Lay renewal changes lives in Ashland

Starting with a Lay Renewal Weekend and ending with recommitment and rededication to the Lord and His kingdom work, members of First Baptist Church, Ashland, testify to a sovereign act of God in dramatically changing their lives. 
   
Larry Fetner, general chairman of the event, said the miracle “started three months ago, and it is amazing how we have all come together.” 
   
The rededication of more than 100 people began with the arrival of 38 visiting team members who led in fellowship, a mini concert, worship and a sharing of testimonies. Small groups of praying and sharing individuals were moved to deeper experiences of God’s love. Saturday evening’s service continued until almost midnight. Sunday morning’s worship service was a climactic event, with praise, testimonies, worship and decisions that lasted until around 1:15 p.m.
   
Pastor Bruce Willis said, “I wondered if this brokenness would come to me. When the invitation was offered I saw a back going out of the balcony and thought someone was leaving.
   
“Deacon Garey Reynolds almost beat me to the altar. When he put his hand in mine sharing his feelings and requesting prayer, the Holy Spirit broke me down, and I could not pray except … through tears,” Willis said. “This continued for 45 minutes as one after another came giving their lives over to Jesus in reaffirmation of lordship,” he said.
   
Sunday night proved the highlight of the event as testimonies and rededications continued four hours.
   
Danny Horn, Clay County High School head football coach and leader in three state championships, said, “The Lord just took this 215-pound young man and brought him to his knees. I’ve never experienced a soul-searching event like this. Instead of devoting myself as a husband, parent, teacher and coach, I’ve been playing church.” (TAB)