Missions in the SBCV

                                                                                                                       Vol. VII, No. 1, January 1994

The first new work to receive assistance from the SBCV is the Newport News Baptist Church. The church began in August 1992, with services held at the Hines Middle School. During their first calendar year twelve people were baptized (most being adults), and the church grew from 20 to 50 members, with over 80 participating in the services.

From inception Newport News has been an SBC church since it contributed to the Cooperative Program the week before it held its first public worship service 23 August 1992. Other mission giving is also a focus with over $800 contributed to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.

The need for a permanent location for the church stimulated the request for financial help from the SBCV. After a year-long search for a suitable site, one was found in the location encouraged by Dr. John Patterson, Director of Missions of the Peninsula Baptist Association. The only drawback was the high cost of leasing commercial property. However the kind owners drew up a lease beneficial to the church and are allowing the church itself to perform renovations to keep the cost down.

Other monetary needs also squeezed the church including: utility connection fees in excess of $1,000 and extra expenses to renovate the building. These unanticipated expenses added up to an insurmountable sum for a new church, and that is when the SBCV stepped in with the necessary assistance.

Now the renovations are underway and attendance continues to increase as Jesus blesses the efforts of this new work. Pastor Max Brand and the congregation of the Newport News Church express their deepest appreciation to the SBCV for their encouragement and support during the hour of need.