Dr. Judy Edwards has announced her resignation as Minister of Worship and Christian Faith Development at Bedford effective October 21, 2003.

On Sunday evening, August 24, Mentow rejoiced in a Celebration of Baptism. Beginning in the fellowship hall with a covered dish meal, the evening concluded in the sanctuary where a "standing room only" crowd witnessed baptism of 14 individuals. Special guests who participated in the service were Dr. Don Gillette, "Because We Care Ministries," and Rev. Steve Manuel.

Mentow will have Homecoming Services on October 26. The theme is "Celebrating our Heritage...Embracing our Future." Emily Browning will bring the message for both the 8:45-10:15 and the 10:30-12:00 services. A covered dish lunch will be served, beginning at 11:30 a.m. Everyone welcome.

On Sunday evening, November 2, Morgans will host a reception to honor Rev. and Mrs. Al Duncan who pastored the church from 1986 to 1990 and has also served as interim.

Mount Zion will host Mark Templeton & New Vision, a Bluegrass/Bluegrass Gospel group from High Point, NC, on Saturday, November 8, 6 p.m. The group began in 1989 from the desire to honor God with the unique talents with which He had blessed them. Their "Southern Gospel" harmony along with solid instrumentation has brought them national recognition. They are well known for their "high energy" stage presence that is always presented in a professional manner. A free will offering will be taken.

Norwood has celebrated the first anniversary of pastor Bill Vest's ministry with them. Under Dr. Vest's leadership, the church has implemented a monthly mission program, "Men and Women on Mission."; weekly visitation; purchased new hymnals, and will soon break ground for a building addition. Truly, we can say, "To God be the glory, great things He has done"!

Want to get together with other Christian Singles in the area? The Radford Baptist Singles Ministry will be going to the Peaks on Saturday, October 18. Meet at the church at 10:30 am. For more info, call Crystal DeLong, 297-3965. You do not need to attend Radford to join with us. Our Singles Group has members from several different churches. We plan at least one event a month. Don't miss out on the fun!

This was the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:23-24

Rainbow Forest Baptist Church celebrated all that the Lord has done during a special ground-breaking celebration on Sunday, September 21, 2003. Clear blue skies greeted the 500+ people who attended the service, which was held on the new church property on Welches Run Road in Troutville, VA. Participants were able to place a brick in one of the four corners where the new $6 million church facility will be built. Among the church members were several government and civic leaders who also participated in this very special day. In attendance was: U.S. House of Representatives Congressman Bob Goodlatte, Bill Loope from the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors, Steve Manuel from the Strawberry Baptist Association, Mayor Ralph Smith of Roanoke and Botetourt County Sheriff Ronnie Sprinkle.

Once appropriate permits are issued, Rainbow Forest expects to begin its first phase of site preparation in December 2003. Construction on the new church facility could begin as early as Summer 2004. We rejoice in God's continued provision and direction as we seek to be a light to the lost!

Dr. J. R. Hume has announced his resignation as pastor of Timber Ridge.

On September 21, following a weekend revival with guest speaker Vernon DeLong, Trinity voted to call Rev. DeLong as their next pastor. Vernon who is currently pastoring in North Carolina, was pastor of Radford Church in our association in the mid 1990's. His ministry at Trinity will begin the first of November. He and his wife, Wanda, have two grown children, Crystal and Courtney. We welcome them back to Strawberry.