Whole In One: Baldwin, Florida ~ Sunday Morning AM

Sunday morning with Pastor Bert and the congregation of First Assembly in Baldwin, FL was a true joy. From the first minute we pulled onto the grounds at the church, Gail and I felt right at home. While I have a great affinity for the northeastern culture and its obnoxious idiosyncrasies, there is something to be said for southern hospitality!

We were greeted by Dave, a church member, who was there to help us get set up with our trailer. As we hooked up our water and electric, Pastor Kyle (youth pastor) and Tim (a student) stood patiently waiting to help us with any facility and sound needs for our workshop and services. Miss Lori, Pastor's wife, came out to greet us...Pastor followed with a warm welcome. You would have thought we were the Gaithers with such a reception! Thankfully, they didn't seem too disappointed with just Whole In One.

I suppose what was so remarkable to me, was that this all seemed so natural for them. Just what they have always done. It didn't take me long to realize that this was simply from the overflow of their hearts.

I have read people wrongly in the past, but I'm pretty sure that Miss Lori and Anthony hit it off from the start! Under the guise of 'blessing' Gail and I, Miss Lori offered to watch Anthony...well...several times. Our desire not to offend our hosts, we obliged her. They had a blast at her house, the nursery, the park...and locations in between!

Uh...the service was great too! The congregation was so warm and receptive to our ministry. We shared the gospel through music and drama in the morning service, and we led worship in both AM and PM services.

Thank you, Pastor, Miss Lori, and the whole congregation of Baldwin First Assembly! You were an incredible blessing to us. Thank you for your extreme generosity, kindness, and true 'southern hospitality'! We look forward to being with you again in February. Blessings!!!