Community Baptist Church - South Bend IN

D. L. Moody, the great evangelist of the late 1800s, answered those who questioned him concerning his zeal for souls, "I have felt like working three times as hard as ever since I came to understand that my Lord was coming back again. I look on this world as a wrecked vessel. God has given me a lifeboat, and said to me, ‘Moody, save all you can.' This world is getting darker and darker; its ruin is coming nearer and nearer; if you have any friends on this wreck unsaved, you had better lose no time in getting them off."

The ministry of our Lord in His coming was "to seek and to save that which was lost", and He has given each believer a commission to be doing the same. The application of this vision at Community during the month of June involves two exciting ministries - Farm Fest and Vacation Bible School.

This past Saturday, June 14, Farm Fest was held for the fifth consecutive year at the Jessup Farm in Goshen, Indiana; Community and two sister churches in the area spearhead this dynamic youth outreach.  God blessed with a beautiful day, 430 teens present, and over 200 church volunteers laboring for the cause of the Gospel.  We witnessed powerful preaching by Steve Pettit and enjoyed great fun "down on the farm."  From the three Gospel services 22 professions of faith were recorded and over 70 dedication/surrender decisions registered.  We thank God for His presence and are actively involved in the follow up of making disciples.

Vacation Bible School begins on June 23 with the theme of Dino Detectives.  Dr. Bones and his faithful assistant will be leading the expedition as we hope to see hundreds of young people from our region come to this annual youth highlight.  Not only do we have an exciting program for those four years old through the sixth grade, but Pastor Mike Thomas leads an exciting Junior High Activity Week.

In all of this we are seeking to please our Savior, Who is taking out a people for His Name's sake.  May God give us His power as we seek to get the lost off the sinking ship and into the lifeboat of His grace!