Michigan

The Lord has blessed the Monday night Bible study/small group held at the home of Mick and Joy Maul, members of the Three Angels Fellowship in Grand Rapids. The Holy Spirit has worked through the lives of dedicated church members who are committed to sharing His message of love.

Patty Hendricks was a close friend of Penny and Ivan Witchel. A few years ago, Penny and Ivan became Seventh-day Adventists and began sharing their faith with Patty. Patty began attending church and soon started Bible studies with her friends. As the studies progressed, she met other church members whose loving faith had a positive influence on her walk with Jesus. It wasn't long before Patty made her decision to be baptized and joined the Three Angels Fellowship in Grand Rapids. Her changed life is another example of what can happen when loving church members express their faith through friendship.

Shannon Oliver had just finished attending Spring Week of Prayer at Grand Rapids Junior Academy. The services stirred his heart and led him to decide to unite his life with Jesus Christ in baptism. The pastor, Bob Joseph, visited with him and his parents, Buddy and Debbie Oliver, and affirmed Shannon's desire to be baptized. Shannon was so happy on the day of his baptism in the Maul's pool, even though the depth of the water came over his nose and the pastor had to hold him up until he was immersed. Today, he continues to grow in his faith as a disciple of Jesus.

Janet Kent became interested in understanding more about the Bible because of the influence of her husband Forrest Kent. He became interested while listening to a series of evangelistic sermons that Linda Blanford shared with him.

When the pastor held a series of meetings in the Three Angels Fellowship hall, Forrest was unable to attend. Each night, after the service, Linda waited while the sermon was copied on a cassette tape so she could take it to Forrest. By the end of the series, Forrest was ready to be baptized.

At first, Janet was a little hesitant about her husband's decision, but soon began attending church with him. The pastor noted how the warmth and friendliness of the members drew her in, and soon she too desired to give her heart to Jesus. After a series of studies, Janet followed her husband in baptism.

Mick and Joy Maul are co-leaders of a small group Bible study and Bruce Babienco is a Lake Union Herald volunteer correspondent.