O * H * I * O. Volume 49 Number 4 July-August The Voice of Ohio Free Will Baptists Proclaiming The Words of Christ to a Lost World

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O * H * I * O AMBASSADOR Volume 49 Number 4 July-August 2009 The Voice of Ohio Free Will Baptists Proclaiming The Words of Christ to a Lost World National Convention Edition National Delegates

The three previous Nationals met in Dayton in 1975, Columbus in 1983 and in Cincinnati in 1997.

1 O * H * I * O AMBASSADOR Volume 49 Number 4 July-August 2009 The Voice of Ohio Free Will Baptists Proclaiming The Words of Christ to a Lost World National Convention Edition National Delegates Welcomed to Ohio For the fourth time in our association s history, we are planning to host the National Association of Free Will Baptists. The three previous Nationals met in Dayton in 1975, Columbus in 1983 and in Cincinnati in It is a great honor for the 20 conferences, 159 churches, and almost 10,000 members of the Ohio State Association to host this year s National Association of Free Will Baptists. We hope you will be blessed by being here. In Ohio you will find people who love the Lord Jesus Christ with a desire to follow and serve Him. You will also find some very loyal Free Will Baptists who love this denomination and desire to cooperate with others to see it prosper and grow. The Free Will Baptist Denomination has had an active presence in Ohio almost from the state s inception. Ohio joined the union in 1803 and two years later the first Free Will Baptist Church was born. For 204 years Free Will Baptists have been witnessing the saving grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Teaching Free Grace, Free Salvation, and Free Will to all men! The name Ohio comes from the Iroquois Indian word meaning Something Great. We have been praying for something great to happen at this year s National Association. We have been praying that God would bless this meeting with revival and that this would be the greatest National we have ever seen. This would be a good place for this to happen. The motto for the State of Ohio is With God, All Things Are Possible This is true! We can experience revival and we can have the greatest National we have ever witnessed--because the Lord is here and with Him, all things are possible! So welcome to Cincinnati. We are glad you are here. Feel at home, and feel free to worship God. You are among His people. This week may we all strive to honor our Lord and when you leave Make An Impact on Cincy Make plans to arrive a day early and participate in Impact Cincinnati. This one-day outreach event will be held Saturday, July 18 throughout the Greater Cincinnati area. According to Chairman Roland Luthy, We just don t want to meet in a city, do our business, spend our money, and go home. We want to help local FWB churches through evangelism, service projects, construction and more. This is our opportunity to leave a spiritual impact not just a financial impact--on our target area. Volunteeers should contact Roland Luthy: (home) ; (church) ; or (cell) luthyjd@fuse.net See Convention Schedule on page 10 Ohio may we be able to say that God surely met with us there. Welcome to Ohio! Five Speakers Will Develop NationalTheme The 2009 convention speakers will address passages centered on the convention theme, Great and Precious Promises. Each passage, taken from 2 Peter 3, will focus on a different aspect of God s promises to mankind: The promise of eternal life; the promise of God s faithfulness; the promise of sufficient grace; the promise of His coming; and the promise of his power. Ohio Participants in the National Association Sunday morning July 19th, Brother Bob Bouts will be teaching the adult Sunday School Class in the convention center. Ohio Promotional Secretary Edwin Hayes will be presiding at the Sunday morning worship service and Rev. Mark Price, Ohio s Moderator is scheduled to preach the first message that morning. The Representatives from the Canaan FWB Church in Creston are scheduled to sing at the Preaching Conference on Tuesday morning, July 21st at 10:00 AM in the convention hall.

Overcoming Insurmountable Problems Mark 5: 21-43 Have you ever had problems? Have you ever had problems bigger than you are? I m sure we all have. What do you do when you have problems?

2 Overcoming Insurmountable Problems Mark 5: Have you ever had problems? Have you ever had problems bigger than you are? I m sure we all have. What do you do when you have problems? What do you do when you have problems that are bigger than you? We have several options. We could muster all the strength we have and attempt to overcome our problem. We could panic and allow fear and depression to take over. We could simply give up. Or we can take the problem to Jesus! This Scripture records what happens when we bring our most difficult problems in life to Him! A man name Jarius approached Jesus one day with a request. The Bible tells us that Jarius was a ruler of the synagogue. He was a leader and well respected no doubt. But he had a great problem that was bigger than him! Jarius Request is Given (vs ) Let s examine his request. The first thing I would note that it was an urgent request. Notice that verse 23 says that Jarius besought him greatly. He is pleading earnestly, repeatedly, and desperately. The second thing is that it is a personal request. He tells Jesus that it is My little daughter with a great need. This was not someone else s daughter-this was his daughter. How different our requests are when they are personal! Finally, it was an impossible request beyond human skill to answer! This required great faith to ask. Jarius evidently had heard that Jesus can do the impossible. His daughter was no doubt in the last stages of her illness. To Jarius there wasn t anyone else to go to. Jesus Response to His Request When Jesus heard this request it says in vs. 24 that Jesus went with him. What a comforting thought! Hope rose in his soul! When Mary and Martha sent for Jesus when Lazarus died, they said, Lord, he whom thou lovest is sick. There was no doubt in their minds-jesus loved Lazarus and them! And He went to them as well! He will come with you! Jarius Request is Delayed (vs ) After this hopeful thought Jarius encountered some delays that would severely test his faith. The first delay was another s need. While going to Jarius house a woman with the issue of blood pressed through the crowd to touch Jesus and He stopped to help her! Sometimes other s needs takes precedence over our own! The second delay was dire circumstances. The word comes to Jarius that Thy daughter is dead. He now had heard the message that he dreaded to hear! Any hope he held was now gone! The third delay was found in the attitude of the crowd. What they were saying was Don t bother Jesus any more. This problem is too big for Him. It is one thing to heal or cast out evil spirits-but now we are talking about death! Nothing more can be done. This is the end of the matter. Let Jesus go help someone else. According to human wisdom, it made sense. Do you suppose that our own attitudes delay our requests? In this darkest hour Jesus says Be not afraid, only believe. He ignored the discouraging talk and paid no attention to it. What He was saying was Keep on believing Jarius. You began this right by coming to Me. You just witnessed first hand what I can do. Don t give up now! Jarius Request is Answered (vs ) When they arrived at Jarius house they encountered a crowd in mourning The cruel fact of death and the finality of it was evident. It s over-things can t be changed now was the attitude present. The only thing left to do is weep the circumstances said. Can you imagine the effect that this would have on Jarius faith? Christ s admonishes that the little girl is not dead, but only sleeping! What He was saying was her condition wasn t permanent-it is temporary! Her condition is not irrevocable! The crowd began to scorn Jesus. They laughed at the saying of Jesus, after all they had seen dead people before! They thought death was permanent. Jesus then got rid of the scorners walked into the room where the little girl was and commanded her to rise. Death let go immediately! The little girl began walking! Can you imagine the great joy to Jarius family! Remember my questions at the beginning of this message. Do Edwin Hayes Executive Secretary you have problems? Do you have problems that are bigger than you? Just look at this example of Christ s power in the life of Jarius and his daughter. My father in law, Bro. Henry Litteral once said, If Jesus can defeat our greatest problem-death, then what problem do you have that He cannot solve? Our problem is that we focus on the circumstances and not on Him! He is greater than any circumstance you will face. Let s look to Him, believe Him and trust Him. He will get us through! Secretary s Schedule July 12 Tick Ridge, SS & AM, P.J. Fitch, Pastor July National Association of Free Will Baptists, Cincinnati, Ohio July 26 Trinity-Wilgus, Homecoming, Roy Adkins, Pastor August 9 Gahanna, Homecoming, Curtis Booth, Pastor August Antioch, Couple s Retreat, Rick Henderson, Pastor August 16 Antioch AM, Rick Henderson, Pastor August 30 Pine Creek AM, Ron Henthorn, Pastor August 31 Coalton, Men s Meeting, Tim Simpson, Pastor September 6 Summit Station, PM, Henry Litteral, Pastor September 13 Unity, Homecoming, Eugene Crouch, Pastor Pictures from the Ohio State Meeting and the Minutes can be seen on the Ohio Web Site: OhioFWB.com EDITOR Rev. Edwin Hayes 3700 South High Street Suite 159 Columbus, Ohio (614) ehayes@ambassadorbible.com STATE MODERATOR Rev. Mark Price* PO Box 4008 Sciotoville, Ohio (740) PorterFWB@verizon.net ASSISTANT MODERATOR Rev. Brian Phillips* 667 South Diamond Street Mansfield, Ohio (419) ROM828bp@aol.com CLERK Rev. Mike Stokes* 1011 West Lake Street New Carlisle, Ohio mcstokes114@aol.com ASSISTANT CLERK Bryon Justice* bjustice@faysharpe.com GENERAL BOARD Charles Crider (Little Miami) 2011 Tim Crank (Lawrence) 2011 David Reese (Jackson) 2011 Ken Frisbee (Great Lakes) 2011 Jerry Sargent (Franklin) 2011 Billy Joe White (Cuyahoga-Lorain) 2011 Russell Street* (Central Ohio) 2011 Jeremy Luthy (Tri State) 2011 Randy Rose (Northeastern) 2011 Freddy Dutton* (Capital City) 2011 Chris Russell (Northern Ohio) 2010 Warren Simpkins (Trinity) 2010 Jim Henderson (South Central) 2010 Dan King* (Porter) 2010 Aaron Reed (Pine Creek) 2010 Ed Barney (Unity) 2010 Tim Byers (State Line) 2010 Blaine Etterling (Cornerstone) 2010 James Webb* (North & Western) 2010 Robert Fulton (Southern Ohio) 2010 *Executive Committee BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bill Hayes 2016 John Wallace 2015 Jim McComas 2014 Tom Dooley 2013 Peter Dunn 2012 Mitch Salyers 2011 Wayne Keith 2010 STATE CTS BOARD Mike Sammons 2016 Mark Bailey 2015 Joshua Young 2014 Mark McCarty 2013 Jason Luthy 2012 Paul Etterling II 2011 Deanna Price 2010 NOMINATING COMMITTEE Bill Pitts 2012 Paul Keener 2011 Bill Chadwick 2010 NATIONAL GENERAL BOARD MEMBER Mike Stokes 2012 STATE MISSIONS BOARD Tim Stout 2016 Roger Daniel 2015 Paul Etterling 2014 Roy Hutchinson 2013 Jon Mountjoy 2012 Roland Luthy 2011 Garland Roberts 2010 The AMBASSADOR is the official publication of the: OHIO STATE ASSOCIATION OF FREE WILL BAPTISTS, 3700 SOUTH HIGH STREET SUITE 159, COLUMBUS, OHIO The Ambassador is committed to promoting the cause of Jesus Christ and the Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists by presenting articles, announcements and pertinent news to inform our member churches and constituents. We reserve the right to edit or reject materials submitted for publication in the Ambassador. The views expressed are not necessarily the view of the Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists. The publication deadline is NOON as follows: January 1st, March 1st, May 1st, July 1st, September 1st and November 1st. All gifts given to the Ambassador should be sent to the above address.

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 3 The 2009 Ohio State Association Meeting Re-cap The 71st Ohio State Association was the best meeting we have had in years said one Ohio pastor and there were many that would

The theme from this year s meeting was, If The Foundations be Destroyed, What Can the Righteous Do? from Psalm 11:3-4. Friday Morning Porter Pastor Rev.

All the departments showed good progress in their ministries. Several National Department Reports were given as well.

Ohio Promotional Secretary Edwin Hayes brought the message entitled, The Foundation For Creation. The convention then broke for lunch.

After this the Ohio State Office and the Ambassador Bookstore Report were given. All the Ohio ministries reported positive results for 2008.

Friday Evening At 6 PM the Ohio Youth Board gave awards to the winners in the Ohio Competition. Rejoice from FWB Bible College sang before the 7 PM service.

3 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 3 The 2009 Ohio State Association Meeting Re-cap The 71st Ohio State Association was the best meeting we have had in years said one Ohio pastor and there were many that would agree. The Lord s presence was felt throughout the two day meeting June 26-27th at the Gahanna FWB Church. The theme from this year s meeting was, If The Foundations be Destroyed, What Can the Righteous Do? from Psalm 11:3-4. Friday Morning Porter Pastor Rev. Mark Price gaveled the session to order on Friday morning June 26th. The delegates heard reports from Ohio Missions, Ohio Youth Conference and Ohio Women Active for Christ that morning. All the departments showed good progress in their ministries. Several National Department Reports were given as well. In the worship service led by Assistant Moderator Brian Phillips, the Mansfield Quartet sang and blessed the congregation. Ohio Promotional Secretary Edwin Hayes brought the message entitled, The Foundation For Creation. The convention then broke for lunch. Friday Afternoon After lunch Bucyrus Pastor Eric Boggs gave a devotion about families with a video provided by the Bucyrus Youth Group. The Ohio Board of Directors Report was given. After this the Ohio State Office and the Ambassador Bookstore Report were given. All the Ohio ministries reported positive results for The remainder of the National reports were given along with several miscellaneous reports before the delegates adjourned from business for the day. Friday Evening At 6 PM the Ohio Youth Board gave awards to the winners in the Ohio Competition. Rejoice from FWB Bible College sang before the 7 PM service. Assistant Moderator Brian Phillips opened the worship service with songs led by Music Director David Chamberlin and pianist Deena Armstrong. The Union FWB Church Choir assisted by Sciotodale FWB Church provided the special music which was very inspiring. Sciotodale Pastor Aaron Reed preached a very thorough message on the subject, The Foundation For The Family. There were several who went the altar after the message. Saturday Morning The Saturday morning session was begun by Rev. Tim McKnight who gave a devotion about service for the Lord. Moderator Price then called for the committee reports followed by our annual election. All the general officers were re-elected (Mark Price- Moderator, Brian Phillips-Assistant Moderator, Mike Stokes-Clerk, Bryon Justice- Assistant Clerk. Rev. Charlie Crider was newly elected to the General Board along with Woodstock Pastor Russell Street. Rev. Bill Hayes was re-elected and Rev. John Wallace was elected to the Board of Directors, Rev. Tim Stout was elected to the State Mission Board and Rev. Mike Sammons was elected to the Ohio Youth Board. The Executive Committee elected was Revs. Freddy Dutton, James Webb, Dan King and Russell Street. The association then adjourned for worship. The Canaan Quartet provided the special music and did a wonderful job. International Mission Director James Forlines brought a very inspiring message on the Foundation For Redemption which was well received. The Ohio Association adjourned until the 2010 meeting at Heritage FWB Church in Columbus on June 25-26th. The Altar Service at the Friday Evening Service Moderator Mark Price Rev. Edwin Hayes Ohio Free Will Baptist Pastors and Ministers who attended the State Meeting Rev. Aaron Reed Rev. James Forlines

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 4 MCDERMOTT (PINE CREEK) Hello from McDermott FWB. Aberdean Lute went to be with the LORD March 16th and Brother Danny Orin went to be with the LORD May 12th.

We are beginning to have some children coming in, but we still need more. We also need to pray that their parents will start to come too.

We need to pray for the community of McDermott and our lost loved ones. God bless all.

numbers. We added a new member to our church and we have had several faithful Christians worshiping and singing for our congregation. We held our annual Homecoming service June 28th.

The Beech Grove FWB Church is proud to announce the re-election of Pastor Joe Pinkerton. We thank God again for His faithfulness to us even in small matters.

4 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 4 MCDERMOTT (PINE CREEK) Hello from McDermott FWB. Aberdean Lute went to be with the LORD March 16th and Brother Danny Orin went to be with the LORD May 12th. Our songfest was a big success. We had a very good turnout and the Spirit of the God was all over the place. Our ladies went to the ladies spring luncheon. We all had a wonderful time in the Lord. We are beginning to have some children coming in, but we still need more. We also need to pray that their parents will start to come too. The ladies group began a sewing circle every third Saturday of the month. George Hall has been in the hospital twice since our last report. He is home now, but still needs our prayers. We need to pray for the community of McDermott and our lost loved ones. God bless all. Keith Monroe, Pastor Annie Marlowe, Reporter BEECH GROVE (FRANKLIN) We have seen an increase in the fellowship of our church and it is encouraging to see our Sunday morning services increase in numbers. We added a new member to our church and we have had several faithful Christians worshiping and singing for our congregation. We held our annual Homecoming service June 28th. We had the King Family praising God with songs. A potluck lunch was served and a song service in the afternoon. We had a wonderful time. The Beech Grove FWB Church is proud to announce the re-election of Pastor Joe Pinkerton. We thank God again for His faithfulness to us even in small matters. It is good to serve Him and to praise His name. Joe Pinkerton, Pastor Gloria Kidder, Reporter ZION Zion Church is a wonderful church to be a part of. It s just a small country church but we have big hearts. We have seen many good pastors throuch the years: Rev. Orville Exline (deceased), Rev. Charles Jayjohn (deceased), Rev. Ed Barney and now Rev. Randy Sizemore. When Ed Barney was our pastor we added three room additions to our church. We use the building quite often. Our members are like family. We eat together, have birthday parties, baby showers, graduation parties, ladies Bible study classes and ever help say goodbye when loved ones pass away. We have Bible School every summer. It s always a lot of fun and learning. Many of our members were married in the church and are celebrating 35 years together. I don t mean to brag about our church because we all know the devil is always looking tear us all down, but God willing our little church will stand for many more years to come. If you are ever down our way, come visit us, we will be glad to have you. Randy Sizemore, Pastor Vickie Mapes, Reporter FOREST VALLEY (FRANKLIN) Blessings to you from Forest Valley! Summer is in full swing, schools are out, the hot weather is here and vacations have been planned. On Senior Day, we congratulated Brittany Jeffers, Michelle Spradlin, Ashley Szalla and Andy Stump who graduated from high school. Our prayers go with Rachel Burns who left on June 10th for her mission trip to Tokyo. May the Lord bless Rachel and use her beautiful spirit to touch someone. Our Mother s Day fundraiser is in process for the Pregnancy Resource Center, a non-profit organization that ministers to families in pregnancy loss crisis. Our CTS group is in full fundraising mode with an auction planned for Saturday, June 27. They will be leaving for the National on Sunday, July 19, and we wish them well. Our Sunday school took a trip to Kings Island on June 12 and had their Sunday school picnic on June 20. We had lots of fun and good food. We thank God for blessing us with another soul who has joined our church family. Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 1.3 Del Wallace, Pastor Helen Webb, Reporter FIRST CLYDE (CUYAHOGA-LORAIN) God blessed our Vacation Bible Day held June 13th. We are thankful for all the children that attended along with the teachers and helpers. All the children seemed to enjoy the day and at the end Pastor Cosby challenged them to attend Sunday school on a regular basis to learn more about God and how He can use even the very young. On Sunday morning three of those attending sang songs they had learned. What a blessing to see God at work. On Saturday, August 1st from 4-7 PM, we invite our sister churches to our Summer Song Fest. The Blanton Family will be the featured singers. Bring your instruments and plan on an afternoon of worshiping our Lord with music as we reach out to the community of Clyde. Continue to pray for the lost and those in our church that have health problems and we will pray for you. In His service. James Cosby, Pastor Ruth Rollins, Reporter BLACKFORK (SOUTHERN OHIO) Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ from Blackfork. Our new pastor Mark Adkins Blackfork Bethlehem Columbus First Eifort Germany Hollow Known to the Ambassador Mark Adkins Without Pastor Without Pastor Without Pastor Without Pastor with the help of deacon Steve Kiser, visited the neighborhood, inviting people to he house of God. We are also praying for revival. For we want to be as Proverbs 11: 30. We ask you to pray for us, we are small in number but encouraged in spirit. Continue to pray for sister Carol Blagg and her family for Pastor Fred Blagg took his heavenly flight home and is missed at Blackfork. May God bless and keep you. Mark Adkins, Pastor Brenda Adkins, Reporter OLD KYGER Greetings, from Old Kyger FWB Church. A lot has happened since we last sent a report. Our eldest deacon passed away, Bro. Delbert Clay. Hhe also held other positions in the church. I m sure he will be missed. We had our first mens breakfast on Saturday, June 13th. We had a great turnout and fellowship. We have added three new members to our church. We have planned a Mother's Day- Fathers Day dinner, with the men putting on a little skit. Our church is growing slowly but, growing. We had six young people graduate this year Please pray for them. We better close for now. Remember our church when you pray. Bob Thompson, Pastor & Reporter BUCYRUS (NORTHERN OHIO) May was a wonderful month for the church. Our Crawford County Camp Meeting was a big success.the average attendance was 150. One precious soul was saved! Thanks to all who attended and participated in this wonder event. The month of May, five people were baptized at our favorite country pond. July is kids month at Bucyrus FWB with young preachers all month starting July 5th 10:00 am with Brother Isaiah Hatfield preaching, July 12th 10:00am- with Brother Jason Waddle preaching, July 19th 10:00 am with The Putman Family singing, also at 6:30 pm - Brother Tim Parson will be preaching, and Sunday July 26th 10:00 am-brother Jason Feight will be preaching. July, 13th-17th Vacation Bible School 2009 Theme is FOLLYWOOD. Children will learn to place their admiration in Jesus and in Biblical heroes rather than the celebrities of our world who may not be worthy of their praise. Instead of continuing to be influenced by Hollywood's worldly ideals, children will learn how to influence their world for Jesus. Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God:but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.. III John 11 Youth on the Rock has released two new skits. They are doing a great job reaching people through the internet. As well as keeping our youth busy learning, to see the new skits or listen to our latest preached sermons check our our church web site at God bless and have a wonderful summer. Eric Boggs, Pastor Wanda Frankart, Reporter HERITAGE (CAPITAL CITY) Our first year of AWANA ended with a Family Fun Night for the entire church. We got to see Pastor Tim and Pastor Chris dunked in the dunk tank. The summer VBS program began June 10th. The program runs every Wednesday from 6:30pm 8:00 pm throughout the summer. Heritage Teen TEAM began the summer with Spiritual Emphasis Week. The teens gathered each morning at 9:00 am for worship and fun. Blake Nance, a youth pastor from Alabama was their guest speaker. Our youth are looking forward to camp at Pleasant Valley Camp in July and a mission trip to New York with Dana Booth in August. Our men and women s group recently provided meals for Mother s Day and Father s Day. Both meals were delicious. On June 10th, missionaries to Uganda, Josh Bryant and Family shared in the service about their ministry. We were also pleased to have Danny Elliot (Quebec City, Canada) and his family with us on June 28th. The Primitive Quartet from Candler, NC were with us in concert on July 9th. We really enjoyed having them. Heritage Student Ministries will be sponsoring an indoor yard and bake sale on Friday and Saturday July 10th & 11th. Please plan to stop by. On Sunday, July 12th at 10:30 am we will have Adoration & Majesty Trios from Southeastern FWB College with us. Keep praying and working for souls to be added to the kingdom of God! Tim W. Stout, Pastor Stephanie Wolfe, Reporter COALTON (JACKSON) In April we had a wonderful time of spiritual fellowship during our spring revival. There were different ministers each night, along with different singers throughout the week. We thank them for their service to the Lord and for uplifting us in our faith. In May the ladies of the church hosted their annual Mother-Daughter Banquet. The theme this year was The Pioneering Spirit. Our pure minds were refreshed with the thought of keeping our vision and following the landmarks set for us on our journey to heaven. They held a yard and bake sale in April to help fund the event. In May the youth had a fun day at Camden Park. The weather cooperated and we had a good time of fellowship. In June several of our youth attended church camp and came back with an inspiring report of what a wonderful time they had in spirit and fellowship. We praise the Lord for the five baptized on their first Sunday back to church. The next week we had VBS with the theme, Studio Go. We learned to go lead, go risk, go obey, and go serve. We also praise the Lord for the growth we have seen at our church with new visitors and membership. Please keep us in your prayers that we will continue to be a light in our community of God s amazing love. Tim Simpson, Pastor Sandra DeHart, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 5 Rev. Fred Samuel Blagg, Pastor of the Blackfork FWB Church passed away May 1st at his residence after an extended illness at the age of 79.

He retired in 1995 after 22 years with the Lawrence County Dept. of Human Services. He was the Pastor of Blackfork Free Will Baptist Church and loved working outdoors.

He is survived by his wife: Carol Kidd Blagg who he married January 17, 1953; son & daughter in law: Fred E.

son & daughter in law: Ronnie and Carrie Blagg of Pedro; sons: Kenny and Steven Blagg of Pedro;.

daughter & son in law: Debbie and Gary Noel of Pedro; 25 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren Brother Blagg s funeral service was held May 5th at the Mt. Calvary Free Will Baptist Church with Rev.

5 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 5 Rev. Fred Samuel Blagg, Pastor of the Blackfork FWB Church passed away May 1st at his residence after an extended illness at the age of 79. He was born March 29, 1930 the son of the late Harley and Elsie Kerns Blagg. Brother Blagg was a United States Army Veteran serving during the Korean War and was a Silver Star Recipient. He retired in 1995 after 22 years with the Lawrence County Dept. of Human Services. He was the Pastor of Blackfork Free Will Baptist Church and loved working outdoors. Fred also pastored Lick Creek Church, Kelley's Bridge Church, and Symmes Valley Freewill Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife: Carol Kidd Blagg who he married January 17, 1953; son & daughter in law: Fred E. and Maida Blagg of Pedro; son: Roger Blagg of Pedro; son & daughter in law: Tim and Glenda Blagg of Pedro; son: Larry Blagg of Ironton;. son: Jeff Blagg of Pedro;. son & daughter in law: Ronnie and Carrie Blagg of Pedro; sons: Kenny and Steven Blagg of Pedro;. daughter & son in law: Lynda and Roger Watson of Pedro; daughter & son in law: Jane and Jeff Phillips of Pedro;. daughter & son in law: Debbie and Gary Noel of Pedro; 25 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren Brother Blagg s funeral service was held May 5th at the Mt. Calvary Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. Charlie Greene and Rev. Jesse Sizemore officiating. Sister Verna Workman, a member of the Cleveland FWB Church and wife of Deacon Fred Workman passed away May 11th. Her funeral was held at Cleveland Free Will Baptist Church on May 14th. Brother Morris G. Justice, 71, died Sunday, June 7th at his home. Morris, a native of Greenville, WV, was a longtime resident of Cleveland, Ohio. He was a retired employee of Motorola Corporation and had resided in Greenville, NC for five years. Morris and his wife Pat were long time members of Cleveland FWB Church in Cleveland, were also members here at Canaan FWB before their move to NC; He was the long time clerk of the Cuyahoga-Lorain Conference. He is survived by his: wife of 52 years, Patsy Justice; daughter, Linda Justice, of Cleveland, sons, Bryon Justice, of Medina, OH, and Kevin Justice, of Greenville; six grandchildren; brother, Harold Justice; sister, Karen Dickerson; two nephews, and one niece. The funeral service will be conducted June 10th Unity Free Will Baptist Church. National Covention Fund Ohio Free Will Baptists are scheduled to host the National Association of Free Will Baptists July 19-22, 2009 in Cincinnati, Ohio. We needed to raise $30, for the arena. We asked our conferences to raise $ per church. Since the last edition of the Ambassador, Keystone, First Austintown, Lighthouse, Cross Pointe, Fort Gay, White Oaks, Dean Road, Penn Street, Wellston, Samantha, Beechgrove Providence and Lucky sent in $ In addition, the Central Ohio Conference sent in $ This account now totals $31, We have exceeded our goal! Thanks so much! Any offerings over $30, will go toward our booth expense that we will have at the National. We have purchased promotional gifts, Ohio History Books, ribbons, a banner and other expenses for the Ohio Booth. If your church has not sent in their offering, they can still participate. Please send your offerings to: Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists, 3700 S. High St. Ste 159, Columbus, OH COMMUNITY-SOMERSET "Let not your heart be troubled:ye believe in God, believe also in me. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:1, 3. Summer is here and we have all been blessed. The work on the new church is nearing completion but we know that God's home if already complete for His children. We have had several work days on the new building. We want to thank everyone that has come out to help and also the women for preparing delicious food. We have been blessed with donations for our new building and have made new friendships with people coming out to help work on it. Bro. Patrick Blevins has been out a few times to cover services for Pastor Scott and brought Raymond Brown to bless the congregation with wonderful singing. Bro. Patrick will be covering services on July 19th and Bro. Talo Teo on the 26th while Pastor Scott and his family are on vacation. Please continue to pray for the work here in Somerset, enjoy this beautiful summer, and may God bless everyone until next time. Scott Hutchinson, Pastor Beverly Hattery, Reporter HARRISON (PORTER) Once again summer is well on its way, and we find ourselves planning for VBS. There is so much in this world to take the focus away from our Lord and Savior; so please be much in prayer for all of the children who will be reached by these summer programs. May God make his light to shine in the hearts and minds of the workers and the children drawing them ever closer to Him. We hope that you will find time to join us July!9th as Bro. Kevin Woolard will be speaking and singing in our morning service. If you can not make it in the morning then join us in the evening when Bro. Tim Hodges will be with us. We also would like to request your prayers for the National Association meetings. Pray for the leaders of our denomination as they conduct the business that needs to be done. Pastor Daryl and Sister Michelle Grimes and Bro. Bob Mays are looking forward to seeing you there and greeting you. Pray for all the youth that will be competing. May the challenges not be only of a competitive nature, but may each contestant draw a little closer to the Lord as they compete. Until we next converse with you; may God bless and keep you ever close to Him. Daryl Grimes, Pastor Cecelia Lundy, Reporter WOODSTOCK (CENTRAL OHIO) Luke 1: and Mary said, my soul doth magnify the Lord; and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. The last two months have been very busy in Woodstock, banquets were held in honor of mothers and fathers and God's salvation plan shone through on both Sundays with three saved and others since then. In studying the lives of Jesus mother and earthly father there is a lot to be learned about parenting and the suffering we must sometimes endure. We thank Jody Mutter and Shawn Beauchemp for preaching the services on that Sunday and to Tammy Jones Robinette for ministering in song for Homecoming The Vacation Bible School this year will be held from July 27-31st. Please join us for the Community Day event that will be held on August 22nd you can check our website for more information about this event woodstockfwb.com). Russell Street, Pastor Esther A. Orahood, Reporter WAKEFIELD (PORTER) Greetings from this little country church, small in number, but big in love. Seems it's been a busy time this last two months, and I thank the Lord for the longer days. May 5th, Junnie Evans had shoulder replacement, and has been doing very well, but was unable to drive and get about much, so it was a blessing to see her and Bro. Ernie back in church again this past Sunday. Bro. Jimmy Dummitt preached for us May 10th while our pastor was gone to a grandchild's graduation. The ladies auxiliary had our annual spring garage and bake sale May 8-9th. A lot of work, but the Lord blessed with some good helpers. May 17th we had a Gideon speaker with us. Thank God for the work they do for the Lord. Joy Borders son had schooled for aviation mechanic, and after many prayers and in God's good time, he got a good job in his field. God still answers prayers! June 17th Bro. Charlie Tackett preached for us. It is always good to have visiting brothers. We had our VBS June 22-26th, and had a pretty good attendance, and a good time. Friday, the last day, we received the sad news that Sister Daisy Blevins daughter Anita had passed away; and then that evening after the VBS program, 11 children came to the altar, from 14 yrs. and on down!.. What a climax! Oh, yes, Bro. Lowell and Disa just got a new granddaughter June 22. That makes three new grandchildren in a couple of months. Sis. Disa recently retired from her job at school, but sounds like she will be plenty busy! Stay faithful! Lowell King, Pastor Barb Conley, Reporter NEWARK (FRANKLIN) Greetings from the Newark FWB Church. What blessings the Lord has been giving us, it maybe hot outside, but think about how hot it will be later if you don t know the Lord. With all the hard times that we are hearing people complain about, we had four of our young people graduate from high school. We want to say congratulations to Adam Armstrong, Jimmy Anderson, Stephanie Horton, and Skylar Sheppard. Please keep them in your prayers as they start a new chapter in their life. We also want to welcome a little one to our church. God has blessed us with Rebeca Sue Bryant, daughter of Pastor Matthew and Sister Connie Bryant. Rebeca was born May 8th, and has two sisters, Emily and Sarah. For Father s Day this year we had a Father/Son banquet and had a wonderful turn out. The message was by Brother Josh Bryant, special singing by Brother Steven Hughes, and a special reading by Brother Jeremy Bird. What a great service they had, followed by a cookout from the women in the church. This year our Vacation Bible School runs from July 13-17th at 6:00 pm nightly. Our theme is Kingdom of the Son based on the Lord s prayer. As the young kids come our we want to teach them about our Lord, we are looking forward to it. Everyone is welcome to attend our Friday evening program followed by refreshments. Proverbs 3:1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments. God bless until next time. Matthew Bryant, Pastor Dreama Hughes, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 6 AVAILABLE FREE WILL BAPTIST SINGING GROUPS The following singers and singing groups are available to come and sing in your church for revivals or special services.

com Bobby Siders, Columbus, (Southern Gospel) (614) 778-9250 Born Again Gospel Singers Harry or Irene Litton 740-927-5319 or 724-813-2360 Cell Brad Meddock, Hillsboro, (937) 393-2773 Crystal River,

net Faith in Action, Marion, Call Majorie Abrams at 740-383-5405 or Pleasant Hill FWB Church, (740)363-5295 Attention:Marjorie Abrams or Deacon Bob Chaffin or email songlady_99@yahoo.com George C.

6 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 6 AVAILABLE FREE WILL BAPTIST SINGING GROUPS The following singers and singing groups are available to come and sing in your church for revivals or special services. Baldwin Family Bluegrass Singers, Rosedale, Call Chuck Baldwin (937) Chuck.Baldwin@cdmold.com Bobby Siders, Columbus, (Southern Gospel) (614) Born Again Gospel Singers Harry or Irene Litton or Cell Brad Meddock, Hillsboro, (937) Crystal River, Franklin Furnace, (740) David Giddens, Marysville, (937) jgiddens@urec.net Faith Gospel & Contemporary Christian Music, Sidney, Call Pam Moorman (937) ladypam@bright.net Faith in Action, Marion, Call Majorie Abrams at or Pleasant Hill FWB Church, (740) Attention:Marjorie Abrams or Deacon Bob Chaffin or songlady_99@yahoo.com George C. Darling, Chillicothe, (740) God's Ambassadors, Gahanna, Call Judy Spires (614) Gospel Ambassadors, Rittman, Call Greg Marcum (330) Headed Home-Singing For The Lord, Oak Hill, Call Jim Evans (740) or Robert Gamble (740) Mike Kisling, Hillsboro, (937) Nina Nash, Leesburg, (Southern Gospel Sound Tracks) (937) gnash2@cinci.rr.com Ounce of Hope, Delaware, (Southern Gospel) (740) Out of Season, Columbus, (Bluegrass) Call Jim Fraley (614) Rob Goodman, Newark, (740) Rowena and George Walker, Dayton, (937) Searching Lights, Galloway, (614) Stacy Edwards, Hilliard, (614) (614) stacy@stacyedwards.com Website: Steve Russell, Marengo, (740) steverussell@musician.net Terry Collins & Victory, Hillsboro, (937) The Baileys, Columbus, Ohio, ( ) gospel_link@hotmail.com The Hambys, Dublin, (Southern Gospel) (614) The Remy s, Mt Sterling, (740) Contact Candy Remy Valentine uniprintproducts@hughes.net The Spiritual Echoes, Circleville, Call Joyce May (740) or Delores Moore (614) Violet Maynard, Columbus, (614) violet@violetmaynard.com Undivided, Grove City, Call Mike or Sheri France (614) or Cari Phillips (614) Undivided96@aol.com Victory s Voice, Franklin Furnace, (740) Wayne Mays, Hilliard, (614) If you would like your group to be included, please send me your group name, what local FWB Church you are a member of, your address, and phone number. I will add you the list in the next issue of the Ambassador. HAMILTON GLADES (PORTER) Hello fellow Christian workers. First of all we would like to thank God for all His blessings to Hamilton Glades Church. We thank Him for new members, Brother Willis, and Sister Pauline Warren, for Brother Clark, and Sister Teressa Cook. By their membership God has added four new workers to our work force. We thank God for all the Christian brothers and sisters that helped us serve the Lord in the past couple of months. During our revival on May 15-20th, Bro. Donnie Smith brought the messages from the Lord! Singing was provided by several spirit led groups. The Bragdon Family inspired our souls with music, and song, as did Brother Bill and Sister Kim Walk. Local group talent consisted of Pastor Roy Chaffin, with Brother Willis and Sister Pauline Warren. Solo's were given by Brother Larry Skaggs, Sister Teressa Cook and Sister Bobbi Taylor.. During our Vacation Bible School the kids had fun as they learned about God. This year s theme was, "Sun Rock Kids Camp". We thank all that helped with VBS! Renee Butts was Rocky Racoon, Robin Moore was Ranger. Thanks to Andrea Culp for songs and hand signs, and thanks to the teachers Penny Parker, Mindy Hillard and assistants Andrea Culp, Bobbie Taylor, Lorie Taylor and her assistant Sis Brittany Taylor, and Bro. Levi Hillard. Not to forget all the parents whose help we could not have done it without. We pray for God's blessings upon each and everyone! Roy Chaffin, Pastor Bobbie Taylor, Reporter FIRST CHILLICOTHE (SOUTH CENTRAL) Greetings to all our sister churchs here in the state of Ohio. We have been having some great services in Chillicothe. God has really been moving in the hearts of our people. We have seen several decisions in the past couple months. We have been witnessing some true miracles in some of prayer requests that has been given. God is still working in the world that we live in. Our youth has been very busy raising money to go to the National and is very excited to compete in their event. We are anxious to see how they will do on the big stage. We hope to see you all there. We had our annual election of officers and several new people stepped to the plate to take some positions including the Ambassador Reporter. We are excited to see what God will do through their lives. Till the next issue May God richly bless you is our prayer. Mitchell Salyers, Pastor Esther Gilliland, Reporter LIGHTHOUSE (TRI-STATE) Lighthouse has been a flurry of activity. We celebrated Mother s Day, Memorial Day and had a dinner to celebrate Ashlee Barnett s high school graduation in May. Congratulations Ashlee! We also celebrated two being saved and John Howard taking up membership. God is so good. Several women from Lighthouse, Neville FWB, Faith FWB and other churches turned out for the first Women s Retreat at Potter s Ranch. We enjoyed great fellowship, laughter, fun and anointed teaching from Tina Tolbert. Tina is the director of Adult Studies at the FWB Bible College in Nashville, TN. The spirit of the Lord showed up and filled us all. Special thanks to all who were involved in getting this retreat organized, all who participated, and all who attended. It was wonderful! Tri-State Women s Retreat Father s Day was extra special this year and Ohio Golf Tourney Results Directly after the State Meeting, we hosted our annual Ohio Golf Tourney for golfers from all over the State of Ohio. We had 66 golfers participate. The Harrison FWB Team of Spencer Swayne, Jason Donahoe, Paul Denning and Aaron Strickland won first place with a score of 11 under par. we ended the month of June by installing a much needed steeple on the church. Thanks to all who worked on this project. Bobby Courtney, Pastor Renee Klein, Reporter UNION (PINE CREEK) Hello from Union! Our Mother/Daughter Banquet was May 9th. Mother of the Year was our missionary, Staci Wells Keter. She and her husband, Wycliff, are expecting their first baby and in the process of adopting 3 yr. old twin boys. In the evening of May 10th Bloom FWB joined us with their Pastor Kenny Klaiber preaching. Women again picked up baby bottles to fill with money for the Cradle Pregnancy Care Center in Portsmouth to be turned in on Father's Day. May 31st Pastor Chris and family traveled to Neville, OH where he preached at Neville FWB Church. Guest preaching for us was by Brandon Dailey. Rev. Roy Willis wife Vena, died on June 6th after a short few months with cancer. When he wasn't being a pastor, they attended our church. Kelly Gleim again was the Director of VBS, the theme "Studio GO! Game Show". It was a great success with 95 attendance. For learning Joshua 1:9, 75 children were given Bibles. The Philathea Class began a collection of nonperishable food items for a local food bank with large garbage cans at the church doors. One donation has been delivered with much appreciation from the food bank. The One Call Now automated calling system has been established for prayer chain and special announcements. June 26th our choir traveled to Gahanna FWB Church to sing and be part of the Ohio State Association meeting. On July 30th The Singing Cookes from Kingston, TN will be presenting a concert at our church beginning at 7:00 p.m. We have had two saved. Until next time.."if you're looking for a person to correct, look in the mirror!" Chris Oiler, Pastor LaVonda Leesburg, Reporter For the second flight, the Mansfield FWB Team of Mark Bailey, Al Deal, James Hall and Marcus Bailey won first place in the B Flight with a score of one under par. They did have to win a chip off with two other teams to claim the trophy With all things considered, we were all winners by having a great time of fellowship and fun.

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 7 FELLOWSHIP TABERNACLE (LITTLE MIAMI) We are thankful for Bro. Joe and Sis Connie McPerson for working nursing home ministry.

7 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 7 FELLOWSHIP TABERNACLE (LITTLE MIAMI) We are thankful for Bro. Joe and Sis Connie McPerson for working nursing home ministry. God surely is blessing the services in His special way. We have good attendance. Everyone enjoys the singing and preaching. We are thankful for all those who minister to us., both in God word and song. We are thankful for the ladies group for everything they do for our church. We took in two new members. On May 11-23rd we had an old fashioned tent revival. We had different singing and preaching nightly. Our attendance was very good. We are thankful for all the different churches that came and supported it. We had one saved. On May 24th some of our church family visited Bro Donald and Sis Carol Keeton in Chillicothe. Bro Don is very sick and cannot come to church. So we want to be a blessing to them. They are special people and we thank God for them. On May 27th we had feetwashing and communion service. It was a very special service and. On June7th we had home prayer meeting for Bro and Sis Fairchild. They are sick and cannot come to church. So we wanted to be a blessing to them. We thank God for Bro and Sis Fairchild. They need our prayers. On June 8th -13th we had our VBS. God sure Blessed VBS in His special way. We had very good attendance. We are thankful for everyone who took part in VBS. On June 20th we had a Father and Son banquet. We had good attendance and fellowship. We thank the ladies group who brought the food for us. Until next report may God richly bless you and yours. Jimmy Stepp, Pastor Noonie Lewis, Reporter TRINITY FWB (FRANKLIN) We celebrated Father's Day in remembering our Heavenly Father and the love He extends to His children. Bro Walter Collins brought the message to us. We remembered our earthly father with testimonies, The fathers in our church received gifts cards. We are getting ready to install a mew A/C system ourselves due to the high cost of having it done. Our church picnic will be held at Degerhart Park in Groverport, Ohio on July 11th. Hope to see you there. Paul Collins, Pastor Patricia Dorsey, Reporter WELLINGTON (CUYAHOGA-LORAIN) Hello from the Wellington FWB! Coming this July 10-11th at our church, the Cuyahoga/Lorain Conference; VBS will be July 20-24th- Polar Extremes will be our theme. For more information call April ended with the dedication of Dirk and Laurie Waite's infant son, Cohen. In May, our church enjoyed messages from guest ministers Jeremy Gannon, Paul Daniels, Bud Casto of WV, Roger Rice and Gary Dean. Mother's Day was a true joy with 134 in attendance and Gavin and Jacob Wooley were baptized. Carol and Paul Daniels, Roger Rice, Jeremy Gannon and many congregation members sang praises to the Lord. May ended with a financial report of the ladies group by sisters Charlotte Frame and Jewell Stallard. The month of June began with morning singers The Followers and guest preacher Roger Rice; in the evening The Dutton Family Singers and guest preacher Willy Bias reminding us that God is the pillar. After service those in attendance celebrated Pastor Billy Joe and Linda White's 20th wedding anniversary. June -14th, visiting preacher Bill Fraly spoke on the value of small churches. Visiting Brother Dickerson delivered a beautifully inspired message to our church on the 17th. Father's Day Paul Daniels preached. June 28th we had The Fisherman Quartet sing. Our church is as awaiting God's miracles, join us in prayer. Please remember Pastor Billy Joe White, his wife Linda and their family and Bro. Glenn Wetherbee in prayer as well as all the sick in our church. Bless you! Billy Joe White, Pastor Margaret DeWitt, Reporter OAK HILL (PINE CREEK) We've been having some wonderful spiritfilled services. One soul rededicated their life back to the Lord and was baptized on May 31st at lake Jackson. Mothers Day and Father s Day both were special each dad receiving a pen and a Bible marker, The mothers were given a potted flower. The oldest, youngest and the mother with the most children present was given a hanging basket. Vacation Bible School was held on June 10-12th. The theme was Studio Go! Go! Win with Jesus! The program was on June 13th and the children did a wonderful job. During the altar call a young girl went to the altar to pray and within seconds the whole altar was lined with children praying. What a blessing! I m sure God was smiling down on His little children. We want to thank the teachers and helpers and the music director, Sis. Debbie Black. She always does a great job with the children. We also want to thank this year s director, Bro Doug Clark for all his hard work in making VBS such a success. Our visiting preachers were Bro. Howard Hubbard, Bro Aaron Hutchson, Bro Steven Blagg and Bro Danny Boggs. We love each one. Until next time may God bless you. Ronnie Massie, Pastor Sandy Clark, Reporter HILLSBORO (CORNERSTONE) Greetings once again from the Hillsboro FWB Church. We thank the Lord each and everyday for His wonderful blessings on our church. We have just completed a tremendous week of Vacation Bible School, and there was great fun and food for all that attended. We are thankful to the Lord to be able to share the gospel message to all of the young ones who came. You never know what little seed has been sown in these children who take it home to their parents and we pray that it grows. Sister Joanie Brown, with all of her helpers, made it a very successful year for the VBS program. We thank the Lord for her devotion and hard work each year. We covet your prayers as we try to spread the Gospel to all we can before the coming of the Lord. God bless you all. Richard Burns, Pastor Douglas Nunn, Reporter SYMMES VALLEY (LAWRENCE) It is our pleasure once again report of the bountiful blessing given us by our Lord here at the Symmes Valley FWB Church. In all the sickness and difficultties it can be easy to get discouraged. But, when we recall how faithful our Heavenly Father is, there is no room for anything but rejoicing. As the writer of Hebrews said, let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering: for his is faithful that promised. Hebrews 10:23 Since our last report, God has once again showed us just how great He is. There has been two of our men called to preach. Bro Jeff Blakeman and Bro Roger Remey. The Lord is still in the saving business. We have seen twelve saved and lots of concern and conviction. Bro Chris Russell preached a revival for us and words are inadequate to tell of how the Lord is pouring out His blessings. The revival went into it's second week as I am writing this letter. Six precious souls have been saved and God is still convicting hearts. The lost are still coming and we look for God to add more each night. Isn't it wonderful to say, "God is adding to the church daily"! I am reminded of how many still need to come to know of His love for them. The harvest truly is great! The opportunities are immense. Jesse Sizemore, Pastor Susie Webb, Reporter TROY (LITTLE MIAMI) A warm hello from Troy FWB. So far the days are hot and the nights are warm. God has every season in control and only He knows what we need and when we need it, We all enjoyed the Kingsway Singers on May 3rd in our a.m. service. The men of the church (led and coached by Pastor Mark) planned and carried out a Mother's Day dinner on May 9th. I, for one, was very impressed with every thing they cooked, served, and shared for the program. They had all bases covered. Family and Friend's Day was May 17th with Bro. Jim Tharp singing and preaching. We had a good service with a good meal following. Father's Day was celebrated with a picnic at the Jones' residence. We had Brother Greg Van Hoose and Bro. Mc Kinley Coffee preach for us. We enjoyed both. Please pray for Sis. Ruth Plantz. She had open-heart surgery and is having several complications. She is presently back in the hospital. Future dates to look forward to: August 16ththe Kingsway Singers in the a.m., September 20th- our homecoming with the Redeemed singing, and October 11th the Master Sounds singing in the a.m. Blessings to all. Enjoy the hot days of summer. Mark Snyder, Pastor Maryann Preston, Reporter CLEVELAND (CUYAHOGA LORAIN) As reported in the last edition, we held an eight week Sunday School class in Raising Up Spiritual Champions. It was such a blessing to us all having these kids in attendance. The Lord was dealing with so many of their young hearts, and on May 10, we had one young man, Alex Roderick, the grandson of Sister Ruth Spears, give his life to Christ. What a day of rejoicing that was. Please keep him in your prayers. On May 11th, Sister Verna Miller Workman, wife of Deacon Fred Workman, went home to be with the Lord. She was very dear to our church family, and will be greatly missed. Our hearts also go out to Brother Charlie Counts and his family for their loss of Sister Eloise Counts. Please keep these families in your prayers that the Lord will give them the extra special grace they need to get through. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5: 3-4 We were blessed to have Brother Kevin Spencer and Friends with us on June 20. It is always such a spiritual blessing when they are with us. Thank you to all those who came and worshipped with us. Robert L. Prichard, Pastor Kimberly R. Young, Reporter

Foreign Missionaries Josh and Angela Bryant to Uganda were here on May 3rd and Verlin Anderson, missionary to Africa was here on May 24th. We enjoyed both presentations.

8 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 8 FREEDOM (CORNERSTONE) Hope all are having a blessed summer. We are here in Plain City getting ready for VBS August 9-14th. All our young entrants and coaches are getting ready to go to the National Convention this month. So lots of excitement in the air. Foreign Missionaries Josh and Angela Bryant to Uganda were here on May 3rd and Verlin Anderson, missionary to Africa was here on May 24th. We enjoyed both presentations. Verlin Anderson was awesome as he gave our morning message that day. Nearly 100 attended on June 28th in our morning service as we had the honor of singing group Rejoice being our guests here at Freedom FWB Church. They are missionaries from FWB Bible College in Nashville, TN. A time of fellowship with a potluck dinner followed the morning service. A cookout was held at the home of the Pastor Mike Sammons and wife Melissa on June 27th. We thank all those who came out to welcome these young Christians as they shared their ministry with us. We would like to congratulate Joe and Stacy Patterson on the birth their son Nathan Joseph Robert Patterson. Nathan was born May 28th weighing in at 8 lb. 8.9 oz. and was 21 inches long. Nathan joins his two big sisters Abbey and Lily. June 7th we celebrated the holy matrimony ceremony of David Walter and Lamanda (Mandy) Zimmerman as they became man and wife in the presence of their family and friends here at Freedom FWB Church. June 21st Melissa Rodgers was baptized and June 28th our newlyweds Dave and Mandy Walter were baptized. Many have shown interest also in joining Freedom FWB Church so a class recently was started for those interested. Pray for our church as we continue to grow and bring more to believe in our Savior Jesus Christ. Michael Sammons, Pastor Patty Holycross, Reporter DAILYVILLE (FRANKLIN) Our church has a web site, serve.com/oh/dailyville fwb. A successful revival was held May 11th -16th with preaching by Rev P. J. Fitch. Special singingwas offered by different groups each night. Our Masters Men went to Shawnee State Park for their retreat April 30th -May 2nd. A great time of fellowship and Bible study, along with a golf outing was enjoyed by the men and guests of the church. The annual Cancer Walk for Life was held in June at the fairgrounds with a great turn out. We had seven new members added after baptism in the nearby Pee Pee Creek. The youth attended a Christian concert at a college near Dayton, Ohio. Good things are happening at our church and we are being blessed. Peter Dunn, Pastor Jim Henry, Reporter ISLAND ROAD (CUYAHOGA-LORAIN) It has been such a lovely start to summer. We know in these uncertain times that God is still on His throne and in complete control. He is still seeking to save the lost and we are reminded of this as we see His Holy Spirit moving in the church, touching hearts and lives and bringing some to their knees at an altar of prayer. We were sad to see our Sunday School Superintendent have to relocate due to his career. We had a luncheon to wish him and his precious family God's blessings as they move to Maryland. Brother Joe and Sister Marsha The following ministers are available to fill the pulpit for pastors who have to be away from their church. Many are interested in conducting revivals as well. Andrew Cordell, 690 Milford Ave 21 C, Marysville, Oh (937) Bill Alford, Rudy Dr, Strongsville, Oh (440) Bill Bailey, 4864 Astoria Avenue, Columbus, Ohio, ( ) Anthony Tony W. Blackburn Mechanicsburg, Oh (740) Patrick Blevins, Basil Rd, Baltimore, Oh (740) Mike Boggs, 4411 McDowell Rd, Grove City, Oh (614) Ron Brown, 5478 Riber Rd. Hillsboro, Oh (937) Phil Chapman, Cleveland, Oh (440) Andrew J. Cordell, Mechanicsburg, Oh (937) Roger Crusie, 335 ½ N. 4th St., Greenfield, Oh (937) Luther Dingess, Route 1, Box 294, Fort Gay, WV (304) Freddy Dutton, 1700 Hale Ct, Columbus, Oh (614) Clyde Eldridge, 415 Patterson St., Fairborn, Oh (937) James England, 5138 N. High St, # 119, Cols. Oh (614) Larry French, 76 Skyline Dr., Ashville, Oh (740) Ben Gibson, 1126 Cheyenne Springfield, Oh (937) Packy Gibson, 7029 Fields Ln., Hillsboro, Oh (937) Randy Hall, Lake Front Dr, Hillsboro, Oh (937) Edwin Hayes, 3700 S High St #159, Columbus, Oh (614) Carl Jenkins, 2809 Searsdale Ave. Cleveland, Oh (216) William Jones, 9767 E US 36, Woodstock, Oh (937) Dan Knight, 946 Third Street, Logan, Ohio (740) Paul Keener, 703 Andrew Ave., Westerville, Oh (614) Travis McKenzie, 1339 Lewis Rd. Mansfield, Oh (419) Rusty Larter, 422 c Jackson Fork Rd. S. Webster, Oh (740) Tom Murphy, 229 Victorian Dr, Commercial Pt, Oh (614) Jeremy D. Ownby, 806 S. Waverly St. Columbus, Oh (740) Rob Ratcliff, 6568 TWP. Rd. 79 Mt. Gilead, Oh (419) Chris Russell, 100 Evening Drive, Olive Hill, KY (606) Mike Sollars, 1403 Wayne Street, Barberton, Oh (330) Tom Spradlin, Portsmouth, Oh (FWB Family Ministries-Rep (740) Terry Southers, 3017 Voeller Circle, Grove City, Oh (614) Alex Stevens, 2002 East Main Street, Greenup, KY (606) Dwight Stump, 5074 Willow Dale, Springfield, Oh (937) Marvin Swayne, 6786 Heathemoor, Hillsboro, Oh (937) Talo Teo, 828 Federal Ave., Zanesville, Oh (740) Bill Turner, 150 Willard Ave., Carlisle, Oh (513) Tim Updike, SR 93, Wellston, Oh (740) Ken Walker, 926 Fairview, Wheelersburg, Oh (740) Alan Wright, 8008 Harrisburg-London Rd, Orient, Oh (614) Josh Young, 855 State Route 323, South Solan, Oh (740) Kennedy and their three children, Sarah, Zach and Aaron meant more to our church than they will ever know! Not only was Brother Joe our Sunday School Superintendent, but also he was a wonderful singer in the church, and Sister Marsha was a very hard worker in the lady's auxiliary, we counted on her so much! The kids were also extremely active in the youth part of our church, whether it be singing, or plays and especially Sunday School! We know that the Lord has plans for their lives! They also know that they will be sorely missed and always have a home here at Island Road. We, unfortunately were unable to have the singing in June as planned. The Skyline Boys had to cancel their engagement. I am sure plans are in the making for future events. I will keep you posted. Please remember our church and all those who are on our prayer lists. God bless you all. Ed Kennedy, Pastor Audrey Carey, Reporter LOCKBOURNE (TRINITY) Greetings from Lockbourne FWB. As everyone stands in their gift and together we stand in the calling, we are using many different methods to witness to others and win souls to the Lord. Our Sunday School teachers are busy teaching our children, young adults and older adults what it means to be a disciple of Christ. We are being taught to live our life in such a way that others will see the love of God in us and want to know Him. We have had a blessed and busy two months since our last report. First and foremost, we are grateful for the four souls that were saved. God is good. The ladies auxiliary would like to thank Art and Roger Hood for helping in such a big way with our first church auction. It was a great success and a good time was had by all. We had a wonderful Sunday School picnic with a Hawaiian theme, horse and buggy rides, hula hoop contest, water balloons and much more. It was a wonderful day to fellowship with God s people and get to meet new friends and family members; a day that reminded us of the good old days. We had a golf outing with 32 golfers enjoying the great outdoors and the ladies auxiliary preparing lunch for the hungry bunch at the conclusion of the tournament. We had our church fishing tournament to be held July 10th at Madison Lake. Please pray for our newly elected Church Officers that they will continue to lead the flock at Lockbourne as Christ would lead. Pray for our youth as they prepare for church camp that they will experience a wonderful move of God and return refreshed and revived. Also continue to pray for all of us at Lockbourne as we labor together in the Lord. Leon Stevens, Pastor Janelle Sagraves, Reporter LIBERTY (CUYAHOGA-LORAIN) Greetings in the name of Jesus as we sing here at Liberty, "Ain't God good to give us so any blessings", and He has truly blessed here at Liberty. Our youth attended the youth camp sponsored by the Southeastern Bible College at the Cramerton FWB in Cramerton, NC. They came back rested, re-energized and rejoicing. Our Master s Men continues to cut grass and do home repairs for our senior citizens. They work hard,and do a good job,and have a good time of fun and fellowship every Saturday. Our Ladies of Liberty went to Amish Country and enjoyed themselves. On May 24th Bro. Chad Booth announced his call to preach,and preached his first message on Sunday night, June 21st. We are proud of all our ministers: Brothers Cecil Farmer, Mike Sollars, Oziel Jeffries, Bob Ash, Kevin Stutler, John Larrison and Chad Booth. The month of June has truly been exciting here at Liberty, We took in 17 new members to the church, and more are wanting to join. We have a saying here "When God supplies the brick to build the church, He supplies the cement to keep them in place." Our VBS is July 20-24th, and our homecoming is August 2nd, with Bro. Brian Farmer preaching and the Angle Brothers singing. Please feel free to come and be with us. Till we meet again by either the Ambassador or the rapture, may God bless. Cecil Farmer II, Pastor Debbie Sollars, Reporter SWAUGER VALLEY (PINE CREEK) Hello from Swauger Valley. On May 7th, we had our Mother-Daughter Banquet. We had good fellowship, good food, and a great time in the Lord. On May 8th, our kids took part in the Quiz Bowl Olympics. They did very well with the Seniors taking first in quizzing and the Juniors taking first place in quizzing and sword drills. The Primary took 2nd in sword drills. On May l7th we baptized five. After the baptism, we had our Sunday School picnic. On June 8- l2th we had our Bible School for kids preschool through 6 grade +. We had two saved. We need to reach the kids while they are still young. Our teens left on June 21st for a ministry TN to help The Family Ministries. They and the adults with them worked really hard for the week they were there. We are thankful to the Lord for giving them safe journey there and back. Some of our adults and kids will be working and attending church camp in the upcoming weeks. As we watch the news and see things happening, we can see that Jesus will be returning soon. We need to work harder than ever. Mike Simpson, Pastor Brenda Potters, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 9 PURITAN FWB (SOUTH CENTRAL) God bless all our sisters and brothers in Christ. We are looking forward and praying for our revival the 2nd week of July.

9 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 9 PURITAN FWB (SOUTH CENTRAL) God bless all our sisters and brothers in Christ. We are looking forward and praying for our revival the 2nd week of July. Brother Stevens will preach for us and we will have local singing talent. All the mothers were honored on Mother's Day with flowers going to the youngest, oldest, and with the most children present. We had one saved on a Sunday night. Our Wednesday night Bible Study has been in the book of Romans. The kids are back from camp. There were four saved. Thank God for He is still saving souls. Sister Vet Elerts lost her son, Roger, this month. Roger knew the Lord and had been sick for a long time. Pray for Sister Vet and her family. The fathers were honored on Father's Day. Oldest, youngest, and with the most children present. Brother Jim Boring preached for us on a Sunday night. He preached about the old paths and how the church needs to get back to the old paths of serving, praising and loving God. Remember to pray for our church and other churches. Lee Aldridge, Pastor Carrie Powell, Reporter MARYSVILLE ( CENTRAL OHIO) Psalm 18:3 I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised. We want to praise the Lord for our June revival. We had three precious souls saved, and many needs were met on the altar. We were blessed with good preaching and singing. Thanks to all who had a part and supported our revival. Our church had a family outing June 20th at the Honda park. Everyone enjoyed an afternoon of fellowship, food, and fun. On August 8th at 4:30, we will be having another outing at the Honda park. We will be having VBS open house July 12th 1-4 pm. Our VBS will be July 13-17th, 6-8 pm nightly. The theme this year will be Son Rock Camp. Please join us in our upcoming activities. May the Lord bless each one of you. Paul Bogenrife, Pastor Helen Murray, Reporter POWELLSVILLE (PINE CREEK) We enjoyed a spring revival with Bro Brian Davis preaching some wonderful messages. We appreciated beautiful singing by Spoken For and the Schafer Sisters and Mom. Bro Jim Pertoset preached for us recently and also installed a furnace and air conditioning system in the Sunday school rooms. Flowers were presented to the mothers on Mother s Day and the fathers also received gifts on their day. Our pastor had an accident with his rototiller, which left him with a broken foot and many bruises. He only missed one Sunday and we appreciated Bro Ken Walker delivering great messages for us. Jason and Sheri Mougey are the proud parents of a second son, Dylan Cole, born May 17th, Dylan has a big 2 yr. old brother, J.J. We really enjoyed Sunrise, a bluegrass gospel group on June 21st. We praise the Lord for answering prayers on behalf of our deacon, Bro Dary Mougey, going thru surgery and getting good news of the results. Please remember Sis Doll Barnett and family in prayer. Also our pastor who is dealing with other health issues. Our homecoming will be the second Sunday in August. Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Ed Davis, Pastor Chris Davis, Reporter RITTMAN COMMUNITY (CUYAHOGA-LORAIN) Well as I am writing this letter, our church has just returned from their 2nd annual youth retreat that we held at Heartland Retreat Center in Marengo. This year our camp grew to over 70 youth and adults. Four churches joined us-- Mansfield FWB, Unity FWB, Clinton FWB, and Christ the King Community. The youth ranged in ages from They enjoyed nonstop days of devotions, activities ranging from archery to swimming and wonderful evening services. Friday night's service was so powerful and many precious souls were saved. Also on Friday night we enjoyed special music by Mark Chapman. Rev. Lucian Baker was a guest speaker and Rev. Mark Bailey helped with our morning devotions. We would like to thank all of the churches who helped make our camp so successful and most of all to God who made all of this possible. Youth Camp Participants We also would like to welcome Bro. Ezra Caynor who is now our new youth pastor. Ezra will be getting married on August 1st to Casey Padgett who is a member of the Unity FWB in Greenville, NC. Casey is a wonderful Christian girl and we are truly excited to have her join us in August. Bro. Ezra graduated in May with FWB Bible College in Nashville. Already Ezra has made a huge impact on our youth and has them involved twice a month in our services. They are developing a choir and are learning so much about the word of God. The youth went to Cedar Point on July 9th and our VBS will be July 13-17th. We thank the Lord for what He's doing in our little church! We have such spirit-filled services and we thank God for that! Above is a photo of us at church camp in our camp t-shirts. John Castle, Pastor Christa Marcum, Reporter PARADISE (NORTHERN OHIO) We have been having some great services. In the past two months we have baptized nine people and we have added three new members to the church. We are having lost people in the Sunday morning service every week. We have seen some raise their hand for prayer, and some have even walked the aisle and shook the preachers hand. Keep praying that they will turn loose and let Jesus in their heart. On May 30th through June 3rd we hosted the "Kevin Morris Memorial Camp Meeting". We had wonderful singing and preaching each night. We saw wonderful crowds each night and had lost people come out also. June 22nd through June 26th we held Vacation Bible School. We had an average attendance of 84, and raised over $ for Camp Margie. The best part was we had one saved in the adult class on Wednesday night. Praise the LORD!! We have service the last Saturday night of each month. The starting time is 7 pm. Come and join us if you can. Until next time may God continue to bless you and your family. Randy Nichols, Pastor Charley Hinkle, Jr., Reporter ZALESKI "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." Isn't it a great feeling to know that you have the Lord to watch over you at all times? We just finished a great week in VBS. Our theme was "Son Rock Kids Camp." We did a camping theme. These two themes went over very well with the kids. On May 31st, we had special singing by George & Rowena Walker. They really blessed our hearts. Pleases pray for the residents at Twin Maples Nursing Home. They have all been sick and some had pneumonia. We go two Fridays a month to sing with them and our church goes the first Sunday of the month. The residents are truly a blessing to us. We are planning our SS Picnic for July 12th after the morning services. We are making plans for our annual homecoming August 9th. We will be having the Bates Sisters as our special singers, plus other special singing. Please try to join us in worshiping the Lord and fellowshipping with one another that day. Please pray for our church, as there has been a lot of serious illnesses surgeries and death among our congregation. We'll continue to keep all of you in our prayers. Remember our Pastor, Ferrell Rood and wife Nancy in your prayers. They are such a blessing to all of us and they hold us up in prayer. We need to uplift all the pastors and wives in prayer, as they are all burdened with so many things. We love you Ferrell and Nancy. Remember our military and their families and our nation. Happy 4th of July. Tell someone you love them and really mean it. Ferrell Rood, Pastor Linda Mckibben, Reporter ANTIOCH (PINE CREEK) Wow! We are so excited we have seen 10 souls so far this year come to accept Jesus as their 54 Ewing St. PO Box 161 Chillicothe, OH or fax: personal Savior. On June 7th we baptized 13 people what a glorious sight, five after Sunday morning worship service. We had seven more become members of our church. God is building His army and we are getting stronger every day. Please remember Sis Ethel Nagel in your prayers. She's been in the hospital and on the road to recovery. We have VBS fast approaching. July 13th will be the first day. Pray for us that we will see souls saved and present the gospel to children of all ages. Satan tried to discourage us by flooding the basement of the church with all the rain but my God is in control. The volunteers are working to repair the ceilings and carpet so we will be ready. And we know by faith God will provide a way for us to have VBS and we'll be ready to present Jesus! We re-elected Pastor Rick Henderson to continue to lead us in God s way. He is a very strong leader and stands on what he preaches. I leave you with this thought. Be sure you are prayed up, studied up, and ready to go up! Till next time love and prayers from Antioch. Rick Henderson, Pastor Glenda Lore, Reporter GOOD HOPE (CUYAHOGA-LORAIN) Hello to everyone from the Good Hope Church. Pray you are enjoying this beautiful summer weather. It will be gone before we know it. Our attendance is staying about the same, lots of vacations and reunions this time of year. Our children sang for Mother s Day and Father s Day. They are also collecting money for the missions. Each class is participating in this. On June 28th our church went to Mill Hollow Park for our Sunday school picnic. It rained some in the morning but we had a great day and the afternoon was sunny and warm. Our pastor had a good message. It is so refreshing to be worshiping God outside and close to the river. It reminds us of Apostle Paul. Some of us older people tried our hand at playing corn hole. Sorry to say I lost, but it was a fun day and good food and fellowship. We plan to be going to the Cuyahoga-Lorain conference in July. Hope to see you there. Keep us in your prayers and remember our sick. Paul Peterson, Pastor Mary Diamond, Reporter SOUTH COLUMBUS (TRINITY) Greetings in the name of the Lord! We hope you are rejoicing in the Lord and feeling His spirit within you. Spring is now behind us, but we are looking forward to a wonderful summer and hope to see souls saved. Hope your July 4th holiday was safe and fun. On Sunday, July 11:00 a.m. we will be having Chris Russell as a guest preacher. August is our homecoming month and would like to invite you and your family/friends to the following: Sunday, August 11:00 a.m. service and 6:00 p.m. service will be Jerry Copley as guest preacher. Saturday, August 7:00 p.m. will be preacher Roger Williams and he will also be returning Sunday, August 23rd for our 11:00 a.m. service with special singing. There will be no Sunday evening service on August 23rd. We would love to fellowship in the Lord with you, please mark your calendars now and invite others to come with you. Our Sunday School classes start at 10:00 a.m. for all ages. Bring the family and receive a blessing from the Lord. Tim Stevens, Pastor Robbin Blackburn, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 10 Sunday School Sunday Morning Sunday Evening Monday Tuesday Wednesday Bob Bouts Mark Price Jeff Sloan Paul Harrison Henry Horne Fred Warner (OH) (OH) (OK) (TN) (NC) (AR)

7:00 pm Sunday School* 10:00 AM - 10:45 am Morning Worship* 11:00 am - 12:00 Noon Evening Worship* 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Monday, July 20 General Board Meeting 8:00 am - 2:30 pm Millennium Grand Ball,

Bronze Exhibits Open 3:00 pm - 10:30 pm Benjamin Randall Appreciation Dinner 5:15 pm - 6:30 pm Evening Worship 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Tuesday, July 21 Randall House Seminar 8:00 am - 9:30 am Exhibit Hall

10 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 10 Sunday School Sunday Morning Sunday Evening Monday Tuesday Wednesday Bob Bouts Mark Price Jeff Sloan Paul Harrison Henry Horne Fred Warner (OH) (OH) (OK) (TN) (NC) (AR) Convention Schedule Saturday, July 18 Impact Cincinnati Various Locations 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Registration Opens 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm Lobby Lower Level Sunday, July 19 Registration (Open Daily) 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Sunday School* 10:00 AM - 10:45 am Morning Worship* 11:00 am - 12:00 Noon Evening Worship* 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Monday, July 20 General Board Meeting 8:00 am - 2:30 pm Millennium Grand Ball, Room Theological Trends Seminar 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Millennium, Bronze WNAC Seminar 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Hyatt Regency, Ballroom NYC Seminars 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Missions Rally 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm Millennium, Bronze Exhibits Open 3:00 pm - 10:30 pm Benjamin Randall Appreciation Dinner 5:15 pm - 6:30 pm Evening Worship 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Tuesday, July 21 Randall House Seminar 8:00 am - 9:30 am Exhibit Hall A WNAC Convention 8:30 am - 10:30 am Hyatt Regency, Ballroom Pastors/Laymen Conference 10:00 am - 11:45 am Exhibit Hall A NYC Seminars 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Exhibits Open 10:00 am - 10:30 pm WNAC Missionary Service 10:30 am - 11:30 am Hyatt Regency, Ballroom WNAC Fellowship Luncheon 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm Millennium, Bronze Convention Business Session 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm Exhibit Hall A Evening Worship 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Wednesday, July 22 NYC Competition Finals 8:00 am -11:00 am Convention Business Session 9:00 am - 4:00 pm NYC Seminars 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Exhibits Open 10:00 am - 9:30 pm FWBBC Alumni Luncheon 12:00 noon - 1:15 pm Evening Worship 6:45 pm - 8:30 pm NYC Awards Ceremony 8:50 pm - 11:00 pm NYC Competitive Activities 8:30 am - 4:30 pm NYC Competitive Activities 8:30 am - 4:30 pm *Teen services will be held in the Hyatt Regency, Ballroom

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 11 Our Free Will Baptist Heritage Free Will Baptist History from a Buckeye Perspective Rio Grande College - The Untold Story" Over the past few articles we have been studying the

Jim McComas David Crowe and I took to Bob Evans Farm and the University of Rio Grande, both located in Rio Grande, Ohio.

campus. In this article, I would like to share something amazing that I discovered during this trip.

11 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 11 Our Free Will Baptist Heritage Free Will Baptist History from a Buckeye Perspective Rio Grande College - The Untold Story" Over the past few articles we have been studying the History of Free Will Baptist Higher Education in Ohio. I shared with you of a recent trip that Dr. Rev. Jim McComas David Crowe and I took to Bob Evans Farm and the University of Rio Grande, both located in Rio Grande, Ohio. Annette Ward, the Director of Alumni Relations at the University could not have been more accommodating and helpful during our visit, and gave us generous access to the tremendous archives there on campus. In this article, I would like to share something amazing that I discovered during this trip. One of the highlights of the trip for me was to be able to sit and hold in my hands the original College Record book that recorded the minutes of the meetings that actually established the University. What a thrill I received as I paged through these records and discovered the hand written "Articles of Association" that were voted on and adopted by the founding Board. The Preamble clearly stated that the College was to be run "according to the laws of Ohio and the theology and practice of the Free Will Baptist denomination." That got my attention. I asked myself, "How in the world could this College have been turned over to the American Baptist Denomination in the infamous merger of , if the Articles of Association clearly states that it is to be run as a Free Will Baptist School?" This question seemed even more pertinent when I got to Article Five of the Articles of Association, which stated that "at least two-thirds of the members of this board shall be members in good standing in the Free Will Baptist denomination." Apparently, I thought, The Free Will Baptists on the Board at the time of the merger with the American Baptists must have agreed to go along with the merger, and just amended the Constitution to change the Denominational Affiliation from Free Will Baptist to American Baptist. Then I got to Article Ten, and I about fell out of my chair. Article Ten clearly states that the Board MAY amend the Articles of Association by two-thirds vote of the members present (if half of them are present), but then it went on to give the following, shocking, stipulations: "...NO AMENDMENT shall EVER be adopted by which the general purpose OR THE RELIGIOUS AND DENOMINATIONAL CONTROL OF THE INSTITUTION OR ITS FUNDS SHALL BE CHANGED." There it was, right in front of me, in the original hand of the founders. Rio Grande College was set up in such a way that it would forever be a Free Will Baptist Institution, run by a board of trustees controlled by a majority of Free Will Baptist Church members. Coming in the Next Issue - "The Rio Grande Story - 'The unamendable was amended'" If you have any questions or comments on these articles, please address them to: Pastor Jim McComas - P.O. Box 202 Creston, Ohio PastorJimMcComas@aol.com *ATTENTION* CHURCHES & PASTORS I am compiling a list of addresses of pastors and churches in the Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists. This will allow me to get vital news to you immediately. Please send your address to me at ehayes@ambassadorbible.com Have you received your copy yet? The Ohio Free Will Baptist History Book Over 200 years of our heritage chronicled! To Order, call the Ambassador Bookstore 1/800/ FREDDY DUTTON MINISTRIES Holding Forth The Word of Life 1700 Hale Court Columbus, Ohio / or 614/ Reverenddutton@aol.com Since the last report, we have been privileged to be in 25 services and had 22 altar decisions. The Lord has really blessed me to travel during the last two months without having a knee in my left leg. I just praise the Lord that I was able to make it to my appointments even though I was on crutches during this entire time. God is so good to us and we praise Him and thank Him for what He does for us each day. Last Thursday, June 25th, I had surgery for the second total knee replacement for the same knee, and this was the fifth surgery on this knee in the past year. I was released from the hospital on Sunday, June 28. I was unable to make it to the annual State Meeting, and the first time I have been unable to make it to our State Meeting due to illness. I know the Lord is in control, and Terry and I are totally trusting Him. The recovery for this knee replacement is going very, very well and much better than the last surgery. I have already been walking and can use this knee better than the entire time with the previous knee replacement. There has been no pain and I am praising the Lord that everything is going well with this surgery. I plan to be traveling again in about three weeks, and I am looking so forward to getting back out there and being with you in upcoming services. Once I finish the therapy during the next three weeks, I have no plans of slowing down. My life and ministry belongs to the Lord and I am very anxious to be out and about His work in full-time evangelism and soul winning. For all of you that have helped us through the last year, from the depths of our hearts and soul, we thank you, appreciate and love you for all you have done for us. Thank you so much for touching us with your prayers and the love and kindness that only comes from saints of God. You have blessed us and we will always remember! I am taking appointments and would love to come and be with you in services. May God bless you as you work for Him! Evangelist Freddy Dutton For Revivals, Conferences, Homecoming and other special services, please contact me at the above address.

The young people from Bloom FWB Church brought songs, skits and a wonderful sermon from their leader, James Howard.

12 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 12 PORTER (PORTER) It has been a busy two months for us, mainly because so many people have worked faithfully and tirelessly. We have been blessed by several spirit-lifting sermons from our own pastor as well as visiting ministers. The young people from Bloom FWB Church brought songs, skits and a wonderful sermon from their leader, James Howard. We welcomed Rejoice, with our own Lacey Price as a member of this talented and dedicated group. Rev. David Williford delivered a message on stewardship with a revealing personal perspective. One Sunday evening our own Jason Jones preached his first sermon which was very impressive. It was preceded by his own personal testimony that was thrilling to witness. May God keep His hand on Jason to a life spent in God s service. Vacation Bible School was a huge success and the kids were excited with the lessons and activities. Sister Jill Young, along with many dedicated helpers, planted many seeds. Young Brooklyn Oliver, who recently gave her heart to Jesus Christ, was baptized. May she follow Him all her life. Rev. James Forlines taught the Adult Sunday School classes then preached a stirring message on June 28th. Please pray for Brother Roger O Dell who has very serious health issues. He asked to be anointed as he realizes his need for God s help. Our teens fared extremely well at the Ohio State Convention and will be competing at the national in Cincinnati in the following categories: Vocal Duet- Halea King and Hannah Price Individual Drama- Halea King Group Drama- Halea King, Ellen Isgett, Hannah Price, and Hanna Dunham Live Puppets- Michael Isgett, Jenna Young, Carly Young Premolded Ceramics- Tyler King TruthQuest- Ellen Isgett, Halea King Mark Price, Pastor Janet Williams, Reporter BLOOM (PINE CREEK) We have been blessed while staying busy for the Lord. Our youth are preparing for the National competition in Cincinnati. They placed at the state in Columbus this spring. Bro. James Howard and Cathy Sizemore are helping them prepare and doing fundraising events. We had great preaching and singing at our revival and earlier had three saved from Dave and Sandi Lindner's family. Alex England was saved as well as a young couple who rededicated their lives to Christ recently. Aaron Baer was recently saved while in the hospital. Baptized recently were Brittany Brigner, Brad Hagen, Emily Grimm and Luke Piatt. Our choir sang in Wurtland, Ky and we have enjoyed preaching by former pastor Bro. Roger Lavender, Danny Baer, Matt Mayhew and youth pastor James Howard. We were saddened recently with the death of member Barbara Schaffer Willis. She will be missed. Baby dedication service was held for Lexie Faith, daughter of Shawn and Elisabeth Claxon. Recent High School graduates, Stephanie England and Stephanie Sparks were honored and College grad Rob Lyon. We also want to OYC 2009 State Meeting Report The 2009 Ohio Association meeting has come and gone, and on behalf of the OYC board, I would like to once again thank the Free Will Baptists of Ohio for your support. The words of encouragement I received after delivering my report to the General Board on Thursday, in the general session on Friday, and throughout the meeting were appreciated. Our Friday evening proceedings began with the OYC Competition winner recognition ceremony at 6:00 pm. During the proceedings we were able to once again recognize the winners of the competitions held in April that were able to attend the state meeting. Thanks goes out to all those that attended to support our young people. Following the ceremony, we were able to enjoy a time of worship in song with Rejoice and a challenging message for God s Word from Pastor Daryl Grimes. Bro. Grimes challenged us to make sure we have the proper foundation for the building of our lives. The message was a convicting one for the 65 in attendance in the OYC service. The OYC Board would like to welcome Pastor Mike Sammons as our newest member. We truly appreciate the hard work by Bro. Chris Mitchell during his term, and look forward to utilizing him as a resource in the future. Please be in prayer for the entire board as we seek God s direction for the future. Dates to keep in mind: February 7, 2010 Ohio Youth Sunday April 10, Bible Competition & Arts and Music Festival In His Service, Jason Luthy, OYC Chairman jason.luthy@gmail.com congratulate newlyweds Deric and Jacinda (Shaw) Paxson; Aaron and Kaylee (England) Cooper; and Allen & Emily (Grimm) Harner. Our "43rd" year for VBS will be held July 6-10th with theme "Crocodile Dock". Pray for Lori Osborne and all her helpful staff. The last Sunday in June was a day of special messages about personal testimonies. We should all be ready and happy to tell others about what God does for us. Bro. Kenny preached Sunday morning and Bro. James that night and reminded us the world is "waiting to hear your testimony". Let's pray that all our sister churches will be bold and give the words needed to tell all of the "Good News" about Jesus. Kenny Klaiber, Pastor Diana Claxon Stonerock, Reporter PETREA The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want is true because at Petrea we realize that God watches over us and gives us the things in our lives that we need and some of our wants. The Fourth of July is upon us again and we realize that we have seen another year go by that God's guiding hand has been on us and also our nation. We want to see our nation strong and willing to serve the Lord in good times as well as bad times. Give God the praise for His watchcare. All we have comes from the Lord. We have been blessed with Jim and Janet Angel and Family coming in to sing for us. Rick Bishop is faithful to help our church and we appreciate all the help from our fellow brothers and sisters. Our homecoming will be the August 16th. Co-op Supports ALL Our Ministries! When we look around and see the beautiful flowers and trees in full array, it makes us stand in awe because we know that God made the beauty for us to enjoy and we do; sometimes we just don't stop to appreciate it. Our little church group is blessed and we thank the Lord every day for the blessings He bestows on us. Many burdens have been lifted at an altar of prayer, for this we are grateful. May God bless and keep you till next time. Richard Cozad, Pastor Jacqueline Wyatt, Reporter NEW LEXINGTON (CORNERSTONE) Please remember our church secretary, Kathy Pickenpaugh and her family in prayer. Kathy lost her son-in-law in an auto accident on Evangelist Chris Russell Appointments for July 2009 Memorial Day. John was a devoted husband and father and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. Also remember Kathy's son Robert who is dealing with cancer. We have been having some wonderful services lately and enjoying our renewed sense of love and fellowship. We have just finished our study on Revelation done by Frank Triona and looking forward to the next series in our Wednesday Bible Study. Our annual picnic will be coming up in August and our Homecoming will be held in September. We are very fortunate to have such devoted members who love the Lord and this church. They are always willing to step in and help where they are needed. Many thanks to all of them for all their labor. James Grant, Pastor Alice Grant, Reporter URBANA (CENTRAL OHIO) Greetings from Urbana. On March 1st we were blessed to have in our service, the Giggle Grass Group. We really enjoyed their music and pray that God will bless them in this ministry. Our youth group held a breakfast on March 15th to raise money for the Dare to Share Program. We had four of our youth attend the Ohio Youth Bible Competition. Matthew Patton placed first in singing, Zach Chapman and Logan Cordell both placed second in the Bible Millionaire segment. They will go on to compete in the National. Also competing was Jordan Henry. We are very proud of our youth, after all, they are the future leaders of our church. We kicked off the spring season with our annual communion and feetwashing service April 5th and celebrated Easter Sunday with a Sunrise Service with Brother Don Hix bringing the message. Breakfast was enjoyed after the service. April 18th a group of 35 from our church went out for a night of food and fellowship at the home of an Amish Family near Bellefontaine. We also enjoyed Pizza and the showing of the film Flywheel in April. May 17th was homecoming service with Mike Blanton preaching and singing. We are now gearing up for our VBS Crocodile Dock the first week of August. We pray that the Lord will guide us in this outreach to the young people of our community. Wishing everyone a blessed summer. Remember us in your prayers, as we remember you in ours. Grant Cordell Pastor Barbi Johnson Reporter Date Church Location Time 7/10-7/11 Sunlight Baptist Callaboose Ridge Campton, KY 6:00 PM 7/12 Ross Chapel Church Bolts Fork Ashland, KY 6:00 PM 7/18 Amity Enterprise Baptist Plain City, OH 7:00 PM 7/19 South Columbus FWB Columbus, OH 10:00 AM 7/19 Southwest FWB Columbus, OH 6:00 PM 7/26 Nob Hill Springdale, AR. 10AM& 6 PM 7/27-7/29 Nob Hill Springdale, AR 7:00 PM

Reading it gives one encouragement and prompts the awareness of the heavenly grace and peace that embraces us. To God be the Glory!

13 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 13 Use hospitality one to another without grudging. I Peter 4:9 BETHESDA CHAPEL (PORTER) To copy from the Apostle Paul, To the faithful in Christ, grace be unto you and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. What a great introduction. Reading it gives one encouragement and prompts the awareness of the heavenly grace and peace that embraces us. To God be the Glory!! Our Youth Discovery Club program was in May closing a very successful season. Bro. Daryl Grimes brought the message and several came to the altar. Throughout the months we had great attendance and participation by our youth as well as our adults. A good number of our youth attended Youth Camp in June along with several of our adults. All came back excited. Many were saved; four were baptized at the church, with expectations of others to follow. A special thanks to John and Linda Daily for all their hard work in conducting the camp; also the other adult workers who participated. We appreciate all of our youth workers so much. Special speakers for May and June included Gideon Josh Wells, Missionary Genesis Santiago, Edwin Hayes, Tim Cassity, and Tim Updyke. We appreciate the messages and ministries of these brethren. We are looking forward to our Homecoming Revival beginning July 29th, with homecoming Sunday being August 2nd. Bro. Jeremiah Lewis will be preaching the revival and Sunday morning services. The Swauger Valley Boys and the Son Rise Quartet will be singing for us on Homecoming Sunday. Please come and be with us if you can. Brother Russ Allen passed away in June. Please remember Sister Charlene Allen in your prayers. Brother Allen will be missed by all who knew him. Until next time, may God bless you always. Daniel King, Pastor Sue King, Reporter UNITY-GALION (CUYAHOGA LORAIN) Not much has happened since our last report. On May 10th, Mother's Day, Llyod Slone gave his wife and his mother one of the best Mother's Day presents by giving his life to the Lord. Then on May 17th he gave his wife one of the best anniversary presents by being baptized. His mother came in from out of state just to see her son being baptized. It was a great day for everyone. Hopefully there will be more to report next time. Until then, may God bless. Dave Bates, Pastor April Hamilton, Reporter CHARITY-MINFORD Summer greetings from Charity! As we like to say, God is good, all the time!! He continues to bless us as we strive to work for Him. In the past few months we have been spiritually fed by Bro. Fred Lovell and Bro. Andy Day and ministered to in song by The Fishermen Quartet. It is so exciting to see what the Lord is doing in these ministries! These brothers in Christ are truly doing the Lord's work and we are honored to be a part of their ministries. Our VBS was very exciting as we "Traveled Back to Rome" to meet Paul and Brutus and the Underground Church too. The kids got very involved in buying and trying things in the Rome marketplace and were very happy when they found out that Brutus turned his life over to God. How exciting! We are looking forward to what the Lord will be doing as we get closer to the beautiful fall months and all they have to offer. Until next time, may the Lord bless you all as He has so richly blessed us. Gary R Dheel, Pastor Debi Lykins, Reporter SHELBY (NORTHERN OHIO) Hello once again from the Shelby flock! Since our last article, we ve had the joy of seeing two souls baptized and one make confession. The Lord truly is good, and His mercy everlasting! In May, the church entered its first float in the Shelby Memorial Day parade. The theme was Their Blood Our Freedom, highlighting not only our solders sacrifice but our Savior s sacrifice as well. Many of our youth and adults Cathy Crawford Newsletter Ohio Missionary to France Dear Friends, took part, and the float won first prize! In June, we held a Memorial Service to remember and honor those past members who have already gone on to be with the Lord. Roses were given out to the surviving families, and it was a good day to rejoice at the hope of seeing our loved ones again some day. Also, the last Sunday in June was our Sunday School picnic, and we celebrated with an Old Fashioned Days. Many dressed up in bonnets, aprons, overalls and old hats; we even had a barbershop quartet. There was also no air conditioning, although that wasn t planned! The last week of July, we will be hosting our annual Vacation Bible School. VBS will begin at 6:00 nightly, and this year s theme will be Down on the Farm. Feel free to join us if you are in the area! Herman Copley, Pastor Heather Brown, Reporter HIGH STREET (NORTH AND WESTERN) Two of our youth and two of their friends attended Camp Caleb in Kentucky. They arrived back on June 20th with Addi Bortner, a Since writing the last time one of my Muslem neighbors came over for tea. It went very well. She in turn invited me to go to the open-air market with her. We haven't been able to do that, yet. But hopefully we will be able to go soon. Ministry in France is all about spending time with people and building relationships with them, in order to have an open door to share the gospel. Please remember Nargul in prayer. The French neighbors that I mentioned in my last letter came over for a meal. It was enjoyable getting to know them better. The man has severe back pain although he has had back surgery. During the course of the evening, he went outside to smoke. When he came back inside, his girlfriend made a comment about his smoking. He replied, "I have to hold on to something." One day I hope the Lord will give me an opportunity to share with him that He is the one that he needs to hold on to. The Korpe family did receive a letter from the French government stating that they had to leave the country. Fortunately their lawyer has made an appeal. As long as the appeal is in process they can stay in the country. Thanks so much for praying for them. Thank you, too, for praying for Avril. Her shoulder is much better, and she is able to work again in her tea shop. Finally, in closing we have found a building that we would like to rent for our church. It is in the very center of Châteaubriant which is a very good location. It seems perfect for what we need. The landlord made us an offer that seemed too high. We made a counter offer. The landlord refused it. Now there is someone else who has made an offer on the building. Please ask the Lord to give us wisdom as to whether or not we should make another offer on this building. Thanks so much for all of your prayers and for giving so faithfully. In Christ, Cathy Crawford member of our youth group, being named Camper of the Year. We are proud of all our youth and their testimony they have among their peers. On June 19th Kevin Spencer and Friends sang at our church. All who attended were truly blessed by their ministry in song. We all need to remember those who are traveling and using their talents to spread the Word of God On August 1st at 9:30 AM the North & Western Conference will be held at the Lima FWB Church. August 30th our homecoming service is scheduled to be held. Rev. Randy Nichols is the scheduled speaker and The Dalton Gang Gospel Singers from TN will be ministering in song. Service will begin at 10:30A.M. with dinner being served immediately after the service. "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering;"... Hebrews 10:23 "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is;...hebrews 10:25 Pray for our church, our pastor and his wife, that God will continue to bless their ministry. James Webb, Pastor Bill Wolford, Reporter UNITY (CUYAHOGA-LORAIN) We hope everyone is having a great summer so far. God is continually blessing at our church and we are starting to grow! Our nursery has recently expanded. Special thanks to the men who were involved in this project. Speaking of our nursery, we would like to congratulate George and Suzanne Kopp on the birth of their first son, Jacob Lewis Kopp, born on May 19th. We would also like to congratulate Josh and Kristin Workman on the birth of their second son, Josiah David Workman, born on June 12th. We have three more babies to be born in August and September! The ladies had their annual Mother's Day banquet at the church on May 9th. Their special guest speaker was Jan Markowitz from WCRF, a Moody radio station in Cleveland. The ladies also had their retreat on May 14th-16th. Congratulations to our high school graduates, Gary Allen and Nick McGuire. Gary plans to attend The University of Akron this fall, and Nick plans to join the Army. Please pray for these two young men that they will always trust in the Lord. Vacation Bible School was held June 15th- 19th. The theme this year was "Studio Go". There was an average of about 95 kids each night! The VBS program was on Sunday night, June 21st. The kids had a good time, but most importantly they learned about Jesus! On June 30th, we lost Bro. Kenneth Chapman. He was a beloved trustee for many years at our church. He is finally home with the Lord after battling cancer for several months. He always said that he "was a winner either way"! We will miss him, but we know that we will see him again! Please keep the Chapman family in prayer. God is good-all the time, and all the time-god is good! Eugene Crouch, Pastor JR Allen, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 14 IM Board Meets The Board of Free Will Baptist International Missions held its annual meeting April 27-29, 2009, in the Mission office in Antioch, Tennessee.

International Missions: We exist to facilitate Church Planting Movements among unreached peoples.

2010, said Simpson, Joe will lead a major initiative with our denomination s young people. He is taking on a 14-month assignment that concludes after the 2010 National Association in Oklahoma City.

James Forlines, general director of the Mission further explained, We are immensely excited about this project and believe it will impact our movement for years to come.

14 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 14 IM Board Meets The Board of Free Will Baptist International Missions held its annual meeting April 27-29, 2009, in the Mission office in Antioch, Tennessee. The three-day meeting yielded the following actions: In historic and significant action, the board approved both a new purpose statement and eight core values Purpose of Free Will Baptist International Missions: We exist to facilitate Church Planting Movements among unreached peoples. International Missions Core Values: Integrity, Trust, Interdependence, Accountability, Flexibility, Affirmation, Life-long Learning, and Facilitation As part of our 75th anniversary celebration in 2010, said Simpson, Joe will lead a major initiative with our denomination s young people. He is taking on a 14-month assignment that concludes after the 2010 National Association in Oklahoma City. We are thrilled to have a creative leader of Joe s caliber to champion this effort! James Forlines, general director of the Mission further explained, We are immensely excited about this project and believe it will impact our movement for years to come. However, we want to launch this initiative with our young people and are not revealing all the details at this time. You will not want to miss the unveiling of this exciting plan at the National Youth Conference service on Tuesday night (July 21) in Cincinnati. Rev. Joe Wilson Joe Wilson began his professional ministry in 1990 as an associate pastor at the Glenville FWB Church (Georgia). He also served as an associate minister in churches in Oklahoma and Tennessee. Wilson ministered as senior pastor of the First FWB Church in Lebanon since The Wilson family will return to the Nashville area to take on this new challenge. I am excited and almost overwhelmed, Joe said, by the opportunity God is opening before me to have such a major impact. There is much to do in little time. I hope people will pray with us for God to give this endeavor His favor. For more information about the purpose statement and core values visit the IM website ( The board voted to renew IM s partnership with the International Training Alliance. Three official IM representatives for Cuba were interviewed and approved as part of our ongoing partnership with the FWB National Association in Cuba. Tom Willey, Jr., Ron Callaway, and Gary Curry will serve staggered terms of service and work in accordance with a Position Results Description (PRD) established specifically for this role. Stan and Brenda Bunch (Panama) and Matthew and Brooke Turnbough (Spain) were appointed for another term. Affiliate status was granted to Joshua and Jennifer Detherage who will be seconded to ELIC to serve in an undisclosed creative access country. The couple s longterm goal is to serve as IM career workers. The board voted to expand the role of its NGO to mobilize FWB people for projects on established IM fields. This allows The Hanna Project, originally created only to work in restricted access areas, to be strategically employed by workers on existing fields. Creative and restricted access areas will still be THP s priority. A finance committee recommendation to commend the missionary family on their cooperation and understanding in reducing their current budgets and to encourage them to underspend in the remainder of the current fiscal year was adopted. The board voted to reaffirm the plan and budget for the 2010 Missionary Gathering as part of the 75th Anniversary Celebration in Oklahoma. A change in missionary stateside travel policy was adopted. Beginning January 2010, the Mission will provide a Mission-owned vehicle for use while on stateside assignment. The 2007/2008 audit was received. The 2007 audit was restated to include field assets added to the IM books. The auditor outlined requirements for all field-held assets to comply with standardized reporting guidelines in the future. The board elected Danny Williams, chairman; Randy Wilson, vice chairman; and Tom McCullough, secretary for the coming year. The board received updates on all areas of Mission activity. Some noteworthy highlights were: *A review of the newly redesigned IM website ( including the MyIM feature allowing users to personalize their experience and the information and updates they receive. *A progress report on the development of Into The Darkness the 75th anniversary commemorative pictorial history of IM. *A look at the new IMpulse video magazine strategy free for download to all users on the website. *A meeting with representatives from FWB colleges to discuss curriculum planning and the Missionary-in-Residence programs. *A meeting with the U.S. stakeholders of our partnership with the Russian Baptist Union and our continuing role of the facilitating/educational ministry with the Russian Church. * IM s partnership with NYC to present GPS materials and training to students attending the NYC in Cincinnati, OH. Board members participating were: Danny Williams (AL), chairman; Randy Wilson (OK), vice-chairman; Tom McCullough (MI), secretary; Paul Creech (GA); Nelson Henderson (AR); Sherwood Lee (SC); Jeff Manning (NC); Jerry Norris (MO); Robert Morgan (TN). Wilson Joins International Missions Barry Simpson, director of development for Free Will Baptist International Missions, recently announced the addition of Joe Wilson to the IM team. Joe, formerly a pastor in Lebanon, Missouri, began his assignment in Antioch in June Don & Dottie Hix Ohio Home Missionaries to London, Ohio Greetings from the Redeemer Mission. A lot of things have been happening since our last report. I will try to tell you as much as I can, and as briefly as I can. We had a three day Vacation Bible School and God really blessed. We had an abundant amount of good help and that is always important in anything you attempt for the Lord. Not only did our people really step up but we had some from the Woodstock church bring some students and help us in our program. Plus Mike and Tomi Baldwin s daughters from Springfield came and helped us. We averaged 19 per night and had a total in attendance for our Sunday evening program of 38. Sister Tomi Baldwin, Sister Cristi Baldwin and Dottie did a great job of organizing and operating the VBS. I am writing this the day after the State Meeting and I am thinking of all of those have been such an important part of the work in London. I did not get to spend time with all of you or thank you personally but we do appreciate all of your support. One way that you can keep up with the work at London is to check our web site at redeemerfwb.org. Dottie keeps it updated with what is happening. I am thankful for all of her work in setting up the web site and updating it. Our desire and prayer is that God will help us to have such an outreach in our area that we can see the work become self supporting. Pray for people that we have been inviting to our services and that God will help us see souls saved. We hope to see you at the National in Cincinnati.

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 15 McArthur Pastor Jim Henderson was released from the hospital in Chillicothe. Wellington Pastor Billy Joe White is battling cancer and has been ill and in much pain.

Brother Bob Legg Jr son of First Dayton Pastor Bob Legg Sr. had surgery to have his elbow cleaned because of the infection.

Pleasant Hill Pastor Wayne Keith had a tree fall on him in May. No bones were broken, but he is quite sore. Do remember Brother Wayne in your prayers.

15 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 15 McArthur Pastor Jim Henderson was released from the hospital in Chillicothe. Wellington Pastor Billy Joe White is battling cancer and has been ill and in much pain. Do remember him in your prayers. Rev. Freddy Ray, pastor of the Bethel FWB, was in the Metro Hospital in Cleveland with a blood clot in his heart. He is now home recovering. Brother Bob Legg Jr son of First Dayton Pastor Bob Legg Sr. had surgery to have his elbow cleaned because of the infection. He had been battling this for six weeks, has had two major replacements and this was the fifth time they will have opened and cleaned the wound. Pleasant Hill Pastor Wayne Keith had a tree fall on him in May. No bones were broken, but he is quite sore. Do remember Brother Wayne in your prayers. Sister Janice Beverly was in the CCU Stepdown unit at St. Ann's Hospital in Westerville on May 22nd. She is a member of the Chapel Hill FWB Church where her son John Beverly is pastor. She had a surgery on June 10th and is now home recovering. Former Christian Fellowship Pastor Robert Fisher had knee surgery on May 28th. He is now home recovering. Dr. J. Matthew Pinson, 41-year-old president of FWB Bible College, is recovering from an appendectomy May 28th at Baptist Hospital in Nashville. Dr. Pinson is doing well, and was released from the hospital. Reynoldsburg Pastor Jerry Sargent had heart shock done June 8th and 18th to get his heart back in rhythm. He is now home. Dottie Hix's sister-in-law, LaDonna Mingus has been encountering some physical problems and she and her husband Rev. David Mingus could use prayer. Brother B.J. Stevens, a member of the South Columbus FWB Church was diagnosed with a serious aneurism in his abdomen. Brother B.J. is the father of South Columbus Pastor Tim Stevens and Lockbourne FWB Pastor Leon Stevens. Do remember this family in prayer. Southwest FWB Pastor John Meade had surgery June 16th. They kept him overnight and he is now home recovering. Do remember him in your prayers. Canaan FWB Pastor and Ohio Board of Director Vice Chairman Jim McComas was taken to the hospital June 21st with heart problems. He is doing well and was released on June 22nd and will wear a heart monitor. Do remember Brother Jim in your prayers. Evangelist Freddy Dutton had surgery June 25th at Grant Hospital in Columbus to replace his knee. He has undergone several surgeries since last year. He is now home recovering. Sister Linda Hayes, a member of the Westerville FWB Church and wife of Ohio Promotional Director Edwin Hayes had outpatient surgery on June 25th. She is now home recovering. Trinity FWB Pastor Paul Collins had gallbladder surgery on June 18th. He is now home recovering. ROSEDALE (TRINITY) Summer is finally here and God is so good to us. Just take a minute to look around you, the flowers, and trees and yes, even the bugs. God s handiwork is in everything around us; you can t help but know that through Him all things are good. We ve had a busy spring and summer so far, we had our revival in May and we had great preaching and singing each night. Revival is definitely good for the soul. We had Christians at the altar each night asking for strength in their Christian walk and a soul rededicate his life on the last night of the revival. What a blessing this was to his family and our church family as well. The kids have returned from Camp Caleb and we are happy to announce two were saved while at camp. We thank God for them and also for all the volunteers who gave their time to make sure the kids made it there and back safely. This is quite a long drive to and from and with the economy the way it is, we definitely thank God for souls like these who will take the time to insure and coordinate their time to help these kids. We are gearing up for VBS July 6-10th. A lot of preparation has gone into this and we are sure it will be a huge learning experience for the kids and adults. The kids always come away more enthused about what they have learned about Christ and hopefully will be able to spread this to their friends and kids at school. We are looking forward to several being baptized on Sunday, July 12th. Our attendance is up and for this we give all the glory to God. Our pastor has been preaching some powerful messages and he is such a big help to those who struggle and to our new converts. He never fails to let them know that wherever they are, he is always there for them. We thank God for him and his family who minister. So much goes on behind the scenes with pastors and their familes and we hope to never take them for granted, please keep them in your prayers. Clay Baldwin, Pastor Bev Fraley, Reporter REYNOLDSBURG (FRANKLIN) Greetings everyone. Looks like our summer is shaping up to be a busy one! The Greenes were with us in May. We enjoyed a very spiritual service with them. Billy Fields came to sing State Ministry Offering Once again Ohio Free Will Baptists gave generously to the HUNDRED DOLLAR FRIDAY NIGHT OFFERING FOR OHIO STATE MINISTRIES Our offering totaled $7, from at least 56 churches or conferences. The offering was divided among our three Ohio State Departments: 50% to our State Mission Program 40% to our State Office 10% to our Ohio Youth Conference Thanks go to the following churches and conferences who gave to the State Ministry Offering: Akron, Ambassador, Beatty, Bellville, Bethesda Chapel, Bloom, Christian Fellowship, Community-West Jefferson, First Austintown, First Chillicothe, Freedom, Cleveland, Cornerstone, Cross Pointe, Dogwood Ridge, Eastmont, Eastside, Eifort, First Clyde, First Springfield, Gahanna, Garden City, Good Hope, Harrison, Heritage, Hillview, Lighthouse-Elsmere, Lima, Long Run, Mansfield, Marysville, McArthur, McGuffey, New Hope, Newark, North, Ohio Women Active for Christ, Ohio Youth Conference, Pine Creek, Porter, Reynoldsburg, Rittman Community, Sciotodale, Shelby First, South Charleston, Southwest, Summit Station, Turkey Creek, Unity-Galion, Urbana, Wakefield, Wellington, Westside, Williams Road, Woodlawn and Woodstock. and preach for us in June. We also had breakfast for the dads on Father s Day. What a joy to see so many men serving the Lord and passing that on to their children. Our youth also had a very successful ice cream social to raise money for their trip to church camp. Our young people need our support and guidance as they navigate through this world. On July 7th our WAC made 400 buckeyes for the National Association in Cincinnati. The final total may have been higher since we do have to sample a few before they can be delivered! The theme for VBS this year is Studio Go! Game Show. The dates are July 13-17th from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Our church picnic will be July 18th from noon to 4:00 PM. This is always a good time of fellowship, food and fun! July 19th at 10:30 AM will be the closing program for VBS. On July 26th in our 10:30 AM service we will be joined by the Generation of Faith. Then on August 1st we will be having a yard sale at the church. Come see if someone has discarded anything you have to have! We wish everyone a very blessed summer. Jerry Sargent, Pastor Kathleen Browning, Reporter GAHANNA (CORNERSTONE) Greetings from Gahanna. Praise God for all the wonderful work He s done at Gahanna Church. We have seen many souls saved since the last report! May 31st. Pastor Booth had the pleasure of baptizing seven new converts. We want to thank the ladies auxiliary for hosting our annual Mother/Daughter Banquet as well as the Father/Son Banquet. Both were a huge success. The ladies also hosted a church cook-out June 19th to celebrate Pastor Booth s birthday. We were blessed to have Violet Maynard and Ruby and Jerry Smith provide special singing in the evening worship services during the months of May and June. The Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists was held at Gahanna June 26th and 27th. Revs Edwin Hayes, Aaron Reed and James Forlines were guest speakers. Special singing was provided at all services. Pastor Booth and Gahanna FWB Church were honored to host this special occasion. We are looking forward to Vacation Bible School July 20th 24th. It s a blessing to teach children about the love of God. Please pray for the sick in our church. God bless. Curtis Booth, Pastor Bonnie Justice, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 16 FWBBC Graduates 44 in Commencement Exercises Free Will Baptist Bible College graduated 44 students from 15 states and Canada in commencement exercises on campus Friday, May 8,

Forty-seven percent of the class graduated with honors.

calling for unity and vitality in diversity in the Lord s work.

16 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 16 FWBBC Graduates 44 in Commencement Exercises Free Will Baptist Bible College graduated 44 students from 15 states and Canada in commencement exercises on campus Friday, May 8, according to President Matt Pinson. Students completed degrees in six programs ranging from two-year associate s degrees to four-year bachelor s degrees. Forty-seven percent of the class graduated with honors. Reverend Barry Simpson, director of development with Free Will Baptist International Missions brought the commencement address, challenging graduates to participate in the body life of the church and calling for unity and vitality in diversity in the Lord s work. He urged leaders to cultivate local churches that encourage members to discover their spiritual gifts and use them in the service of Christ, His Church and His world. Simpson is a 1986 FWBBC graduate. He served 22 years with New Hope Free Will Baptist Church (TN), 16 years as senior pastor, as well as a term as vice president of the Free Will Baptist Foundation Board. North Carolina pastor Harold Webb, a 1989 FWBBC graduate, delivered the Thursday evening baccalaureate message titled, It s Not About Me, daring students to imitate Christ s example and minister as servants wherever they went. Webb has pastored Liberty Free Will Baptist Church (Marion) 17 years, and served two terms as moderator of Blue Ridge Association. Ezra Paul Caynor, from Rittman, Ohio received a Bachelor Biblical Ministry Studies for Pastoral Training Retiring FWBBC faculty member Barbara Riddle was honored for 33 years of service during commencement exercises. President Pinson said, Mrs. Riddle taught in the General Education Department where she was both a student favorite and a trusted member of the college faculty. Michael Walker, chair of the Business Department was named Academic Advisor of the Year. The college commends to you and to the work of the Lord the members of the 2009 graduating class. Alumni Association president Frank Owens commended the Tippetts for their faithfulness and announced that the alumni scholarship will now be known as the Bert and Dianne Tippett Alumni Scholarship, in honor of their unparalleled service to the college. Citing the Tippetts outstanding work since 1965, President Pinson presented them a plaque of appreciation. He later shared that FWBBC graduates Gary and Dottie Wright (who travelled from California to attend) had made a $15,000 gift to the college in honor of the Tippetts. The Tippetts spoke briefly to attendees. I ve never felt more unworthy of anything in my life than I do tonight, Bert said. Dianne expressed appreciation for the ongoing encouragement, cards, and s as they continue to face Bert s health issues. The Tippetts serve FWBBC in the area of public relations. Bert is director of church relations; Dianne volunteers as mailing list coordinator. Darla Trimble Named FWBBC Women s Resident Director Mrs. Darla Trimble, a veteran pastor s wife and mother with a certified nursing assistant degree, has been named women s resident director at Free Will Baptist Bible College, according to Dr. Jon Forlines, vice president for student services and dean of students. She begins her new duties August 1st. Mrs. Susan Forlines, FWBBC s dean of women, said, I am so pleased to have Darla join the staff as women s resident director. She brings a wealth of experience and insight from her years as a pastor s wife. She understands young women and can offer practical advice on what they can expect both as dormitory students and as many of them prepare to serve among our churches when they leave FWBBC. Mrs. Trimble s husband, Dr. Kevin Trimble, recently resigned his 10-year pastorate at Oak Grove Free Will Baptist Church in Greeneville, Tennessee, to enter the military as a Free Will Baptist chaplain. The Trimbles served churches 20 years in Alabama, Arkansas, and Tennessee. Darla grew up in a military home and was converted at age 17 in a Missouri youth camp. She graduated from Hillsdale Free Will Baptist College in 1985 with an A.A. degree in Christian Education. In 1983, she completed an A.A. degree in Business Administration at another college. Their two children, Nathan and Rachel, are enrolled at FWBBC. An avid runner, Mrs. Trimble is preparing for a half-marathon this spring and a full marathon in October. She usually runs five or six miles a day. She volunteers in community outreach activities, and served on the Board of City Schools Foundation in Greeneville as well as numerous projects with the City Council. I love working with girls and teens, she said. Youth ministry is my favorite. While we were pastoring, I taught Sunday School and CTS, participated in VBS, sang in the choir, directed Christmas plays, and thoroughly enjoyed our summer work in youth camps where we saw many lives changed. As women s resident director, Mrs. Trimble will live in an apartment in Polston Hall (the women s dormitory) and provide direction for the young women. May 2009 FWB Bible College Graduating Class FWBBC Honors Bert and Dianne Tippett More than 250 people gathered in Free Will Baptist Bible College s Memorial Auditorium on June 4 to share in The Celebration!, an evening to honor long-time employees Bert and Dianne Tippett for their 44-year ministry at FWBBC. For the first time in school history, an event was streamed live from the college, with more than 500 people logging onto the FWBBC website. President Matt Pinson said, We were delighted that so many friends joined us to honor the Tippetts who have been Christian examples and mentors for four decades. Bert and Dianne embody the biblical principles of faithfulness and sacrificial love. Their consistency as role models in service has made them the face of FWBBC to a generation of pastors, parents, and students. OPEN DOOR (CORNERSTONE) God bless America!! Here at Open Door we are all enjoying the warm weather that comes along with summer. The kids are especially enjoying it because after a few months of donations we were able to buy a swingset for the church. It is great to see the kids enjoying themselves after church. In May we had a Family Celebration to honor mothers and fathers. Everyone brought a covered dish and we had a great time. In June we had Bring a Friend Day. Thank you to everyone who invited their friends. Recently our men started up a Men's Bible Study. Pray for them that they would have good fellowship as they study the Word. We can't wait to see what God has in store for us in the next few months. Continue to keep us in your prayers. Willie Booth, Pastor Brittany Richards-Reporter BOOKKEEPING ACCOUNTING NOTARY PUBLIC A 25-voice volunteer choir composed of individuals who sang or travelled with the Tippetts on choir tours and other music groups performed a special arrangement of It Is Well With My Soul, by Dr. James Stevens, chair of the Music Department. The 90-minute program included remarks by colleagues, family members, and friends, followed by a reception in Cumberland Cafeteria. Participants spoke of the Tippetts as co-workers, parents, friends, Christian examples, and professionals. Dr. Robert Picirilli, retired academic dean, said, Bert and Dianne began to rise above the crowd even when they were students. Both of them offered up, on the altar of this ministry we call Free Will Baptist Bible College, the sweet-savor sacrifice of excellence. They exemplified how to love God and submit to His bidding. They continue to set an example for all of us in their own personal lives and present, difficult circumstances. M. J. LOWE S INCOME TAX SERVICE 3213 SOUTH HIGH STREET COLUMBUS OHIO JIM & JEAN LOWE Phone OWNERS FAX MJLOWE24@YAHOO.COM

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 17 Purpose Driven Music.

937/671-7245 Tuesday, July 21st make plans for a meet and greet with Sonship Quartet at the National Free Will Baptist Convention in Cincinnati at Booth #331 GERMANY HOLLOW (PINE CREEK) Hello from

We have heard many wonderful messages from various preachers including; Charles Wiltshire, Don Massie, Steve Luster, Alex Stevens, Ron Litz and others. We have had one person saved since last time.

17 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 17 Purpose Driven Music...Ministry Driven Artists Sonship Quartet Wade Spencer The Concords Now booking concert dates for 2009 and 2010 Church Services, Homecomings, Revivals, Concerts, Special Events Call Today 937/ Tuesday, July 21st make plans for a meet and greet with Sonship Quartet at the National Free Will Baptist Convention in Cincinnati at Booth #331 GERMANY HOLLOW (PINE CREEK) Hello from Germany Hollow. All is well here at Germany Hollow. God continues to supply all our needs! We have heard many wonderful messages from various preachers including; Charles Wiltshire, Don Massie, Steve Luster, Alex Stevens, Ron Litz and others. We have had one person saved since last time. God has really been faithful to us here, praise be to God! The church has been praying for God to send the man He wants for our pastor. God has blessed and if all goes smoothly, we will be announcing by our next letter the man He has supplied. Please continue to remember all our shut-ins and elderly. Until next time or the Lord calls us home. Tim Jones, Reporter DOGWOOD RIDGE (SOUTHERN OHIO) " Everyday will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever." Psalm 145:2 God has been so good to us here at Dogwood Ridge! We are praising the Lord for all that He has done, and we are excited about what He is going to do for us. The Lord has been blessing us with His presence in our worship services, and we are so thankful for our pastor and the powerful messages from the word of God. In May we had our Mother/Daughter Tea Banquet, with Dale Caldwell teaching the lesson. We had a great turnout and the fellowship was wonderful. On May 24th we honored Ashlee Miller for graduating high school. Continue to remember her in your prayers as she goes to college that the Lord will bless her. Also in May Darrell and Candice Adkins were married at the church. Pray that the Lord will bless them both as they are very active in Nursing Home Ministries. We had our church picnic on June 28th. It was a great day of fun and fellowship. We are going to have VBS on July 13th through the 17th, and everyone is excited to work with the kids in the community to show them God's love. We hope and pray that we can reach some of these kids families that do not go to church. Our program will be on July 19th at 10:30 am. We are also looking forward to our revival that will start on July 27th through August 1st. Our services will start at 7 pm each night, with Jesse Sizemore preaching. We are looking forward to seeing souls saved and hearts touched. Everyone is invited to come and join us. We pray that God blesses all of you. Emil Cartee, Pastor Mark Stapleton, Reporter CORNERSTONE This year is nearly half gone; the congregation at our church has been busy serving the Lord. On June 4th the ladies auxiliary held a meeting at Mary Haman park in Circleville. They also held a drive to provide clothing for the babies born at Berger Hospital to needy families. Baby food jars were provided for people to place their spare change in. $ was collected for this endeavor. Eighteen mothers were honored on Mothers Day. On Father s Day ten fathers were honored. The ladies provided a meal for the fathers in the fellowship hall. Our VBS this year will be held on July 22-24th, from 6:30 PM until 8:30 PM. For further information contact Sister Angie Bowens, telephone no Roger E. Tillis, Sr., Pastor Sherman Sawvel, Reporter NORTHRIDGE Summer officially arrived and sunshine tends to make us all happier and rejuvenated in mind and spirit! We have enjoyed the events in the past couple of months and will just say the Lord is so good to us and He is truly answering our prayers to give Northridge a double portion of His Spirit! We are seeing a wonderful increase in attendance, souls being saved and rededications. Folks are taking their problems and sicknesses and laying them on the altar, trusting the Lord to answer their prayers. What a glorious sight to see a church filled to capacity, the Holy Spirit overshadowing the services, our ministers filled with the Holy Ghost, preaching under this special anointing that feeds the flock! Bless His Holy Name for what He is doing at Northridge! The Singing Echoes from TN visited us in May and we had a glorious time in the Lord! Congratulations to all our graduates!. June was full of events, Mother-Daughter Banquet, Youth Rummage and VBS just closed! We were blessed with a great success in both the Rummage Sale and the VBS. Precious children were taught about the Lord and I am sure this will stay with them for many years. Our church camp had it s first visitors and gave a wonderful report on our facilities for which we thank God for allowing us to have. July will be busy with our campers and our prayer is that many of these children will accept the Lord. They love going to camp for a week and highly recommend it for your children. God bless until next time! Tim Hamilton, Pastor Jeannie Sloan, Reporter MADISON (PORTER) Summer has arrived, kids are swimming, riding bikes, skateboards and just enjoying being a kid. On June15-20th we had VBS. Wow! We had lots of kids every evening and they were such a delight, and absorbed so much about our wonderful Lord. Our teacher and helpers are so dedicated and giving. We applaud them. God was certainly in this VBS and we humbly thank Him for its success. In May we had a awesome revival with preaching by Bro Chis Russell. The preaching was inspired, the singing was uplifting, and what a blessing we all received from the testimonies. We would like to congratulate Kelly Martin, after three years of hard study, while caring for her family, working a full time job, she has passed her state board, and now is a registered nurse! Yea! God has blessed her and please pray for Sis Kelly's mom who is seriously ill with cancer. Please pray for each other, our nation, missionaries, attend the church of you choice and enjoy each and every day that the Lord has given you. Rodney Evans, Pastor Sharon Smith, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 18 Coming Eventws For Ohio Free Will Baptists July 19-22 State-Wide National Association of Free Will Baptists meeting in Cincinnati Central Ohio July 10-11 Heritage Student

Robert Morgan, 6 PM, Tim Stout, Pastor August 1 Trinity Conference September 12 Franklin Conference meeting at North FWB, Bill Chadwick, Pastor September 13-16 Franklin Conf.

18 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 18 Coming Eventws For Ohio Free Will Baptists July State-Wide National Association of Free Will Baptists meeting in Cincinnati Central Ohio July Heritage Student Ministries, Indoor Yard & Bake Sale, Tim Stout, Pastor July 12 Heritage hosting Adoration & Majesty Trios from Southeastern, 10:30 AM, Tim Stout, Pastor July 19 Heritage, Preaching Service with Robert Morgan, 6 PM, Tim Stout, Pastor August 1 Trinity Conference September 12 Franklin Conference meeting at North FWB, Bill Chadwick, Pastor September Franklin Conf. Revival w/neil Gilliland at Westerville FWB, Paul Etterling, Pastor July 11 July 18 August 1 August 15 Northern Ohio Cuyahoga-Lorian Conference Northeastern Conference North & Western Conference meeting at Lima, Ezra Moore, Pastor Northern Ohio Conference Southern Ohio July 11 Southern Ohio Conference July 11 Coalton, Song Fest, 6 PM, Tim Simpson, Pastor July 25 Jackson Conference July 27-August 1 Dogwood Ridge, Revival with Jesse Sizemore, Emil Cartee, Pastor August 1 Lawrence Conference August 1 Unity Conference August 2 Antioch, Homecoming, Rick Henderson, Pastor August 8 South Central Conference August 8 Pine Creek Conference August 9 Zaleski, Homecoming, Ferrell Rood, Pastor August 15 Porter Conference August 16 Petrea, Homecoming, Richard Cozad, Pastor August Coalton, Revival with Wayne Runyon, Special Singing each night, Tim Simpson, Pastor July 11 September 5 Western Ohio HOLY GROUND FREE WILL BAPTIST YOUTH FOR CHRIST CAMP 5150 RIBER RD HILLSBORO, OHIO There is still time to get your children in our summer camps. Below is the schedules for each camp. July Senior Camp Ages July Jr Boys Camp Ages 9-12 August 2-7 Jr Girls Camp Ages 9-12 Cost: $75 for one child. $70 each when you have 2 children enrolled. $65 each when you have 3 or more children enrolled. Each child will receive a camp T-Shirt, three meals per day & snacks, Five nights lodging and plenty of recreation. Devotions, Bible Study and church services each day. Adult supervision in each cabin. (Financial aid available) Contact Info: Larry Glenn Donna Glenn Rev Steve Nickels Pastor Tim Hamilton or us at pastanrfwb@yahoo.com. A ministry of Northridge FWB Church 4800 Payne Ave. Dayton, Oh Tri-State Conference Little Miami Conference LEBANON (LITTLE MIAMI) "And we know that all things work together for the good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his prayers." Romans 8:28 May 10th, Mother's Day, all mothers received a beautiful flower and special flowers were given to the oldest, youngest, and mother with the most children in church that day. At age 90 years young, June Naef was our oldest mom; a dear lady who knows a lot about the Bible. We were happy to host Little Miami River Conference on June 6th. God called Brother Albert Gabbard home on June 13th. He had been in very bad health for some time. He will be greatly missed by his family as well as his church family. Sister Irene needs all our prayers, as do his other family members as some of them are unsaved. We have many in our church who are very sick. Just to name a few: Bernie Sheppard and Barb Sharpe are battling cancer. Helen Peak is recuperating from surgery in a nursing home. Father's Day all dads present were given a gift as they were recognized. Thanks for all the dads and moms who still bring their children to church. It's been good having Brother Randy Brown do the preaching when our pastor has to work. Both Andy and Randy preach what the Bible says. June 28th was Lebanon FWB 48th Homecoming. We're thankful for all who came. It's always good to see dear friends and members from the past who have moved away and we don't see often. As always there was plenty of good food and fellowship. Pastor Andy passed out plenty of good spiritual food in the morning service also. We're preparing for Vacation Bible School July 20-24th. Hopefully we'll have a lot of children come and learn about God and have a good time. Please pray for our church and our country. Andy Maynard, Pastor Doris Chapman, Reporter CANAAN (CAPITAL CITY) The months of May and June have been filled with celebration, recognition and mourning. We celebrated the souls saved and decisions made at our annual Camp Meeting in Canaan. We recognized and celebrated Mother s Day, Father s Day the 2009 graduates in our midst. We also honored our pastor with a birthday bash to celebrate his 40th birthday. The Wednesday night Pioneer Club celebrated the end of the school year with an outing to Lake Farm Park. The 7th & 8th grade Sunday School class celebrated participating in the Hanna Project. School supplies were collected for needy children as part of an international mission outreach. The church also enjoyed a wonderful Sunday morning with two powerful messages from Rev. Keith Burden, our National Executive Secretary. Our church family also mourned the loss of our former member, Bro. Morris Justice, and the sudden tragic loss of Jamie Oiler. Please pray for these families. James R. McComas, Pastor Lisa Justice, Reporter MOUNT HOPE (SOUTHERN OHIO) Greetings from Mount Hope FWB Church. I hope this past quarter has left you healthy and blessed. In May we honored our mothers with our annual Mother-Daughter banquet. Anita McAdams served as our special guest speaker for the evening. With God's Hands, Debi Wagner, Molly Roark, Kayla Adkins and Anita McAdams providing special singing throughout the evening. It was a very spiritual evening. In June we visited Veggie Town for our Vacation Bible School. Larry the Cucumber, Bob the Tomato and our own Farmer Alan led the kids through the different jobs in our community that God can give us. Larry the Cucumber also posed daily dilemmas (pickle problems) for the kids to solve nightly. It was a very busy but fun week with all the lessons, crafts, snacks, and yummy snow cones. The week ended with our "Pie in the Eye" contest winner Molly Roark. Molly (our primary class teacher) received the prize of a pie in the face after earning the largest amount of money through out the week. Solomon Walters (having perfect attendance the entire week) was picked to be the deliverer of the pie. Thanks Molly for being such a good sport. Also a big thank you to the VBS director, teachers, helpers, snack providers, craft helpers and snow cone makers. Without each and everyone of you, this week would have been impossible to pull off. Thank You. Have a good and Godly day. Rob Fulton, Pastor Tanya Baldridge, Reporter

19 TOGHETHER WAY RECEIPTS May-June, 2009 ANTIOCH COMMUNITY (CENTRAL OHIO) In the spring of 1979 a young preacher had a burden to start a church. On a Sunday afternoon drive that burden began to become a reality when he and his wife drove by an old abandoned church. They decided to stop and take a look around. It was obvious that the building had not been used on sometime, but after kneeling and praying at the altar they knew this was the place God wanted them. After countless hours of working in and around the church, Antioch Community Church opened its doors the second Sunday in August of In August, 2009 this same preacher and his wife will be celebrating 30 years at that same church. In the past 30 years the church has experienced ups and downs as every church does, but through it all God has provided, protected, and proven Himself to be enough. There have been over 700 people saved, 500 baptized, and 11 men have been called to preach from this little church. While people have come and gone, one of the things that people always comment on when they visit is that Antioch will always be their home. Whenever one walks through the doors, the presence of God surrounds him/her and the love of God is felt. Antioch has held fast the last 30 years because the word of God has been the guide the entire way. Our beliefs will not be compromised by the world, our faith will not be shaken by our trials, and our hope will not be diminished by unbelievers. We will continue to move forward and press toward the prize that awaits us in heaven. Rev. Jim Blankenship On a personal note, the young preacher from 30 years ago is my dad Jim Blankenship. He has continued over the 30 years to preach with conviction, compassion, and shows commitment. Preachers are great men of God, but they come and go. Pastors are truly special men who must stay when they want to go, speak whey they'd rather be silent, and lead when they'd like to follow. I'd like to think that God has a special place for all pastors in heaven, where for all eternity, all the congregation will be in a good mood at the same time! I love you Dad, and I'm proud to be a member of your congregation, but mostly, your daughter. (Written by Tobi Briggs.) Jim Blankenship, Pastor Dianna Eiring, Reporter WESTERVILLE (FRANKLIN) Our church has been very busy this summer. We had a great VBS in June with 100 people present for the closing program. Mark and Jessica Musetti directed. We are now preparing for our church camp in August under the direction of Gary Sargent.. On Wednesday evenings we have been studying on First and Second John. On Sunday evening, June 27th we had Rejoice from the FWB Bible College sing for us and they did a great job! Paul R. Etterling, Pastor Edwin Hayes, Reporter

OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 20 State-Wide Women s Retreat October 16-17th with Tina Tolbert

com or email Ruby Martin at rub4225@fuse.net Within the last few weeks Bro.

ministry. This is cause for rejoicing! Bro.

20 OHIOAMBASSADOR PAGE 20 State-Wide Women s Retreat October 16-17th with Tina Tolbert Heartland Retreat Center Marengo, Ohio For more information, see OhioFWB.com or Ruby Martin at rub4225@fuse.net Within the last few weeks Bro. Keith Burt has seen six teens saved as a direct result of the newly established van ministry. This is cause for rejoicing! Bro. Don Hix worked out a deal with a local farmer to use the unused portion of land of the London Mission property. This is a five year contract that will help pay the winter heating expenses of the Mission Church. At the end of five months the three missions accounts are holding up well. Thank you for your support. Current Missionary Accounts Status Tim Byers - $ 1, Keith Burt $ 1, Don Hix $ 1, The Ohio Home Missions Board Paul Etterling, Sr OhioFWB.com

2014 Ohio Men s Retreat Report

2014 Ohio Men s Retreat Report On January 23-25, 2014 a crowd of four hundred and fifty four men met at the Heartland Retreat Center to see what God had in store for them at the annual three day session.