The Echoes visited once again for another Glorybound Christian Entertainment event at the Goshen United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall in Stella, Kentucky.
Founded by the late Joe Lawrence, the event still continues, even after Joe's recent promotion to Heaven, through the on-going efforts of Renee Taylor and Pat Lea. April Arnold, a local United Methodist pastor, has taken over Joe's duties of delivering a short inspirational message during the break in singing.
The Echoes presented Renee and Pat a plaque in memory of Joe, which we hope will serve to remind people of Joe's love for gospel music, the Gospel itself, and above all his love for Jesus.
We shared the evening with several soloists, including April Arnold. Since it is the Christmas Season, several Christmas songs were sung. But since Christmas songs aren't usually a part of our repertoire, we decided to go caroling. This took the form of inviting a few of our friends, including the other singers and the Erwins (of the WKGMA) to stroll to different tables (houses) and sing carols to the inhabitants at each "house." It was fun to go caroling again, and most of all to sing about our Saviour's birth.
And while we miss Joe, we're happy to be a small part in keeping his legacy going in the form of the Glorybound Christian Entertainment events.
May each of you have a very blessed and Merry Christmas, from the Echoes from Calvary.
Friday, December 09, 2011
Friday, November 04, 2011
WKGMA Fall Convention
The Echoes participated in the WKGMA Fall Convention, held once again at Trinity Baptist Church, in Paducah, KY. Good reports came from the Thursday night portion of the Convention, with several saying that the Holy Spirit was really present that night. Well, Friday night was no different, as 13 soloists, trios and quartets sang the Glory down.
The Echoes were fifth on the program and had to make a last-minute substitution of our planned song list. One of the previous groups sang one of the songs we had planned, so it was a simple substitute to another song that wove in the message of the Gospel.
David was in the midst of an active kidney stone attack, but didn't let that slow him down, as he took the lead on "It Pays To Pray," Twila then challenged everyone with "Preach The Word." We ended our set with a happy - and snappy - thought of going to Heaven, with "Yes I Am."
The enthusiastic congregation, who freely and demonstratively worshiped as the songs were sung, made the evening a blessing for everyone -- including the Echoes.
You just can't beat Gospel singing with God's people.
The Echoes were fifth on the program and had to make a last-minute substitution of our planned song list. One of the previous groups sang one of the songs we had planned, so it was a simple substitute to another song that wove in the message of the Gospel.
David was in the midst of an active kidney stone attack, but didn't let that slow him down, as he took the lead on "It Pays To Pray," Twila then challenged everyone with "Preach The Word." We ended our set with a happy - and snappy - thought of going to Heaven, with "Yes I Am."
The enthusiastic congregation, who freely and demonstratively worshiped as the songs were sung, made the evening a blessing for everyone -- including the Echoes.
You just can't beat Gospel singing with God's people.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Buena Vista Community Church
The Echoes enjoyed an afternoon of worship with our friends at Buena Vista Community Church, in Harrisburg, IL.
David's sister, Linda, is a member at Buena Vista, and since October is Pastor Appreciation Month, she had asked if we could prepare a music video honoring their Pastor, G.E. Coultas. So, David created a video accompaniment, and we sang the Rodney Griffin song, "Faces," while photos depicting the years of Pastor Coultas' service to God illustrated the words of the song.
If you're not familiar with "Faces," it speaks about the lives that each of us influence throughout our lives, even though we do not in most cases realize it. One day, when we get to heaven, those faces will be revealed to us. Another way to put it, the song is a condensed version of the perennial Christmas favorite movie, "It's A Wonderful Life," starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey.
Pastor Coultas was surprised, and there were few dry eyes in the congregation at the conclusion of the song. As the final frame in the video stated over a photo of Pastor Coultas preaching from the pulpit, "Well Done, Thou Good and Faithful Servant."
David's sister, Linda, is a member at Buena Vista, and since October is Pastor Appreciation Month, she had asked if we could prepare a music video honoring their Pastor, G.E. Coultas. So, David created a video accompaniment, and we sang the Rodney Griffin song, "Faces," while photos depicting the years of Pastor Coultas' service to God illustrated the words of the song.
If you're not familiar with "Faces," it speaks about the lives that each of us influence throughout our lives, even though we do not in most cases realize it. One day, when we get to heaven, those faces will be revealed to us. Another way to put it, the song is a condensed version of the perennial Christmas favorite movie, "It's A Wonderful Life," starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey.
Pastor Coultas was surprised, and there were few dry eyes in the congregation at the conclusion of the song. As the final frame in the video stated over a photo of Pastor Coultas preaching from the pulpit, "Well Done, Thou Good and Faithful Servant."
Sunday, October 09, 2011
Seven Mile Baptist Church Homecoming
The Echoes finished up our busy weekend with a return to Seven Mile Baptist Church to help them celebrate their homecoming service. Seven Mile's homecoming began with the Echoes presenting the Gospel in Song in a 45-minute series of songs. Then a guest minister brought a challenging sermon about the need to spread that Gospel throughout the world.
It was great to see Mylon Hulsey and his family at the service. Mylon sang with the Echoes in the late 90's and the early 2000's. So it was sorta like an Echoes homecoming also.
After the message, we all did what you do at homecomings -- ate a delicious meal.
It was a good way to end a great weekend of singing about Jesus.
It was great to see Mylon Hulsey and his family at the service. Mylon sang with the Echoes in the late 90's and the early 2000's. So it was sorta like an Echoes homecoming also.
After the message, we all did what you do at homecomings -- ate a delicious meal.
It was a good way to end a great weekend of singing about Jesus.
Saturday, October 08, 2011
Aurora Fall Festival Gospel Sing
Continuing a busy weekend, the Echoes traveled to Aurora, Kentucky, to participate in the Aurora Fall Festival. Aurora Baptist Church, located right on the busy parade route and in the middle of a lot a crafts, flea markets and other attractions, has sponsored a food tent and gospel singing for many years. And the Echoes have been a part of the singing for those many years, also.
Various WKGMA member groups participated, beginning in mid-morning, before the parade, and then starting up once again right after the parade passed. The Echoes were part of the afternoon contingent,
God blessed us with a beautiful Fall day. We trust that He also blessed those who heard the message in song.
Various WKGMA member groups participated, beginning in mid-morning, before the parade, and then starting up once again right after the parade passed. The Echoes were part of the afternoon contingent,
God blessed us with a beautiful Fall day. We trust that He also blessed those who heard the message in song.
Friday, October 07, 2011
WBCE Benefit Singing
One of the blessings we receive is the opportunity to help raise money for worthy causes. We've done this for all of the 41 years of the Echoes' existence. The latest occasion was a benefit for WBCE Radio, in Wickliffe, Kentucky. WBCE is a non-profit Christian station that helps spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Western Kentucky, Southern, Illinois, Western Tennessee and Southwestern Missouri.
The Echoes joined about 40 other various singing groups, ranging from soloists to quartets for a 5-hours extravaganza of Gospel Music. And as the old saying goes, "a good time was had by all."
The Echoes joined about 40 other various singing groups, ranging from soloists to quartets for a 5-hours extravaganza of Gospel Music. And as the old saying goes, "a good time was had by all."
Saturday, October 01, 2011
Fluorspar Day
It's always interesting to "go home." And a lot of old memories were brought to mind for David, as the Echoes appeared at the Memorial Band Pavilion to sing the Gospel at Fluorspar Day, in Rosiclare, Illinois.
David was a 1967 graduate of Rosiclare High School and spent quite a lot of time around the Main Street area over the years. But today, the old Capitol Theater is replaced by the Band Pavilion, some of the buildings are no longer there, and the mining industry is a shadow of its former self. Yet the people still gather each year to celebrate Community.
The Echoes participated by singing the never-changing message of the Gospel in song, while down the street a little ways, the young children played on inflatables, and at the levee, Hardin County's various volunteer fire departments conducted water battles.
No doubt, a good time was had by all, and traditions still continue. Nothing really changes all that much -- and God's Love and the message that His Son, Jesus, brings will always be the same.
The Echoes are blessed to be able to mark having sung that never-changing message for 41 years this year -- almost as long as Fluorspar Day has celebrated the Community of Rosiclare.
David was a 1967 graduate of Rosiclare High School and spent quite a lot of time around the Main Street area over the years. But today, the old Capitol Theater is replaced by the Band Pavilion, some of the buildings are no longer there, and the mining industry is a shadow of its former self. Yet the people still gather each year to celebrate Community.
The Echoes participated by singing the never-changing message of the Gospel in song, while down the street a little ways, the young children played on inflatables, and at the levee, Hardin County's various volunteer fire departments conducted water battles.
No doubt, a good time was had by all, and traditions still continue. Nothing really changes all that much -- and God's Love and the message that His Son, Jesus, brings will always be the same.
The Echoes are blessed to be able to mark having sung that never-changing message for 41 years this year -- almost as long as Fluorspar Day has celebrated the Community of Rosiclare.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
WKGMA Mini-Convention
The Echoes took part in a WKGMA Mini-Convention held at House of Prayer, LaCenter, KY. Even though it's called a "mini" convention, there were a good number of WKGMA member groups and soloist who shared their message in song. And even though WKGMA stands for "West Kentucky Gospel Music Association," the membership includes groups from Illinois (the Echoes and others), Missouri, Indiana, and now Tennessee.
It's amazing, but would you believe that the messages in the songs are the same, no matter where the group is from. That message is about Jesus and His Love for us.
We appreciate the House of Prayer in hosting the event. We also enjoyed the finger food fellowship that was on-going during the convention. It's good to sing, and then visit with other WKGMA members during the evening.
The next time you hear about a WKGMA convention, be sure to plan to attend. You'll hear some great Gospel music from a variety of groups, soloists, and styles. But most importantly, you'll also be ministered to. Ain't God Good!!
It's amazing, but would you believe that the messages in the songs are the same, no matter where the group is from. That message is about Jesus and His Love for us.
We appreciate the House of Prayer in hosting the event. We also enjoyed the finger food fellowship that was on-going during the convention. It's good to sing, and then visit with other WKGMA members during the evening.
The next time you hear about a WKGMA convention, be sure to plan to attend. You'll hear some great Gospel music from a variety of groups, soloists, and styles. But most importantly, you'll also be ministered to. Ain't God Good!!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Azotus Annual Homecoming
The old church sits by a dusty gravel road, in a remote part of southern Pope County, Illinois. In its earlier days, it was a beacon of Christ in a vibrant community for many years, after its founding in 1848.
But today, those who once had a connection to Azotus Baptist Church gather just once a year to reminisce, take care of cemetery business and worship once again in the old church.
The old upright piano has a good number of keys that no longer work. But it still provides enough music, beautiful in its own way, that the gathering congregation can still sing along to the old hymns of the faith.
The coal or wood-burning stove no longer is present to heat the room. But that's no longer necessary anyway, in the hot months of August. The pews are unpadded, and the unscreened windows make welcome wasps and other insects who sometime join the congregation. Electricity is no longer present, but the guest minister doesn't need a sound system in the little building anyway.
But God is still present in that little, plain building. He dwells in the hearts of those faithful people who still gather once a year to worship Him in this place.
And the Echoes count it a honor to be a small part of this yearly service for the last 39 years. These days, everyone gathers under the old maple tree that very likely was there at the beginning in 1848. We all eat a delicious pot-luck lunch, and the Echoes then sing. Today, that old maple tree is showing its age, the results of ice storms, winds, and just old age in general.
But God is still present. And He always will be -- even after that little old church building beside of the road is no more.
But today, those who once had a connection to Azotus Baptist Church gather just once a year to reminisce, take care of cemetery business and worship once again in the old church.
The old upright piano has a good number of keys that no longer work. But it still provides enough music, beautiful in its own way, that the gathering congregation can still sing along to the old hymns of the faith.
The coal or wood-burning stove no longer is present to heat the room. But that's no longer necessary anyway, in the hot months of August. The pews are unpadded, and the unscreened windows make welcome wasps and other insects who sometime join the congregation. Electricity is no longer present, but the guest minister doesn't need a sound system in the little building anyway.
But God is still present in that little, plain building. He dwells in the hearts of those faithful people who still gather once a year to worship Him in this place.
And the Echoes count it a honor to be a small part of this yearly service for the last 39 years. These days, everyone gathers under the old maple tree that very likely was there at the beginning in 1848. We all eat a delicious pot-luck lunch, and the Echoes then sing. Today, that old maple tree is showing its age, the results of ice storms, winds, and just old age in general.
But God is still present. And He always will be -- even after that little old church building beside of the road is no more.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Gospel Mission Tabernacle
We enjoyed another great Sunday afternoon of Gospel singing and worship with our friends at the Gospel Mission Tabernacle, in Golconda, Illinois. Pastor Tim Green and his congregation made us feel at home, as always.
Actually, we'd feel at home anyway, since we have been singing from time to time at the Gospel Mission since the mid-70's, when it was located across the street from the courthouse in Golconda. And the Gospel Mission is the home church for our own Sharon and Dorris Thomas.
We began the afternoon with a delicious potluck dinner, even though it was not a homecoming-type event. And, as usually is the case, it's too easy to eat too much, which makes it hard for the Echoes to sing afterward, and somewhat a challenge for the congregation to keep the eyelids from drooping.
But the Holy Spirit took care of those issues by being present in our midst, and we were able to worship in a great way, by letting the words of the songs remind us of God's Grace, His Healing Power, and His never-failing Promises.
Yes, it was a great afternoon to enjoy the goodness of God with our friends at Gospel Mission Tabernacle.
Actually, we'd feel at home anyway, since we have been singing from time to time at the Gospel Mission since the mid-70's, when it was located across the street from the courthouse in Golconda. And the Gospel Mission is the home church for our own Sharon and Dorris Thomas.
We began the afternoon with a delicious potluck dinner, even though it was not a homecoming-type event. And, as usually is the case, it's too easy to eat too much, which makes it hard for the Echoes to sing afterward, and somewhat a challenge for the congregation to keep the eyelids from drooping.
But the Holy Spirit took care of those issues by being present in our midst, and we were able to worship in a great way, by letting the words of the songs remind us of God's Grace, His Healing Power, and His never-failing Promises.
Yes, it was a great afternoon to enjoy the goodness of God with our friends at Gospel Mission Tabernacle.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Brownfield Baptist Church Homecoming
The Echoes were privileged to be a part of Brownfield Baptist Church's 151st Anniversary Homecoming. As Pastor Monte Reed said in his bulletin article, when the church began, people were still having gunfights in the streets." (They still are, but we know what he meant -- it was a long time ago). Look at it another way: In 1860, the Civil War had not yet begun; the church was lit by lantern and heated by wood (or maybe coal); the only air conditioning was an open window.
But while much has drastically changed since that first service 151 years ago, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is exactly the same as then. We gathered to worship the same God as was worshipped in that first service.
After a traditional, and delicious, pot luck lunch, the Echoes began with "I Wouldn't Take Nothing For My Journey Now," one of the older songs in our repertoire, and ending with one of our newest songs, "It Pays To Pray."
A good-sized, receptive congregation made it easy to sing, as they obviously were keying in on the message of each song. That's what it's all about -- each person receiving a personal message from God as each song is sung.
We've been singing at Brownfield periodically for the last 40 or so years, and it's always good to return once again. It was also good to see Billy Green, and his daughter, Theresa, in attendance. Billy was one of the founders of the Echoes from Calvary, back in 1970, so he has shared in some of those Brownfield singings in the past.
Pastor Reed ended the afternoon of worship with the observation that Brownfield Church might not make it to their 200th Anniversary, not that the church closed, but that Jesus may be coming back before then.
But until then, Brownfield Baptist plans to continue being a beacon for Christ in that little part of Pope County, Illinois, America, and the World. And the Echoes will plan to continue to visit with an encouraging Southern Gospel song every once in a while.
But while much has drastically changed since that first service 151 years ago, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is exactly the same as then. We gathered to worship the same God as was worshipped in that first service.
After a traditional, and delicious, pot luck lunch, the Echoes began with "I Wouldn't Take Nothing For My Journey Now," one of the older songs in our repertoire, and ending with one of our newest songs, "It Pays To Pray."
A good-sized, receptive congregation made it easy to sing, as they obviously were keying in on the message of each song. That's what it's all about -- each person receiving a personal message from God as each song is sung.
We've been singing at Brownfield periodically for the last 40 or so years, and it's always good to return once again. It was also good to see Billy Green, and his daughter, Theresa, in attendance. Billy was one of the founders of the Echoes from Calvary, back in 1970, so he has shared in some of those Brownfield singings in the past.
Pastor Reed ended the afternoon of worship with the observation that Brownfield Church might not make it to their 200th Anniversary, not that the church closed, but that Jesus may be coming back before then.
But until then, Brownfield Baptist plans to continue being a beacon for Christ in that little part of Pope County, Illinois, America, and the World. And the Echoes will plan to continue to visit with an encouraging Southern Gospel song every once in a while.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Trader's Mall - WKGMA Mini-Convention
The Echoes participated in a Western Kentucky Gospel Music Association (WKGMA) Mini-Convention held at Trader's Mall, near Paducah, KY. The Antiques and Flea Market Mall also contains an auditorium, which is a great place for special events such as the Mini-Convention. It also periodically hosts great Gospel singing by full-time groups, such as Gold City, Dixie Melody Boys, Ivan Parker, Mark Trammel Quartet, and others.
The Mini-Convention featured a large number of soloists, duets, trios and quartet members of WKGMA. The first 2-hour set began at 4:00pm. The Echoes sang just before the end of that set, after which everyone had the opportunity to partake of a delicious steak dinner. Afterward, the Convention continued with additional groups taking their turn on stage.
It's always great for Gospel singers to get together and feast on the messages in the songs, as well as the Spirit in which they are delivered. You're sure to enjoy being a part of that, so watch for announcements of future mini-conventions, or the upcoming Fall Convention in November.
The Mini-Convention featured a large number of soloists, duets, trios and quartet members of WKGMA. The first 2-hour set began at 4:00pm. The Echoes sang just before the end of that set, after which everyone had the opportunity to partake of a delicious steak dinner. Afterward, the Convention continued with additional groups taking their turn on stage.
It's always great for Gospel singers to get together and feast on the messages in the songs, as well as the Spirit in which they are delivered. You're sure to enjoy being a part of that, so watch for announcements of future mini-conventions, or the upcoming Fall Convention in November.
Friday, April 08, 2011
Illinois State Quartet Convention
The Echoes had another great time at the 42nd Annual Illinois State Quartet Convention, held at the beautiful Marion Civic Center. Hosted by the Glorylanders Quartet, this year's convention continued the tradition of top-notch Southern Illinois Southern Gospel singing, along with entertaining emcee Ralph Brandon to tie it all together. The spirit of God was in the house as each group presented an uplifting message of Jesus Christ. If variety is the spice of life, then the evening was very spicy.
In the last few years, a full-time "professional" group is also included on the program. For the Friday night concert in which we participated, that group was a relatively new trio, Freedom. This group will be going places.
Attendance at this year's convention was very good, and the crowd enthusiastically received each singing group. As always, the Echoes selected songs designed to encourage, to comfort, and to lift the spirits of the congregation. It must have worked; after singing, each of the Echoes felt encouraged, comforted and uplifted!
You can watch the Echoes as we sang "Jesus Made A Believer Out of Me" at the convention by going to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOwzccMpoR8
In the last few years, a full-time "professional" group is also included on the program. For the Friday night concert in which we participated, that group was a relatively new trio, Freedom. This group will be going places.
Attendance at this year's convention was very good, and the crowd enthusiastically received each singing group. As always, the Echoes selected songs designed to encourage, to comfort, and to lift the spirits of the congregation. It must have worked; after singing, each of the Echoes felt encouraged, comforted and uplifted!
You can watch the Echoes as we sang "Jesus Made A Believer Out of Me" at the convention by going to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOwzccMpoR8
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Belleview Methodist Church
Well, now that was a great evening of singing! The Echoes enjoyed singing for the folks at Belleview Methodist Church, in Smith Mills, Kentucky. Pastor Freda Alexander and her congregation made us feel very welcome, as we made this somewhat rare Sunday evening engagement.
We don't normally sing on Sunday mornings or nights, as Twila is the sole pianist for Calvary Baptist Church, where husband Mark pastors. But on this night, the folks at Calvary Baptist did their singing acapella, and the Echoes offered our three-part harmony to present the Message that God had for the folks at Belleview.
At the beginning of the service, David reminded people to listen to the words of the songs and receive the message that each song provided. The smiles on faces and enthusiastic applause for the songs was a good indication that indeed messages were being received.
Everyone also enjoyed the "finger-food" fellowship following the service, too. And Pastor Freda said that we would undoubtedly be asked to do it all again sometime before too long.
This year marks 40 years that David has been offering the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the Echoes from Calvary. It has been 39 years for Sharon and 27 years for Twila. So, singing for Christ has occupied a significant portion of each of our lives. But the blessings just keep getting better and better. It would be great to sing until Jesus returns.
We don't normally sing on Sunday mornings or nights, as Twila is the sole pianist for Calvary Baptist Church, where husband Mark pastors. But on this night, the folks at Calvary Baptist did their singing acapella, and the Echoes offered our three-part harmony to present the Message that God had for the folks at Belleview.
At the beginning of the service, David reminded people to listen to the words of the songs and receive the message that each song provided. The smiles on faces and enthusiastic applause for the songs was a good indication that indeed messages were being received.
Everyone also enjoyed the "finger-food" fellowship following the service, too. And Pastor Freda said that we would undoubtedly be asked to do it all again sometime before too long.
This year marks 40 years that David has been offering the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the Echoes from Calvary. It has been 39 years for Sharon and 27 years for Twila. So, singing for Christ has occupied a significant portion of each of our lives. But the blessings just keep getting better and better. It would be great to sing until Jesus returns.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Crusaders for Christ Church
The Echoes travelled to Mounds, Illinois, to participate in the Crusaders for Christ Church's 5th Sunday singing. Each 5th Sunday, the congregation gathers after Sunday morning service for a pot-luck lunch and afternoon Gospel singing.
The Spirit of the Lord was immediately evident even during the congregational singing to start off the afternoon. And that necessitated an immediate change in the song we had planned to begin with. But, that's nothing new for us. Frequently, someone will say something that will bring to mind the lyrics of a song that would better complement what was said. In fact that happened more than once during the afternoon.
After our first set, the next singers were the Gospel Crusaders. This husband and wife duet sang some heartfelt songs, which were made even more poignant as they discussed the medical issues they had been and were currently experiencing. But what came through the most was that they were still relying on God to see them through the valley they are experiencing. That's when a couple more songs came to mind.
So, when we started our second round, the songs "God Wants To Hear You Sing," and "Under Control" were our way of reminding the Gospel Crusaders that their songs must continue and that their faith in God's power will see them through, because He most surely has their situation under His control.
Actually, thinking back about the afternoon, the main theme of our song selection was to encourage, to uplift, and to take one more opportunity to remind people of just how great God is and just how much He loves each of us -- as illustrated by our final song of the afternoon, "When He Was On The Cross, I Was On His Mind."
Keep trusting Him.
The Spirit of the Lord was immediately evident even during the congregational singing to start off the afternoon. And that necessitated an immediate change in the song we had planned to begin with. But, that's nothing new for us. Frequently, someone will say something that will bring to mind the lyrics of a song that would better complement what was said. In fact that happened more than once during the afternoon.
After our first set, the next singers were the Gospel Crusaders. This husband and wife duet sang some heartfelt songs, which were made even more poignant as they discussed the medical issues they had been and were currently experiencing. But what came through the most was that they were still relying on God to see them through the valley they are experiencing. That's when a couple more songs came to mind.
So, when we started our second round, the songs "God Wants To Hear You Sing," and "Under Control" were our way of reminding the Gospel Crusaders that their songs must continue and that their faith in God's power will see them through, because He most surely has their situation under His control.
Actually, thinking back about the afternoon, the main theme of our song selection was to encourage, to uplift, and to take one more opportunity to remind people of just how great God is and just how much He loves each of us -- as illustrated by our final song of the afternoon, "When He Was On The Cross, I Was On His Mind."
Keep trusting Him.
Sunday, January 09, 2011
Highview Missionary Baptist Church
The Echoes were honored to sing at the dedication service for Highview Missionary Baptist Church. The church was established about 3 years ago as a mission by Walnut Grove Baptist Church, of the Big Saline Association. This service was to dedicate the new Sanctuary and building complex on Feazel Road, in Harrisburg, Illinois.
The event was coordinated and emceed by Dr. John Rogers, the Director of Missions for the Big Saline and Antioch Associations. Pastor Tommy Dutton welcomed those in attendance, and our own Mark Staton delivered the Invocation to start off the afternoon. Rick Humphries, Highview's Music Leader, led the congregation in singing "Victory in Jesus," and Highview's own theme song, "Higher Ground." Giving brief remarks were Mark Smith, the Pastor of Walnut Grove Baptist Church, and Bill Gholson, of Saline Ridge Baptist Church.
After recognition of the various churches who helped in the early days of Highview, Ed Lafferty, Pastor of the First Baptist Church, in Elizabethtown, Illinois, provided encouragement and advice to the congregation, and charged them to dedicate the church to fulfilling the Great Commission of Matthew 28:19-20.
The Echoes then continued the message through songs, including "I'm Rich," "When He Was On The Cross," "Did I Mention," and ending with the charge to "Preach The Word."
The Executive Director of the Illinois Baptist State Association, Dr. Nate Adams, then continued the theme of the responsibility of Highview to continue the Great Commission -- that we can do no less, because of God's unmerited Grace given to each of us. Dr. Adams spoke of once having a mixed breed dog which turned out to be undisciplined, bad tempered, and having no apparent value to the Adams family -- more trouble than anything else. But one day, the dog, because of his misfit behavior, was struck and severely injured by a car. The easiest thing to do with such a worthless dog would be to discard him. The dog hadn't done anything or worked to earn rehabilitation. But the family had mercy on the animal and gave a great price to have the dog nursed back to health.
We, too, do not deserve God's love or mercy. But He also paid a great price, and freely offers His Grace to us. That's what He tells us to share with the world -- the Great Commission. Today, Highview was commissioned to continue that life-long work, in their community of Harrisburg, in their State of Illinois, in their Country of the US, and throughout the world. And the Echoes are also blessed to be a part of that charge.
The event was coordinated and emceed by Dr. John Rogers, the Director of Missions for the Big Saline and Antioch Associations. Pastor Tommy Dutton welcomed those in attendance, and our own Mark Staton delivered the Invocation to start off the afternoon. Rick Humphries, Highview's Music Leader, led the congregation in singing "Victory in Jesus," and Highview's own theme song, "Higher Ground." Giving brief remarks were Mark Smith, the Pastor of Walnut Grove Baptist Church, and Bill Gholson, of Saline Ridge Baptist Church.
After recognition of the various churches who helped in the early days of Highview, Ed Lafferty, Pastor of the First Baptist Church, in Elizabethtown, Illinois, provided encouragement and advice to the congregation, and charged them to dedicate the church to fulfilling the Great Commission of Matthew 28:19-20.
The Echoes then continued the message through songs, including "I'm Rich," "When He Was On The Cross," "Did I Mention," and ending with the charge to "Preach The Word."
The Executive Director of the Illinois Baptist State Association, Dr. Nate Adams, then continued the theme of the responsibility of Highview to continue the Great Commission -- that we can do no less, because of God's unmerited Grace given to each of us. Dr. Adams spoke of once having a mixed breed dog which turned out to be undisciplined, bad tempered, and having no apparent value to the Adams family -- more trouble than anything else. But one day, the dog, because of his misfit behavior, was struck and severely injured by a car. The easiest thing to do with such a worthless dog would be to discard him. The dog hadn't done anything or worked to earn rehabilitation. But the family had mercy on the animal and gave a great price to have the dog nursed back to health.
We, too, do not deserve God's love or mercy. But He also paid a great price, and freely offers His Grace to us. That's what He tells us to share with the world -- the Great Commission. Today, Highview was commissioned to continue that life-long work, in their community of Harrisburg, in their State of Illinois, in their Country of the US, and throughout the world. And the Echoes are also blessed to be a part of that charge.
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Saline County Singing Convention
The tradition continues, as the Echoes were the featured singers at the first Saline County Singing Convention of 2011. We say "tradition," because the Echoes have been honored to kick off the Convention every January since 2007.
Also somewhat a tradition, the Convention was hosted by the Rudement Social Brethren Church. Convention President Alma Young welcomed the attendees on a sunny, but somewhat cold afternoon. But it was warm inside, as the convention began with the congregation singing some of the old standards from the "Songs of Inspiration" songbook.
Then the Echoes began telling once again the wonderful story of God's Love in song, beginning with "Reason Enough." Soon, we had everyone practicing their "finger snapping" skills with a fun, but true, song, "Jesus Made A Believer Out of Me." Other songs during the first set included "Under Control" and "Did I Mention."
Then it was time for others to offer a song or two and a piano-organ duet. The Echoes then finished up the afternoon with a few more messages in song, ending the day with a song we had not sung for a good number of years, "When He Was On The Cross, I Was On His Mind." What a thought!
Yes, it was a great day to continue a tradition -- and to bask in the glow of God's Love for us.
Also somewhat a tradition, the Convention was hosted by the Rudement Social Brethren Church. Convention President Alma Young welcomed the attendees on a sunny, but somewhat cold afternoon. But it was warm inside, as the convention began with the congregation singing some of the old standards from the "Songs of Inspiration" songbook.
Then the Echoes began telling once again the wonderful story of God's Love in song, beginning with "Reason Enough." Soon, we had everyone practicing their "finger snapping" skills with a fun, but true, song, "Jesus Made A Believer Out of Me." Other songs during the first set included "Under Control" and "Did I Mention."
Then it was time for others to offer a song or two and a piano-organ duet. The Echoes then finished up the afternoon with a few more messages in song, ending the day with a song we had not sung for a good number of years, "When He Was On The Cross, I Was On His Mind." What a thought!
Yes, it was a great day to continue a tradition -- and to bask in the glow of God's Love for us.
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