Members of the Irrigon, Ore., Church, a small-town congregation on the Columbia River, began praying last summer for six new members in the next 12 months.
Their prayers have been answered, with members to spare.
Mary Hajek
Mary Hajek had attended a Daniel seminar by Pastor Fred Christensen in fall of 1999, but she declined an invitation for further study.
One year later, however, she began attending church on her own and taking Bible studies with member Gerry James.
She shared her newfound faith with her co-workers, who rejoiced with her when she joined the Irrigon Adventist Church on profession of faith.
Linda and Larry Groce
Linda Groce found out about the Irrigon Church while taking Discover Bible studies by mail. She shared her studies with her husband, Larry, including a lesson on the seventh-day Sabbath.
Then local member Gerry James invited her to dinner, and though she declined the invitation, she promised that she and Larry would “check out” an Adventist church service.
When they did attend, they enjoyed it and soon both requested baptism, despite forfeiting senior positions at work and taking deep pay cuts because of their decision not to work during Sabbath hours.
Robert Brown
The fourth answer to prayer came as Robert Brown settled in the area and asked for a transfer of membership. Local members appreciate his faithful steadfastness and believe God sent him to them for a purpose.
Leona Bates
Leona Bates, who had Adventist friends and relatives, recently began attending church and expressing interest in more study.
Member Chuck Beezley began a weekly Bible study with her and her son, Rod Osmer, leading to her baptism in February.
Pam Purcell
Pam Purcell, who had just driven up to Oregon from Florida, drove up to the church and accepted Joel Stahl’s invitation to attend services the next day.
Pam and Leona became friends and encouraged one another as they gained victories in their spiritual lives. Gerry James studied with her, as well, leading to the two women’s decision to be baptized on the same Sabbath, Feb. 2.
Rod Osmer
Meanwhile, despite Sabbath-employment problems and serious health concerns, Rod Osmer continued to study the Bible and was baptized April 20.
Grateful that they have met their goal early, Irrigon members are confident that by the end of the church year, more will have joined by profession of faith, baptism, or membership transfer. •
Pastor Fred Christensen baptizes Linda Groce, as husband Larry waits his turn.
Pastor Christensen baptizes Pam Purcell, as her friend Leona Bates waits her turn.
Pastor Christensen baptizes Rod Osmer.
Robert Brown, Linda Groce, Larry Groce, and Mary Hajek are the first four to join the Irrigon Church, in answer to members’ specific prayers.
