Michigan

During the past few months, Urbandale Seventh-day Adventist Church members have begun to see evidence of God's Spirit at work in response to their fervent prayers as they have shared the Bible with members of the community. It is their desire to lead 100 individuals to the Lord in 2007.

Fran Crow served in the military medical field for seven years. She lost her husband in April 2006, and his family was a great support to her during her grief recovery. Fran's sister-in-law, Kay Crow, was engaged in Bible studies that led to her baptism earlier this year. Fran quietly observed the changes that the studies were producing in Kay's life.

Kay and another sister-in-law, Muriel Crow, invited Fran to attend prayer meeting and, later, worship services at the church. Fran accepted the invitation, and things began to change for her. She asked for weekly Bible studies, which she enjoyed for some time. Eventually, she sensed the Holy Spirit prompting her to take the next step with God.

After her pastor presented the topic of baptism, Fran suggested, as she put it, "Let's step it up." From that point on, she had two Bible studies a week with Muriel leading out. Since Fran was eager to respond to what she had been learning, she completed a decision card and handed it to the pastor at prayer meeting one evening.

Fran was ready to join up for the second time in her life, only this time she chose to join the Lord's Army. A beautiful baptism occurred on July 29, where Fran publicly declared her loyalty to Jesus and pledged her allegiance to His leadership. Because of her testimony at her baptism, nine other individuals accepted the call that day to prepare to follow Christ through baptism. Five of the nine are already participating in Bible studies. Pray for Fran as she helps with the prison ministry studies, shares her new faith with her family, and lives her life to glorify His name.

Burgess Grubbs, BSH, health educator and Urbandale Seventh-day Adventist Church member