2006
The Son & The Sand
January 2006
Looking Back and Looking Ahead
If you look back to our January 2003 issue of “The Son and the Sand”
(http://www.barefootbelievers.com/BI_2003.htm) , you will find some
interesting ideas regarding snowbird ministry. In 2006, Gulf Area
Resort Ministries continues to take part in much of the same
ministries; however, we also feel a need to look to the future.
We look forward to another wonderful year of snowbird ministry. “Lad
Leader”, a missions magazine that tells the story of missionaries,
recently published an article about our Snowbird and Spring Break
ministries. The article was written to encourage children to think
about and pray for missionaries like us. We hope that you are
encouraged to pray for us as well.
Enjoy…
VAROOM!
The big RV’s motor revved up. The gray haired driver leans out his
window and waves. “Goodbye,” Jeff yells as the RV drives slowly out of
the campground. Jeff Ford is a resort minister in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
He came to the campground to say goodbye to the snowbirds.
Snowbirds are people who spend the winter in warm places like Gulf
Shores. They go back to their homes when the weather begins to warm up.
Jeff makes friends with the Snowbirds and tells them about Jesus.
Jeff turns to his wife, Thea. “Well, now it is time to get ready for
spring break.” Spring break is a time that college students and
families come to the beach when schools close for spring break. Jeff
wants to tell them about Jesus, too!
Thea nods her head. “Yes,” she agrees, “and we need to get ready for
the people who are coming to help.” Jeff teaches the helpers how to
make friends with the spring break visitors. “You have to be honest,”
he tells them. “Just explain what Jesus did for you. If they think you
are not telling the truth, they will not listen to you.”
The helpers give away cold water bottles and colorful throwing discs
with Bible messages written on them.
(http://www.slipdiscministries.com) They set up volleyball nets for fun
games. They play beachside Christian music on boom boxes.
Jeff and Thea jump as a loud BEEP sounds behind them. Another RV is
driving out of the campground. The driver rolls down his window.
“Goodbye,” he says. “Thanks for being such a good friend!” “See you
next winter,” Jeff says as he and Thea wave. “Be careful driving home.”
The RV drives out of sight. “Okay,” Jeff says. “It’s time to get ready
for spring break!”
To learn more about the North American Mission Board and “Lad Leader”
Magazine visit www.royalambassadors.org.
Praying for Missionaries
The “Lad Leader” magazine also offered some great ideas to children and
adults regarding praying for the 2006 snowbird and spring break
ministries on Alabama’s gulf coast.
Here they are…
><> I can pray for more helpers to help them during spring break and
the summer months.
><> I can pray they will have help from local hotels and condos for
rooms to house mission volunteers.
><> I can pray for summer missions staff members who are devoted.
><> I can pray for new friends for Jeff and Thea.
One Last Thing
Regarding faith and hope in Jesus…
Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and
glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.
1 Peter 1:21
In Christ,
Jeff Ford
resort missionary
baldwin baptist association
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The Son & The Sand
FEBRUARY 2006
www.barefootbelievers.com
Dear friends,
Things are going well at the Gulf, and we continue to be blessed by your prayers and encouraging words.
The following request is heavy on our hearts. Please be in prayer for Natalie and Jorjanne Flake.
Support fund established for family of former resort missionary Michael Flake
A support fund has been set up for Natalie and Jorjanne Flake, the widow and daughter of Michael H. Flake, NAMB’s Director of Resort Ministries in the North Georgia mountains, who died on Jan. 27 at the age of 32.
Contribution checks should be payable to Natalie P. Flake, Natalie P. Flake Support Fund, in care of United Community Bank, 153 East Kytle Street, Cleveland, GA, 30528. Checks can also be taken to any United Community Bank.
Flake, a native Georgian, served as a US/C2 missionary and semester missionary in Helen, Georgia. He had worked as a resort missionary in Helen since 2001.
“Michael understood that reaching people for the gospel meant meeting them where they are,” said Jeff Wagner, Ministry and Servant Evangelism Manager for the North American Mission Board. “He led the churches of North Georgia to share Christ through special events, random acts of kindness, campground worship, creative arts, and loving people.”
“Michael’s resort ministry mobilized thousands of mission groups. The Helen, Georgia community came to expect the faithful witness of Michael and his team of resort missionaries, and his ministry was honored with the key to the City of Helen because of the service that the summer missionaries provide. Michael’s special smile and passion for God will be missed,” said Wagner of NAMB.
Source… www.namb.net
One Last Thing
Regarding God’s Amazing Grace…
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God…
Ephesians 2:8
God bless you.
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The Son & The Sand
March 2006
www.barefootbelievers.com
On a Mission… Celebration
Since being appointed as a missionary to Baldwin County, AL, I have had the privilege of serving as a kind of ambassador for the North American Mission Board and the Baldwin Baptist Association. I have attended several “On Mission Celebrations” across the county. At the “On Mission Celebrations” (formerly known as World Missions Conferences), I go to churches that support foreign and home missions to share what God is doing through our ministry in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The events are also a great way to say thank you to those that faithfully pray and give so that our work can be done.
I have traveled to Washington, New Hampshire, Tennessee, Georgia, and just last month I went all the way to Bay Minette, AL. For those of you who are not as familiar with our area, Bay Minette is only thirty or forty miles from our home in Foley. The Baldwin Baptist Association put on an “On Mission Celebration”, and it was a blast. 54 churches participated across the county. We hosted 25 missionaries affiliated with the International Mission Board, 21 connected with the North American Mission Board, and 7 from the Alabama State Board of Missions. Visit the links at the bottom of the newsletter for more information about these wonderful organizations. A special thanks to Larry, Wanda, Dian, Belinda, Loyd, and all of the host churches and staff. The weekend was an amazing encouragement to hundreds of people across the county.
The Long and Winding Road… Seminary
I began working on a master’s degree in New Orleans (one day a week) back in the fall of 2001. The road has been long. In 2004 I was able to begin working on my degree at a new Pensacola Extension Center for the New Orleans seminary at Olive Baptist Church (still one day a week). It has truly been a winding road. Last semester I was back in New Orleans for a one day a week class that I needed that was not being offered in Pensacola. Due to Hurricane Katrina, I had to put that class on hold. The seminary in New Orleans is still there, and classes are being offered once again. Pray for the seminary faculty, staff, and students. For more information visit www.nobts.edu
This year began with an amazing seminary workshop. The class was called Pastoral Leadership, and I have to say… I think it was the best class I’ve ever taken. Being away from Thea for a week was tough, but I learned a lot, and had a great time hanging out with many new friends. The workshops typically take place in New Orleans, but this one was relocated to Hattiesburg, MS at Temple Baptist Church due to hurricane damage in Louisiana.
I also again began regular classes in Pensacola in January of this year. I am currently taking Hebrew 2 and Baptist Heritage / History. The classes are going well. We meet every Monday. I am planning on joining my good friend Fred Bueto for another seminary workshop in Atlanta, GA this month as well. I should graduate at the end of the year. With only 2 classes left to take in the Fall of 06, I’m really looking forward to crossing that academic finish line.
What’s Going on at the Gulf… Additional Prayer Points
Great news for Mitch, our resort committee chairman… on January 15th Mitch Nelson began serving as the pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in Baldwin County, AL. Mitch and Jan Nelson are wonderful friends. Please remember the church family and the Nelsons in your prayers as they set out on this exciting new chapter of their lives.
Meetings, meetings, meetings… (missions meetings, resort meetings, youth meetings, festival meetings, executive committee meetings, etc… ) My friend and partner in ministry, Gene Buttrey at Island Retreat RV, has told me on more than one occasion that he loves to do ministry, but he isn’t really fond of MEETINGS. You can probably relate; however in 2006, I have been attending lots of meetings. We are planning some exciting new ministries in our association. Please pray for us as we seek to make a positive impact with God’s message of love and reconciliation.
In the last couple of months we have had five summer missionaries appointed to our area. We hope to have many more students appointed by next month as well. Pray for Lisa, Chase, Lana, Courtney, Heather, and Ashley. Also pray for a Faulkner State Community College student (another Ashley) that has expressed an interest in working with us this summer.
Pre project visits have begun. As we prepare for the summer of 2006, I have been meeting with youth pastors about ministry partnerships. Pray for us as the details are worked out.
On February 4th, I had the privledge of playing a part in Abby Reeves and Josh Doss’ wedding ceremony. I was the minister that married them at First Baptist Church of Hokes Bluff, AL. This was my third time, and it was a “charm”ing wedding. Pray for Abby and Josh as they set out on the exciting adventure of married life.
One Last Thing… Encouragement from Scripture
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Against such things there is no law. Ephesians 5:22-23
On a mission.
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The Son & the Sand
APRIL 2006
www.barefootbelievers.com
What Comes to Mind When You Hear “Spring Break”?
Cook outs, suntans, school’s out, distant lands
Recreation, having fun, vacations, hot dog buns
Hanging with friends, sunglasses, spending time with kin, a convertible passes
Honk! Honk!
Ok. So maybe I went a little far with the silly poetic expression above, but when you hear the words “spring break” your first thought may well be recreation, vacation, sunshine, and fun times. We’ve already had a couple of weeks of spring break on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Our ministry has had the privilege of partnering in ministry with Virginia Alexander and her Calhoun Community College Baptist Campus Ministry team, Perdido Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Gulf Shores, Lifeway Community Church, and First Baptist Church of Orange Beach. The teams took part in a variety of ministries. To learn more about what we are up to during spring break and how you, your family, your student ministry, your church, or association can partner with us in resort ministry during the Spring of 2007 or the summer of 2006… visit this corner of our website http://www.barefootbelievers.com/missiontrip.htm
An extra special note of thanks to Lisa Langley. March 19-24 Lisa supervised all of the spring break activities while I was in Georgia taking a Worship Leadership class. It was a huge comfort to know that the ministry was in the capable hands of such a Godly and intelligent young woman. Lisa will continue to partner with the ministry as the assistant director during the summer of 2006.
Still “At the Beach”
Everywhere I go church folks seem to get a kick out of the fact that I am a missionary on the beautiful beaches of Alabama. I was also a missionary (a summer missionary) on the beaches of Hawaii in 1997 and near the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea (at the Baptist Village in Israel) in ‘98. I think Hawaii was the first time I ever heard “suffering for Jesus at the beach.” It’s true missionaries serve all over the globe. Missionaries even serve at beautiful resort locations.
This isn’t the first time I have mentioned the “suffering for Jesus…” phrase to communicate a message in our resort ministry newsletter; however, I don’t think I’ve shared the following concept with you. The truth is missionaries (no matter where they serve… at the beach, on the slopes, in the jungles, in foreign lands, a metropolitan area, or in rural America) have one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs in the world. Christian missionaries are in all kinds of countries and cultures experiencing and impacting many different kinds of people and places. It’s a privilege to “still be at the beach” sharing the love of Jesus with others in new, meaningful, and exciting ways.
The job is not easy, but the truth is I can’t see myself doing anything else. I’m still at the beach in 2006; I am looking forward to another amazing summer working with summer missionaries, barefoot believer interns, mission teams, and other volunteers.
Please keep us in your prayers as we prepare for the summer.
Let us know how we can pray for you, too.
Just on the Horizon… Additional Prayer Points
Pray for the following students that have already been appointed to serve with us during the summer of 2006… Lisa, Chase, Lana, Courtney, Heather, & Ashley
Pray for other students that have shown interest through emails and meetings in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach… Ashley, Jessie, Matt, & Liz
Interviews this month at Shocco Springs, in Talladega, AL, will complete the assemblage of our summer ministry staff for the summer of 2006
Continued Spring Break ministries in April with Central Baptist Church (Waycross, GA) Youth Team & their Youth Pastor, Tim Kilgore… Backyard Bible Clubs, Beach Evangelism, and work with their ministry partners at Crossroads Belforest Church
One Last Thing… Keep on Loving Each Other
Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:1 & 2
In the Grip of His Grace.
Jeff Ford
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The Son & the Sand
May 2006
www.barefootbelievers.com
Turn the Radio On
The resort ministry recently (April 21st) took part in a radio interview for www.strengthforliving.net . In the interview I discuss the many joys and challenges of resort ministry on Alabama’s gulf coast. Many of our friends and family have already heard the interview, but if you haven’t and you would like to learn more about what kinds of ministries we are involved in, then here’s your opportunity.
Go to this website to download and / or listen to the radio show…
http://media.316networks.com/SFL_No_Time_for_Rest_with_Jeff_Ford_April_212006.mp3
(you may have to copy and paste the entire link to your web browser address box)
If for some reason you are unable to open or find the file, just drop me an email bbagarm@gulftel.com and let me know you are having trouble with the web link, & I should be able to walk you through the process in a more detailed fashion.
More ‘06 Spring Break Ministries
Last week was Mobile County’s Spring Break. Our resort ministry partnered with the following churches…
Crawford Baptist Church
Moffett Road Baptist Church
Ashland Place United Methodist Church
Grace United Methodist Church
First Baptist Church of Mobile
Trinity Lutheran Church
The students distributed water bottles with a gospel message, gave out slip discs (frisbees with a gospel message), and gave out free snow cones and popcorn. They even set up inflatable playground equipment in the parking area for children to play in. All of this was made possible by Mobile’s First Priority Director, Brent Allen. A special thanks goes out to Brent and all the churches for their willingness to serve. We had a blast and planted hundreds of seeds of the gospel in the lives of Gulf Coast Spring Breakers. Another word of thanks to Dian Owens and the Singles Sunday School Class from the First Baptist Church of Bay Minette for their help in preparing over 300 labeled bottles of water for the event.
Additional Prayer Points
Pray for the following students that have already been appointed to serve with us during the summer of 2006… Alicia, Chase, Lana, Courtney, Chris D., Chris P., Heather, Ashley, Katie, Jessica, Marena, Brittany, & Matt. A total of 13 summer missionaries. (Actually we will have 14; however, the North American Mission Board has not passed along the name of our final team member.) Please pray for #14 as well. Most of the team members will arrive in Gulf Shores this month.
Pray for Lisa Langley, our first-ever assistant director of resort ministries. Lisa is a recent graduate of the University of Mobile, and she served as a summer missionary with us during the summer of 2004. Thea and I are blessed to have such a wonderful ministry partner.
Pray for other students that have recently shown interest in serving with us during the summer of 2006.
And last but not least, please pray for Stephanie Wallace, Becca Loggins, Lauren Hillis, and Lindsey Hillis. These students were on our 2005 staff, and they are coming back for a few weeks to assist the staff at FBC Orange Beach with their VBS / Children’s Camp. We look forward to working with them again as well.
One Last Thing
…set your hearts on things above. Colossians 3:1
In the Grip of His Grace,
Jeff Ford
resort missionary
baldwin baptist association
www.barefootbelievers.com
GULF AREA RESORT MINISTRIES
EMAIL: bbagarm@gulftel.com
WEBSITE: http://www.barefootbelievers.com
PHONE: 251.967.4086
We are a ministry of the Baldwin Baptist Association, and we are partners in ministry with the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions and the North American Mission Board
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The Son & the Sand
JUNE 2006
Resort ministry summer activities on Alabama’s Gulf Coast is in full
swing, and we are very excited to be a part of God’s work. This
newsletter includes a list of the summer staff, as well as specific
prayer requests and words of great expectations from a few of the
summer missionaries. We encourage you to print this list and pray for
this summer’s staff.
The Baldwin Baptist 2006 Summer Resort Ministries Team is:
Lana Hall, Samford University, (Birmingham, AL)
Katy Maynard, the University of South Alabama
Chase Rogers, the University of South Alabama
Jessica Nolte, of Ozark High School, (Ozark, MO)
Chris Dye of Calhoun Community College (Athens, AL)
Merena Crauswell of Warrior, AL
Alicia Christian of Southwestern Missouri State
Courtney Cross of Wallace Community College (Warrior, AL)
Heather Ferguson of Murray State University (Murray, KY)
Meagan Ballard of Charlotte, NC
Chris Porter of Athens, AL
Ashley Welch of First Baptist Church Justin, TX
Matt Goins of the University of Mobile
Brittany Scott of Calhoun Community College (Athens, AL)
Derrick Fields of Mississippi College
Ashley Carroll of Summerfield, NC
and
Lisa Langley (a recent graduate of the University of Mobile)
Remember us (Jeff & Thea) in your prayers as well. Also, please pray
for our associational missionary / director of missions, Larry
Patterson, and the rest of the Baldwin Baptist associational staff
(Wanda, Dian, Belinda, Rick, and Nathan) throughout the summer. God
bless
Specific Prayer Requests & Great Expectations:
Lana Hall, Samford University, (Birmingham, AL)
The first thing I hope to experience is leading someone to accept Jesus
as Savior and Lord. I hope that I will be able to be a flame that
attracts people to Jesus. I also hope to experience sincere fellowship
with my brothers and sisters in Christ that I will be serving with this
summer. I hope that we will be able to make an impact on the Gulf Area
for our Savior.
Katy Maynard, the University of South Alabama
Expectations always seem to have a way of letting me down, but this
summer I have not really established any expectations other than that
God is going to do something amazing this summer. With this
expectation I know that I will not be let down because God has always
been able to exceed them. Already in my first week here I would have
never expected the opportunity to start up a Bible club at work, but
God has just been opening up doors at the Caribe Resort. I am excited
about where it will go over the course of the summer as we begin to get
the word out about ministry opportunities more and more.
Chase Rogers, the University of South Alabama
I hope to fully experience the Will of God. I desire that whatever
God’s will is for the summer, and the rest of my life, will be
accomplished and that I can take what I have learned and experienced
over these few months back home to Birmingham, Alabama. I know that
God has already been at work here in the Gulf area and I cannot wait to
see what God does in the summer of 2006.
Jessica Nolte, of Ozark High School, (Ozark, MO)
I hope to experience the awesome power of God through missions. I hope
and pray that God will show me if this is what God truly wants me to do
with my life, because I feel God wants me to go into full time mission
work. I also pray for an opportunity to share Christ with somebody.
FRIENDS…. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYER SUPPORT. PLEASE
LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN PRAY FOR YOU, TOO.
One Last Thing…
Remember the words of the missionary Paul…
Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me
so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel?
Ephesians 6:19
In the Grip of God’s Grace,
Jeff Ford
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The Son & the Sand
July 2006
What a great Fourth of July! We had a watermelon eating contest, tug of war, and other games along with face painting, hair wraps, water and frisbees with a gospel message. We also had a concert on the beach before the fireworks where we played praise music along with some secular music that really attracted a lot of attention. Starting on July 4, we also had a couple visitors (Paul and Brian). For three days we were filmed and interviewed by the North American Mission Board film team for the 2007 Annie Armstrong Week of Prayer. They filmed our work on the beach, day camp, and a concert at Island Retreat RV Park. They also filmed the Barefoot Believers Interns at work at the Track and the Caribe Resort. It was definitely a different experience, having the cameras around, but we are looking forward to seeing the results of their work in ‘07.
And then there were 20…
Here is an updated list of the summer missionaries. We encourage you to continue to pray for them throughout the summer. The Baldwin Baptist 2006 Summer Resort Ministries Team is…
Lana Hall, Samford University, (Birmingham, AL)… pray for Lana as she works at the Caribe resort and fulfills the task of being the discipleship coordinator for all of her partners. Pray that Lana would remain strong and courageous in her faith.
Katy Maynard, the University of South Alabama… pray for Katy as she works at the Caribe resort and continues to look for ways to improve Family Evening Programs. Pray that Katy will continue to grow her relationships with her coworkers.
Chase Rogers, the University of South Alabama… pray for Chase as he works with the youth at Friendship Baptist Church. Pray that he will continue to grow more and more bold for Christ.
Chris Dye of Calhoun Community College (Athens, AL)… pray for Chris as he works with RAs at Shocco Springs.
Chris Porter of Athens, AL … continue to pray for Chris Porter as he works at RA camp at Shocco Springs.
Merena Crauswell of Warrior, AL… pray for Merena as she prays about coming back this summer to work with us.
Brittany Scott of Calhoun Community College (Athens, AL) … pray for Brittany as she prepares to come back to work with us starting most likely July 16.
Alicia Christian of Southwestern Missouri State… pray for Alicia as she continues to work with beach reaches throughout the summer. Pray that she will continue to grow her relationships with her partners.
Courtney Cross of Wallace Community College (Warrior, AL)… pray for Courtney as she works to find new ideas for beach reaches. Pray that she will continue to grow in her faith.
Heather Ferguson of Murray State University (Murray, KY) … pray for Heather as she works with beach reach. Pray that Heather continues to grow in her relationships with her summer missions partners.
Meagan Ballard of Charlotte, NC… pray for Meagan as she works with Family Evening Programs and worship. Pray that she will continue to grow in her relationship with Christ.
Ashley Welch of First Baptist Church Justin, TX… pray for Ashley as she grows accustomed to everything that goes on in the summer. Pray that she will feel at home throughout the summer.
Matt Goins of the University of Mobile… Matt’s intern position is actually at Lagoon Baptist Church. Please pray for Matt as he ministered at the church and all of our resort ministry sites.
Derrick Fields of Mississippi College… pray for Derrick (another barefoot believer intern / innovator) as he ministers and works with other employees at the TRACK (amusement park).
Ashley Carroll of Summerfield, NC… Pray for Ashley as she continues to work hard in the areas of day camp, beach reach, performances, and outreach / follow up.
Jessica Nolte, of Ozark High School… continue to pray for her as she continues on in the mission field in Missouri. Her term of service ended with us in June. Jessica is already making plans to join us next summer as well.
Tony Bush of University of North Alabama… pray for Tony as he begins working as a barefoot believer intern at the Caribe resort with Katy, Lana, and Alicia.
Lisa Langley (a recent graduate of the University of Mobile)… Pray for Lisa as she works with the resort ministry team and as she and Scotty prepare for their wedding date in ‘07.
Pray that Jeff and Thea continue to have a great summer.
And one last thing…
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
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The Son & the Sand
August 2006
It’s a Fast Ride… (by Jeff Ford)
I drive slow. My wife (Thea) consistently reminds me of how slowly I drive. My driving style (again very slow, quite often even slower than the speed limit) is an extreme contrast to Thea’s style (fast, sometimes quite too fast). The ride to our various backyard bible club sites, resort worship service locations, beach evangelism events, and various creative arts events may take a little longer if you are in the car with me; however, the speed of this summer has rocketed past all of our expectations. The question the resort ministry team is often asked at this point in our ‘06 ministry journey is “how is the summer going?”, and the answer we most often give is “it’s gone by so fast” or “I can’t believe it’s almost over” or “it’s been a fast ride.”
I write to you today to say it’s been a wonderful summer of ministry. Thank you for your prayer support and encouragement. Keep these students in your prayers as they prepare for work, school, and many more opportunities to minister to others. Like Dr. Cox at First Baptist Church of Bay Minette says… “The mission field is always the distance between the left foot and the right foot of the follower of Jesus”
1. Lana Hall, Samford University, (Birmingham, AL)
2. Katy Maynard, the University of South Alabama
3. Chase Rogers, the University of South Alabama
4. Jessica Nolte, of Ozark High School, (Ozark, MO)
5. Chris Dye of Calhoun Community College (Athens, AL)
6. Merena Crauswell of Warrior, AL
7. Alicia Christian of Southwestern Missouri State
8. Courtney Cross of Wallace Community College (Warrior, AL)
9. Heather Ferguson of Murray State University (Murray, KY)
10. Meagan Ballard of Charlotte, NC
11. Chris Porter of Athens, AL
12. Ashley Welch of First Baptist Church Justin, TX
13. Matt Goins of the University of Mobile
14. Brittany Scott of Calhoun Community College (Athens, AL)
15. Derrick Fields of Mississippi College
16. Ashley Carroll of Summerfield, NC
17. Tony Bush of the University of North Alabama
and
18. Lisa Langley (a recent graduate of the University of Mobile)
All of these students will be back at home or back at school by August 12th.
It’s a Bumpy Ride… (by Lisa Langley)
I worked as a summer missionary with Jeff and Thea in the summer of 2004 and as a summer VBS missionary for the Baldwin Baptist Association in the summer of 2005. This summer, Jeff asked if I would be the summer assistant director and I was interested immediately, not really knowing what to expect. I graduated from the University of Mobile in May and immediately began looking for a teaching position in Baldwin County, accepting the inevitable call to the real world. I started out enthusiastically, dropping my resume off at schools with so much hope for what was coming and all of the job offers that I was expecting to roll in. My boyfriend of four years, Scotty, proposed a week after I graduated! This was incredibly thrilling and wonderful because Scotty is an amazing man of God and all that I could have asked God for as a husband and leader. At the same time, the planning of a wedding can add some stress to your life!
Meanwhile, all those job offers that I had planned on weren’t really appearing as quickly as I had hoped. I became somewhat discouraged with life and how God didn’t go along with my plans. One of the great things about God is that He does have an amazing plan for all of us. The even better part is that He is in control, so regardless of what I think is best, His master plan, is better than mine could ever be. I am amazed that no matter how many times He shows me that I still give in to worry. Well, God’s plan was incredible (imagine that!!) and He gave me a teaching position in Fairhope where I will teach fifth grade, exactly where I wanted to be. I have had a wonderful summer working with the summer missionaries and barefoot believers interns. I have worked alongside Jeff and Thea doing whatever I was called upon to do, from leading devotions, to taking a trip to Walmart, to helping plan for this summer and how to improve next summer. God has shown me, again, through working with Barefoot Believers and through life that I can be used by Him if I’m willing to lean on Him for everything, trusting His plan and His sovereignty.
It’s The Ride… (by Thea Ford)
Often I delete or ignore a lot of my email, so sometimes I wonder how many people actually read this newsletter. And I wonder what you’re reading for…are you looking for encouragement? are you a prayer warrior? do you simply want to stay connected? what are you searching for right now? Whatever the case, I feel burdened to testify to you that throughout this summer, and even this year, I have found the Mighty God of the universe to be sufficient in ways that I could not imagine. I believe more than ever before I have had the tremendous opportunity to experience the Majesty of the Holy One. Maybe my words sound a little bizarre for you, perhaps a little less restrained than you may be comfortable with ordinarily. I hope so. I’m beginning to learn that although God is bigger than I can dream, part of my role on the amazing journey is to relinquish my plans and to embrace the plans He has for me. Thank you for your prayers for this ministry and for each person who is a part of it. It’s astounding to think that the Great God Himself wants to hear our prayers.
Things We Can Praise God For
><> Courtney Cross (2006 summer missionary) was accepted to nursing school.
><> Lisa Langley got a teaching job in Fairhope. She starts this month.
><> The summer missionaries in 2006 did an outstanding job.
><> The one week mission teams were especially helpful this season.
><> Jeff and Thea took their first summer vacation since getting married in 1999. (we had great fun with family… especially our two nieces Allie and Amber)
><> Thea is planning another wonderful year of teaching at Foley High School.
><> Jeff is already making preparations for another exciting fall and winter ministry season.
><> The resort ministry will be highlighted in 2007 as an exciting component of the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering. This promotional DVD will assist us in gathering additional volunteers for the years to come.
The summer of 2006 embarked on several new ministries and volunteer programs… (innovators, sojourners, coed summer missionaries… we haven’t used guys as summer missionaries for ten years, and barefoot believer interns) Email us for more info. on these new ministries bbagarm@gulftel.com
And One Last Thing…
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
In Christ,
Jeff & Thea Ford
resort missionaries
&
Lisa Langley
2006 Summer Assistant Director
Baldwin Baptist Resort Ministries
www.barefootbelievers.com
www.baldwinbaptist.com
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The Son & the Sand
September 2006
A Life Changing Summer
Every summer Thea and I have the privilege to partner with hundreds of volunteers in resort ministry on Alabama’s gulf coast. Recently I received some excellent feedback from one of our high school volunteers. I asked Kelly if it would be ok to include her comments in our most recent newsletter. She said to go for it, so here it is…
Hey Mr. Jeff!
This is Kelly from Prattville Alabama. I was down there for a week working with you guys…. I was with Dianne Morgan and the First Baptist Church of Pratville’s Acteens. I just wanted to say that we had such a great time while we were down there. It was definitely an experience that I will never forget. It really opened my eyes to a lot of things. I thought I knew what to expect, but when it actually came down to it, it was really new to me. I have been told how important it is to be a witness for Christ, but I realized that I don’t think that I do it as often as I should. The beach evangelism projects for example… I have never actually gone up to random people before and start talking to them about the difference that Jesus has made in my life. It was a real reality check for me, especially when I got home. I saw things in my relationships with my friends, coworkers, and other people around me that I never seen before I came down there. It was a great experience, and I pray that I will get that chance again sometime in the near future. Thanks so much!!!!
~Kelly
Our Prayer
We pray that experiences like Kelly’s summer mission trip will continue to occur throughout 2007. Let us know if your church would like to partner with us in ministry during the summer of 2007.
One Last Thing
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5 & 6
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The Son & the Sand
October 2006
The Baldwin Baptist Association’s Annual Meeting is coming up this month, and since most of our newsletter readers will not be able to attend the two-day event, we thought we would send you the gulf area resort ministries’ annual report in place of our regular monthly update…
We are excited to be able to share the good news of Jesus Christ…
And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:15
Baldwin Baptist Resort Ministry Mission Statement: We seek to share the life changing message of God’s love and grace with hungry hearts and thirsty souls in ways that meet the needs of resort visitors and residents as we challenge and encourage followers of Christ, on Alabama’s gulf coast, to be ambassadors of Christ everywhere they go.
We are thankful to be able to share the good news of Jesus Christ…
We truly appreciate the churches of the Baldwin Baptist Association for their prayer support, financial support, and encouragement. God’s love and grace is the message that the ministry, its many volunteers, and prayer partners seek to carry to Alabama’s Gulf Coast. We simply could not be effective without your enormous support.
In 2006 God’s guidance and direction resulted in a wonderful year of resort ministry on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. This year the resort committee led by Mitch Nelson has helped to better reach out to Gulf Coast residents and visitors with the gospel of Jesus Christ. A special thanks to the committee members for being a team that has sought God’s will.
We are consistently partnering with individuals and churches to share the good news of Jesus Christ…
A total of over 600 students and adults on mission with the Gulf Area Resort Ministries’ staff have reached out to thousands of Gulf Coast visitors and residents with the gospel of Jesus Christ in 2006. Through our combined efforts many of those we ministered to made decisions for Christ and rededications. This year’s ministry partnerships also led to several commitments to full time mission service. Here is a list of many of our ministry partners:
2006 Spring Break Mission Teams:
Calhoun BCM team, Perdido Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Gulf Shores, Lifeway Community Church, First Baptist Church of Orange Beach, & Central Baptist Church (Waycross, GA).
We partnered with a staff of 18 summer missionaries in 2006:
The following students came from AL, MO, KY, FL, NC, SC, TX, and MS…
Chris Dye - barefoot believers intern (bb intern), Chase Rogers - bb intern, Merena Crauswell - regular summer missionary, Jessica Nolte - sojourner, Lana Hall - bb intern, Alicia Christian - regular summer missionary, Courtney Cross -regular summer missionary, Heather Ferguson - regular summer missionary, Katy Maynard - bb intern, Meagan Ballard - regular summer missionary, Chris Porter - bb intern, Ashley Welch – sojourner, Matt Goins - bb intern, Brittany Scott - regular summer missionary, Derrick Fields – bb intern, Ashley Carroll-sojourner, Tony Bush – bb intern, & Lisa Langley - summer assistant to interns
It was a privilege to serve alongside such a dynamic and encouraging group of student ministers. Ministry sites included Luxury RV, Gulf Breeze RV, Gulf State Park Campground, the State Park Romar Beach Access, Island Retreat RV, and the Public Beach. In 2006 we added several new ministry sites including The Track, the Caribe Resort, Sea Cove Apartments, the new State Park Beach Pavilion, and the Best Western on the Beach. Throughout the summer we shared the love of Christ with thousands of people. Many Gulf Coast visitors made decisions for Christ, rededications, and commitments to full-time missions service.
Looking ahead to 2007…
We anticipate another wonderful season of senior adult ministry among our Gulf Coast visitors. (Resort Worship Services at Island Retreat RV, Gulf State Park Campground, Luxury RV, and the Plantation Resort). We will also be involved in the leadership of Snowbird Bible Studies and various Outreach events at Island Retreat RV, Gulf State Park Campground, and Luxury RV. We are excited about the ability to partner with two Mission Service Corp Missionary couples during this snowbird season. Butch and Vi Reik (2nd year) will serve at the Gulf State Park Campground, and Gene and Ruby Buttrey (5th year) will serve at Island Retreat RV. Resort Worship – We pray that God would prick the heart of a camper, usher them into a resort worship service each Sunday, and there our guest would find encouragement, grace, and His love. Snowbird Ministries - Pray for God’s direction and guidance as we adjust to new opportunities.
Please pray for everyone at the Baldwin Baptist Association and Gulf Area Resort Ministries as we assess the needs of our county. Pray that God would motivate us with the love of Christ and guide us to identify & meet needs.
It was an amazing year. Thank you for your amazing encouragement and powerful prayer support.
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The Son & the Sand
November 2006
A Festival for the Rest of Us
The Baldwin Baptist Resort Ministry partnered with teams of students from the BCM (Baptist Campus Ministry) of Faulkner State Community College, 2 BCM teams from Missouri, church volunteers from Calvary Baptist Church, FBC Bay Minette, FBC Summerdale, FBC Orange Beach, and many more. Matt Goins (youth pastor at Lagoon BC) brought students from his church as well as students from the University of Mobile to help out. A WMU team from Macedonia Baptist Church (Gadsden, AL) worked with us for all 4 days of the Shrimp Festival. Northpark Baptist Church of Birmingham,AL assisted us daily during the festival. Performance teams from several churches also assisted (FBC Silverhill drama team, Fish River puppeteers, FBC Gulf Shores youth praise band, and many more). The Townsend Family from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary spent time helping out at the festival. We also received lots of assistance from former Baldwin Baptist Resort Ministry summer missionaries. Wendy Wilson and her family singing group “The Wilson Five” performed on Friday and Saturday. Wendy served as a summer missionary in the summer of 2000. Several of our summer staff from 2006 were on hand to help out: Chase Rogers, Katy Maynard, Alicia Christian, and Derrick Fields. We had a wonderful time working with so many amazing volunteers.
THE FOLLOWING SCHEDULE IS A RECAP OF “THE CHILDREN’S ART VILLAGE”
OF THE 2006 NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ENTIRE FESTIVAL VISIT www.nationalshrimpfestival.com
(The schedule may give you some ideas regarding how you or your church may want to be involved with the festival next year)
Thursday October 12
10am to 5pm Kid’s Karaoke
Friday October 13
10am The Wilson Five (songs and fun) www.thewilsonfive.com
11am Puppet Show for Kids
noon to 5pm Kid’s Karaoke Competition
Saturday October 14
10am The Lonely Moon Band with special guest Byron Townsend from Insitu www.nc2.org
11am Cammie’s Dance and Gymnastics Exhibition
Noon Fish River Puppet team
1pm Faulkner State Community College Campus Ministries
2pm Forward Motion Drama Team (FBC Silverhill)
3pm Flip City Gymnastics and Dance Team Exhibition
4pm The Wilson Five (music and kid’s puppet show) www.thewilsonfive.com
Sunday October 15
10am Barefoot Believers Puppet Team
11am International Miss Program
Noon More Kids Games from the Stage (w/ Northpoint BC)
1pm Mega Fun Beach Games (w/ Northpoint BC)
2pm The Breakpoint Youth Band (FBC Gulf Shores)
3pm Faulkner State Community College Campus Ministries
4pm Forward Motion Drama Team
What’s Happening in November of ‘06
Butch and Vi Riek arrive this month. They will live in their camper at the Gulf State Park Campground, and serve as mission serve corps missionaries with the North American Mission Board throughout the ‘06 & ‘07 winter season. Butch and Vi worked with Thea and I back in the ‘04 & ‘05 season. They spend their summers with our good friend Brad Lartigue (another resort missionary) (…) at West Yellowstone in Montana.
Our resort ministries committee meets this month. We will be joined by the new ‘07 appointed members. A special word of welcome goes out to Jeff Eliot (Gulf Shores), Brandon Moore (Orange Beach), and Jason Smith (Summerdale).
Gulf Area Resort Ministries will host a special Gulf State Park Thanksgiving celebration on November 19th.
The Baldwin Baptist Association will have their final executive committee meeting of the year on November 30th.
After a short fall break from leading resort worship at various locations, the resort ministries staff and volunteers will resume leading worship and other ongoing resort ministry events at Gulf State Park, Luxury RV, and Island Retreat RV this month.
Prayer Request
><> Due to a recent car accident (thankfully no injuries), the Fords are in the market for a replacement car.
><> Butch and Vi’s ministry at the state park
><> As we look ahead to the release date of the 2007 Annie Armstrong missions video (featuring Jeff, Thea, and the ‘06 summer missionaries), we anticipate a lot of contact with churches and students in preparation for the summer of 2007. Please pray for us as we prepare.
><> The Baldwin Baptist’s resort ministry has also been selected as a featured ministry with the WMU’s ( … ) 2007 Christmas in August ministry. Pray that we can effectively manage the many packages that we will likely receive. This is a big job. We were recipients a few years ago. I think the total count was around 800 packages. We are very thankful for WMU’s love and support.
Be Encouraged (by Thea Ford)
We serve a living, mighty, and good God. Yet, sometimes the stress and busyness of life on earth begins to overwhelm us. If you are like me in this, I want to send out a little reminder: we are servants of the King. His blessings upon us are abundant, and His purpose for us is obvious within His Word. We are called to love others and be ambassadors for Christ. I praise Him for this opportunity, and for His gentleness in reminding me of this when I find myself trying to solve my problems on my own and/or getting too concerned what is going on with me. I pray that as we approach the holiday season, the joy we find in Christ is what guides our thoughts and actions.
Our Prayer
We pray that events like the 2006 Shrimp Festival will continue to be a doorway for sharing the love of Christ with Gulf Coast visitors and residents. Let us know if your church would like to partner with us in ministry at the Children’s Art Village of the festival during the fall of 2007. Many opportunities lie ahead as we begin the many “snowbird ministries” of the fall and winter. Please contact me if you have an interest in partnering with us in a snowbird ministry event or weekly ministry opportunity.
One Last Thing
Challenging words from Jesus…
“Now no one after lighting a lamp covers it over with a container, or puts it under a bed; but he puts it on a lampstand, in order that those who come in may see the light.”
Luke 8:16
I hope you have a wonderful month. See you next time.
In Christ,
Jeff Ford
resort missionary
baldwin baptist association
www.baldwinbaptist.com
www.barefootbelievers.com
We are a ministry of the Baldwin Baptist Association, and we are partners in ministry with the Alabama State Board of Missions and the North American Mission Board.
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The Son & the Sand
December 2006
Choosing Teams
When I was in elementary school, my favorite game at recess was kickball. Even though kickball was my favorite game, there was one aspect of the activity that I was not too crazy about… choosing teams. I was never picked first, and I was never picked last. My skills in kickball rested in the realm of mediocrity.
In junior high and high school, I switched from kickball to basketball. Again I was not the first to be picked, nor the last, but I was on the team. In some games, such as football or baseball, I might have even been given the task of being the “referee.” That was heartbreaking. Being given the “referee” status was often used to appease the kid that didn’t get chosen at all. I share all these team choosing memories to introduce an idea about our ongoing ministry efforts on Alabama’s gulf coast… “the snowbird ministry team.”
What is the Snowbird Ministry Team?
The team is a group of people that are committed to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Gulf Coast visitors and residents in partnership with the Gulf Area Resort Ministries. Much of our work is concentrated in various campgrounds, condominium complexes, and other vacation hot spots in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The team uses creative and relational ministry strategies to share the Gospel message. Through resort worship services, chaplaincy efforts, various special ministry events, prayer walking, beach evangelism, and random acts of kindness our team is used by God to make a life changing difference in the lives of those we come in contact with.
Who is Currently on the Snowbird Ministry Team?
The team is led by Jeff Ford (your resort missionary). Thea is also on the team; she provides great encouragement and direction for the resort ministry year round. The planners of our various ministry strategies are made up of several individuals on the resort ministries committee. The 2006 members include: Mitch Nelson, Jerry Hart, Gertie Sterns, Lisa Langley, Salam Shorrosh, and Kelly Tibbs. In 2007 the team will add a few new members: Brandon Moore, Jason Smith, and Jeff Eliott.
Beyond the planning, much of the ministry action is provided by Mission Service Corp missionary couples: Butch and Vi Riek (visit the following website for great information regarding the Riek’s adventures: www.rieksretreat.com) and Gene and Ruby Buttrey. Butch and Vi live much of their lives on the road traveling to various ministry sites. They call Alabaster, AL home. Gene and Ruby also spend much of their time traveling and working with ministries like ours. Gene and Ruby call Nashville, TN home.
Our team also incorporates individuals such as Betty Glasscock and Bill and Shirley Crews. The combined efforts of the resort committee, MSC missionaries, and other volunteers such as Betty, Bill, and Shirley enable the Baldwin Baptist snowbird ministry team to be more effective in their efforts of spreading the Gospel message.
Here is some additional thoughts from one of our team members (Vi) from the Riek’s website: Butch and I retired early in our lives due to physical reasons and after a first mission trip with our little country church in Titus, AL, we realized that God was opening a new door. After a time of soul searching and much prayer we began seeking his will which led us to preparing our daughter to leave for college, selling our home, most of our material belongings, purchasing a truck and fifth wheel trailer and heading for an assignment in Texas. That was the beginning of our lives with the Mission Service Corps and the North American Mission Board in 1988 and it has continued throughout the years in many assignments and many states. We served on the road for over nine years before returning to Alabama and purchasing a home in Helena, Alabama. We continued to serve with the MSC in different positions while attending Westwood Baptist Church and serving in various positions there. Although our family and church in Alabama are very important to us and difficult to leave behind, God’s call is again for us to follow his plans for us to serve in other areas. Once again, home is on wheels and we will go wherever he leads trusting him to provide as he always has. We have served alongside various ministries in Montana, Texas, Missouri, South Carolina, and Alabama in the past.
Would YOU Like to Join the Snowbird Ministry Team?
We are always interested in adding individuals or groups to our ministry team. If you would like to know more about ways you can partner with the snowbird resort ministry team, give me a call at 251.967.4086. As a prayer partner, you are already a vital part of our team. Thank you for your prayers. If you want to help in other ways, please do not hesitate to contact me. God bless.
One Last Thing
1Such a large crowd of witnesses is all around us! So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won’t let go. And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us. 2We must keep our eyes on Jesus, who leads us and makes our faith complete. He endured the shame of being nailed to a cross, because he knew that later on he would be glad he did. Now he is seated at the right side of God’s throne! (Hebrews 12:1 & 2)
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version of the Holy Bible
Merry Christmas,
Jeff Ford
resort missionary
baldwin baptist association
www.barefootbelievers.com
Gulf Area Resort Ministries is a ministry of the Baldwin Baptist association
( www.baldwinbaptist.com ), and we are partners in ministry with the Alabama State Board of Mission ( www.alsbom.org ) and the North American Mission Board ( www.namb.net ) .