By Brian Blackwell, Message Staff Writer BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil – In the 33 years Wayne Jenkins has participated in mission trips to Brazil, 26 times while representing Louisiana Baptists, he has seen multitudes saved, including 2,568 this year, and 65 church buildings erected, counting the three added in July. But one of his most special memories took place this year when his grandson, J’Von, was baptized – the first time a member of the U.S. team has done so in Brazil. Already a believer before the summer mission trip, J’Von had not followed through with baptism. It was while experiencing God’s presence during the mission trip that he felt compelled to take that next step of obedience. His father, David Denton, pastor of Highland Baptist Church in New Iberia, baptized him in the team hotel pool. SINGULARLY SIGNIFICANT “Two years ago I had two grandsons make professions of faith while on a mission trip and now to have J’Von follow through with a decision is an added blessing,” said Jenkins, director of evangelism and church growth for Louisiana Baptists. “God does a work in the lives of those who go on mission as well as those we go to minister to.” Denton said J’Von had been exposed numerous times to the … [Read more...]

By Will Hall, Message Editor ALEXANDRIA (LBM) – Evangelist Bill Britt has been guided 40 years by the message of Luke 14:23 to “go out into highways and hedges” and share the Gospel, compelling him to go near and far to reach the lost with a message of hope. The result has been multitudes of new believers who now enjoy saved souls from placing their trust in Jesus, but who also live saved lives because of the discipleship Britt ensures through such follow up activities as the seminary training of pastors to lead the new flocks that result. A TEAM EFFORT Britt is not alone in his ministry and he credits his wife, Wendy, for taking on critical out-front and behind-the-scenes roles that have helped Compel Outreach International change hearts with the Gospel, and, to alter the human condition of many through the aid of compassion ministries. “She is the voice and face of COI with our sponsors for 200 orphans, and she keeps up with the orphans – how they are doing physically, and with their school,” Britt said. “She’s the point woman for taking care of their needs – raising money for school supplies, collecting clothing and more. “These are important relationships and functions,” he said, adding, “and she has to … [Read more...]