My first Sunday of the 2011 fall tours began with a Sunday morning service at the Church of the Nazarene in Freedom, Indiana. To call this "small town America" would be an over statement. After a 60 mile winding drive through the gentle green hills of southern Indiana I found myself looking at a sign that read "FREEDOM, INDIANA: BIRTHPLACE OF BABE PIERCE" (I looked him up.....he was one of the first Tarzans during the silent film era, 6'4" and 220 pounds. He became good friends with John Wayne and for 11 years was the radio voice of Tarzan nationally)
While I was pondering who this local celebrity was, I missed the town! After turning around I realized there were no stores open (or visible) but I did manage to find the church. As a matter of fact, I learned that the "town" consisted primarily of the Methodist, Baptist, and Nazarene Churches.
As I pulled into the church parking lot I was greeted by Roy and Arletta Kellar, who had made the 60 mile drive from Brazil, Indiana to see their former pastor. It was a pleasant surprise. The church building is only two years old and you could tell the congregation was excited about what the Lord had done. I listened to stories of the old building and how having Pastor Wetnight (a builder by trade) was an answer to prayer. Praise and worship was relaxed with one of the praise team members holding a two way radio while his bass voice sang praises to the Lord (found out he was the local fire chief). A little boy and girl sang the special song and I was able to preach with a "freedom" that was wonderful.
I don't know how they felt about everything....but I was blessed. This congregation has young families and several men who appeared to be leaders. I believe they are poised to enjoy the best days in the history of their 82 year old church. There are new faces and new hope.
I am anxious to continue my journey this fall and to discover the "church" called the Church of the Nazarene. To God be the glory great things he has done and the BEST IS YET TO COME!
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