Our Pastor's Message

Spiritual Theme

St. John Baptist Church now stands at the final stage of a five year progressive theological methodology to transform our spiritual conscientiousness and organize our internal operation structures.

We have addressed our past with the theme of Repentance: A hurting church must come to terms with the past and genuinely repent, or there will be no future.

We have addressed our emotions with the themes in Year 2004 and 2005, respectively, of Tears and Compassion.

In 2006, we have received a healing which was our expectation.

Now we embark on the year of our Eightieth Anniversary, which is our church goal found in Philippians 1:13-14:

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended; but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

This pivotal textual theme balances our past and our future, giving us spiritual continuity.

It could be perceived as Alpha and Omega, the connector, which brings closure, yet, opening of new posibilities, expectations, goals, and objectives.

Our scripture theme reminds us to be humble and full of humility because we have not attained or apprehended.

However, we will not let the accomplishments nor the failures of the past be a hindrance to what we can become.

Therefore, our Eightieth year will prepare us for the next four years of the journey. "Reaching forth; pressing toward the mark of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" is a spiritual awakening.

It can be equated in allegorical terms with Revelation 4:1 where the Lord said to John "Come up here, and I will show thee things which must be hereafter."

Therefore, our Eightieth year will be preparation for a four-year progressive spiritual enlightenment, growth and maturity.

The themes from 2008-2012 will be as follows:
2008 Scripture
2009 Meditation
2010 Prayer
2011 Fasting
2012 Contemplation 

In conclusion, I have been too long and weary your patience:

Thank you for this unique experience to serve, grow, and mature as your spiritual Leader, it has been an honor and privilege to bare this burden with Christ Our Lord.

Now, unto him that is able to keep us from falling, and to present us faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy.

To the only wise God, our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.
Amen

- Peace of the Lord be with You
Minister Dr. Michael Chapman, Pastor