By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer HAMMOND, La. (LBM) – A revival and a tent crusade in south Louisiana that have combined to produce 730 new believers, so far, also have resulted in 400 new converts, already, enrolling in a formal process of discipleship to become more like Christ. According to local reports, 513 individuals surrendered their hearts and lives to Jesus during revival services, extended five times, Oct. 17-Nov. 18, at Old Zion Hill Baptist Church, Independence; and another 217 made decisions to follow Him during the South Louisiana Awakening Tent Crusade, Hammond, Nov. 28- Dec. 9, a multi-denominational spiritual outreach. At press time, it was not announced if the tent crusade would be extended. “The revival continues to produce good fruit,” Old Zion Hill Baptist Church Associate Pastor Dave Ketchand told the Baptist Message. “Remarkable testimonies of salvation and changed lives abound. The need to follow up with intentional disciple making is daunting. Doing this effectively will not be accomplished by doing church as usual. We ask for the prayers of all Louisiana Baptists as we continue this work.” DISCIPLESHIP STRATEGY Ketchand said area churches had formed a follow-up team that … [Read more...]

By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer ALEXANDRIA, La. (LBM) – David Brooks has completed 43 years of ministry with Calvary Baptist Church, Alexandria, and will retire Dec. 31. Brooks said he is grateful for the many changed lives that he witnessed during his tenure as a youth minister and then senior pastor at Calvary, the only church where he has served in a full-time ministerial role. For his years of service to the congregation and community, Brooks was honored during a pre-retirement celebration, Nov. 6, that included memories shared by friends and family, gifts from the congregation, and notes of appreciation presented on behalf of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (Brooks visits the state often with his wife, Suzy, who is a native Texan) and Blue Bell CEO Ricky Dickson (Brooks’ favorite dessert). “When we came here, I was 23, and a lot of people took Suzy and I in like we were their kids,” Brooks told the Baptist Message. “They have loved and nurtured us and been great mentors who invested in me. “I had opportunities to go other places, but never felt like that was where God was leading me,” Brooks shared. However, he added, “When I came to Calvary, I never thought I would be here 43 years.” A native of … [Read more...]

By Elizabeth Clarke, LCU News PINEVILLE, La. (LCU News) - With great sorrow, Louisiana Christian University announces the death of longtime faculty member Tim Roper, who died Dec. 6 after an extended illness following surgery a year ago. Roper was a professor of art for 18 years at LCU, teaching painting and drawing, and graphic and web design. He held a BFA from Louisiana College (now LCU) and a MFA from Louisiana State University. “Professor Tim Roper was a beloved member of the University’s faculty serving in the Fine Arts Division,” said LCU President Rick Brewer. “His expertise in Graphic Design and Studio Art equipped and inspired scores of students during his tenure at LCU. Tim’s quick wit and brilliant intellect will be missed; but, above all, his commitment to sharing the Gospel through his creative gifts will be his legacy for generations who had the distinct privilege of being under his tutelage.” Roper was not just a colleague but a friend to everyone on campus. Known as much for his quick wit as his enormous talent and teaching and mentoring of students, his presence has been missed for the last year on campus—most notably in the Division of Fine Arts. LCU Director of Marketing Karen Carter, who was a … [Read more...]