Testimonies

Caroline Parish

Born Again: March 16, 2004
Where: At Home

Her Testimony
I have attended church all my life but there was a time in March of this year (2004) that was different. When I got home I had this pounding feeling in my heart. I didn't know what was wrong. I laid in bed for about 10 minutes. Then it hit me. God was telling me something. That if I was to die tonight I would go to hell. So I asked Him to save me and He did. From that night forward March 16, 2004, has been my favorite day.

Cathy Parish

Born Again: On Palm Sunday,
April 21, 1971

Her Testimony
The season of spring has always been my favorite time of year. After long and cold winter days, I can be outside in the warm sunny weather planting a garden of flowers and vegetables. It is a time when everything is reborn and begins to grow new again.

I was saved on Palm Sunday, April 21, 1971. I was born new again by the grace of God and for that I will always be thankful.

Donald Parish

Born Again: On a Saturday night in July of 1967
Place: At Home
Age: 10 Years

His Testimony
God saved me as a ten year old boy on a warm Saturday night in July of 1967.

My mother was ill at the time, in fact, she had been bedfast for weeks. Brother Robert Noles came to our home that evening to visit and pray with our family. As he prayed, so did I. While I was concerned for my mom, I was more concerned for the state of my soul. I knew that I was lost. I prayed that God would forgive my sins and save me. I felt as though God caught me up that evening and sealed my soul forever.

This experience had to be by grace and by faith, because as a lad I had surely done no works to earn such a great gift....nor shall I ever be able to do so.

Donald is an HMBC Deacon, Adult Sunday School Teacher
A retired Circuit Court Judge, Husband of Cathy Parish & Father of Caroline Parish. Donald, Cathy & Caroline are all dedicated members and active workers in the church.

Kathy Parsons

Born Again: October 11, 2006
Where: At Huntingdon
Missionary Baptist Church

Her Testimony
It all started on a Wednesday morning. I woke up really depressed and ready to give up on everything. I just couldn’t take any more bad luck in my life. I felt like I was at the top of a mountain, holding on to a little limb, the limb I called my hope and my faith, and something just told me to let go and whatever happened would just happen. I would just cry and cry. I told my oldest son Scott, “ I give up I just can’t take any more.” He said, “Mom you always tell me not to give up, so you can’t give up”. I picked up the phone and called Pastor Lynn and told him I had to come down to the church. He said Bro. Oakes was there with him. I told him I couldn’t wait, I needed to come to the church right then. He told me to come on down. Pastor Lynn and Bro. Oakes met me at the door and we talked for a few minutes. Then we went into the sanctuary and both of them knelt to pray with me. I just started talking to God and begging Him to please save me. I thanked him for blessing me with five beautiful, healthy children and told Him I needed Him in my life so I could raise my children with His love and guidance. I quit praying and just sat on the floor. Pastor Lynn asked me how I felt and I said I felt numb. My heart was beating really fast and suddenly I felt like there wasn’t anything in the world I couldn’t handle because I knew now that God was with me, even walking out of the church I looked at the sky and it looked different. I was baptized that next Sunday and I felt like I had been blind and now my eyes were opened and I could see everything the way God wanted me to. I know now that I will get through anything in life because God saved me on October 11, 2006. I want to thank Pastor Lynn and Bro. Brian for being there for me and I want to thank JESUS. I love Him with all my heart and soul

Martha Pearson

Born Again: 1972
Place: Mount Comfort Baptist Church
Age: 27

Her Testimony
I was twenty seven years old when the Lord saved me. I was not raised in church but my friends told me about the Lord and I knew I did not have what they had. Through their witness, I became deeply troubled and couldn't sleep. I thought the altar was the only place a sinner could get saved so I went to a revival meeting at Mount Comfort Baptist Church. I wasn't saved that night, but when I got home I prayed the Lord would not let me die until I could get back to Church. I called a friend and we went to the morning service. When the invitation was given I went to the altar and my burden was lifted. I have never felt that burden since and I thank the Lord every day for saving me.

"I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation,
he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decked himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorned herself with her jewels." [Isaiah 61"10]

Martha went home to be with the Lord on March 23, 2013

Inez Pritchard

Born Again: A Thursday in 1945
Place: At Home in Benton County
Age: 13

Her Testimony

When I was thirteen, I had been going to revival for two weeks. I was under conviction and knew I needed the Lord. My mother said to me, "If you don't change your ways you will go to Hell". I could not get what she said off my mind. I knew that if I died at that moment, I would end up in Hell. I just wanted to go somewhere and hide, just me and the Lord. I went down behind the chicken house, knelt down on the ground, and asked God to forgive me. When I got up the burden was gone. As I walked back to the house, I felt like I was walking on air. My feet didn't seem like they were touching the ground. I knew God had touched me and it would last forever. I thank him every day for saving my soul.

"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh." Ezekiel 36:26

Inez was the mother of Patricia Coleman, a member of our church. Her testimony reminded us that we can find God anywhere whenever we are truly seeking him.

She went to be with the Lord in January of 2002.

Lana G. Richardson

Born Again: First Week in July 1981
Place: Independent Baptist Church
Age: 19

Her Testimony
When I was growing up, I enjoyed going to church with my family on Sunday. Revival took place during July each year and we always attended. This began to trouble me in my teenage years as I started feeling convicted of my sins. The sermons began to explain how wonderful afterlife could become, but not only that, they spoke to my soul. I knew I was in need of the Lord as my heart quickly became lonely. Although I was willing to approach the altar to ask for forgiveness, the devil would always pull me back. The ride home from church after service passed quickly as I felt confused, afraid, sad, and depressed. At home I could still feel the Lord calling to my heart to confess my sins. I can remember laying in bed praying for forgiveness and asking the Lord to save my soul. Then one night during the month of July in 1981, I felt the burden of worries lifted from my soul. I knew then I was saved. I joined the church on the second of August in the year of 1981.

"Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee:the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer--" Isaiah 58:8-9-

Lana has attended Independent since she was a child and we thank God that she can testify that she found the Lord and was
Born Again though the teachings at Independent and the dedicated church attendance of her family. She is an assistant Sunday school teacher and a youth leader at HMBC. She has one son, Trevor.

Roy M . Richardson, Jr.

Born Again: December, 1990
Place: Huntingdon First Pentecostal Church
Age: 18

His Testimony
Life before conviction is filled with worries that I now know to be trivial. For me, church attendance usually meant going with friends to many different denominations. In the fall of 1990, I attended Bethel College and was required to take religion courses. These classes opened my eyes to the truth. A high school friend and I began reading and discussing God's word, trying to understand God's will, but our confusion overwhelmed us. We decided to go to the source. We attended Huntingdon First Pentecostal Church. My friend was saved and I was happy for him, but still troubled for my soul. My niece became interested in going to church so I began taking her with me. I thought I could help her come to know Jesus. One Sunday, the pastor gave an invitation for anyone to come to the altar for prayer. I realized I was ignorant for thinking I could be a role model for my niece when I knew I needed the Lord myself. Tears began to fall as I asked the Lord, "If it is too late for me, please don't let it be too late for my niece." My niece noticed my tears and said, "Don't worry. Everything will be alright." At that moment, the Lord saved my soul and I knew the kingdom of heaven was like the innocence of a little child.

"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." [Psalm 1:13]

Mark Ridings

Sarah Ann Kirksey Ridings

Born Again: March 1946
Place: At a friend's home during a bible school
Age: 12

Her Testimony
I was born into a Christian home where both parents were active in a Baptist church and taught me Christian principles. I had also been taught that there was more to being born again than just deciding to accept Christ, but I had never felt condemned of my sins until the Summer of 1945 when I was eleven years old. My parents were members of Caledonia Baptist Church at that time. One Sunday after church service ended and everyone was leaving, I missed my mother. I went back into the church building and saw her talking to the pastor, Brother Clarence Carter. She didn't see me. She was crying and I overheard her asking Brother Carter to pray that when I reached the age of accountability I would be saved. The Holy Spirit used those words to fling an arrow straight into my heart. I knew immediately that I was lost. I turned and left the building and I didn't let anyone know that I had overheard the conversation. For the next few months I was deeply concerned about my situation, but I didn't mention it to anyone. I didn't really know what to do, but I knew I had to do something because if I were to die in my condition, I would be lost. In March of 1946, a family in our neighborhood held a Bible school in their home and I attended. One day after class, the teacher asked if anyone felt like they were lost. I held up my hand. My burden had gotten so heavy that I was not ashamed to let her know I was lost. She came and sat beside me and begin to read from the Bible about Christ's crucifixion. In my mind, I seemed to be there at the foot of the cross looking up at the man, Jesus. I could see the blood flowing from his body down the cross and I realized that He endured this horrible death for me. There, at the cross, I realized my own unworthiness and God's love for me in spite of it. I don't know how it happened, but suddenly, all my burdens were gone. I felt light and happy and the whole world seemed filled with light. I felt unspeakable joy and peace in my heart. Thank God for Christian teachers like Mrs. Snodgdrass. I couldn't wait to get home and tell my mother that I had been saved. Mrs. Snodgrass went home with me and I told mother the news. She was doubtful, but I understood. She didn't want me to be deceived. She wanted to know that my salvation was real. Thank God for a mother who cared and thank God we can know we've been saved.

We can never really know about someone else's relationship with God. We can only be sure of our own. We can be sure because "The spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God." [Romans 8:16]. Others can only believe and have confidence in our salvation by observing the fruits we bear. My prayer is that I will always bear good fruit as a tribute to my Lord, Jesus Christ.

"Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle."
[2 Thessalonians 2:15]

Ann has been the secretary at HMBC for over twenty years and was Choir Director for several years. Her mother and father, William and Opal Kirksey (later Dameron)were charter members of HMBC. Ann was present at the organization of the church and united a month later. She is an avid proponent of Missionary Baptist Doctrine.

Eudine Roark

Born Again: August 20, 1927
Place: Concord Baptist Church
Age: 14

Her Testimony
I was convicted of my sinful nature at the close of a revival meeting at Concord Church (age 13). I would not accept the idea of being a sinner. I was too young. I was not a bad person. Then, on a beautiful spring day the following year, an older cousin who was a christian asked me if I should die where would I go. I knew then just as sure as if it were written in stone, I would go to hell. That fear carried me to the altar on my knees. I cried and prayed the best I knew how, and the church sang and prayed for me, but to no avail. As I sat by my mother with my head in her lap, the faithful pastor, Brother Joe Joyner, prayed one more prayer. As he prayed, the Lord saved my soul. I was not conscious of his prayer for I was alone with the saving grace of my Savior. I joined the church the following Wednesday and was baptized on Saturday in the muddy waters of Bacon Creek.

"Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols
: but the Lord made the heavens. Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary."
[Psalms 96:3-6]

Eudine went to live with the Lord on September 9, 2011.

Angel Roberts

Born Again: December 31, 2010
Place: Fairview Missionary Baptist Church

Her Testimony
I was saved during a watch night service ringing in 2011.

My life had been a storybook childhood, typical teenage years, and a good beginning to adulthood. However, after several mistakes and a life-changing tragedy, I knew something was missing. I had tried to “fix” all of my problems myself and just kept making them bigger.

That night I was broken down and desperate. As I listened to the singing, I looked up at the lights and it was as if time stopped. Then I heard someone say “Angel, you are going to be OK.” Ever since that night, I truly believe I will be:
“With Christ all things are possible.”

"I will hope continually, and will praise You yet more and more. My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness and Your salvation all the day, for I do not know their limits."
[Psalms 70:14-15]

Tom Roberts

Born Again: Before Christmas in 1980
Place: Meridian, Mississippi

His Testimony
I had been in church all of my life, but never really felt anything until the fall of 1980. I got sick and had to have surgery. I was very scared, but still nothing. Surgery went well, but I knew something was missing, and I still did not know what to do. When I got out of school for Christmas break that year, me and a friend of mine went to Alabama on a hunting trip. We went to Meridian, Mississippi, to shop for Christmas gifts on Saturday.
Before checking out, while in line to pay at Hallmark, a man grabbed me by the arm and asked me if I knew Jesus. I told him that I had been in church all my life and he said, “That’s not what I asked you”. He told me that we needed to talk. I paid for my stuff and we sat down on a bench just outside. After we talked for a minute, I knew that I was lost and needed the Lord in my life. I got down on my knees and asked the Lord to save me and he did. It was such a feeling of relief and I could not wait to tell everybody. I have often thought how that man picked me out of such a big crowd. The Lord had to have led him to me. I am so thankful. I still sin, but I know through God’s grace I am forgiven.

Annie Robinson

Born Again: The fourth week in July
Place: Mount Comfort Baptist Church
Age: 12

Her Testimony
I was about twelve years old and I hadn't thought about being lost. My mother had died a few years before and my Grandmother Flowers lived with us. I can almost see the spot where we were standing when she asked me if I was lost, if I would go to heaven should I die. I don't remember what I told her, but I knew from that moment on that I was lost. The revival started at Mount Comfort that week. Brother T. M. Boyd was the pastor and it seemed like every word he preached was to me. I tried to hide behind a large woman, but he was still talking to me. I went on a few more days, but the burden got so heavy I couldn't stand it any longer. I made my way to the altar and I prayed and begged the Lord to save me. He did and that burden was gone. I couldn't wait for the next day to join the church and be baptized. Brother T. M. Boyd baptized me in a little creek not far from the church at the close of the revival.

Annie went home to be with the Lord on September 15, 2000.

Hattie Ellis Robinson

Born Again: July 12, 1962
Place: Independent
Missionary Baptist Church
Age: 27

Her Testimony
I had realized that I needed to be saved for a long time, but I had not done anything about it. I went to church, but I did not seek the Lord until the revival began at Independent in July of 1962. Brother John Hedges was preaching during the revival and it seemed that my conviction deepened with every sermon I heard. I went to the altar for prayer, but I could not get relief. Then, on the night of July 12, I went to the altar. I prayed as sincerely as I could. Then, suddenly, the sweetest peace came over me. My burden was gone and I knew at once that the Lord had saved me. I can't explain it to my satisfaction, but I thank God that we can know we have been saved.

Hattie went home to be with the Lord on November 27, 2018,

Hattie was the widow of Edwin Ellis. She later married James Graden Robinson in November of 2006.

Leon Robinson

Born Again: The Third Week in August, 1922
Place: New Hope Baptist Church
Age: About 15

His Testimony
[This testimony was submitted in memory of Leon by his wife, Annie Robinson, because she knew he would want to be a part of this endeavor.]

Leon told me that he was about fifteen years of age when the Lord saved him at New Hope Baptist Church near Yuma, Tennessee. Many times I have heard him say and have seen him point to the church bench where he said he "met the Lord". He always remembered the time and the place where he was saved. Leon joined New Hope Baptist Church after he was saved and later joined Yuma Baptist Church. When Independent was organized he and his wife, Annie, became Charter Members. He was ordained Deacon of Independent on May 20, 1951, and served as church treasurer for many years. Leon loved God, the Church, his family and his friends. He just truly loved people. When he testified, he would always say, "I love the Lord because He first loved me", then he would go on to say what he wanted to say. He loved gospel singing and he loved to lead congregational singing when he had the opportunity. His favorite song says, "He lifted me up and caused me to stand and that's why I love him so." Leon exemplified his walk with the Lord through his love for everyone and through his devotion to his Church.

Leon went home to be with the Lord On April 22, 1989

Ruth Rogers

Born Again: July, 1933
Place: Mount Comfort Baptist Church
Age: 14

Her Testimony
I was saved during a revival meeting at Mount Comfort in July of 1933. Brother Will Thomas was preaching that night and I felt he was preaching to me. When the altar call was given, I went for prayer. I prayed for the Lord to save me, but the burden grew worse. As I continued to pray, I felt at ease in my heart and the burden was gone, but I doubted if I had really been saved. I went to the altar over the next two or three years. One day my Aunt asked some of us girls if we should die was there a time and a place we could go back to where the Lord saved us. I remembered that special night at Mount Comfort where my burden was lifted and I knew in my heart I was saved. I joined the church at Westport and was baptized by Brother L. H. Brown.

"For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened" [Luke 11:10]

Ruth sought and found the Lord and she knows the sweet peace of having the burden of sin lifted from her life. Her love for the Lord Jesus Christ was evident through her life and her devotion to His work through His church. Ruth has now gone to be with her Lord and live in peace forevermore.

Ruth went home to be with the Lord on November 19, 2000.

Geneva Rumley

Born Again: September 18, 1981
Place: McLemoresville First Baptist Church

Her Testimony
On September 18, 1981, at McLemoresville First Baptist Church I knew I was lost and under conviction. I started praying and asking Jesus to save me. Then, the heavy burden I had was lifted away and I knew I would go to heaven when I died. I felt like a new person and had a smile on my face because I knew I had Jesus in my heart.

Kara Rumley

Born Again: February 13, 2005
Where: At Home In My Bed

Her Testimony
On February 13, 2005, my heart was pounding and I was praying to God to save me. My mom saw me praying on my bed and she asked me what was wrong and I said I'm praying to God to save me. Then, I was saved. I told my dad what had happened and I told him I was saved. I waited ‘til revival in June and joined the church. On July 3rd, that Sunday morning, I was baptized.

Kenny Rush

Born Again: January 1976
Place: On the way to work
Age: 34

His Testimony
The Lord saved me on a Friday afternoon in January 1976. I had been under a deep conviction for several months. I had never felt a burden to go to the altar, but I was burdened for my soul's condition with the Lord. I had gone to quiet places many times and prayed to the Lord, asking him to save me, but found no relief. I was on my way to work praying and wondering if I would ever be saved. I then felt the burden lifted. It felt as if the weight of the world had been lifted from my shoulders. The Lord SAVED me then and I have tried to thank him daily ever since.

Kenny is a Deacon at HMBC.

Nancy Rush

Born Again: Friday night of the third week in August, 1952
Place: Concord Missionary Baptist Church
Age: 13

Her Testimony
From my earliest remembrance, God was always a part of my daily being. As a child I shared a room with a praying grandmother, thus daily prayers about my family were a part of my routine. There were days when I was alone running in the wind, climbing my favorite tree, or hanging out the window in the crown of my dad's big barn that God was so real to me it seemed I could feel his presence on my face. He was my companion.
I was not the perfect child by any means. I had my share of corrections and reminders of proper behavior. God was just very real to me. As I began to reach my teen years I remember my gdrandmother's seemingly constant reminder that at least by age 13 God held one accountable for one's sins. This began to nag me a little. And then there was a sermon by Brother Prince one Sunday night on the cross and the sacrifice the Lord Jesus had made for our sins. That burned in my memory. I also began not to feel as confortable around the preacher brethren as I had as a child. Other than these feelings, I didn't experieance the condemnation of the Holy Spirit until August 1952, my 13th year, on a Friday night of revival almost at the close of service. Brother Carter preached, but I did not remember the sermon. Several people were down in the altar for prayer. I was sitting with several of my friends halfway up the left side of the outside pew next to the aisle. It seemed the weight of the world fell on my shoulders. I didn't move out of my seat; however, I dropped my head and began to sob. The congregation was shaking hands with the people down at the altar thus it was some time before anyone noticed me. My friends were puzzled. Brother Carter and others in the church then had prayer for me. I do not remember who prayed; however, I do remember a lady I had know all my life coming to me and instructing me to get down on my knees and ask God for mercy on my soul. I immediately went down on my knees and I begged God for mercy. Later as I journeyed home I remember only the brightness of the stars. The next morning standing out in the yard my grandmother asked me if I was saved. God knows that at that time I just wasn't sure what had happen. I did not have the burden that I felt so strongly the night before, but I lacked the assurance the sweet Holy Spirit brings. I couldn't truthfully answer my grandmother.

The answer came to me sometime later in a sermon of Brother Martin's on the crumb that fell from the rich man's table. God made me know beyond a doubt that He had indeed granted me the precious crumb of salvation. I couldn't wait to hug and shake hands with everyone. I later joined the church and related this experience of salvation.

I have never shouted orally; however, the truth of salvation within my soul becomes louder and stronger each day that I live. Being saved and being a member of the Lord Jesus Christ's church is the greatest privilege afforded me on this earth. I also realize as I get older that this privilege carries great responsibility. Several years ago I pledged to study and pray every morning before I start my day. I can truthfully say each day that I keep my pledge the rewards to me far outweighs my time in prayer and study. Whereas it was so easy to believe as a child I now know in order to experience His sweet presence today I must believe and practice a living faith.

"The LORD is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord." [Lamentations 3:25-26]

Genetta Hill Rushing

Born Again: On Tuesday,
June 27, 2006
Place: At Work

Her Testimony
On Tuesday, June 27, 2006, I was driving, on my way to work, and tuned on the radio. I tuned in on a station and they were playing one of my favorite gospel songs. I knew in my heart that I wasn’t saved and that if I died I was going to Hell. I started praying.

Later on that day while I was at work, I still had that bad feeling. I started to pray again and just as soon as I started praying, I had a great feeling come over me. I had peace in my heart, a feeling I’ll never forget. I knew then without a doubt that I was saved and that when I die, I’m going to Heaven.

Caroline Sanders

Born Again: 1953
Place: At home
Age: About 27

Her Testimony
When I was a small child I attended Palestine Methodist Church at Holladay, Tennessee. I remember when I was about five or six years old several of us small children were sitting on the front seat during the revival. They made an altar call and all of us went up. We were sprinkled and joined the church.

I went on until after I married and I realized something was wrong. I was so miserable I could not find peace anywhere. I got to the point that I was afraid to go to sleep at night, afraid I would die. I got to the point I could not go any farther. I had prayed an prayed for God to save me, but I did not say anything to anyone about it. Then one night I prayed through and the Lord saved my soul. I will never forget the peace I got. I have never felt lost any more, nor have I felt afraid to go to sleep any more.

Thank God for saving my soul!!

"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation." Isaiah 12:2

Caroline went home to be with the Lord on December 24, 2011.

Carrie Brewer Sanders

Born Again: August, 1953
Place: New Spring Hill Baptist Church
Age: 23

Her Testimony
After I married, I started going with my husband, Lawton Brewer, to some old fashioned Baptist Churches. I would hear people tell their experience of being saved. Some would shout and some would just laugh. I soon realized I wasn't saved even though I was a member of the Methodist Church. One night during a revival at Mount Pisgah Baptist Church, Brother Onnie Blankenship preached and made the altar call. I went to the mourner's bench and prayed for the Lord to save me. I wasn't saved then, but I kept seeking the Lord the best I knew how for the next three years, thinking I would never be saved. My husband was called into the ministry and became pastor of New Spring Hill Baptist Church. He made the altar call one night during a revival. I was trembling so much, but finally turned loose of the seat and went to the mourner's bench. My burden was lifted and I was saved that night.

"Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:" [Isaiah 59:1]

Carrie is the widow of Lawton Brewer, a Missionary Baptist preacher. She is a member of "The Helping Hands", a benevolent group at our church.

On June 18, 2005, she was married to Warren Sanders, a Baptist Deacon.

Kala Sanders

Born Again: June 26, 1995
Place: Independent
Baptist Church
Age: 9

Her Testimony
I was sitting by my mom and dad at revival. Brother Kenneth Massey was preaching. For a while, my heart was heavy. I didn't know what to do but go to the altar. I was scared for some reason. My heart got so heavy that I ran to the altar and asked the Lord to save me. He did, and when I got up from the altar, my heart was filled with joy. I joined the church and was baptized on July 2, 1995.

Carl Scates

Born Again: Sunday, March 22, 1969 At 10:20 P. M.
Place: My home, in my bedroom
Age: 37

His Testimony
I came under conviction when I was nine or ten years old. I started going to the alter asking the Lord to save me. For some reason, God didn't save me and after three or four years, I stopped going to the altar. Eventually, I stopped going to church. Nearly thirty years later, my wife, Francis, asked me to go to church with her and I consented. After hearing Brother Allison preach the gospel on Sunday night, I was extremely troubled. That night as I was going to bed, I asked the Lord to save me and He did. I do not know why God didn't save me at first nor why He saved me at that time, but I am extremely proud He did. I felt relieved!

Carl went home to be with the Lord in November 5, 2005. He was a Deacon and Sunday school teacher in our Church and will truly be missed.

Frances Spellings Scates

Born Again: The second week in August
Place: Westport Baptist Church
Age: 14

Her Testimony
I was privileged to be raised in a Christian home where going to church was a way of life, not an option. When I was fourteen years old, I was sitting on the fourth row from the front of the church. During the invitation, the pastor said, "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God". This was the first time I realized he was speaking to me. I got up out of my seat and started toward the front of the church. I had not reached the altar before I was saved. I cannot explain how I felt or why the Lord chose these words to convict me of my sins. I was baptized the following Sunday at Maple Creek Lake. Since that day I have failed the Lord in many ways, but he has never failed me. The older I get the more precious this becomes to me and it's this experience I am depending on, when I breath my last breath, to carry me home. Not for anything I have ever done for the Lord, but what he did for me. I'm thankful to be a member of Independent* Church where I feel loved and hear the gospel taught every week.

*Now Huntingdon Missionary Baptist Church

Jane Scates

Born Again: June of 1979
Where: At Home in my bed

Her Testimony
The greatest event of my life took place in June of 1979. It was the day that God let me know that I was saved. I was in bed praying and a light shined down from heaven and just went through my whole body. I knew that I was saved. I’ve never felt closer to God before or after.

He’s done so much for me and I’ve done so little for Him.

Ray Scates

Born Again: Sunday Morning at 7:30 in 1995
Place: At Home
Age: 58

His Testimony
My son, Mike, was saved in July of 1994. When I visited him in Nashville, we would go to church together and it did not take many sermons before I was convicted of my sins. My conviction grew so heavy it was all I could think about. I was afraid I had sinned so much the Lord would not save me. I repented to God, confessed my sins, and asked Him to save me, but I found no immediate relief. I borrowed some tapes my Mother had of Brother F. L. Ray's preaching. I listened to them and continued to ask the Lord for forgiveness. One wonderful Sunday morning the Lord lifted my burden of sin from my heart and I felt so happy and relieved that I stood up and said, "Thank you Lord. Thank you Lord."

Elizabeth Hill Seiber

Born Again: Tuesday,
July 30, 1996
Place: County Line Baptist Church

Her Testimony
I believed I was saved, but became very confused at the closing of church one Sunday when Brother Stapleton asked, "Do you know in your heart that when we leave this place you are going to Heaven?". Those words stuck in my head and I couldn't get them out. I wanted to go to the altar right then, but fought the urge as hard as I could. I let the Devil talk me into believing everything would be alright when I got out of the church, the feelings would subside. I felt lost and depressed about the state of the world that whole week. There was a bombing at the Olympics and a plane had gone down in the ocean. It was believed to be a terrorist attack. I thought, God won't stand for it too much longer. I was afraid of where I was going if He did come back. I prayed that night for the Lord to let me know some how, without a shadow of a doubt, where I stood with Him. I finally fell asleep, but awoke at a clash of thunder. The first thought I had was, "What if the Lord came back tonight! I'd go straight to Hell." I prayed the whole next day for the Lord to save me, but found no relief. I took the Bible and read from wherever it fell open. That week at work a close friend told me of a revival at County Line Baptist Church. I usually didn't go to revivals. I hated the feeling it always gave me, because I was lost, but I decided to go that Tuesday night. Brother Johnny Boyd preached that night from chapters I had read a few nights before. Every word seemed like it was spoken directly to me from God. My heart felt like it would jump out of my chest. I went to the altar so burdened I could hardly stand and dropped to my knees. When I stood again, the burden had been lifted and my heart was free. It was the best feeling of my life. I knew I didn't have to be afraid anymore of where I was going when I leave this earth. I joined Independent Baptist Church a few weeks later and was baptized.

Jimmy Simpson

Born Again: At 13 years of age
Place: Concord Missionary Baptist Church

His Testimony
When I was a boy, around the age of 11, we attended Concord Missionary Baptist
Church. Every time we went to preaching on Sunday, I felt like I was missing something. I would get under conviction so bad in my heart, that when the altar call was made, I would make a dash outside with the big boys so I could regroup my feelings and shed the convicting power of God. Back home, I would go to my safe place, down behind the barn where there stood a Sycamore tree. That is where I talked to God. My prayers were “save me here today, Lord, don’t make me go up front to the altar in front of everyone”.

At the age of 13, the second week in August on a Thursday night, Brother Robert Noles preached on hell. He should have been an artist the way he painted that picture of hell. I don’t know why, but it seemed like he was preaching only to me. As that conviction began to burden my heart, I squeezed the back of the pew in front of me. When the altar call came that night, I started to go outside, but instead, I went to the altar where I asked God to save my soul. I must have been where He wanted me, because that night, that conviction was removed and replaced with peace in my soul.

Nancy Simpson

Born Again: On a Wednesday night during summer revival.
Place: Westport Missionary Baptist Church
Age: 22

Her Testimony
I was saved when I was 22 years old at Westport Missionary Baptist Church. It was on a Tuesday night during the summer revival. I had been under conviction for several years and I had gone to the altar for prayer many times. Each time I would leave still feeling unsatisfied and never had that “wonderful feeling” that I had heard so many people describe when they were saved. I just could not figure out what I was doing wrong. Then, this night, I had already decided that I was not going down to the altar. But, someone came to me and asked me if I would just go down for the closing prayer of the service. There were others in the altar praying, and finally I did go too. It was sometime during everyone praying, that all at once I did not even realize that anyone else was around. It was just me and God. Then, all of a sudden, it happened. I looked up and I just had the most calm and peaceful feeling I could ever have. I suddenly had that “wonderful feeling” for myself. I had such a rush of joy, and felt so good, I told everyone I had been saved and started hugging everyone around me. Everyone rejoiced with me.

Rebecca Simpson

Born Again: At age 17
Place: Independent Missionary Baptist Church

Her Testimony
My Lord saved my soul when I was 17 years old!

When I begin to have doubts and fears and begin to grow a little “lukewarm” in my relationship with God ,I think back to the day so many years ago when, during a morning service at “Independent” (now “Huntingdon”) Missionary Baptist Church, I was so wonderfully saved. I grew up in this church and had gone to the altar for prayer so many times that I had finally decided God was not going to save me and I just gave up. But that morning as the service was ending and we were standing to sing, this wonderful feeling of peace just seemed to engulf my whole body and I began to laugh and laugh with this wonderful joy!. He had saved ME! During all the ups and downs of my life My salvation has been the one main constant in my life. When I have strayed and done wrong God has reached down His hand and pulled me back in. I know my God is always by my side in whatever I do - He will be with you in the work place, in the classroom, on the football field, while away from home at college. Anywhere you are He will be by your side. And with that realization I know I am my Lord’s child and when I die I will live with Him forever. I am a Child of God!

Rebecca is the daughter of Sam and Polly Allen, the sister of Paulette Crews, and the wife of Audie Simpson. They have two sons, Allen Simpson and Todd Simpson.

Todd Simpson

Born Again: 1977
Place: At Home in My Bedroom
Age 11

His Testimony
I was raised going to church at Independent Missionary Baptist Church. In 1977, I went to revival with my family as I had many times before. I sat in the back of the church with my brother and many of my friends. While Brother F. L. Ray preached the gospel it seemed as if I was the only person in the church and God was peaking directly to me. A great conviction came over me but Satan began working on my pride to hinder me. When the altar call was given I forgot about pride and made my way to the altar. That revival service ended and I went home unsatisfied. Later that night, while in bed, I prayed to God and was saved. I am thankful every day for God's grace and love because without the Lord I could do nothing.

Anita Smith

Born Again: A Wednesday night in March of 1980
Where: At Home
Age: 15

Her Testimony
I was saved when I was fifteen years old. It was on a Wednesday night in March of 1980. It was late at night, but I could not sleep. I just had this persistent feeling that I needed to be saved. I prayed and asked the Lord to save me and suddenly I had this incredible happy feeling, almost as if I could fly. I knew in that instant without a doubt that I had been saved.

Brent Smith

Born Again: March 1963
Place: Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church
Age: 13

His Testimony
I was blessed beyond measure by having Christian parents and grandparents who took me to church even as an infant. I had heard the gospel preached all my life, but God began to convict me of my sins when I accidentally touched the stove. I realized that if the pain from such a small burn was that bad, it would be a terrible torment to die and go to hell and live forever in an eternal flame of fire. Shortly thereafter, at a weekend revival at Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Benton County, Tennessee, the weight of condemnation was so great that I fell at the altar and begged God to forgive me of my sins. Suddenly, I felt relief. The burden of sin had been lifted. I was gloriously saved that night in March of 1963 and I know I have an eternal home waiting for me in heaven.

Brent is the son of Ray and Wilma Smith and has grown up attending Huntingdon (formerly Independent) Missionary Baptist Chuch. Brent is a Deacon and one of congregational song leaders as well as a member of the victory Quartet.

Gilbertha Smith

Born Again: 1940
Place: Westport Baptist Church
Age: 15

Her Testimony
When I was fifteen years old, Doy Smith took me to a revival at Westport Baptist Church. Brother L. H. Brown was pastor and Brother Hodge was helping. Mrs. Clarice Thomason, my school teacher, had written me several notes asking if I was a Christian and said she was praying for me. She was at the revival that night and the house was full. When Brother Hodge finished preaching, Doy asked me if I wanted to go to the altar and I thought there was no way I could get through the crowd. Mrs. Thomason made her way through and came to me and just held out her hand. I suddenly felt so condemned and we made our way to the altar. The altar was full and I sat on the very end. We had been praying for some time and the pastor dismissed the church, but Mrs. Thomason knelt beside me and began to pray. I listened for a moment, but there is a space of time I cannot explain except that I remember feeling so at peace. When I got home and told my mother and grandmother what had happened, my grandmother shouted. I caught the bus for school the next day feeling so good inside. I still have that good feeling today. I joined Concord Missionary Baptist Church and was baptized by Brother L. H. Brown.

"Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear" [Isaiah 59:1]

Gilbertha went home to be with the Lord on January 16, 2009.

Ray Smith

Born Again: Second Week of August
Place: Concord Baptist Church
Age: 15

His Testimony
I had been taken to church all my life and as a child I enjoyed going, but about the age of fourteen, I felt a deep trouble in my heart. During the next year, my conviction deepened with each service I attended until I felt I could no longer stand under the power of the Holy Spirit of God. I tried everything I could think of to help the Lord save me until I realized God did not need my help. It was then and there that God gave me the grace I needed to trust Him completely. I surrendered every thing to Him and the Lord gave me peace from that troubled heart.

Ray and his wife, Wilma Smith, have been faithful and active members since June 11, 1950. Ray was ordained as a Deacon of Huntingdon M. B. Church (Formerly Independent) on March 12, 1972, and has served as Church Clerk, Sunday School Superintendent and Senior Adult teacher for many years.

Sarah Smith

Born Again: The Third Week of August, 1925
Place: Concord Missionary Baptist Church
Age: 14

Her Testimony
In 1925, the Lord led me to the bitter cup of repentance. I tried to pray a sinner's prayer, but my burden only continued to deepen. During the revival meeting at Concord Missionary Baptist Church, the Lord saved me by His wonderful grace and removed my burden. The Lord made me feel so happy because my burden was gone that I shouted for joy. He has been with me ever since and the nearer home I get the more peaceful I feel in His love. I felt happy when the Lord saved me and I have been happy in Jesus ever since that day.

Sara is the mother of Ray Smith.

Sarah went to be with the Lord on January 7, 2002.

Wanda Smith

Born Again: September 1966
Place: Cowell's Chapel Methodist Church
Age: 15

Her Testimony
I was saved when I was 15 years old. I do not remember being under conviction until that night, but I was so burdened during the altar call that I knew I had to ask the Lord to forgive me of my sins and save me. I went to the altar and it wasn't long until I felt so very happy and peaceful. I knew I had been saved. I was baptized and joined Cowell's Chapel Methodist Church. Some time later I attended Independent Baptist Church with Brent. I would hear people give their testimonies of salvation and I began wondering about my own experience. I prayed for the Lord to let me know about my salvation. I was always led back to Cowell's Chapel and that glorious feeling I had experienced at the altar. I joined Independent and was baptized in July of 1973.

Wilma Smith

Born Again: During a Revival Meeting
Place: Concord Missionary
Baptist Church
Age: 21

Her Testimony
I grew up in church and received good training. I was taught right from wrong at an early age but was not concerned aboutspiritual things. When I grew older and married, I attended church and heard the gospel often. I became concerned for my soul. I began to read the Bible, which I never did before, and as I read, the more I realized something was missing in my life. One day at a revival at Concord Baptist Church, an elderly man invited me to sing in the choir. I really didn't want to, but for some reason I went. In the choir that day I became so troubled for my soul that I surrendered to the Lord and through faith, I believed Jesus died for me. At that moment the Lord touched me and made me whole. I was filled with peace and joy unspeakable and I thank Him and praise Him for that wonderful day I met the Master.

Patrick Smith

Born Again:
On a Wednesday morning, August 11, 2004
Place: Huntingdon Missionary Baptist Church

His Testimony
I was saved Wednesday morning, August 11, 2004, at 8:30 A.M.
I had recently begun going to Huntingdon Missionary Baptist Church and I had been meeting and talking with Pastor Lynn Stapleton.
On this particular day, he came by my work site early to make plans to meet me for lunch. As soon as he left, I felt a tremendous
urgency to confess my sins and seek the Lord. I drove straight to the church and met Bro. Stapleton. He prayed with me and I was saved.

Kay Smothers

Born Again: During the first week of August
Place: Yuma Baptist Church
Age: 10

Her Testimony
I went to school at Yuma and school would always let out during revivals so the children could attend church. We would walk from school to the church. One day during a revival, Cleo Gooch came to me and talked to me about being saved. I went to the altar and was saved that day. I just felt at ease and at peace. I have doubted my salvation a few times, but one night at home the Lord made me know that the time at Yuma Church was when I was saved. I thank God for saving me and for His many blessings.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." [Matthew 11:28-29]

Kay found the rest that Jesus offered in the verse above. Her walk as a Christian lady has endeared her to her follow members at HMBC.

She is a member of the Helping Hands ministry and thereby serves her brothers and sisters.

Kenneth Lynn Stapleton

Former Pastor of Huntingdon Missionary Baptist Church
Born Again: On A Thursday night in 1969
Place: Bethel Baptist Church in Toledo, Ohio
Age: 19

His Testimony
I was raised in a Christian home (My father was a Missionary Baptist Minister) and was taken to church all of my life. I became deeply convicted of my sins at age ten and I went to the altar for prayer repeatedly for many years, but did not find any relief from the guilt of sin. One Thursday in 1969, Nan (my wife to be) asked me to take her to a revival at her friend's church. I was angry and did not want to go, but I consented to take her. That night I felt a greater conviction than ever before. When the service ended, I spoke to the evangelist and explained my condition. He asked if I would like to pray for my salvation and I said yes. After praying silently for a few moments, the minister stopped me and asked me if I was ashamed of God. When I answered no, he suggested that I pray aloud. It was at that moment that I realized I was ashamed of God. I cried out in prayer, "Oh God, save me!" Immediately the burden of sin was gone and the most wonderful peace washed over me. I was finally saved.

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in who they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the
feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" [Romans 10:13 through 15]

Bro. Lynn Stapleton was Pastor at HMBC from Easter Sunday 1989 until April 10, 2022. He and his wife Nanalee "Nan" Stapleton devoted those years to the ministry of the cause of Jesus Christ at HMBC. Bro. Lynn and Nan were admired and respected by everyone they came in contact with. Bro. Lynn was actively involved in benevolent work not only in the church but also in the entire community. We will miss Bro. Lynn and Nan at HMBC, but wish them every blessing in their new home in Perrysville, Ohio.

Nan Stapleton

Born Again: Wednesday of the Third Week of August in 1967
Place: Bethel Missionary Baptist Church
Age: 16
Joined the Church on August 27, 1967

Her Testimony
I thought I was saved when I was a young child (about 7 years old). I began attending Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Toledo, Ohio, and heard the old-time gospel. As the gospel went forth, I became troubled and knew after a short time that I had never experienced salvation. I attempted to run from the conviction, but the evangelist, Brother Pete Porter, called out to me, "Young lady are you saved?". Under great condemnation, I answered, "No". I went to the altar that night and with a large congregation all around me, I repented to God and He gloriously saved me. I will never forget that wonderful day.

Nan was a teacher of special education in the Carroll county school system and began The Helping Hands ministry at HMBC. They are group of ladies in the church who provide meals for members who are sick, have had been hospitalized or had surgery, and for the family of a deceased member. They also ministered to shut-ins by gifts and visits.
Occasionally, as chauffeur, Nan treated them to a "day out" of shopping and fun.