Wisconsin

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!'" (Isaiah 52:7)

This is exactly what Ric Swaningson, an evangelist, and the Green Bay (Wisconsin) Church did from September 10–October 6 when they hosted this year's evangelistic outreach, Adventures in Prophecy. The ministry was enriched on several occasions with guest vocalist Annette Campbell and violinist Gary McAleer. DeWayne Butcher, a physician, also gave timely health lectures in the series. Their joys were great as they witnessed a harvest of fourteen baptisms, two re-baptisms, and one profession of faith.

One of the attendees, Bev Sanville, had been watching Three Angels Broadcasting Network (3ABN) in her Manitowoc home. One day, as she was driving through town, she noticed a yard sign advertising an upcoming meeting. The signs, a creative advertising method, were provided by the Green Bay Church to display on members' lawns. She drove over 80 miles round trip each evening to listen to the presentations. She followed her heart and head and was baptized the evening of October 16, 2004 by Delmar Austin, Green Bay pastor.

Greg and Wendy Larson, devoted Lutherans, were familiar with the Adventist faith. They had supported their daughter, Heather, when she chose to marry Bryan Davis, a lifetime member of the Green Bay Church. Heather became an Adventist because of the Bible truths she learned. The Larsons were present to help Heather when she became the Home and School leader, and started undertaking many local school projects. The Larsons also attended Sabbath worship services on various occasions. They became disheartened with their Lutheran faith as they watched their church compromise biblical teaching over the issue of homosexuality.

Greg and Wendy attended the Adventures in Prophecy series on a regular basis. The messages helped confirm their decision to follow the Bible and be baptized. They are already inviting and escorting their friends to worship services on Sabbath.

Andy Seidl had been watching 3ABN for several years when he heard about the Adventures in Prophecy series and decided to attend. When the Sabbath truth was presented he felt strongly convicted he should observe it as God intended, even though his present job required him to work on Saturdays. Though he had concerns about what might happen, Andy nevertheless decided to be faithful to God’s Word and began keeping the biblical Sabbath. Since then, he has not worked on the Sabbath and is now negotiating with his boss about whether or not he will be able to keep his job, or he may discover the Lord has a better plan waiting for him.

Evangelistic meetings are a tremendous yet exciting undertaking for any church to host. Sacrifices are made by those who choose to follow the soft beckoning voice of the Holy Spirit inviting them to be a part of God’s program for gathering His children during public meetings. Yet, they will find lasting joy as they walk through eternity, always greeting those for whom they labored—the precious individuals who gave their hearts and lives to Jesus and found a glorious Savior.

Becky Kraft, Green Bay communications leader, with Bruce Babienco, Lake Union Herald volunteer correspondent