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news about the denomination
The following news items apply to (or affect) the Free Will Baptist denomination scattered across the nation and around the world.To read more about Free Will Baptists and the various departments that make up the national organization, visit www.nafwb.org.
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FWB Minister Conducts Memorial Service for West Virginia Coal Miners
Beckley, West Virginia—Reverend James Mitchell, West Virginia State Police Chaplain and ordained Free Will Baptist minister delivered the sermon at an April 25 memorial service honoring the memory of 29 coal miners killed in the April 5 blast at Upper Big Branch Mine located just south of Charleston.
The incident, the worst U.S. mine disaster in nearly 40 years, captured the attention of the nation as rescuers worked desperately to locate the missing miners in the wake of the explosion. The nation grieved when the men were confirmed dead after an agonizing five-day search.
West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin, President Barack Obama, vice-president Joe Biden, and a host of local and state dignitaries attended the service, which was covered by most major news networks and broadcast live on C-SPAN. The officials offered condolences to the grieving families, promising tougher safety standards for the mining industry.
When it was his turn to speak, Chaplain Mitchell delivered a simple, straightforward message of hope in Christ. Viewers from across the nation responded favorably to the message, and one Washington insider said the city was buzzing about the chaplain’s message for days after the service, that it was refreshing it was to hear truth spoken publicly and without apology.
Chaplain Mitchell has worked in various capacities throughout his ministry, from youth pastor and music minister to senior pastor, all while serving as a West Virginia State Trooper. He is a certified dog trainer, training K-9 officers for both West Virginia and Virginia law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Army.
Family Ministries Celebrates Success in 2009
Greeneville, TN—In spite of economic challenges, 2009 proved to be a fruitful year for Free Will Baptists Family Ministries. The rapidly expanding organization served 1,368 children and families through diverse ministries that stretch across three states and include children’s homes, a retirement and assisted-living center, a crisis pregnancy center, and a campground.
The organization saw more than 100 young people accept Christ as their personal Savior, while 85 rededicated their lives to follow Christ, and 102 babies were born to clients of The Hope Center (for moms in crisis). To learn more about Free Will Baptist Family Ministries, visit the website: www.fwbfm.com.
Randall House Recognized by PIAS
Four Randall House publications received the Award of Excellence at this year’s PIAS Graphic Awards, held in Clearwater, Florida. PIAS, the Printing Industry Association of the South, recognizes the designers of top-quality publications meant for sales, marketing, or educational purposes.
A printed piece must earn a certain number of points based on set criteria to receive an Award of Excellence. The Randall House publications recognized at this year’s event were Horizon, Direction, and The Brink magazines, as well as Explorer’s Guide.
Master’s Men Announces CMI Conference in October
Columbus, OH—Master’s Men will host a CMI (Count Me In) conference at Heritage FWB Church in Columbus, Ohio, October 22-23. The conference is designed to encourage and equip men to become spiritual leaders and mentors to other men based on Titus 2:1-10.
The cost is $10 per person and includes registration, dinner on Friday, and breakfast on Saturday morning. Register online at www.fwbmastersmen.org or call 877-767-8039. |
