1 Year Update

April 7th of last year was our arrival date in Arkansas. At that time, our total church planting contacts were Josh and Kelsey Rice (whom we had met with only once). We had made it to Arkansas but the beginning steps to plant a church were unclear. Then God started providing. The story of our first year is told in all the blog posts so far. It is an amazing story of God's providence and guidance.

After a year, the month of April brings a barbeque and lots of new babies in the church.

We have learned that this church plant is really good at preparing food. The barbeque was another great example of our ability to serve up some great food. Cory Smith's chicken marinade recipe was legendary.

Our people joined together in a wonderful way to provide a lunch for pregnant moms at the Loving Choices Springdale Resource Center. These women have chosen to keep their babies rather than abort. The luncheon was a way to continue to support and equip them as they choose. I was very proud of the spirit of service that was demonstrated by Covenant Baptist Church. We continue to look for opportunities to be involved in blessing our community and fight for life in Arkansas.

Speaking of life…we have a new congregant who was born this week and two more due to arrive before the end of the month. I can’t wait to hold these new babies and see them grow in the Lord.

Also we have our first men’s retreat this weekend with Living Hope Church in Fayetteville. I look forward to the fellowship and encouragement of this event.

Covenant Baptist Church is GROWING. We have 70-80 people gathering for worship each week which means we are getting full in the Zion Oak Grange. We are planning and praying to multiply our church by planting again. Pray for God’s provision again.

God has done amazing things in 1 year. He has firmly established Covenant Baptist Church for his glory. May we continue to be faithful.