Sunday, January 25, 2009

A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

For the first time in at least 4 1/2 years, I attended a birthday celebration that did NOT include Chuck E. Cheese, Bouncy Houses or little people "hopped up" on sugar. This celebration was far more subdued, but no less meaningful and fun for me; Today our church turned 80 years old. Happy Birthday Elizabeth Baptist!

We viewed a From Then to Now, style short film looking at the church history from its humble beginnings with only three members up through today at 11,000 members strong. The majority of that growth occurring under the leadership of our current Pastor, Craig L. Oliver, Sr. It has been an amazing journey. As was today's theme - "A Journey of Faith."

The most moving parts of the short film were the personal testimonies of members who shared their experiences of total spiritual transformation since joining Elizabeth. I wrote about my own spiritual makeover in this post. The leadership at this great church has made spiritual authenticity their charge, literally.

Pastor Oliver is a visionary (to say the least) who believes deeply in the church's mission "To lovingly lead the lost into a relationship with Jesus Christ and develop mature believers." His journey alone - Youth Minister to Mega Church Leader and profound spiritual motivator/encourager - is evidence of the pure power of God's favor. So, in the spirit of continued advancement towards our church & personal goals, L and I will be participating with the entire church body in the following activities Pastor "O" outlined today:

1 Read the Bible In A Year [starting today] "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4, KJV)

2 Internal Spiritual Audit [A Sermon & Study Series]

3 [A Personal] Journey of Faith [A Sermon & Study Series]

I look forward to growing alongside this awesome family of faith in which God has placed us. HE has answered my fervent prayers.

1 comment:

Lisa said...

Happy Birthday Elizabeth Baptist!!! I am an Atlanta native, so it is neat to read your blog.
Sounds like your pastor his a true man of God.

Lisa Q