March 18, 2018, will live in infamy. It was the day that only new members from nine months old or less in the Lord could speak publicly in our worship service. It certainly was some day.

The theme of our special service was taken from Micah 6:8. The three-part morning focused on “Act Justly,” “Love Mercy” and “Walk Humbly with God.”

Following rousing singing, Quan Moore & Kat Work welcomed the assembly. Quan shared of how much gratitude he felt toward God and the church for the many blessings he has already received in Christ. Kat overcame any fear of speaking and acted like a pro in sharing about the upcoming women’s midweek and Easter Sunday service. Then, Patrick Bowry led us in an inspiring, opening prayer.

The “Love Mercy” part of the day was covered during our communion. Brown senior Jack Kane took us to the Beattitudes to share about God’s mercy. He shared vulnerably about his past life involving alcohol, parties and immorality. Then he stated, “If God can show me mercy for all of this, can’t I show others mercy?”
Myles Bryan from Johnson and Wales also powerfully shared. His part was before we took up a collection. He read II Corinthians 9:6-8 and called us to give generously out of gratitude.

One of the highlights of the day was the spoken word by Eddie Meyer. Please check out the video . . . but his big heart came through in his challenging call to leave mediocrity behind.

The lesson on new member day was shared by Angel Mercado and Zoilo Guaba. Their appeal to justice and humility was heart-felt, zealous, and practical.

As the service ended, all who had become disciples within the past year were asked to stand. It was so encouraging to see alarge number – extending even well beyond those who had shared – rise to the applause of the audience. We are inspired by these radical, new Christians. May we take their messages, their prayers, and their hearts from this day and keep spreading seeds to the glory of God.