It has been 6 months since Evan Sanford, my coworker, walked into my office. When he saw the Certificate of Biblical Studies, he confessed to me that he went to a 4 year Bible school before studying engineering. He never told anyone about his Bible school experiences and was scared of sharing his faith. Evan was challenged by the example of the believers' lives and the stories of our missionary journeys.
We really believe that God moved us here from North Carolina for a special purpose. Evan's baptism was all a part of God's plan. The Spirit opened his eyes to see the word of God "living and active" in the lives of many disciples that he met, especially in San Antonio. Through prayers and the power of the Holy Spirit, Evan was able to see the difference in his life and the life of others who were not living according to the standards of the Bible. He was convicted by his lack of boldness and the lack of spiritual fruit in his life even though he was trying to live like a disciple. Upon careful and deep studies of the word of God, the Spirit moved him to realize that he had not yet fully repented and received the one true baptism. God called brothers and sisters from many churches to share and reach out to Evan. He was deeply impacted by the unconditional love and patience of God reflected in their lives. God truly opened his heart. We are excited to see the power of the Holy Spirit working.
I appreciate brothers and sisters who have prayed, been in studies, and have spent time encouraging and inspiring Evan. Special Thanks to George Hemingway, David Simmons, Seth Asman, Chumi Nwogu, Ed Francis, Kevin Finnerty, Aaron Clark, Jim Brown, Roger Wine, Jack Spencer, Coriyan Arrington, Singles group from Upstate Churches, Bryan Adams, Lonnie Phillips and all the rest of Upstate Church Disciples. It sounds like the Oscars, but this is even more amazing. Evan got baptized on Saturday, September 15th. See slide show here >>>
More information in our church website at www.ricoc.org
Please continue to pray for the Rochester Church to grow by leaps and bounds.
To God be the Glory!
AMEN
Your Servant in Christ.
Moses