Norland Church in Miami, Fla., began a three-week series of evangelistic meetings on June 20, 2023, under the theme “Hope for the Family” and conducted by Raulford Baptiste, Ph.D., pastor/evangelist. The objective was “to enlighten and strengthen families within and without the church and ultimately to plunder the kingdom of darkness and populate the Kingdom of Heaven,” expressed one church elder.
Preparatory Work
Baptiste conducted a series of training sessions prior to the evangelistic series. The church was grouped into five teams, with each team assigned a particular area within the community to visit, share literature, and give invitations to the evangelistic meetings.
Weeks before and during the crusade, members visited the community. The weather in Miami was unpredictable, and on many afternoons there were thunderstorms during the preparation. However, the brethren braved the inclement weather to do God’s will, rain or shine. In spite of many shut doors and funny stares in the community, one of the most encouraging activities that took place every Sabbath was hearing the reports from various teams who were praying with numerous families and inviting them to the upcoming evangelistic meetings.
The Evangelistic Series
On Sabbath evening of June 20, there were many church members and visitors in attendance and many more online. Baptiste began the program with the topic “Miles Apart in the Same Home.” For the next three weeks, with the exception of Thursdays, Baptiste preached with great power and clarity. Three people gave their hearts to Jesus and were baptized.
Pentecost Revisited
The last Sabbath of the evangelistic series was July 8. Baptiste preached a powerful sermon, “Bearing the Marks of Jesus.” One candidate declared his intention to be baptized. While in the baptistry, the pastor made an appeal. Four more persons came forward requesting baptism and were baptized.
As the final song was being sung and the congregation ushered out, there was an announcement that three more people wanted to be baptized. The pastor went back into the baptistry, and in obedience to God’s command, baptized the additional candidates.
The church family plan to continue to be active agents for the building up of God’s Kingdom.
Florida | January 2024
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