Chapter 9 - Slicer Street Church of Christ

CHAPTER 9: THE 1990s
May 1992 - October 1998
There were many forces at work in the community and in the church as the early 90s merged
into the mid 90s. The bus ministry had run its course and with the end of running buses
came a lower attendance at Slicer Street. The turmoil that led to the departure of LaMar
Hester as youth minister lingered, creating a damper on the spirits of the members. In
addition, the slowdown of the Emerson plant began to cause things in Kennett to slow
considerably. What was needed was an older, more mature minister to provide pastoral
leadership through some challenging times ahead.
That is when David Wade stepped into the pulpit to fill the role.
He called on a Wednesday morning to ask if the offer was still
open. When he was told it certainly was, he officially accepted.
He brought to the role many years of experience. He had long
tenures of preaching and teaching. He had done radio work and
writing as well. He impressed the elders greatly with his maturity
in the word. They felt sure he would “enhance our work and
revive us after a period without a full time preacher.” The
expectations for him included private teaching, counseling,
enhancing community relations, hospital ministry, preaching, and
TV work. He expressed a desire to visit all member homes with an
elder, which the elders heartily endorsed. They were excited to begin and he preached his
first sermon as the preacher on May 17, 1992. Frank Farless had organized the work crew to
get the preacher’s home ready and the moving in took place the week following the May 17
official arrival.
The elders wrote in the May 24, 1992 bulletin that with Wade’s arrival, a new period began
for the church.
Since January 1, 1992, this church has been seriously and negatively impacted.
Although we cannot reach out to sweep clean the pain, we feel as a result of those
problems, we can pray for and encourage righteous actions on the part of those who
have been personally affected. No doubt better judgments would have minimized the
damage we have suffered as a body but now we must put away those unacceptable
attitudes and go forth into the Kingdom with unity and harmony to defeat the cause
of Satan and to win souls to Jesus Christ.
Brother Wade exhibits the strong characteristics of pulpit leadership which can
guide us to revival. When the moving van arrives on Saturday nothing would be
better than to greet the family with a warm welcome.
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It’s time this community hears from us positively again with new and greater
spiritual vigor. Let’s go!!
The next week was Wade’s first bulletin article. He
expressed the sense of being overwhelmed with the love
and generosity of the Slicer Street members.
You have all gone above and beyond measure in
your assistance to make our transition as smooth
as possible.
We are very happy to be here with you. We look
forward to becoming an active part of the work of David, Helen, Shane, Ryan
the Slicer St. Church of Christ. We are here to
serve.
On Sunday, May 24, the church honored the 1992 high school graduates. The class included
Michael Brannam, Kyle Brice, Stacy Hall, Kerri Milburn, Tamara Reid, Melanie Ward, and
Jason Wills. In June, Kelly Coffer and David Garner married at the church building.
The church conducted a family vacation bible school August
3-6, 1992 with teenagers going to various parks to do a
puppet presentation. The Cherokee Village retreat was held
July 31 to August 2. A gospel meeting was held in
conjunction with VBS from August 2-4 with Harold Redd of
Memphis.
The church gave $1000 toward the trip the Burchams made
to Albania in 1992. They left in August. On August 30,
Bill Johnson, director of Campaign America, spoke. The
church also helped to supply Seventh and Mueller in
Paragould with supplies to send to victims of Hurricane
Andrew. The youth group went to Pocahontas to hear
LaMar Hester speak at a rally there on August 30. The
church began the “We Care” visitation/evangelism effort on
Sunday, September 6. There were four teams formed from
members of the congregation. A report came from the
Burchams concerning the church meeting in Tirana as they
worked in Albania. The youth group was busy with
activities as well.
On Sunday, October 11, 1992, David Studer, a student at
Harding, came to lead singing and to preach on Sunday
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night. He was from Amarillo. Don Ward took over as the director of Homecrest in
September. On October 29 the church hosted a Halloween carnival.
The fall gospel meeting was held November 8-12,
1992 with Gordon Smith returning. The theme
was “Christ is the Answer.” Wade looked back on
it as a wonderful week of fellowship and
encouragement in the word. There were several
public responses and many more private
determinations to be more faithful and dedicated.
The holiday dinner was held December 11.
Appetizers were served at the home of Britt and
Beverly Burcham while the main course and
desserts were served at the church building. Scott
Miskelly was the guest speaker on Sunday,
December 27 in the evening.
Wade was seeing good things at the start of 1993.
We are off to a good start in 1993 with growing attendance and uplifted spirits. The
congregation is demonstrating good positive interest in the leadership selection
process initiated by our elders.
The congregation was invited to submit names for men they would like to serve as elders
over the congregation. Henry Deeter stepped down as elder on January 3, 1993. This was
due to his responsibilities involved as assistant superintendent of the Children’s Homes in
Paragould. Because of all the travel and work time, he just could not devote the proper time
to eldership responsibilities. The We Care teams started again in late January after a
successful fall.
A significant event in Slicer Street history began in February of
1993. After searching for a place to land as an emphasis in
foreign missions, Albania became the focus of evangelistic
efforts out of the Kennett church. The first step involved a two
month mission tour to Albania in the summer of 1993. Two
years prior to this, the communist dictatorship was replaced by a
democratic government. A danger was created in that people did
not know how to live in that kind of system. The gospel was
preached in Albania by Paul (Romans 15:19) but the pure gospel had been lost in a haze of
Muslim efforts and then the atheistic emphasis of communism. Russ and Rosemary had
recently been to Albania and found it to be an ideal place for the church to place its
evangelistic focus. They were commissioned by the Slicer Street elders to lead a group of
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teachers to establish a congregation of the church in a city in Albania other than Tirana. It
was shared in the May 23, 1993 bulletin that fourteen people were interested in being
involved in the summer campaign. Slicer Street was sponsoring the effort with great help
from other contributing congregations. May 30 was set aside for a special contribution for
the effort. The total taken up that day was $1757.46.
Also in February 1993, Brianna Burcham was
born, the church made a valentines trip to the
Hickory Log restaurant, and Dennis Robertson
and Larry Metheny were appointed as the
newest elders of the church.
Larry M etheny
Tracy and Regina Smith placed membership
during February as well. Lucille Brannam died
on February 21 in Memphis. Funeral services
were conducted at the Slicer Street building.
Dennis Robertson
Travis Gentry was born in March 1993.
Cornerstone Quartet of Faulkner University came to visit on Sunday, March 28. After a
meal with the youth group members, they performed songs from the “Golden Fifties”
program and other numbers.
David Wade was very active in taking on some contemporary issues through the bulletin.
He took a strong stand against abortion. On April 4, 1993, the bulletin had a very strong
stance against homosexuals being allowed into the military. The next week he wrote to
uphold the standards of Scripture on sex, dress, punishment of criminals, and God’s role in
the public schools, as well as corporal discipline of children. The CRA chorus came to
perform on Sunday evening, April 25.
In April the elders made it known that they were meeting every Wednesday night to discuss
matters of interest to members. They met in room 202 upstairs. There was a new search on
for a youth minister at this time. Ken McAlpin, who later sang with Acappella and was at
this time a student at Faulkner University, came on Sunday evening, May 2. He was chosen
to work with the youth for the summer, as
announced in the bulletin of May 23. He arrived on
June 5 before returning for classes at Faulkner in the
fall.
The Spring Meeting for 1993 was May 16-19 with
Jimmy Adcox of Jonesboro, AR. He had been to
Slicer Street numerous times, especially for teacher
appreciation banquets. Preparation for the meeting
included a canvassing of Kennett. Those who
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helped brought sack lunches on Saturday, May 8 and met at 8:00 to begin knocking doors.
The Senior Banquet for 1993 was held Thursday, May 13. Pictures of seniors and their
parents were made in the studio room before the banquet. Graduates that year included
Jeremy Caldwell, Belinda Chapin, Gerry Duncan, Mary Beth Hamlett, Eric Mullins, Chad
Neal, Amy Rickman, Dana Ridings, Dena Ridings, and Kevin Stewart. Also in May, Brian
Bridges was born.
In June, Ken McAlpin came to work with the youth. He was
from Middleton, TN. After one year of Freed Hardeman, he
transferred to Faulkner. He was working on a Bible degree and
was due to graduate in December. He was a member of the
Preachers Club and Zeta Eta Theta. He sang and enjoyed
athletics. His youth experience involved camps, rallies, and
campaigns. The previous summer he interned with a church in
Birmingham and was a regular feature at the Faulkner Student
Ken McAlpin
Lectureships.
Wade departed in June for a mission effort to the Ukraine. Scott and Christy Miskelly had a
successful tour in Minsk and spoke on Sunday, June 27, 1993 about their experience.
The summer effort in Albania had been called “Mission Illyria.” The
workers made it in late June and arrived in Vlore, Albania. They had 80
students lined up for teaching. They stayed in Vlore for two months.
They returned in August, at which time Russ and Rosemary Burcham
continued the work until Van Tate could arrive for continuation of the
effort. Two young men, converted in Bucharest, Romania in 1991, were
playing a huge role in getting the church started.
Van Tate
Bill Wilson and his family was at Slicer
Street for services on July 18. Vacation Bible School for
1993 was held on August 6 with the theme, “The Life of
Paul.” Shortly after this, Ken McAlpin returned to
Faulkner after a fellowship meal in his honor on Sunday,
August 15. Plans were then made to once again participate
in the “We Care” effort. The congregation took up a
contribution on September 5 to help with flood victims in
Bill Wilson Family
the St. Louis area. The church held a “Family Day” on
Sunday, October 3, 1993. Children’s Homes staff taught the classes on topics like “Full
House,” “Home Front,” “Home Alone,” “Family Matters,” “Family Ties,” “Home
Improvement,” “Married with Children,” and “Life Goes On.”
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The Fall Gospel Meeting was with Jay Lockhart, October
24-27. The first day the meeting was also designated
“Friend Day.” Monday night was “Neighbor Night,”
Tuesday night was “Fellow Worker Night,” and
Wednesday night was “Relative Night.” A couple days
after the meeting Jade Caldwell was born.
The elders organized the Teachers Appreciation Banquet
for Monday, November 9, 1993. A good meal was
planned with a speech from Jimmy Adcox and songs
from a quartet formed of Tracy, Tim, Britt, and David.
Mark McClendon was baptized on November 15. Russ
Burcham reported on the Albania work on Sunday,
November 28. Just before this,
the Burchams used the bulletin to
introduce the congregation to
Ron Cotton, an excellent missionary working in Albania, who would
play a significant role in getting the church going in Vlore.
The Harding Chorus came to Kennett and presented a concert on the
evening of Sunday, December 5. Two of the members of the chorus
were Misty McDowell and Keven Stewart. The holiday dinner in
1993 was held on December 10, with appetizers served at the
Robertson home before moving to the building.
Ron Cotton
The second Sunday of 1994 was dedicated
to missions. Randy English, missionary to American Samoa, taught
the class. The church became a supporter of him during the year.
Larry Metheny presented the budget, Scott Miskelly talked about
preparation for Minsk, Russ Burcham discussed the Albania work,
and B.J. Robertson and Glen Metheny talked about the aim of
Harding students going to Albania in the summer. Carol DeGraw
also went on that trip. As a related concern, the Fishers of Men
training program began on Thursday, January 6. Richard and
Randy English
Veronica Yeazel came on board as houseparents for Homecrest.
On Sunday, January 30, Ralph Royce of Muncie, IN was on hand to
address the adult classes on the One Nation Under God campaign. Also, Chester Folkes
resigned his role as deacon for personal reasons.
Announcement was made in the January 30, 1994 bulletin that Bruce Holt was coming on
board as youth minister. Bruce was from Florence, Alabama and graduated high school
from Gulfport, MS. His father was preacher at the Orange Grove Church of Christ there.
He attended International Bible College before transferring to Freed Hardeman University.
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Bruce Holt
He graduated there in December 1993. He was always active in
youth groups and in college he served various congregations with
youth programs, preaching, teaching, leading singing, and visitation.
He mentioned in his first article that he was made to feel very
welcome in Kennett and the teens were responding well to his
efforts. He was now engaged to April and she was excited about
being part of the youth work. He worked hard in planning youth
events and the young people responded well to him. It was obvious
through his articles that he attended school functions as well as took
several to area youth events. The church had a shower for Bruce and
April on June 5. They married on June 25, 1994.
The month of February had the church focusing on deacons. After solid preaching on the
role, the congregation was invited to submit recommendations. After sufficient time, three
men were suggested: Jeff Bridges, Britt Burcham, and Rick Gore. The ball also got rolling
on a new church directory. Pictures were taken during the month of May, with one
complete session having been botched, resulting in a make-up
date.
The spring meeting was with Johnny Hester from March 27 to
30, 1994. Before the meeting, March started in a very
difficult way for the congregation. Three faithful sisters
passed away near the same time. They were Beatrice
Maynard, Lucy Frederick, and Vernon Farless. As a result,
Frank Farless stepped down from his role as deacon. The
meeting became a healing time. Johnny was now located at
Sikeston, Missouri and his lessons focused on the theme
“Confronting Our Culture.”
In May, Amber Camp was born. The Senior Banquet of 1994
saw Steve Davis and Jeri Kay Tice as the only Slicer Street
graduates from high school. In June, Darby Miskelly was born. David Wade again left for
the Ukraine in June as well. In July the Miskellys decided not to pursue the mission work in
Minsk. Ron and Jet Cotton decided
against staying in Albania. The
Burchams would be a temporary
solution in August, but the search for
a missionary for Vlore, Albania was
on. Two members moved away
because of health problems at this
time as well. Dolly Rogers and
Estella Cook left to be closer to
family. VBS was held July 31Glen and Brian in Albania, summer 1994
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August 3 with the theme, “Believe It or Not!” B.J. Robertson and Glen Metheny spoke on
Sunday, August 7 about the Albania work. In late August the elders expressed a concern
about “inadequate attire” being worn to church assemblies by some of the members. This
was particularly the case on Wednesday nights. They suggested that members ask one
question of themselves: would we wear this same attire to our friend’s wedding? More
serious thought concerning dress was encouraged.
The new picture directories arrived in late September, 1994. The
Burchams returned from Albania October 2. Russ spoke to the
congregation about the effort on October 30. Joe D. Jones, professor
at Harding University, was the guest speaker on Sunday, October 9.
The church had a work day to seal the newly paved parking lot behind
the auditorium the day before that. The next Saturday the church
canvassed the community,
leaving brochures with
information about the fall
meeting at each home. The
fall gospel meeting had
Joe Jones
Harold Redd returning
October 16-19 with the theme, “Christ for the
Crises.” Jim Medlock conducted a Grief Recovery
Seminar on November 2.
In what would become a very significant
appointment, the church scheduled for a prospective
mission couple to speak on Sunday, November 6,
1994. Virgil and Jackie Jackson voiced the desire
to work in Albania full time. He was still engaged
in studies at Harding University and could not go
until the next year. But providence seemed to be all
over the situation. The Cottons were gone and
before the Jacksons could go, Ed and Joann Weidner and Melba Abney of Searcy agreed to
work for four months and Bernard and Maxine Howell of Sacramento, CA would bridge the
gap between that time and the arrival of the Jacksons.
In December the church received a donation of $39,000 from the estate of sister Mayme
O’Bryant. The holiday dinner was December 6 with appetizers in the studio room and the
main meal in the fellowship room.
The first event of 1995 was a presentation of the Harding University chorus on Tuesday,
January 3. A meal was served before the performance and the church housed the chorus
members that night. Larry Metheny presented the budget to the church on January 1, which
was a Sunday. The youth group began to participate in the area youth quiz. A huge group
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went the first time and the grades 3-5 group took first immediately. David Wade took the
occasion to urge the congregation to “be alive in ninety five” through the bulletin. Kevin
Stewart, at this time a student at Harding, was baptized. Albania remained a huge focus as
the Abneys and Weidners, who had been there and were going back, came to Slicer Street in
late January to meet the congregation here.
In February 1995 the valentine dinner was held, allowing young people to serve the older
members. David, Donna, Matthew, and Mark Smith all placed membership. David Wade
did a good job of encouraging members as he itemized the good works being done at Slicer
Street. He focused on the Dorcas work, the Bible school program, the “We Care” effort, and
other works such as PIBS, children’s home, and the youth
group. On March 26, the Harding University Concert Choir, of
which B. J. Robertson was a part, performed at Slicer Street.
They presented during the Bible class time and then one of the
students, Don Neal, spoke for worship. A special
announcement was made in the bulletin of March 26. Charlie
and Audra Milburn established the Charlie and Audra Milburn
Seminary Scholarship. The goal was to assist ministerial
students in their college preparation for ministry. At the time,
the scholarship provided $2100 annually for a student. The
Charlie & Audra Milburn
Slicer Street elders would serve as the scholarship committee.
Students from the nearby area were given priority. If no students from this area qualified,
then the elders had the option of looking at any Church of Christ student. This scholarship
has done some great good since its inception, helping many to afford a Christian education
in pursuit of ministry.
In April 1995, with the casino coming to Caruthersville soon,
David Wade did a review of what makes casinos so negative to
society on the front page of the April 9 bulletin. Bruce Holt,
who kept youth events going with regularity, commented on the
recent retreat at Bootheel Youth Camp. LaMar Hester
“presented two inspirational lessons on the theme, ‘Committed
to Christ.’” Then on April 23 Bruce
Holt announced his resignation,
effective June 1. This was due to the
need for Bruce and April to complete
their education. Their plans were to go
Bruce and April Holt
to preach at the church in Monroe, GA
while they finished school. They expressed love for the church and
the enjoyment of the experience here.
On April 30, Eddie Cloer made a presentation to the classes on the
Printed Preacher School, which Slicer Street supported.
Eddie Cloer
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In May of 1995 the church got to meet
Virgil and Jackie Jackson. They came on
May 7 and Virgil spoke during classes and
in the worship time. A fellowship meal
followed to allow people time to meet them.
Fred and Marilyn Ellis became members as
they moved in to work with the Homecrest
Children’s Home. On May 16, Julianna
Fred & Marilyn Ellis
Branum was born. The senior banquet was
held May 22 after the morning worship at the Country Boy
Restaurant. Graduates in 1995 included Julie Chapin, Justin Wills,
Virgil & Jackie
Corey Roberts, Amy Robertson, Jason Saltzman, and Matthew
Jackson
Smith. May 28 was a big day. C. W. Brannam was visiting that day.
He taught the auditorium class for Russ Burcham. Bruce Holt spoke on his final Sunday at
Slicer Street. The church was able to express expression for the work he and April had done
with the youth.
On June 11, Tim Wilkes, instructor for Fishers of Men, which was
supported by Slicer Street, spoke on Sunday morning and Glen Metheny
filled the pulpit Sunday night. Late in June David Wade went on his
fifth trip to the Ukraine. On July 1, Rick Gore and Tracy Smith left to
check on the mission work of Randy English in the South Pacific. The
first mission report from Virgil and Jackie Jackson appeared in the
bulletin of July 16, 1995. They had arrived and were excited about the
new work.
Tim Wilkes
The youth ministry position was again open and the church began to
examine possible candidates to fill it. On Sunday, July 2, Chris
Kemp taught the teenage classes and preached in the morning
worship. He was a graduate student at Freed Hardeman. A week
later, Spencer Furby of Paragould, AR did the same. He was
preaching at Success, AR and was doing graduate work. On July
16, Tim Bruner, employee of Freed Hardeman, taught the classes
and preached. That evening Rick Gore and Tracy Smith reported on
their trip to the Solomon Islands. The July 23 bulletin showed a
letter from Bruce and April Holt. They expressed thanks for being
Spencer Furby
allowed to be part of the church in Kennett. They were overjoyed by
the letters they received from youth group members and they looked
forward to the bulletin. It was announced that Spencer Furby would be joining the Slicer
Street staff as associate minister.
Bob and Melba Abney of Searcy were on hand for services on July 23. He spoke at the
morning worship. Vacation Bible School was on the theme of “Great Walls of Faith” from
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July 30 to August 2. Finis Caldwell taught the adult classes in the auditorium. In the August
6 bulletin David did a rerun with slight alterations. He once again reviewed the good works
going on at Slicer Street. He again mentioned the Dorcas work, the TV and Bible program
workers, the We Care, the PIBS work, the children’s home, and the youth ministry. Gary
and Minetta Clayton came on board the work of Homecrest, overseeing the girls cottage.
James Powell placed membership and Rose Ford celebrated her 100th birthday. It was noted
that the Furbys planned to move to Kennett on Friday, August 18, though they would be at
services beginning August 9. Spencer began his work on August 1.
David presented a sort of official welcome for Spencer and
Melissa in the August 13, 1995 bulletin. Spencer was from
Fredericktown, MO and Melissa was from Paragould, AR.
They were just married the previous March and had worked
with a small congregation in Success, AR. Melissa was
commuting to Paragould to finish out the school year teaching
kindergarten at Crowley’s Ridge Academy. They were living
in the home the church purchased from Terry and Nita Greenway for the associate minister,
on 1919 Venda.
In September, Mike and Carrie Strother placed
membership. In October Aaron Beck was born.
The fall gospel meeting for 1995 was with Jim
Dearman of Olive Branch, MS, October 22-25.
He worked with Truth for the World radio and
television ministry. The Slicer Street church
aired his program on Fridays at 7:30 on channel
19. He was a former missionary to Malaysia
where he directed the Malaysia School of
Preaching. He had “a unique style of
proclaiming God’s eternal truths making them
applicable to our contemporary problems.” He
was very personable and kind. David urged the
members weeks in advance to work toward a
successful meeting. He appealed to members to
pray, to help canvass the town with the young
people on Saturday, October 14, and to commit
to attend each night of the meeting. After the
meeting David expressed his approval of the
presentations.
We did not have to wonder where he stands. His lessons were grounded in scripture,
concise, and simple to understand. Each lesson was a masterpiece! And add to this,
brother Dearman spoke the ‘truth in love.’
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In the month of November 1995 a great emphasis was placed on raising the money necessary
construct a church building in Vlore. November 12 was a day of special contribution for that
purpose. The difficulties of arranging entrance to their rented building and the lack of
legitimacy when not having a stable location motivated Virgil and Jackie and Russ and
Rosemary to advocate building a structure to house the assembled church in Vlore. The goal
set was to have five times the normal contribution given. The collection totaled $13,000.
Randy English came to speak on November 19,
1995. The week following this saw the
congregation lose Theola Craig and Jim Brice.
The next Sunday Albert Gardner spoke. The
holiday dinner was held on Friday, December 8
with appetizers at the home of David and Donna
Randy English Family Smith. The rest of the dinner was held at the
building. The evening service of December 10
had Eddie Cloer giving a report to the congregation. The youth group
was staying busy and was planning another trip to Youth In Action in
Jonesboro. Also, Spencer mentioned that plans were under way for
Albert Gardner
restoring the Impact Youth Rally for 1996. There was an
announcement in one December bulletin about a birthday celebration
for C. W. Brannam in Memphis. He was turning 90. Nathan Robertson was born on
December 8. On Sunday, December 24 the speakers were Spencer Furby and Danny Boggs.
As the new year of 1996 came around, David Wade offered suggestions for how to chart a
course for life in the first bulletin, mainly quoting helpful and appropriate verses of
Scripture. Michael Slicer was baptized and Dusty Hamlett was born early in the year. In
what has become an article in infamy, David then addressed the issue of chewing gum in
worship by offering a parody of worship in the January 14, 1996 bulletin. Carol DeGraw
was again planning a mission trip, this time in Indonesia. That destination was changed to
Guyana a bit later. Albert Gardner went to India.
The old impact logo began appearing again in the February 4
bulletin. The actual theme appeared two weeks later as “Built on
the Rock” from Matthew 16:18.1
1
I had often contemplated organizing a youth rally. I always thought about having a
dear friend, Willie Sandlin, speak. We had talked about his amazing life story and he talked
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In March, Albert and Frances Gardner left to work with the church in Campbell. Marlenia
Hancock was baptized on March 7.
Impact 1996 arrived March 22-24. The speaker was Willie Sandlin of Paragould, AR.
Teachers included Tim Wooldridge of Little Rock, AR; Ron Clark of
Bonne Terre, MO; and Gary Cremeens of Bono, AR. The song
leader was Terry
Davis of Harding
University. The
entertainment was
provided by Free
Indeed of Little
Rock. It was an
exciting time with
a high attendance
Free Indeed
of around 240.
Willie Sandlin
On March 30, Albert Gardner filled the
pulpit. Johnny Hester returned for a meeting from May 5 to 8,
1996 on the topic, “Lessons for Living.” David encouraged
members to get behind the effort, promising it to be “a very
rich and rewarding spiritual feast.” He would proclaim the
Good News in power and simplicity with topics that had a
broad appeal. He encouraged the taking of brochures to give
people as part of an invitation. On May 8, at the close of the
meeting, Jill Robertson, Rachel Ward, and Brittney Burcham
were all baptized. A couple weeks later, Brooke Gore, Bryan
Gore, Blake Gore, and Cortney Smith were baptized as well.
The Senior Banquet for 1996 was on May
19. The class included Lance Neal, Laura
Ames, and Heather Williams. On June 2, C. W. Brannam spoke at the
Bakerville Church of Christ. Tim Wilkes spoke at Kennett on Sunday,
June 9. The elders announced that several of the men of the
congregation were lined up to speak for the summer on Sunday
evenings. Glen Metheny was the first and the next was Gerry Hill.
Mike Wallace took a turn. On Sunday, June 23, Spencer Furby spoke in
the morning and Britt Burcham in the evening. The series continued
with James Powell, Tracy Smith, Rick Gore, Jeff Bridges, Larry
Glen Metheny
McDowell, B. J. Robertson, and David Smith. Later Gerald Caraway
was added to the list. Later still, Kyle Brice filled the pulpit on a Sunday night. Brandon
about writing it down. The title, he told me, would have been “Built on the Rock.”
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Burcham was baptized July 7. David Wade wrote an article observing some spiritual lessons
that could be learned from the tragic crash of TWA Flight 800 in July of 1996.
The youth group was active in youth events all summer, including a youth rally at Seventh
and Mueller in Paragould. Vacation Bible School focused on “Great Women of the Bible”
from August 4-7, 1996. Adult class teachers included Albert Gardner, Charlie Crawford,
and James Powell. Once again, David Wade did an insightful job of drawing lessons from
contemporary events in the bulletin. He focused on the accusation of Richard Jewell being
the Atlanta Olympics bomber. The 21st season of television ministry started in September.
Local programming featured David Wade, Art Smith, Jim Medlock, and Spencer Furby.
On Saturday, September 21, 1996 the church hosted a
teachers workshop with Elbert and Sarah Richey of
Henderson, TN. Attention then turned to the Marriage
and Family Enrichment lecture series with Dr. John
Simpson of Memphis, TN. It ran from October 13-16. He
was a faithful gospel preacher and a certified
counselor/family therapist. The meeting was a time “to
examine God’s will for our marriages and families.” The
Sunday morning service of the meeting was followed by a
potluck and a softball game. Just
before that, a men’s night was held
featuring a new member of the
church, Jon Pruiett of the Missouri
Highway Patrol. On Sunday,
October 27 the young people
participated in Goodstock ‘96 at the
Center Hill Church of Christ in Paragould. The song leader was
Rusty McMillon. Teachers included Spencer Furby and Nancy
Joneshill. The speaker was Gary Cremeens. Homeward Bound
performed as well.
Jon Pruiett
Gary Cupp came to speak on behalf of the Children’s Homes on
Sunday evening, November 17. The youth group began a
tradition that month as well. On November 23, 1996 they hosted
the Meals on Wheels event. A big thanksgiving meal was
prepared, complete with Evelyn Campbell’s dressing. Melissa
Furby organized it and it went well as kids delivered meals to
many members. The kids classes collected cans of corn, green Gary Cupp Family
beans, and cranberry sauce in preparation. Angela Hester and
Grant Deeter married at the building on November 30, 1996. On December 1, Russ
Burcham preached in the morning, reporting on his trip to Minsk. The Holiday dinner for
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adults was on December 7. Appetizers were at the home of Joey and Lisa Clark and the
dinner was at the building. The youth group also had a holiday dinner for their age group
after delivering fruit baskets. Youth in Action was held December 27-29 with Don
McLaughlin, Stan Smith, and Willie Sandlin. A decision was reached in December that the
church needed new song books. The decision was made to go with Songs of Faith and
Praise as the new one. About 350 were purchased and members were permitted to put a
dedication in one for $8.50 each. The year ended with the wedding of Melanie Ward and
Eric Gardner and the baptism of William Loggins.
The new year of 1997 brought a new change to the church. The bulletin front for January
19, 1997 had the headline “WADES AWAY.” The Wades were leaving Kennett to begin a
new work in Chickamauga, Georgia. They would actually move in mid-February, but David
was released from all ministerial duties except TV. Part of his work
in Georgia would involve a large TV ministry, for which Kennett
more that amply prepared him.
While it is always sad to move and to say goodbye to friends
we love, we are assured that you will remain our friends for
life. We will hold you up in our prayers and will keep in
touch and trust that all will go well with you. So we urge
you all, continue loving each other, work, worship and pray
together, and be faithful to the Word.
David Wade
David Wade and his family did not stay as long
as their predecessors. But there is no doubt that they served a vital
function within the history of the church. They provided solid leadership
at a time that was tumultuous. They provided a stability which made it
possible to recover and rebuild. When the Wades left, the church was
able to deal with the vacancy of the interim time with confidence that the
church could withstand the uncertainty that being without a preacher can
create. It could even be said that the Wades were a balm that brought
some definite healing to a hurting congregation.
Jim Faughn
Calvin Henry
The speaker for the next Sunday was Tim Wilkes.
Jim Faughn of Freed Hardeman preached the next
Sunday. The new song books were all paid for by
the end of January. The complete list of who
donated and in honor or memory of whom is
included in the March 30, 1997 bulletin. James
Powell left the church to start preaching at the
Bakerville Church of Christ. Scott and Christy
Miskelly placed membership. Tim Wooldridge
spoke on February 2. Jim Medlock and Britt
Tim Wooldridge
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Burcham covered the pulpit on February 9. Spencer Furby and Finis Caldwell spoke on
February 16. Calvin Henry, missionary in Honduras, spoke on February 23.
In February, there was great unrest in Albania as failed pyramid schemes threatened to cause
great chaos in that country. Virgil and Jackie were determined to stay on through it. But it
was soon evident that this was not possible. Not only did violence escalate, but government
warnings to foreigners in the country all but demanded that the Jacksons leave the country.
They did under the cover of darkness, assisted by Xhelo. They went to Greece and then
came back to the US.
In March, speakers filling the pulpit were Spencer
Furby, Gerald Caraway, Tim Wooldridge, Gerry Hill,
Virgil Jackson, Jim Medlock, Chris Dempsey (one of
the Impact teachers), and Scott Miskelly. Impact
occurred on March 21 and 22 with the theme, “Jesus:
The Firm Foundation.” Ross Cochran of Harding
University
was the speaker.
Theatron, a
drama group also
Ross Cochran
from Harding,
performed.
Chris Dempsey
Terry Davis
led singing.
Teachers included Steve Sanders
of Doniphan, Mike Spillman of Mt.
Home, Paul Williams of Bono,
Jeff Bridges of Kennett, Tommy
Boles of Hoxie, Finis Brewer of
Jackson, TN, Phil Nuernberger of
Charleston, Mark Wendel of Paragould, Charles Abernathy of Sikeson, Chris Dempsey of
Benton, Jerry Sawyer of Dyersburg, and Britt Burcham and Mike Wallace of Kennett.
In what became an annual tradition, Dennis and
Darlene Robertson hosted the first Easter Egg Hunt at
their home with many kids taking advantage.
In April the church held the Spring Meeting with
Dennis Jones, president of
International Bible College of
Florence, Alabama. It was April 6First Robertson Egg Hunt
9, 1997. His topics included: joy,
innocence, godliness, kindness, generosity, and faith. Filling the pulpit in
April included Spencer Furby, Joe Yale, Mark Smith, B. J. Robertson. In
May the church hosted the annual senior banquet, honoring Brooke Gore,
Melinda Harlan, Chris Harman, Andy Lucas, Jamie Medlock, Brooke
McDonald, Emily Rickman, Michael Slicer, and Joe Yale. At about the Dennis Jones
same time, Pam Hesselrode passed away.
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The church began the search for a new
minister. Mark Richardson came from
White Hall, AR. He was married and had
two sons. The church also explored the
idea of beginning Sunday morning services
earlier. The question was posed to the
members about beginning at 9:00 a.m.
rather than 9:30 a.m. On May 11 Glynn
John Ross
Durham of Kingsport, TN came with his
Jim Medlock
wife to look at the position. Tim
Wooldridge filled the pulpit on May 25. John Ross, a 32 year old preacher from Pittsburgh,
TX, came on June 1. Glen Metheny spoke that night. The week before $1317.23 was
contributed to aid the flood victims of North Dakota. Spencer Furby and
Mike Wallace spoke on June 8. Virgil Jackson and Jim Medlock
covered the pulpit on June 15. During that week, Wilson Miskelly and
Logan Saltzman were born. The next week, Charley Stultz died and
the church scheduled a work day at the preacher’s home. Laura Garner
was then born. Virgil Jackson spoke again on June 29. Mitchell
Covington came on July 13. He was married and had three daughters.
He had just returned from five years of mission work in Moscow,
Russia. Virgil and Jackie Jackson began the journey back to Albania
during that week as well. By early August they were living in Tirana.
Mitchell
In early September they were back in Vlore.
Covingtons
On July 20, John Ross spoke again and Scott
Miskelly covered the evening lesson. The next Wednesday night,
Larry Rogers came to speak and check out the congregation.
Spencer Furby filled the preaching role on July 27. The first Sunday
in August was covered by Spencer Furby and Gerry Hill. Vacation
Bible School was from August 3-6, 1997 with the theme, “Biblical
Bad Guys.” Russ and Rosemary went to Poland for mission work.
Patrick Mays was born during that week as well. On August 17,
Gerry Hill
Larry Rogers returned to preach on Sunday.
His lessons were “Do You Need a Second
Touch?” and “Real Family Values.” The class was “Who is the Holy
Spirit?” He brought his wife Janet and children, Carson and Rebecca.
They were from Nashville. The August 24, 1997 bulletin announced
that the elders had offered the pulpit position to Larry Rogers and he
had accepted.
Larry Rogers wrote his first bulletin article for the August 31, 1997
bulletin. He expressed appreciation for the confidence placed in him
to be the preacher. Their plans were to begin the work the first of
Larry Rogers
229
October, 1997. “Kickoff Sunday” would be October 5. Larry started off with great
enthusiasm and many goals. He asked for there to be the largest attendance of the year on
that day, with a goal of 500. His theme formula would be “500 x 2000,” meaning a goal of
500 regular members by the year 2000. He pointed out that the largest congregation of the
church in Missouri had 500 members. His goal was to match that number and as a test run
to prove the point, he urged the church to have 500 in attendance on his first Sunday. He
complimented the elders and the youth minister. The second article commented on the
picture directory and the bulletin as he observed Slicer Street to be “a vibrant group of which
someone would want to be a part.” By this time Melissa Furby was expecting and he
thanked her for her role in producing 500 by 2000! He established another goal for the
church–every member–to read the New Testament in 1998. The next week he asked for
members to list 10 people to invite to the kickoff Sunday and to pray for them each day until
then. The next bulletin, on September 21, had Larry reviewing the history of Kennett he
had researched. In the final bulletin before his arrival, Larry expressed a joy about the
coming move. He took his kids to Disney World before the move was done. Cards had
been sent and even the class that his kids would be in sent photos and expressions of
welcome. All of this had the excitement high at the Rogers home. He mentioned the many
activities of the church with great approval and anticipation.
Before Rogers arrived, Danny Boggs spoke on August 31, along with
Dewayne Kennedy. Rebecca Ross became a new member that week
as well. Spencer Furby, Jim Stewart, and Britt Burcham filled the
pulpit in the month of September. In mid September, Matt Hodges
placed membership. The elders decided there was a need to identify
more deacons and the process got underway in September. On
September 28 the church hosted a special K-6 youth rally with the Pied
Pipers of Freed Hardeman. That week Pearson McClendon was born.
The front of the bulletin announced that the next Sunday would be
Danny Boggs
October 5, “Kickoff Sunday.” C. W. Brannam had sent a note of
acknowledgment and prayer to Larry Rogers as he became the next Slicer Street preacher.
The first bulletin
from our resident
preacher was on
Sunday, October 12. Larry called his article “The Bright Spot.”
The church did indeed have the largest attendance of the year on
October 5, both for the morning and evening services. In the
bulletin, Larry would take note of recent visitors. The church
Larry Rogers Family
began gearing up for the fall gospel meeting. There was a
committee set up to take care of TV ads, radio ads, newspaper
ads, and other ways of promoting the meeting. Willie Sandlin was the speaker from
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November 2-5.2 On November 2 the Harding Chorus sang during the
Bible study hour. A Sunday night cookie bake off was held the Sunday
before the meeting. The winners in categories were listed in the
November 9 bulletin. Also at that time the top ten hymns of Slicer Street
members were listed. From 10 to 1 the songs included: O Lord Our
Lord, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, As the Deer, Sing and Be
Happy, I Walk with the King, Follow Me, Amazing Grace, He Gave Me
A Song, His Grace Reaches Me, Living By Faith, I Believe in Jesus,
Paradise Valley, Our God He Is Alive, and The Greatest Commands.
Larry mentioned the trick cookie Rosemary Burcham, recently returned
from a mission trip, offered him.
Willie Sandlin
Larry had done some history research and discovered the church had only
broken the 500 barrier eight times since 1975, which would be eight times total. Record
attendance was 614 on March 30, 1975 when Martel Pace was the preacher. He offered
ways for how we could reach a 500 attendance goal. So it was with great joy that Larry
published the attendance on Sunday of the gospel meeting as 501. Sunday school attendance
was 469. He considered it a good foretaste of what every Sunday could be like. The Harding
Chorus was a huge hit and Larry was determined to get them back soon.
The holiday dinner date was permanently set for the first Saturday in
December, starting in 1997. It was Saturday, December 6, 1997.
Appetizers were at the home of Melissa Collins. Maria Blankenship
was born November 6. Jon Pruiett spoke on a Sunday night in
November about the drug problem. Spencer filled the pulpit on
November 16, allowing Larry to pursue a course at Lipscomb
University. Rogers also instituted a bit of a bulletin change,
enlarging it on November 23, 1997. On that Sunday night the youth
conducted services and the attendance hit 350. He also announced
that the elders were attempting to buy the
two remaining lots on the southeast corner of
Jon Pruiett
the block. With that purchase, along with the
need for a new a/c unit, and the reality of being behind budget, the
need was real for some solid giving. In early December Virgil and
Jackie did finally get to settle back in to Vlore. On December 14
there was to be a special contribution with a goal of $30,000 set.
December was also set as “Faithful Families” month with December
14 being “Family Day.” Gayle Napier of Nashville was the speaker
that day. He was a nationally known speaker and family therapist. Gayle Napier
2
Willie was a Poplar Bluff native and a Freed Hardeman graduate. He was then
youth minister at Seventh and Mueller in Paragould. He was a favorite speaker among
young people and a joyful friend.
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His topics included
Ways to Resuscitate Our Families
Predictors of a Successful Marriage
Dealing with Anxiety and Depression
Building Proper Self Esteem in Kids
When that Sunday finally came, the church contributed a record amount, hitting $28,801.63
in the contribution. Larry was elated with that response and felt that it would lead to some
exciting days for the church. As for the speaker, Napier “brought a breath of fresh air to our
church.” His “pragmatic, intelligent advice will not soon be forgotten.” The next week of
TV programming would feature an interview with Napier.
The church installed new deacons on December 21, 1997. Tim Caldwell, Gerald Caraway,
Greg Harris, Scott Miskelly, David Smith, and Tracy Smith all came on board the leadership
team. Just before 1997 ended, Sydney Davis was born.
The new year of 1998 was ushered in with the reading of the Scriptures. Men and boys
signed up for 30 minute slots of reading as the entire New Testament was read aloud from
the pulpit over the final day of 1997 and the first day of 1998. It took less than 18 hours for
Larry Metheny, Finis Caldwell, Jim Medlock, Leonard Boggs, Gerry Hill, Scott Miskelly,
Gerald Caraway, Jeff Bridges, Dennis Robertson, BJ Robertson, Tracy Smith, Rick Gore,
Larry McDowell, Gaylon Mullins, Tim Caldwell, Carson Rogers, and Larry Rogers to read
the entire 27 books.
With the coming of the new year, excitement was in the air. Larry
reminded the church of the property purchase that was to take place
soon. On Friday, January 9, the York College chorus came to
present a concert at the church. It was a neat time as a good group
gathered to hear them. They even sang the national anthem at the
high school basketball game. An insert in the bulletin listed a
bunch of goals that Larry encouraged members to participate in. On
the flip side, the youth goals were listed as well. Marc and Dana
Blankenship became members, bringing
Maria with them. Henry Deeter agreed once
again to serve as elder of the church. Larry
Henry Deeter
also broke the congregation into ministry
assignments in January. He categorized groupings of evangelism,
outreach, worship, inreach, education, and other. On a Wednesday
night in January, Ron Clark spoke to a group of men on Wednesday
night and Eddie Cloer gave a report on Truth for Today. The church
received word of an explosive device going off in the trash can of the
Jacksons in Vlore, Albania, wounding Jackie. It was a time of great
Ron Clark
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concern. The attendance was strong, with well over 300 coming each week, though not
quite the goal of 350 set by Rogers.
But that changed in February as the first Sunday of that month had the attendance at 355
with the contribution being a record. The youth group kept busy, hosting the sweethearts
banquet and enjoying a lock-in at the lazer tag place in Jonesboro.
Paul Rogers
Steve Reeves
Bill Hutchison
Howard Norton
March 1998 was an incredibly busy month. February ended with a Sunday morning
attendance of 351. On March 1, Tim Wilkes presented a report on Fishers of Men. On
March 7, Slicer Street hosted a Church Growth Seminar.
Paul Rogers3
Bill Hutchison4
Howard Norton5
Annis Womack6
Capturing a Small Town for Christ
A Visitation Program That Works
Developing Church Leadership for Growth
Women’s Role in Church Growth
3
Paul was Larry’s father. He was long-time minister in Centerville, TN, the “largest
small town Church of Christ in the brotherhood.” The town’s population was 3000 and the
church had an average attendance of 800.
4
Bill was hospital visitation minister at the Southwest Church of Christ in Jonesboro,
AR. The ministry there had experienced 346 responses over a 10 year period.
5
Norton was professor of Church Growth at Harding University and former editor of
Christian Chronicle.
6
Womack was a motivational speaker, the church secretary for the Centerville
Church of Christ for more than 30 years. She offered stimulating church growth ideas to and
for Christian women.
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Steve Reeves7
Paul Rogers
Community Outreach for Church Growth
Building for a Better Tomorrow
There was good support for the workshop, with one participant saying “it was the most
practical church event” he had ever attended. As a result of it, some members were
volunteering to be involved in some new capacities.
On March 15, Sokol Haxihu of Vlore, Albania, who was a student at
Harding at this time, spoke on Sunday evening. He shared his plans
for the summer of 1998, which included a mission trip back to
Albania. Rogers noted that “our hearts are still rejoicing about the
excellent job” Sokol did in his presentation. He was the first person
converted by Virgil in Vlore. He spoke three languages and
maintained a 4.0 GPA at Harding.
Then on March 20 and 21, 1998
the annual Impact Youth Rally was
held. Fred McClure was the speaker, Terry Davis the song
leader, and Theatron the entertainment. Fred McClure was
from the inner city church of Birmingham, AL. He was
dynamic and exciting while also being biblical and
responsible. The theme was “No Fear.” The teachers
included Russ Adcox, Greg Pollock,
Ron Clark, Seth Simmons, Kenny
Glover, Mike Spillman, Jamie
Medlock, and Mark Windle. Many
of the groups stayed for Sunday and
Mike Spillman spoke. The
attendance that morning was 450.
Larry Rogers commented that
Saturday night’s service was one of
the most powerful he had ever
participated in.
Terry Davis
Fred McClure
The attention of the church then turned to the homecoming event
planned for April 19, 1988. Larry had kept this date before the church from the first Sunday
of the year on. But in March he pulled out all the stops and directed the focus on reunion.
Dr. Steve Flatt would be the speaker. Larry kept saying that it could be the greatest day in
the church’s history of each person invited someone. There were activities all day, including
Sokol Haxihu
7
Steve Reeves was minister for the Hohenwald Church of Christ in Tennessee. It
was one of the fastest growing churches in middle Tennessee and was at this time involved
in an expansion project. Reeves was known for reaching out to the community.
234
a special video presentation of Slicer Street history, a potluck at the American Legion, and a
special afternoon service with Johnny Hester at the old opera house on the square. But even
as he planned the special event, the tragic shooting at a school in Jonesboro was
acknowledged and lamented. Shortly before the event, Larry was planning an intensive
course at Lipscomb in early April, so Spencer Furby covered the pulpit and made a special
attempt to invite the high school volleyball team to that service in honor of recent success.
The Homecoming arrived and went very well. In class, Larry
recognized all members who had been part of the Slicer Street
congregation for 50 years or more. During the class, entitled “These
88 Years,” a video narrative was shown of the church’s rich history.
For the worship, Steve Flatt from Nashville spoke. He had been
long time minister for the Madison Church of Christ and speaker for
the “Amazing Grace” Bible class program. He was at this time the
president of Lipscomb University. His message was “filled with
conviction, charisma, and scriptural precision.” The message
focused on resisting “an eagerness to focus on the here-and-now”
but rather on eternity. After the potluck, the “Remembrance
Service” was conducted by Johnny Hester in the James Kahn
Steve Flatt
building. C. W. Brannam came to spend the day as well. He was
able to say a few things at the afternoon service. Larry observed about Brannam, “his voice
was clear, his words precise and his attitude edifying.” Larry called it
one of the greatest days in the rich eighty-eight years of the Slicer Street church. A
blue-bird day, one hundred (plus) visitors, joyful singing, uplifting speakers, and
delicious food all combined to give us a foretaste of heaven divine.
Just before that Sunday the McNew family placed membership. Just after that Sunday, Noah
Furby was born and Paul Smithson died. Shawn and Tonya Sando were baptized. Randy
English came to report on his work on a Wednesday night. Tanner Gentry was also born
about this time.
The May 3, 1998 service was in honor of teachers. Area educators were
invited to come and Henry Deeter spoke. The first annual Ladies Day was
held on May 9, with Kay Gowen of Searcy as the speaker. The theme was
“She Hath Done What She Could.” About 145 ladies gathered, making it
an instant success.
Kay Gowen
As Larry reviewed the year’s goals on May 17, 1998 he was thrilled that
many of them were completed and many were nearing completion. Carol
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DeGraw left that week for Ghana. The Senior Banquet was held
on Sunday, May 24. It honored Klynt Brice, Amy Key, Josh
Coffer, and Renee Vail. Blake and Jarred Jamison were baptized
that week and the church had a farewell potluck the next Sunday
for Jim and Nyla Stewart. Vacation Bible School was held May
31-June 3 on the life of Christ. On the Sunday of May 31 the
attendance for worship was 384 and the contribution was over
$5200. That was also the day Clyde Walpole was buried. A
week later the Vance family placed membership.
Jim and Nyla Stewart
Slicer Street held its first Wednesday
SummerSeries in 1998. The theme was
“Wonderful Words of Life.” Speakers that
year included Charlie Crawford, Mike Yates,
Albert Gardner, James Powell, James Balcom,
Tim Wooldridge, Larry McFadden, Jimmy
Adcox, and Herman Morse.
Charley Crawford
Gary Cremeens
At the end of August 1998, Larry reviewed a Larry McFadden
bit of the year. In the previous year 48 new
people began worshiping at Slicer Street and there were 9 births
among the members. In early September, Sokol Haxihu returned,
speaking in Bible class. A week later, Doyle Davis came to give a
report on the Children’s Homes. The week after that, Butch, Pat,
and Kerri Anderson were baptized. On September 20 the church
conducted an encore K-6 Youth Rally. Gary Cremeens spoke that
day. The bulletin dated September 20 made an abrupt
announcement.
After many days of prayer, careful and tearful consideration, I have decided to
accept the pulpit position at the Highland Church of Christ in Columbia, TN.
Larry and his family were headed back to Tennessee. They acknowledged the great warmth
and love with which they were treated in Missouri. The decision was difficult but they had
made it. They would, he assured the readers, reflect upon the time in Missouri with
fondness. He commended the fine elders and re-asserted the 500 x 2000 goal as reachable.
They would be in Kennett until October 18.
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The next week, Harvey Starling was back to conduct the fall
gospel meeting from September 27-30, 1998. He had just returned
from a mission effort. He lived in
Huntsville, AL and had preached in over
1000 gospel meetings and campaigns in 40
nations. He had worked to establish
congregations in Asia, the Caribbean, and
Romania. On the last day of the meeting,
Todd Davis was baptized. The meeting was
“tremendous,” like a “breath of pure
oxygen” as we got to hear “such an eloquent
Harvey Starling
man of God.” Also on the last night of the
meeting the church had a special fellowship B. J. Robertson
gathering that bid farewell to B.J. Robertson.
October 18, 1998 arrived. In the last bulletin he wrote, Larry commended the church for its
work spiritually and its efforts to make him and his family feel right at home in the Bootheel.
He held high the work of Carletta Boggs as secretary and Spencer Furby and his family for
their cooperative efforts and also for his work to fill the pulpit. A potluck was held in honor
of the Rogers family.
In many ways, the Larry Rogers period of history
was too short to measure. But there was no
question the vitality and enthusiasm he brought to
the ministry at Slicer Street. He motivated people
to work and made us believe that it just might be
possible to hit the 500 x 2000 mark. While it is
impossible to speculate what Slicer Street history
would have been like with a longer tenure here,
Rogers certainly stirred the imagination of the
membership and invigorated the church in just a
few short months. Because of that, the church
can be thankful for his work here.
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