor the mothers. They did a fabulous job one to come join us. and did it again in June to honor all the fathers. Please remember the persecuted church in Huge thanks for their dedication. We are so your prayers. thankful for the three souls that gave their lives Mitch Salyers, Pastor to the Lord and were baptized May 19th. We Shana McGoye, Reporter OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 18 Jackson ComingComing EventsEvents Conference For Ohio Free Will Baptists

State Wide Revival July 20 National Impact Cincinnati July 21­24 National Association of Free Will Baptists, Cincinnati, Ohio Coalton FWB Church 24 Second Street Central Ohio Coalton, Ohio August 3 Trinity Conference meeting at Mechanicsburg FWB, Jesse Walters, Pastor September 15­18 Franklin Conference Revival with Edwin Hayes, Westerville FWB, Paul Etterling, Pastor August 19-24th

Northern Ohio July 13 Cuyahoga­Lorain Conference meeting at Unity FWB, Eugene Crouch, Pastor 7:00 Nightly July 13 Tri­State Conference meeting at AmbassadorFWB, Roland Luthy, Pastor August 3 North & Western Conference meeting at High Street FWB, Bill Wolford, Pastor *Bro. Corey Carroll August 17 Northern Ohio Conference meeting at First Carey FWB, Sid Ramey, Pastor preaching Southern Ohio July 27 Jackson Conference meeting at Eifort FWB August 10 South­Central Conference meeting at Faith FWB, Tony Vanover, Pastor *Covered by Love to August 10 Pine Creek Conference meeting at Tick Ridge FWB, Tyler Breech, Pastor be singing August 19­24 Jackson Conference Revival 7pm w/Corey Carroll, Covered by Love Singing, Coalton FWB, Tim Simpson, Pastor August 25­28 Porter Association Revival with Tim York, Sunday 6pm, Mon­Wed., 7pm, Harrison FWB, Mike Mounts, Pastor

PORTER (PORTER) an annual food pantry benefit sing September service for the young and older men of our We had our biannual business meeting June Summer 2019 is proving to be an exciting time 21st from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Non perishable church as well. 15th. We were blessed to have Kevin Spencer here at Porter! We started May with fellowship food items will be accepted. A dessert auction VBS was a success, lots of work by our direc­ sing, along with his parents, J.B. and Barbara. time to celebrate our WMO offering. Since the with goodies will be provided by church ladies. tor Chuck Baldwin, his wife Kim and all the We had a large turnout for the singing. women raised more money than the men, the Come join us for a day of fun, food, praise and volunteers goes into this week to insure our kids We recognized our oldest father of 87 yrs, our men provided dessert in a fellowship after a enjoy Homebound, Jeremy Liles, Enabling always walk away more aware of exactly what pastor Wiley Perkins and our youngest was 25 Sunday evening service. We were able to raise Grace and featuring The Dodsons from God can do in their lives. yrs. on Father’s Day. over $3,000 this year. It is fun to be able to chal­ Maysville, Kentucky. We held our Sunday School graduation and Our VBS was held June 27­29th. lenge each other to raise money for such a wor­ Also, Enabling Grace will be singing among Sunday School picnic June 30th. We had a God be with us and bless us until we meet thy cause. a lot of other groups at Salt Fork Gospel Jubilee young man saved in the morning service. Our again. We had Rev. Keith Burden, Executive November 22­23rd. Address for this is 14755 youth choir sang and we had a special message Wiley Perkins, Pastor Secretary of the NAFWB, with us for a morning Cadiz Rd. Lore City, Ohio 43755. by our pastor’s brother, John Meade Jr. So Eleanor Cumberland, Reporter and evening service in June. We experienced Here’s a tidbit...God has perfect timing; never thankful this young man listened to his heart two great sermons with him. We wish him all early, never late. It takes patience and faith, but and turned his life over, we can truly say, this the best in his retirement! it’s worth the wait. How is you patience? Mine was the best decision he will ever make. We had a week of ROAR! VBS starting on June comes up short sometimes. Please keep our pastor in your prayers, he 24th. We had good numbers this year and are Virginia Jones, Reporter broke his hand and had to have surgery, and also happy to have seen so many new faces! This our pastors wife Abby. Her dad had surgery and year we raised money for Allison Caudill who ROSEDALE (CAPITAL CITY) her mom is facing heart surgery in July. With so will be going to Southern France to teach Summer has finally arrived, you just have to much going on in their lives, they continue to do English to North Africans as part of The Hanna take a minute to look around and know that Gods work and put 100% in everything they do. Project. The kids had so much fun moving what God has created is a beautiful canvas. Our associate pastor, Paul Moore and his wife, through all of the stations that we had set up in Our homecoming was held May 20th, with Dawn have been filling in whenever needed and It’s summertime, so you know what that means: our fellowship building. They moved through singing by Mike Blanton & Evidence and are doing an amazing job as well. It’s time for Summer Camp! The finishing lessons, games, crafts and food stations. We preaching by Mike Blanton. We are looking forward to our revival in touches are being made to the Prayer Stations, have many dependable volunteers at this church We were blessed to be able to hold our August. All information will be posted on our the kitchen staff is rattling the pots and pans as and VBS would not be possible without every Mother's Day service by giving gifts to the website at a later date: rosedalefwb.org. Please they prep the kitchen, and the last batch of slime single one of them! women of our church, we are so blessed to still plan on joining us, you will be blessed. has been created for the annual Festival, all in We are looking forward to celebrating home­ be able to worship with not only the young Jason Meade, Pastor preparation for the convergence of over 200 coming this September. We will be celebrating women in our church but the elders as well. Two Bev Fraley, Reporter campers and volunteers on the Northern Ohio 202 years of God’s faithfulness to the Porter of our ladies are in their 90's and may we never Youth Conference that began Sunday, July 7, at Church family! take for granted exactly what we have. We also SAMANTHA (FRANKLIN) 3:00 p.m.! Mark Price, Pastor were also able to have a special Father's Day Greetings! Once again I’m blessed to bring our Tehra Clevenger, Reporter church activities for May and June. The Northern Ohio Youth Camp runs July 7­12, We received one candidate for baptism on May 2019, in Mendon, Ohio, and is packed with non­ WOODSTOCK (CENTRAL OHIO) Revival! 12th. “He that believeth and baptized shall be stop activities, including team­building, devo­ We are still working for the Lord here at saved.” Mark 16:16 tion time, music class, and games. Each Woodstock Free Will Baptist Church. We are The mothers of our church were recognized evening is capped off with a spirit­filled, life­ having very spiritual services and some folks August 12-17th and given hanging baskets. The oldest mother altering worship service where hearts are taking steps out of their comfort zone for the was 92 yrs, the youngest was 18 yrs and the changed and lives are drawn closer to the Lord. 7pm Nightly mother with most children present was five. Heavenly Father. The camp theme for this year Rev. Clay Baldwin has been helping us since The men and women held their monthly prayer is “Shattered,” and we can hardly wait to share we are still without a pastor. We appreciate him Gahanna FWB Church breakfast. with our campers just how Christ can take the shattered pieces in our lives and create some­ and also Crossing Over and Enabling Grace. 3868 N Stygler Road We welcomed Paul Hensley on May 19th who We have had several folks ill and some in hos­ sang and then preached from Genesis about cre­ thing beautiful and useful for His good! Gahanna, Ohio pital. Please keep Sister Pat Cordell, Bro. Rick ation of all living things. We were blessed. Pack with a broken hip and Bro. Roy Allen Pack Edwin Hayes will May 29th we held communion giving rever­ If you would like more information about the with a fracture of the spine in prayer. ence to Christ’s broken body and the blood that Northern Ohio Youth Camp, please visit our I was asked to let you know we will be having be preaching was shed for sins. website at www.thenoyc.com. ZION #3 Greetings from Zion #3 Church in Wellston. We have failed to keep communication, but wanted to share our blessings. In November of OHIOOHIO TOGETHERTOGETHER WAYWAY RECEIPTSRECEIPTS 2017 we elected Josh Landrum as our pastor. In January 2018 several of the congregation worked together as a remodel of the sanctuary May-June 2019 took place, lasting into the end of June and it was a beautiful transformation. We have lost a couple of wonderful saints over the time. Cindy Saltsman and Alene Gould are dearly missed, but we will see them again soon. Our pastor had a partial bowel blockage, but is now back in the pulpit for us after going through surgery early this year. We would like to thank the preachers who filled in: Brian Davis, Mike Hannah, Wayne Smith, Eric Jenkins and Doug Durham. We had Katy Snow from the Coalton FWB Church come sing for us March 31st and we have other special singers scheduled. We had our Crusade for Christ Revival June 20­23rd. We have our church Facebook page and web­ site is almost finished, which we are excited about. Please continue to pray for the youth group and all of our little church. Josh Landrum, Pastor Jack Jenkins, Reporter

Remember Co-op supports All our Ministries!

OPEN DOOR (CORNERSTONE) The old question (Which came first, the chick­ en or the egg?) is one that comes to mind when asked which came first, day or night, light or darkness? Instinctively, we say day or light. But when we examine the word of God, we find out some interesting realities. In Genesis 1:3­5, God created light and sepa­ rated it from the darkness, calling the light Day and the darkness Night. But verse five ends, “…And the evening and the morning were the first day.” Night came before day! Is it so sur­ prising that Israel has always held that the Sabbath and every day begins at 6 PM? God moves from darkness to light, even in us. Ephesians 5:8 says, “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord…” Christians turn from sin/evil to righteousness/good, through Jesus Christ. We will one day leave the darkness of our world, earth, for God’s light, heaven. 1 Peter 2:9 says, “…that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” God brings us from hopelessness to hope, from ignorance to understanding, and from blindness to sight. He moves the darkness in our lives to His light through redemption. Revelation 2:5 speaks of the new paradise, “And there shall be no night there…for the Lord God giveth them light…” Have you turned from darkness to light in Jesus Christ? Have you turned from your way to God’s? Night to day. Darkness to light. Death to life. It’s the way of God. Willie A Booth, Pastor Liz Baker, Reporter OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 20 2019 National Association of Free Will Baptists

July 21­24

Cincinnati, Ohio

Paul Keener (OH) Tim Eaton (OK) Terry Austin (DC) Daniel Edwards (IN) Tom Dooley (OH) Diego Cueva (VA) Sunday School Sunday Morning Sunday Evening Monday Evening Tuesday Evening Wednesday Evening

Preliminary Program Monday, July 22 Tuesday, July 23 Convention Business Session National Association of Free General Board Meeting Serve the City Opportunities (V3) 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Will Baptists 8:00 am DECC 212 8:00 am DECC Hall A July 21­24, 2019 | Cincinnati, Various Locations Serve the City Opportunities (V3) GPS Experience: A Missions Ohio 8:00 am Various Locations V3 CTS Ministry Expo Experience for All Ages 8:00 am – 4:00 pm 9:00 am – 11:00 am Saturday, July 20 V3 CTS Ministry Expo Impact Cincinnati 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Convention Seminars Serve the City Blood Drive 9:00 am 9:00 am – 4:00 pm 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (fwbmastersmen.org for details) Convention Seminars 9:00 am – 4:00 pm WNAC Celebration Service Exhibit Hall Open Registration Open 10:00 am DECC Junior Ballroom D 10:00 am – 9:30 pm 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm ENGAGE Student Ministry Exhibit Hall Open DECC Hall B DECC East Concourse Luncheon (Ticketed Event) 10:00 am – 10:00 pm DECC Hall B 12:00 noon Welch College & Friends Sunday, July 21 Convention Business Session Luncheon** (Ticketed Event) Registration (Open Daily) Theological Integrity Seminar 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm DECC Hall A 12:00 noon 8:00 am – 7:00 pm 2:00 pm DECC East Concourse ENGAGE Student Ministry Panel Evening Worship* Exhibit Hall Open 4:00 pm 6:45 pm DECC Hall A Sunday School* 3:00 pm – 10:00 pm DECC Hall B 10:00 am Evening Worship* V3 Awards Ceremony ENGAGE Children’s Ministry Panel 7:00 pm 9:00 pm DECC Hall A Morning Worship* 4:00 pm V3 Event: Outcast BMX** 11:00 am 9:00 pm DECC Hall C *Worship locations: North American Ministries Adult – DECC Hall A Usher Orientation Appreciation Dinner Wednesday, July 24 Preschool (Age 3­5) – DECC 207 5:00 pm DECC Hall A 5:15 pm Serve the City Opportunities Kids (Grades 1­3) – DECC 232­233 456 (Grades 4­6) – DECC 201­204 Evening Worship* (V3) Convention Choir Rehearsal 7:00 pm Teen (Grades 7­12) – DECC Hall C 8:00 am Various Locations 5:30 pm DECC Hall A WNAC Laughter & Latte (Ticketed)** **Tickets can be purchased through CTS Bible Finals Evening Worship* 8:30 pm convention pre­registration. 7:00 pm DECC 200 / 205 8:00 am DECC Hall 201­204