A road trip to LA. “Lower Arkansas,” that is!
God is doing marvelous things at Garrett Memorial Baptist Church in Hope, AR. Pastor Clif Johnson is a wonderful leader with a shepherd’s heart. I had the opportunity to visit Sunday Morning, January 26 and was encouraged by their emphasis on missions -both local and foreign. In their lobby, you can’t help but notice large displays highlighting the mission efforts they are involved in. There’s even a massive drop-off bin for donating items for the needy in their community.
The music during the service was top-notch. A full band (including a large horn section) provided an avenue for the congregation to praise God in harmony. Also during the service, two different missionary families were highlighted. Updates were given on their work and it was evident that the entire congregation was a part of the international effort.
On Sunday evening, January 27, I had the privilege of visiting Wyatt Baptist Church. This sweet congregation holds a special place in my heart since I pastored there for seven years. Today, under the leadership of teaching pastor, Adam Thomas, the church is blossoming.
It was wonderful to see old friends and reconnect with what God is doing in El Dorado. Wyatt has a strong mission emphasis with multiple short-term trips taking place each year around the world. In addition, several families in the congregation host international students from Southern Arkansas University in nearby Magnolia. Recently, the church hosted the “Go Conference” in partnership with the BMA missions department. Through a network of other South Arkansas churches, the “Go Conference” was a strong encouragement for local and foreign missions.