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Oct 01

Real Problems Targeted with Messages of Hope

BY Glenda Hass

Jeff Crain (right), pastor, takes a selfie with baptismal candidates Cyntoria Davis, Samantha Stallworth, and Cynthia Davis.

Jeff Crain

Roger Hernandez, Southern Union ministerial/evangelism director, shares Messages of Hope in Pensacola, Fla.

It’s all about hope. That was the positive, inspiring Gospel message presented by Roger Hernandez, Southern Union ministerial/evangelism director, at the recent evangelistic meeting series held at University Parkway Church in Pensacola, Fla. Each night of the eight days, Hernandez focused on people’s problems, and offered solutions to them based on biblical principles. He also connected to his audience with anecdotes about his own personal experiences. As attendee Skip Giles noted, “He explained biblical truths in a non-accusatory way, and made them more relevant to modern times.”

“Awesome” and “the best ever,” were the comments of church member Joyce Linford, who said she thoroughly enjoyed the meetings. “It helped me have more hope, and along with hope goes faith,” she said. Earl Roberts said he found the meetings “refreshing. Without getting too technical, the speaker was clear and understandable.” As Hernandez emphasized, “Hope is not a political slogan or a pipe dream. Hope is what sustains, inspires, and propels. God doesn’t consult your past to build your future.” Among problems commonly faced by everyone, Hernandez focused on relationships, failure, money issues, and pain and suffering. Following each message, he invited individuals to come forward for prayer.

Offering something for everyone, the series included music performed by guest soloists, a nightly health presentation, and a Vacation Bible School program for children ages three to 12. Also, there was a nightly drawing for featured gift items, including music CDs, books, and audio Bible tapes. As long-time church member Pat Morrow noted, the series was well planned, down-to-earth, and people-friendly. Jennifer Hubbard, who assisted with greeting and registration, added that the more intimate, personal approach to Bible guidance led naturally to a more personal relationship with Jesus.

Noted guest musical artists included Naomi Striemer, Hugo Yin, Neville Peter, Steve Darmody, and the Lesser Light Collective. Also, each evening Lynell LaMountain, director of the CREATION Health program, presented a 10-minute health topic. Noting the favorable response, Jeff Crain, pastor, said he is talking with LaMountain to arrange a weekend health seminar. “What I keep hearing over and over from church members and guests is, ‘These meetings were excellent and refreshing.’ God was being presented in a way that you wanted a relationship with Him.” To cap off the meetings, they had five baptisms, and expect to have five more in the near future.

Gulf States | October 2017

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