By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer
ANACOCO, La. (LBM) – For two years, Trinity Dowden prayed for and sent his friend Bible-based text messages with the hopes of one day reaping a spiritual harvest.
His faithfulness was rewarded during a session of the West CENLA GO TELL America Crusade, April 14, when Jeff Benevage finally realized his need for a Savior and stepped forward to profess his belief in Jesus. A week later, Dowden was on hand to see his friend publicly declare his commitment to the Lord in baptism by First Baptist Church, Anacoco.
“He could have given up on me after the first week of no responses, but he kept at it,” Benevage told the Baptist Message. “I was so glad he did, and that I had the courage to stand up and confess my faith publicly during the crusade.
“For those who have friends in their lives who also have not yet accepted Jesus, don’t give up,” he continued. “It’s worth it in the end.”
Benevage is one of 57 people baptized by the FBCA congregation since April 19, and 72 collectively since January.
“It is just so encouraging to see how the Lord has moved in our churches since the crusade,” FBCA Pastor Chad King said. “I have heard of so many just like Jeff who have made public decisions for Christ after the crusade. I pray the mighty movement will continue and spread across our whole state.”
Held April 12-15 in Leesville, the crusade recorded 527 persons who made decisions for Christ, including 279 individuals who stepped forward to accept Jesus.
“We’ve had visitors in our church every worship service since the crusade and it’s a great encouragement and motivation boost to keep on going,” King said. “I believe with all my heart that God is stirring hearts among our church and others in our area. A great harvest has only begun.”
Discipleship of these new believers is paramount for FBC Anacoco, King said. Seasoned believers come alongside each new convert, and a “next steps” class includes information about church membership and what baptism entails. Then there is a seven-week discipleship class on Sundays.
“At the end, we give each person an opportunity to make a covenant between them and the Lord that they’re going to do everything they can to grow in their relationship,” King said. “Our church has made a commitment to do whatever it takes to help the new believers grow in their relationship, understand more about the Word of God and learn how to be a true disciple.”
The church also saw the Holy Spirit move during its annual Faith and Family Freedom Music Festival, June 27. More than 6,000 people attended and 47 of those made decisions for Christ.
The lineup included Christian recording artists Cochren and Company, Olivia Lane, Jason Lovins Band and the Isaacs, as well as local bands.
“Families enjoyed a full day of music, fun, food and community, all culminating with a spectacular fireworks display celebrating our nation’s 250th birthday,” King said. “The greatest celebration of the day came as Marc Pritchett from Georgia shared a clear and powerful presentation of the Gospel. We rejoice that 47 people made decisions for Christ, with many placing their faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior.
“We give all glory to God for His blessings throughout this special event and extend our heartfelt thanks to every volunteer, sponsor, vendor, ministry partner and attendee who helped make this day such a tremendous success,” he continued. “We pray that the seeds planted through this festival will continue to bear fruit for the Kingdom of God for years to come.”
