The last year has been unusual, and interesting, to say the least. we have all had to make adjustments to our lives that we do not prefer, and have interacted with situations we would never have asked for. However, we must be reminded that God is still at work! The kingdom of God continues to advance! The fields are white unto Harvest.
Two years ago now, Randall began a partnership with Harris Hill Baptist Church to pursue a church re-plant in Clarence, New York. Today I want to take the opportunity to celebrate what God has done.
Plans and contracts have been finalized to sell the facility located on Harris Hill Road. The church will be purchased by a Bhutanese speaking congregation, who has been looking tirelessly for a place of worship of their own. They are evangelicals, also connected (like we are) to the Frontier Baptist Association an arm of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through God's providence, true international missionary work will be going on... right here in WNY.
Harris Hill Baptist has legally changed its name, and restarted itself as Fieldstone Church. Pastor Jonathan Boudmer now has an office located right on Main Street in the center of Clarence Hollow, where scores of people walk and ride by every day on the bike path on his front steps. Pastor Jonathan has also purchased a home nearby, and is building growing relationships with many who call this area home.
Fieldstone Church is meeting in the Brickhall Building, a beautiful old church converted into a banquet facility, directly across Main Street from the office. Quarantine Bible studies have been forming over the previous months, continuing to meet via zoom during the pandemic, and gaining momentum as the church works towards a launch date.
Fieldstone Church begins preview gatherings this coming Sunday, January 24th. We have something to celebrate! We have some thing to be praying for. Pray that a move of God would ignite in Clarence Hollow. Pray that the gospel of Jesus Christ changes lives. Pray that this body of believers would truly help people navigate life with God.
We have something to celebrate. We have something to pray for. But perhaps, you specifically have something to get involved with? Some of you live in Clarence, and could be a strong encouragement to this new church. Some of you live close by, and could go in person to support (even for one visit) what is happening there. This would be a wonderful encouragement for them.
While there have been repurposed church buildings, there has not been an active church body in Clarence Hollow since the late 1960s. Lord willing, weekly services for Fieldstone are planned to launch Easter Sunday. May that mark a new day, for Christ's new work in Clarence Hollow. Praise be to God in advance for what lies ahead!
Pastor Milo
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