When we moved to Freeport, Illinois my family did not know anyone in the region. I had experienced the blessings of a close pastoral network in Indiana and I prayed that God might provide something similar in Freeport. The Lord answered that prayer in an overwhelming fashion; my cup literally overflows with godly pastor-friends. Pastor Larry Pauley was both a friend and a mentor to me. Larry introduced me to some other like-minded men in the Rockford area. Pastor Scott from FBC of Rockford, Pastor Chris Brauns from the Redbrick Church, Pastor Bixby from Morningstar Church, Pastor Brandon from Rock Valley Bible, each of whom pastor Word-centered, Reformed Baptist churches here in NW Illinois. I have also been greatly enriched from a "John Wesley friend" in Pastor Tim Lehman. Each week a small pocket of pastors sends out a Sunday morning intercessory prayer email to one another. Pastor Bob and Morningstar Church provided FBC with many guest preachers whenever our ministry was in need. On special occasions the men listed above have attempted to fill one another's pulpit.
PSALM 133
How good and pleasant it is
when God’s people live together in unity!
One of the most memorable things we did together was when FBC-Freeport, Morning Star, Rock Valley Bible, and Elim Baptist came together for two nights of Christ-centered praise. These communion worship services took place in Rockford on Maundy Thursday and in Freeport on Good Friday. Brian Hanson directed this four church choir in what became two unforgettable nights of worship. Even though the music was extraordinary it was obvious this collaboration was all about Jesus Christ. The Lord used many different people and ministries to bless the revitalization efforts at First Baptist, Freeport.
