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The Michigan Free Will Baptist
Menorah
February
The Monthly Publication of the Michigan State Association of Free Will Baptists
2015
Correction: Mrs. Carol Reid was mentioned in the January Menorah as the past Librarian of Welch College. She continues
as Head Librarian. Sorry, Carol.
Correction #2: The wrong date for the youth competitions was reported in the January Menorah. It should be April
18th. Registrations should be in by March 20th.
Welch College Signs Contract to Sell Campus
NASHVILLE, TENN (January 7, 2015) -- Welch College has signed a contract to sell its
campus on West End Avenue to Forestar Group Inc, an Austin, TX based real estate firm.
Matt Pinson, president of Welch College, said today that 7.14 acres of the 7.6 acre campus
are being sold for approximately $12 million. The lot containing the Welch Library is not
included in the sale.
Pinson noted the College’s long history in the Richland-West End area. “We were founded here 72 years ago as Free Will
Baptist Bible College, long before the area became one of Nashville’s most appealing neighborhoods. We recognize the
pride our neighbors have in this community and are happy to have found a buyer that intends to engage in meaningful
dialogue with them about future plans for the property.”
Pinson said, “We are pleased with the purchase price and are delighted to be under contract with Forestar. This firm is noted
for taking a smart approach to master planned neighborhoods that are aligned with the needs of the larger community.”
“Forestar brings the depth of experience and financial strength necessary to create a very special community on this ideally
situated land. In addition, they bring a sensitive vision of how to transition the existing college campus back into the
residential neighborhood in a manner that fits within the historic overlay and current zoning criteria,” Pinson added.
Representatives of the College and Forestar plan to meet during the next few weeks with Metro Councilman Jason Holleman
and neighborhood leaders to initiate discussions and to set a framework for identifying and addressing community concerns.
Pinson said the College is also working with the Metro Historical Commission regarding the Welch Library, the stone wall
along Richland and Craighead Avenues and other historical features of the property.
Brentwood-based Land Innovations assisted the College with land use analysis and worked with Sisco & Farris, LLC, a
licensed TN real estate firm, to match the property’s highest uses with a qualified buyer.
Dudley Smith, managing partner of Land Innovations, said that Forestar has a strong track record of developments that work
with and enhance surrounding communities.
“We are confident Forestar will develop the property in a way that is sensitive to the desires of the neighborhood, maintains
its historic character and stays within the current zoning,” Smith said.
Rick French of French King Fine Properties and Ellen Christianson of Christianson, Patterson, Courtney and Associates
serve as the College’s sales and marketing team. “We are encouraged,” Christianson said. “After an exhaustive search, we
are excited. The buyer clearly intends to work closely with the Richland-West End Neighborhood Association."
Pinson noted that the College will continue to operate at its current location until construction is complete on its new 66acre campus in Sumner County.
The College purchased property for the new campus in 2008 to accommodate the school’s growth in academic offerings
and enrollment. “Escalating property values and zoning regulations make it impossible for us to expand the West End
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campus,” Pinson added. “In an increasingly competitive environment, we need larger dorm rooms, more green space,
environmentally sensitive and technologically sophisticated facilities, and other student-friendly features only a new campus
can make possible.”
The contract calls for a June 2015 closing. Before that time, the buyers will complete inspections and perform other due
diligence related to the purchase of the campus.
Bob Bass, relocation project consultant for Welch, said, “If the contract process proceeds as planned, we will begin
transferring certain lots and buildings to the new owners for their use soon after the closing. The core portion of the campus,
including academic buildings, library, gymnasium, auditorium, dormitories, dining facilities and the student center will
continue to be used by the College during a lease-back period of 18 months.”
The College has secured Focus Design Builders of Wake Forest, NC, to build the new Sumner County campus.
Welch College was established in 1942 as Free Will Baptist Bible College in a single building on Richland Avenue. In 2012
the College changed its name to Welch College to signify its development into a comprehensive Christian college.
With 40 majors and an annual enrollment of approximately 400 students, the College continues to expand educational
programs on the undergraduate level and has strategic plans in place to offer graduate programs in the near future.
The National Association of Free Will Baptists Coming to Michigan
The comforts of a friendly, small-town atmosphere combined with the pleasures of big city life
make Grand Rapids an ideal choice for a fun getaway with a host of indoor and outdoor activities.
Once known as the furniture capital of the world, the city has a reinvigorated downtown area and
a thriving arts and cultural community. It’s most popular attraction is the museum dedicated to
native son Gerald R. Ford, 38th U.S. President, where interactive exhibits take you to the White
House and the 1976 Republican National Convention. Wander through the state's largest tropical
conservatory at the Frederik Meijer Gardens, a magical wonderland of gardens, woodlands and
over 100 bronze statues by famous artists, including the 24-foot bronze horse designed by Leonardo da Vinci. More outdoor
fun is a half-hour away at the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan. Golf lovers have plenty of places to hit the greens since
Grand Rapids has more privately owned, daily-fee, public courses than any other U.S. city.
The National Association will meet in Hall BC of the DeVos Place. The Youth will have their services in the DeVos
Performance Hall. WNAC will be meeting in the Amway Grand Hotel.
Volunteers are needed! To volunteer for the Hospitality Table, please contact Pastor Jimmy Lawson at [email protected]. You may stipulate when you will be available – Saturday through Wednesday.
Rudy Taylor is chairman of the ushers, and you may volunteer by contacting him at [email protected].
Two Michigan Pastors to Preach!
Pastors Rick Locklear (Sunday evening) and Pastor Tom McCullough (Wednesday night) will preach during the 2015
National Association of Free Will Baptists. Other speakers will be announced in ONE magazine.
Update from France
Dear Friends,
Just a quick note to say thank you for your prayers and give a brief update.
* Becky's Mom: As you know just a week ago the nurse expected Mrs. Thomas would very likely pass away during
the night. However, since then her condition has seemed to stabilize some. She is still extremely weak and the doctors
do not expect she will live much longer, but we just don't know. Becky continues to care for her at home with help
from Hospice. Thank you for praying.
* Magali's Father: The doctors are slowly bringing him out of the induced coma. Some good news is that the infection
they suspected is not present. They do not know, however, to what extent he will be able to recover.
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Can't help but notice as I type the above, there is just so much that we don't know, isn't there? But our hope and
confidence comes from the realization that there is One who does know. We can trust Him.
* I'd like to also ask you to pray for me. I am presently involved in teaching a Christian Doctrines class that we are
providing for our churches. The classes are being taught on Monday evenings in St. Sebastien and on Wednesday
evenings at St. Nazaire. Each class has about 20 in attendance. We are grateful for the turnout and interest. I certainly
need the Lord's help in preparing and teaching (not something I have ever felt is my strength). Please pray the Lord
will use these sessions to strengthen believers and our churches here.
So grateful for you,
Steve & Becky Riggs
France
Good News from Spain
"Rejoice with your FAMILY in the beautiful land of life." (Albert Einstein)
This morning on the way to church, the magnificent snow-capped mountains not far from our apartment caught our
attention. While we live in a very beautiful area of Spain, we also recognize that inside our home is where we can rejoice
in the beautiful land of life that God has given our family. Here’s a quick overview of what’s been going on with each of
us since we returned from the States:
Tim jumped back into preaching responsibilities, Men’s Bible studies, and his role on the Alpedrete Church Board. He also
teaches several English conversation classes each month. He has been dealing with some throat issues the past few weeks,
and an allergic reaction to one of his medicines sent him to the emergency room late Wednesday night. Thankfully he
bounced back quickly, and was able to get back to his responsibilities the very next morning!
Kristi has returned to her ministry with the music program and children’s classes in our church, as well as the activities of
the Outreach Center. She meets with various ladies on Tuesday mornings for prayer time and Wednesday nights for Bible
study. On Fridays, she and Lea Edgmon have coffee with two of their friends from town. She has been using her love of
photography as she works on several projects for the Outreach Center and also our Field Council.
Alejandro has adjusted well returning to his high school here in Spain. He has re-joined the drama group in his school, and
continues to study French and German. As the only believer in his school, he is very diligent in learning how to share and
defend his faith to those around him. He was chosen to participate in the “Truth & Peace” Student Leadership Conference
of the National Association of Free Will Baptists this summer. He will spend three weeks in the States in July learning how
to impact his world through Biblical leadership. If any of you would like to support him in this endeavor ($1500 in
conference fees, and also travel expenses from Spain), please let us know.
Ana is back in her school here in Alpedrete and will be going on her Sixth Grade class trip in a couple of weeks. She has
had a sty on her eye for several months now and was a very brave little girl this past week when the eye doctor punctured it
with a needle. (OUCH!) Pray that it will heal soon and she won’t have to face any further procedures. It’s hard to believe,
but Ana will be turning “12" this coming week!
Thanks for being a part of our family’s ministry as we are in our SIXTH MISSIONARY JOURNEY to Spain!
Tim, Kristi, Alejandro, and Ana
District Meetings
January 31 – Liberty District Meeting, 9:30 a.m.
February 7 – West Michigan District Meeting, 9:30 a.m.
March 14 – New Hope District Meeting, 9:30 a.m.
March 14 - Wolverine District Meeting, 9:30 a.m.
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Michigan FWB Youth Camp
Simpson Park Campground
June 22-26, 2015
Does the winter weather already have you chilled to the bone? Well here’s a thought that will warm you
up! MFWBYC is only a few months away and we’re looking forward to another exciting camp for our
juniors, ages 7-13. Pastors, Youth Pastors and laypersons, please be planning and praying as to how God
will use you and your churches for His glory as we minister together to the young people of our great state
and beyond. Be looking for important information regarding camp in your mailbox, inbox, and wherever
else I can get it to you.
Thank you, God bless you and……think summer!!
Bro. Gordie Rohroff, camp director
FORUM15 | BIBLE CONFERENCE is for pastors, youth workers, church leaders, and students. The Conference is
sponsored and hosted by Welch College.
March 8-10, 2015
FORUM15 will focus on Authentic Spirituality.
Featured Speakers
Dr. Donald Whitney, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, KY
Dr. Michael Haykin, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, KY
Dr. Robert Coleman, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, South Hamilton, MA
Dr. Robert Picirilli, Author, Professor, Theologian
Dr. Barry Raper, Welch College
Dr. Corey Minter, Lead Pastor, New Hope Free Will Baptist Church, Joelton, TN
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Schedule of Events
Sunday, March 8
7:00 PM – Dr. Robert Coleman
Monday, March 9
8:30 AM – Pastor Corey Minter
9:30 AM – Dr. Michael Haykin
11:00 AM – Dr. Donald Whitney
7:00 PM – Dr. Robert Coleman
Tuesday, March 10
8:30 AM – Dr. Barry Raper
9:30 AM – Workshops
11:00 AM – Dr. Robert Picirilli
12:15 PM – Chuy's Luncheon – Dr. Michael Haykin
5:30 PM – Alumni and Friends Dinner
7:00 PM – Dr. Donald Whitney
Michigan State Youth Competition
The State Youth Competition will be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, March 18th, at the Woodhaven FWB Church. The
winners of the State competition will qualify for the National held in Grand Rapids during the National Association
of Free Will Baptist from July 20-22. Also, winners are requested to perform their competition pieces at our State
meeting in Frankenmuth, MI on Saturday, May 16.
Registration forms must be submitted by March 20, 2014. All forms and information can be found on the web at
verticalthree.com/fwbnyc. Please note that each competitor will need to submit a registration form for each area of
competition.
~Please mail registration forms to:
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Pastor Jimmy Lawson
Community Free Will Baptist Church
P.O. Box 851349
Westland, MI 48185
If you, or anyone qualified, would be interested in judging, or if you have any questions, please contact Jimmy Lawson at
[email protected] or (734)788-1430.
D6 Conference Announces 2015 Theme — REFINE
A multi-model family ministry event for your whole team, the D6 Conference is a place to learn about God’s original plan
for discipleship and how that applies in our ministries and homes.
September 16-18, 2015 — Louisville, KY
Nashville, TN, January 12, 2015 — The D6 Conference will once again host a national event based on the principles of
Deuteronomy 6. For the first time since 2012, this annual gathering will meet under one roof as parents and ministry leaders
from across the country and around the world convene to be inspired and learn practical strategies for generational
discipleship.
Content will center around the theme REFINE as attendees at D6 wrestle with refining their strategy for discipleship. The
theme passage of Ephesians 3:20-21 implies the importance of our effort and imagination while helping us realize God’s
role to inspire and bless our ministries. It is in this vein that we ask for His wisdom in reaching every generation with the
message of the gospel.
This overarching philosophy lends itself to every ministry of the church. Ministry leaders experience programming that
reaches topics related to men, women, youth, children, marriage, family leadership, divorce, special needs care, and more.
D6 Conference director Ron Hunter, “We continue to see churches bring their whole team and lay volunteers to plan, get
ideas, and just learn together.”
The 2015 D6 Conference in Louisville, Kentucky will feature over 50 breakouts as well as dynamic communicators from
the main stage who challenge attendees to reflect on our current approach to family ministry. Intentional time will be
provided for this reflection for those traveling with a team along with networking opportunities for those looking to connect
with other leaders in their field.
Conference coordinator, Brandon Roysden, said, “We continue to look for ways to connect people to one another and to
strategies that can help them fulfill their mission and purpose. We think this is a place where teams can really catch a vision
and go back with a plan to make it happen.”
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D6 2015 will take place September 16-18 at The Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky. Join with other leaders just like you
who want to understand God’s plan for healthy churches and healthy homes and find the latest resources from dozens of
vendors dedicated to equipping ministries and families with the tools they need.
A growing list of speakers will be made available online at d6conference.com along with schedules, travel accommodations,
and frequently asked questions.
About Randall House:
Randall House has published small group and Sunday School curriculum for over 50 years. In 2004 they trademarked the
CLEAR Learning System (the teaching model inside D6 Curriculum), which churches all across North America have
adopted as a most effective way to teach students in small groups. Not only is Randall House a curriculum publisher, but
they also publish D6 Devotional Magazines for the entire family, Elements Kids Worship, trade books and resources by
Tim Kimmel, Robert Morgan, Linda Crosby, Richard Ross, Rob Rienow, Edward Moody, Garnett Reid, Mark Holmen,
John Trent, Brian Haynes and many others for churches, leaders, pastors, parents, and families around the
world. (www.d6family.com)
2015 Men’s Retreat Report
Michigan preachers and laymen met on the campus of the Youth Haven Ranch
for a spiritual retreat and very little rest. Rev. Dann Patrick, retired pastor,
preached five (5) sermons over the 1 ½ day retreat and Brandon Cairns sang
before each message.
Pastor Rex Evans introducing the soloist Brandon Cairns and the speaker, Rev.
Dann Patrick.
Our cooks, 
Jeff Newton and Larry Kegley along
with their pastor, Rev. Ron Helms. Jeff
and Larry were assisted by Shane Cornwall.
Pastor Patrick reminded us
that the way to have a
church that pleases God
takes prayer, visitation,
work, and keeping oneself
clean. He told us that “at the end of the day what really matter is it
pleasing to God.”
The Church that pleases God takes the right people, the right preacher,
the right program, the right praise which is a natural response of God’s
people, and the right purpose.
On Tuesday morning, he brought in five chairs to illustrate his sermon.
He began by sitting in the fifth chair and said it represented the Lord
directing our paths. But in order for Him to direct our paths we must (illustrated by chair #1) know Him and talk to Him.
Chair #2 illustrated that when we know Him and talk to Him we will love Him and learn of Him. Once we know Him and
love Him, we will (illustrated by chair #3) trust Him. And when we come to know Him and love Him and trust Him, we
will obey Him (illustrated by chair #4). He emphasized that we should have no will of our own. It is completely given over
to God. We will want to please Him. When we know Him and love Him and trust Him and obey Him, then He will direct
our paths.
We were also reminded that God can…. Because of Creation; because of inspiration, and because of salvation. He stated
that you may argue theology, but you can’t argue a changed life. He used Paul and Zacchaeus as examples.
Attendees enjoyed the food (both spiritual and physical) and fellowship. Tentative dates for the 2016 Men’s Retreat are
January 24-26 at the Youth Haven Ranch.
The Michigan Free Will Baptist Menorah
4166 Maplewood Meadows Avenue
Grand Blanc, Michigan 48439-3500
Websites of Interest
Michigan State Association of Free Will Baptists: mifwb.com
[Rudy Taylor, webmaster: [email protected]]
National Association of Free Will Baptists: nafwb.org
Free Will Baptist History: fwbhistory.com
Free Will Baptist Pastor: fwbpastor.com
Pray for the National Association of Free Will Baptists
I have been asked to serve as Prayer Chairman for the National Association being held in Michigan this July. Please begin
praying for all of the speakers, the Youth, the Ladies, the officers & all those attending the National Association this year.
I will send a letter to each of the churches in February asking them to pray for a specific aspect of the convention.
I would like to have us all pray for the convention every Wednesday @ 9:00 am and in your Wednesday evening prayer
services. Please add this time to your calendars.
The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man (has great power/is powerful and effective) availeth much.
God bless you all in your ministries & thank you for your prayers.
Pastor Allen West.
“If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes
no difference. He is praying for me.” –Robert Murray McCheyne
Plan to attend the Michigan State Association of Free Will Baptists, May 15-16, at Zehnder’s in
Frankenmuth. Rev. Keith Burden, Executive Secretary of the National Association, will be the guest
speaker. The hotel is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation and expansion project and will be almost
complete when we get there.
On This day in History, 1959, the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL) signed Vince Lombardi to a
five-year contract as the team's coach and general manager. Lombardi is quoted as saying: “I would say that the quality of
each man’s life is the full measure of that man’s commitment of excellence and victory – whether it be football, whether it
be business, whether it be politics or government or what have you.” --Vince Lombardi (From the South Carolina
Update)
The Michigan Free Will Baptist Menorah is the monthly publication of the Michigan State Association of Free Will
Baptists, Rev. Gene Norris, editor: [email protected].