Christians unite in the enormous sanctuary of First Baptist Church.
Three of the Largest Churches in Polk County Come Together for a Night of Praise, LIVINGSTON, March 10, 2009 - On Sunday, March 8, 2009, 3 of Polk County's largest churches came together for one night of singing praises to the Lord. "This is something that I've dreamed about for a long time" said First Pentecostal Church Music Minister, Benny Fogleman. Fogleman coordinated the event "Who would've ever pictured a sanctuary filled with Baptists and Pentecostals worshipping Jesus together" he said laughing. The Dream Benny speaks of is the culmination of Livingston's First United Pentecostal Church, First Baptist Church of Livingston, and Central Baptist Church all getting together under one roof and putting their differences aside and focusing on the most important aspect of their faith, Jesus Christ. The whole evening went off without a hitch and the Holy Spirit was felt as together this large group of people fellowshipped, prayed, and sang. "Jesus is what it's all about, by his grace we're blessed to even be here at all.", says Joel Salazar, Music Minister of Central Baptist Church. The event took place at the new sanctuary of First Baptist Church located at Business 59 and US 146. First Baptist Church Minister of Music Kevan Wood kicked the evening of praise off directing his choir and singing and leading the united congregation in prayer. Central Baptist Church Pastor Barry Jeffries said we need to be "...united in our cause of winning souls for Jesus. A cohesive effort from the Church in the great commission is what Jesus expects of his followers", he said "Coming together to praise God and fellowship promotes that unified message to a world in need".
Kevan Wood (right) and Stonewall Jackson lead the choir and audience in singing.
Backed my a men's quartet and a choir, Pastor Barry Jeffries (the singing pastor) brought the audience to its feet.
Kevan Wood conducts a huge choir.
First United Pentecostal Praise Team sings with authority in Jesus' name.
At a young age, Ruthy Salazar is an accomplished violinist and live performer.
Joel Salazar leads the audience in singing.
If you would like to comment on this story, we'd love to hear from you. Your name will be listed with your comment when it's posted in the Letters to the editor.