“Evangelism — that’s my heart, my desire,” said Hoyt Washington, 87, of Trussville. It is a crucial part of his three-pronged focus of prayer, chaplaincy and discipleship. In the various places where he has lived, Washington has taught Sunday School and served as deacon and Brotherhood Commission director. Educated at Snead State Community College, Auburn University and the University of Alabama, Washington holds a doctorate in education administration. For 24 years, he taught in the Jefferson County School System. He was the first superintendent of education for Pell City Schools when it formed and later was school superintendent for Baldwin County in Georgia. He and Charlotte, his wife of 57 years, have two children and six grandchildren.
Church: NorthPark Baptist Church, Trussville, in Birmingham Metro Baptist Association
Life verse: “Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth” (Ps. 46:10).
Ministry focus: Prayer, chaplaincy and discipleship
1. Prayer: The Lord convicted me to have a daily time of Bible study and prayer some 50 years ago. I have been faithful to that commitment. I have a prayer list for each day of the week. I also serve on the church’s bereavement team. It is a blessing to pray for people during a time of need.
2. Chaplaincy: When I meet a person at (my church’s) Serving You Ministry where I volunteer one day per week, I inquire about their relationship with Jesus. Many times, I am privileged to share the gospel. I encourage people to intentionally read the Bible daily. If Jesus was willing to die for us, we should be willing to live for Him. I inquire about their church home. If they don’t have one, I suggest that they pray for guidance … look for a church where the pastor preaches about the blood that Jesus shed to pay for our sins and that they love Jesus more than themselves.
3. Discipleship (D-Life): I participate in the discipleship ministry at our church and beyond. I served as director … when the ministry was birthed at my church. I have led groups and assisted groups to make disciples. I currently serve with five other men, some of whom are not members at NorthPark. … We hold each other accountable to God and each other.
Q: Who was or is one of the most influential people in your faith life? Why?
A: 1. My father: I saw him reading his Bible daily after a long day of work. He set an example for me early in life.
2. Ray Cole, staff member at Gardendale First Baptist Church: While teaching a discipleship class at that church and teaching us to write a three-minute testimony, he said, “Guys, you cannot share something you don’t have.” I then asked the Lord for a testimony that would be pleasing to Him. My life exploded spiritually. If you ask the Lord for a testimony, tighten your seat belt. God answers prayer.
3. Dr. Truitt Guffin, deacon and teacher at Gardendale FBC: He took me under his wing … and got me involved in church leadership.
4. Lewis Marler, pastor at Gardendale FBC: As I got involved in church leadership, I got to know Lewis very well. He set an example and inspired me to grow.
5. The Rev. A.L. Courtney, former pastor of First Baptist Church Pell City: A.L. (now deceased) was my pastor, friend, prayer partner and mentor while we lived in Pell City. He was faithful and always about his Father’s business.
6. Dr. Bill Wilks, pastor of NorthPark Baptist Church: He is my friend, pastor, mentor and always an encouragement. He has challenged me to be spiritually clean, be intentionally active for the Lord and make disciples.
7. Dr. Bob Hall: He is my mentor, friend, life group leader. He encourages me to memorize Scripture and serve with him doing projects for the Lord.
Q: Tell about a turning point in your life and how God was involved.
A: My turning point was when I asked God for a testimony that was pleasing to Him. Things started happening at my job that showed me my need for spiritual maturity. I could see God’s hand in situations that were so meaningful and challenging. The Lord led me to commit to meet Him each day early in the morning. A time of worship early in the day changes how you function. God has a purpose and a plan for us.
Q: What has God been teaching you lately?
A: The importance of the time God has given me. The need to use the foundation and maturity His Word has given me. The Bible says that people need to know the Lord. I am being held accountable for the blessings given me. Time is slipping by, so we don’t need to waste it.
Q: If there were one thing you could tell your younger self about faith, what would it be?
A: Memorize Scripture. Don’t wait until you are older because it gets much harder. Memorize as you go through life. Carry a verse in your pocket to review throughout the day. Satan is always on the attack, and we fight (Satan) with God’s Word. To God be the glory!
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