By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer HOLDEN, La. (LBM) – Russell Hinson served for 32 years as a pastor before his Dec. 31, 2022, retirement, but the last seven produced some of his most cherished memories when He saw God move in mighty ways at First Baptist Church, Holden. “It’s been a good seven years. I was able to be a part of God’s work and what He is doing here,” Hinson told the Baptist Message. “Some people may think because we are a small church, God is not going to do that much. Through the Lord, I have challenged my folks there is nothing too difficult for the Lord. It doesn’t matter if we’re small or don’t have a lot of money. We know the one who owns the cattle of a thousand hills and He can accomplish what He wants. We can trust God and He can and will do mighty things.” In 2022, Hinson was named a Louisiana Baptist Convention Exemplary Bi-vocational Pastor of the Year for his dedication to ministry. Born in Amite, Hinson gave his heart to Christ as a 22-year-old during a conversation in his home with Ferrell McMorris, who at the time was pastor of Magnolia Baptist Church, Holden. Ten years later, Hinson felt called to the ministry but believed he was inadequate to serve as a pastor because … [Read more...]

By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer JENA, La. (LBM) – For more than 35 years, Buddy Willis has been one of Louisiana Baptists’ faithful “utility” men in ministry. Since he was called to serve the Lord in vocational ministry, Willis has served in seven different roles that all have pointed others to the cross. “I loved working with our state people and making plans and seeing things come together and seeing things done,” Willis told the Baptist Message. “None of it was ever done for the glory of anyone. It was done for the glory of the Lord.” In 2022, Willis was named a Louisiana Baptist Convention Exemplary Retiree of the Year for his dedication to ministry. He retired in December 2021 as director of missions of LaSalle Baptist Association after serving in that capacity for eight years. Born in Jena, Willis gave his heart to Christ as a 9-year-old on June 9, 1949, during a revival service at Temple Baptist Church in that city. Sixty-two years later, Willis felt called to the ministry while he was transporting servicemen as they arrived and departed New York City during the Vietnam War era. However, he felt serving as a pastor would not financially support his family. But, the Holy Spirit continued … [Read more...]