By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer
COVINGTON, La. (LBM) – Two Covington churches took to the streets of their community and subsequently saw five individuals come to Christ and many others request prayer, June 10.
First Baptist Church reported two decisions for Jesus while New Zion Baptist Church recorded three who put their faith in the Lord.
Additionally, FBC hosted an appreciation lunch for first responders after members canvassed their community with the Gospel.
The efforts were part of “Crossover,” a large-scale evangelistic effort, that took place in 65 locations, collectively, in Bayou Baptist Association, New Orleans Baptist Association and North Shore Baptist Association, June 10.
Sean Barnes, a member of FBC Covington and director of the church’s Community Evangelism Network, said a teenager and her brother accepted Christ during a team’s visit to their home.
“I was tearing up as we led them in the sinner’s prayer,” Barnes said. “It was so awesome seeing God work and letting their hearts be tender and receptive to the Gospel.”
Meanwhile, Wayne Ivey, a member of New Zion Baptist, along with his wife, Dianne, and church member Brenden Spears, who recently accepted Christ, led a young woman named Gina to Christ during an in-home visit.
“My wife and Brenden both commented independent from one another how excited they were to see someone say yes to Jesus and that in turn encouraged me,” Ivey said. “I was elated they took a bold step to share Jesus and now they want to make that part of their lifestyle.”
Appreciating first responders
David Jones, co-coordinator of FBCC’s first responder ministry, said the church has hosted since October between 40-70 law enforcement and others on the front line for a monthly lunch. He said appreciation of those serving in this line of work is much needed.
Covington Police Department officers enjoyed a meal provided by First Baptist Church, Covington, during a first responders appreciation lunch, June 10. Brian Blackwell photo
“They have said our church never knows the difference we are making in the lives of these guys,” Jones said. “Jesus said to love one another and to show others His love. Whether it’s giving them a hot dog or praying with them, our law enforcement really appreciate that love.”
Ministry Co-coordinator Stephen Babin echoed the thought.
“We just wanted to offer a time for our first responders in our area and their families to come and have a day of decompression,” he said. “We wanted to show how much we love them and what they do for us to keep us safe every day and show them the love of Jesus.”
