Mrs. Thomas and I extend heartfelt congratulations to the officers and members of the St. James Baptist church as we celebrate the 65th year milestone.
In his prison epistle the Apostle Paul wrote the following to the fledgling church in Ephesus.
19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:19-22 KJV)
2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Although I have served as assistant to the pastor and assistant pastor it is fitting that this is the first communication I will sign as pastor of this great church. Scripture calls us to constantly grow and become NEW. The church is being renewed at all times. It is not a resting place.
Paul urges us in Romans 12:2 KJV: be not conformed to this to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your minds, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.
We thank God for year 65 and the awesome people who have never looked back. A thankworthy history has been forged out of dedication to the will of God. We look forward to year 66 as we stand firmly on our past and stride forward into our God designed future with all of its uncertainty, hope and glorious promises.
Jeffrey C. Thomas, MA, MS (Rev.), Pastor