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The Patriots Didn’t Play But February 7 Was Still Plenty Super

As the year began, we planned a February 7 church service where we would wear blue jeans and a jersey from our favorite sports’ team (college, pro, etc.). Most of us hoped that our near-by New England Patriots would be playing. That didn’t happen. However, it would have been hard to have a Sunday more super than the one we did on this special morning.

Though the attire wasn’t usual (Ohio State jerseys, New York Giants’ paraphernalia, a St. Louis Cardinals’ sighting and more), the upbeat singing was as we began our morning together. Quickly into the service, Glede Brown Kabongo came to the front and passionately shared her story, as she was restored to Christ and his body. Born in the Caribbean – this wife, mother and author, Glede, “came home” flanked by Roxana, Anita, Jody and a group of family and friends.

Soon after Kevin Mahoney’s communion speech on “the foolishness of the cross,” Nijo Burton came up to be baptized into Christ. George Webb, Vincent Pitts and Nijo’s wife, Latrice, all shared how inspiring Nijo’s change in heart and actions have been. His commitment to “Jesus is Lord” was greeted by applause, an immersion and a song to seal the decision – “I Have Decided To Follow Jesus.” Nijo’s three children also eagerly watched their dad be born again.

Part I – Good Confession!

Part II – Nijo is Baptised!

The lesson of the day focused on our next hero in the faith from Hebrews 11, Sarah. She pictured “Faith Waiting” in a way that proved to us all once again that God always gets the last laugh.

With two new souls added to our number, a vibrant fellowship ensued. We once again were reminded that life is not primarily about how our favorite team does, or what we drive or where we live. Our existence here is first and foremost about God and following Him. We rejoice as Glede and Nijo have made that decision clear in front of us all on February 7 – one “Super Sunday.”