It was a blessing to preach a three-night revival last week for Pastor Don Seat and the wonderful people at Macedonia Baptist Church in Jonesboro. We rejoice over one lady giving her life to Jesus on Tuesday night, Praise the Lord!
Filling in
Sunday, I was privileged to share God’s Word with Grace Temple in Paragould. They are currently without a pastor, so please whisper a prayer for them. They are a long way out in the country, and yet the place was nearly full. It was exciting to visit and be a part of their worship service. I even noticed they have had to enlarge their parking area.
Fall Advisory Committee Trip
Monday morning, we all loaded up in the Spring Lake Baptist church van with Pastor Randy Shepherd at the wheel. This is the time we go to each missionary and visit them on their fields. I want to thank the men on this committee for their faithful service and the churches that they pastor. It takes two days and a ton of traveling to accomplish our visits, and their pay is their love for the Lord and dedication to our association. Please be in prayer for our missionaries and their families.
Two Down, Four to Go
We are asking our churches who can, to volunteer to sponsor one of our missionaries and his wife’s way to the BMA Celebration Conference in November. What a great way to invest in their ministries. Your church can make that happen. By sponsoring a missionary couple’s trip to the Celebration Conference, you are directly investing in their health, their marriage and their ministry. The cost for two to attend (excluding travel and extra activities) is about $800. Two churches have already committed to sponsoring a couple — could yours be next? Please pray and ask God if He would have your church partner in this way. Thank you for loving and supporting those who serve here in Arkansas. Please get in touch with me at (501) 859-3329 or arstamis@comcast.net.
From Our Missionaries
Ebenezer, West Little Rock: Ruben Isturiz writes, “I am pleased to share with you some wonderful news and, at the same time, ask for your prayerful support for a new believer in our congregation. Camilo, from Colombia, has joined our Ebenezer family, enriching us with one more nationality, which brings us closer to our desire to be a truly multicultural church. When Camilo first arrived, his countenance reflected disinterest, and his motivations were not spiritual. However, as he heard the Word of God, his life began to transform. One day, he sought me out and confessed that the sermons on Proverbs were profoundly impacting his life; he felt that each message spoke directly to him. As a result of that conversation, we have witnessed an amazing change in Camilo. His face now radiates joy. He has made the decision to follow Christ, and last Sunday, he decided to be baptized. Next Sunday, after our Celebration Service, we will go to the lake for this significant act.
“However, Camilo is in a delicate situation. Next month, he has an immigration hearing. What was once a chance to regularize his status has now become a threat of imminent deportation. Unfortunately, many court proceedings are now disrupted by the presence of ICE agents, who make arrests outside the courthouse. These are difficult times for anyone working with ethnic communities. We rely on God’s supernatural power. Therefore, I ask you to keep Camilo in your prayers so that God will accompany him in a supernatural way in this process. We still have much to accomplish in Camilo’s life. Thank you in advance for your prayers. To God be the glory!”
Faith Chapel, Flippin: Johnny Shew writes, “We had a wonderful week at Faith Chapel with a good number of attendees and a great time of worship! Some people were still sick, and others were still traveling, but now that school has started, attendance should level out. Not much out of the ordinary happened this week. I did a little work on the building, visited with some new folks and some old folks, and just tried to stay faithful where the Lord has placed us. Sometimes the routine is appreciated.
“We are looking forward to the State Missionary Advisory Committee coming to visit us on Monday. This will be their first visit since we moved into the new building. We are so thankful for their support and prayers, the time and effort they dedicate to serving our Lord and the association, and for all they do for the missionaries.
“We thank you for your prayers and support, and we thank God for you all!”
Faith Journey, Benton: Bryan Clay writes, “This past week at Faith Journey, our church family has been focusing on prayer — asking God to open our eyes to His blessings, help us recognize them and give Him the glory they deserve.
“During our morning worship this week, everyone was encouraged to share the many ways the Lord has been at work among us.
“In our evening service, we reflected on the past year, where we were reminded of God’s faithfulness. From the growth of our men’s and ladies’ Bible studies to the opportunity to minister monthly at a local middle school, the Lord has opened doors for us to share His Word. Our nursing home ministry continues to bring encouragement to residents, and we are blessed to partner with 3H Ministries in spreading the gospel overseas in Belize.
“Perhaps one of the greatest blessings has been the launch of Sunday morning worship. Not only have we grown in numbers, but even more importantly, we’ve grown deeper in our walk with Christ and in fellowship with one another.
“We are excited for what lies ahead and remain committed to building this mission for the glory of God’s kingdom.”
Misión Gracia Soberana (Sovereign Grace), NWA:Roberto Marcelletti writes, “We had a busy week, starting with a new sister in faith who recently became a widow. She called me, saying she needed to talk because she was going through a crisis due to her widowhood. It was so beautiful to see how the Holy Spirit guided her to seek comfort in our blessed Savior. I encouraged her, telling her that what she had done in the midst of her crisis was the right thing to do.
“The Women’s ministry had a beautiful time in the book of James. The Springdale Connection Group met on Thursday, and all the brothers who are part of the group attended.
“Unfortunately, my wife had an accident at work on Friday, resulting in a fractured hand and requiring sutures. We have an appointment with the orthopedist on Monday to have her hand checked and discuss the next steps for her recovery.
“On Sunday, we gathered early to share a rich breakfast, then had our Sunday School class, went to the sanctuary to exalt our Lord, and listened to a challenging message from our Bro. Elton.”
Epic Life, Pea Ridge: Jake McCandless writes, “The key to growth here in Pea Ridge — and wherever God takes us — is simple: leaders and new groups. Every new Connection Group isn’t just a step forward — it’s a leap. We’re not adding one or two people… we’re multiplying by 10. This week, I met with a couple seriously considering starting a new group. That’s a big deal. I’ll share more soon. I’m proud of our two current groups. What I’m hearing from our leaders is powerful. They’re building real relationships, and that’s where transformation begins. Personally, I’ve had doors open and great conversations this week. God is moving.
