Ouachita Baptist Association
SICILY ISLAND – First Baptist had been in a time of declining attendance and participation when the men of the church decided to pray at the altar each Sunday and ask God to bless with a pastor and spiritual growth.
For 17 months they prayed, and within six months of the arrival of James Gass as pastor, the congregation began to grow. During a revival, 15 professions of faith were made, as well as other decisions. Attendance has increased as well as church membership. Members are now actively involved in the choir, Bible study, and mission outreach. The men continue to meet at the altar each Sunday during the morning worship service to seek God’s guidance and blessings.
The church began to seek ways to get involved in the community, reported Jackie Myers of the church.
“Bro. Gass, through God’s leadership, has helped the church to have a vision for growth and outreach,” Myers wrote in an email to the Message. “The people are truly seeking revival for the community. They have a zeal and desire to share Christ and His abundant life with all.”
Ideas have coalesced into a community tent revival April 24-25 and May 1-2, with Evangelist Casey Johnson as speaker, and Country Gospel Singer Brad Mount leading worship.
“Many other community churches will be involved in this effort to reach people for Christ,” Myers reported. “It is hoped that this will spark a community-wide revival in all churches in the area.”
The revival services are to start at 7 p.m. Friday, April 24, at the Sicily Island Ball Park Complex.
“This revival is not about our church but about God moving in the lives of people,” Gass said. “Please come and support this effort.”