Azotus Homecoming

For about the 40th consecutive year, the Echoes once again spent the last Sunday afternoon of August on the grounds of Azotus Baptist Church.  The church is no longer active, but former members and friends return once a year for a homecoming celebration.

Mark Staton, Twila's husband and pastor of Calvary Baptist Church of New Liberty, IL, brought the morning message.  Then, after setting up tables on the grounds under the big maple tree, people enjoyed an abundance of food of all types.

Then, prior to the Echoes' singing, the people gathered in front of the old church building for a photo to commemorate the day.

Then it was time to sing.  And sing we did.  The day was somewhat humid, so we kept moving to stay in the shade of that maple tree.  But the heat and humidity didn't interfere with enjoy singing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  We'll continue doing that as long as God says "Go."

Gospel Mission Tabernacle

The Echoes made a return visit to the Gospel Mission Tabernacle, near Golconda, for an afternoon of singing and fellowship.

After their morning service, the congregation enjoyed a bountiful meal of many delicious items.  It's really difficult to get up and sing after being exposed to the temptation of so many delicious dishes, and this day was no different for the Echoes.

But, after the meal, sing we still did.  And, as always, one could see on people's faces the blessings being received through the messages in the songs as we sang.

At the conclusion of the worship in song, the Echoes were blessed to have the congregation gather around us, as they prayed for our continuing ministry that people might be transformed through the words of the songs as we travel from place to place.  That's our prayer, also.