"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper, and be in good health, even as thy soul prospers". These words from the Apostle John, found in 3rd John, verse two have a lot to say to us.
Essentially the Apostle John shares that it is God's desire that we would "journey well"- that is, that we would "prosper". Moreover, John teaches us that the prosperity he's speaking about is spiritual at its base. Too much of the time we hear people speak about prosperity in material terms. Wrapping the idea around things like cars, cash, creature comforts, cribs and other "things" of this world. However, in this passage we learn that true prosperity is directly related to our journey with The LORD GOD.
That said, the CMBC family is still on a journey this month. A journey of fasting and prayer. I've been blogging a bit about my personal diet this month. So let me update you all a bit. Still no meat for me this month. On Saturday and Sunday, January 2nd and 3rd, I continued eating brown rice, broccoli and lentils as my primary food. I also snacked on popcorn. My only drink has been water. Today however I changed up my diet a bit. I had fruit this morning, an apple and orange to be precise, some vegetarian chips, and later some vegetarian pizza today. Again my only drink has been water.
In addition to eating watching my diet in terms of food, I'm also watching my diet in terms of prayer. I'm continuing to pray for the CMBC family at large, and the specific matters I've asked us all to pray for with respect to our God-given goals and vision for 2010 and beyond.
We had great attendance at church again yesterday. Indeed our God is better than good. We had people come forward to join the church at both the 7:50AM and 10:20AM worship services. We really need to move to another location or build another facility where we are. For those of you reading this who are not members of CMBC, but are Christians- let me solicit your prayers to The LORD JESUS CHRIST on our behalf as well. Ask The LORD to lead us in the way He wants us to go.
Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort
Monday, January 4, 2010
Saturday, January 2, 2010
FAST & PRAY DAY 2
Yesterday, in keeping with our church-wide period of fasting and prayer at CMBC I ate no meat. Today, I have the same to report. It's just after 3:00PM. This morning I had another green apple. After returning from an appointment at the church I had a bowl of broccoli. I just finished eating brown rice and beans with yellow onion mixed in. I expect to eat again a little later today.
I also spent time today praying for my CMBC family. Praying for my biological family, my Christian family and praying for my human family. I'm praying that pastor and people of CMBC will catch the vision of "One Voice, One Vision, One Victory" that is our ministry theme for 2010 and beyond. I'm praying for the literal, physical healing of those who are sick and seeking The LORD for a miracle in their body. I'm praying in all things that GOD's will is done.
Agape,
Pastor Fort
I also spent time today praying for my CMBC family. Praying for my biological family, my Christian family and praying for my human family. I'm praying that pastor and people of CMBC will catch the vision of "One Voice, One Vision, One Victory" that is our ministry theme for 2010 and beyond. I'm praying for the literal, physical healing of those who are sick and seeking The LORD for a miracle in their body. I'm praying in all things that GOD's will is done.
Agape,
Pastor Fort
Friday, January 1, 2010
HOLY NEW YEAR! A RECIPE FOR A RIGHTEOUS NEW YEAR... NO MAKE THAT LIFE!
TODAY is the first day of 2010. I'm not making any "new year resolutions" this year. I am however re-committing to "fighting the good fight of faith"... today, then tomorrow, then the day after that and the day after that, etc.
Today is also the first day of a 31 day period of fasting and prayer for the Canaan Missionary Baptist Church. We're fasting and praying for Spiritual and physical health. We're asking every member of our church family that can and will to commit to no less than thirty minutes of prayer a day with a certain focus. Our prayer time will focus on our commitment to our new ministry theme for 2010 and beyond.
The theme is: "One Voice, One Vision, One Victory". By One Voice, I mean our hearing God's voice; by One Vision, I mean our heeding God's vision; by One Victory, I mean our commitment to develop mature disciples of Jesus Christ. In addition to praying and asking The LORD to help us embrace His voice, vision and victory, we are also praying that we will become more "simple and dynamic" in 2010 and beyond. We're embracing this idea of "Simple Church". It's an attempt to not complicate what The LORD has not complicated. To keep our Christian lives and the way we "do" church simple and dynamic.
I've also asked our church family to pray for "families". There are so many children, youth, single adults, couples... families in trouble. It's interesting to note that we have ministries specifically designed for children, youth, single's, couples, senior adults, etc., but we don't have a ministry specifically designed for families. We want to change that in 2010 and beyond. Moreover, we hope to make the family the primary place for discipleship. More on that later.
In my attempt to keep this morning's blog short, let me say that it is my goal to blog about my journey with respect to my diet during these 31 days of January 2010 as our church comes together to fast and pray. I have asked those CMBC family members who can to eat a diet consisting of water, fruit, vegetables and fish. I've asked those who can't commit to that diet due to dietary or medical reasons, to please remove red meat and pork from their diets for the month of January 2010.
During the month of January 2010 we're also praying that The LORD will move in great ways during our church revival. Our revival begins as our period of fasting and prayer ends. That is to say, the last day of our fast and prayer time is Sunday, January 31, 2010. Sunday, January 31, 2010 is also the first day of our church revival.
Now then, whether you're a member of our church family or not, you're welcome to join us as we fast and pray for Spiritual and physical health in the month of January. And to those of us who may eat or drink the wrong thing one day, as you hustle and flow throughout your day- don't quit the fast and prayer time... Just start over. Hang in there. Let's see what The LORD will do in and through us.
Today's morning. So far this morning I've had a green apple and an orange. I'm in the process of cooking some black eyed peas right now. I intend to make some brown rice, and add some vegetables to that and eat it later. I hope to go walking soon. There's a group of people from our church who are scheduled to meet at the home of Bro. Daniel and Sis. Deborah Carter and go on a hike. I don't know that I'll make the hike, but I look forward to walking today nonetheless.
May our GOD continue to bless and keep each of you is my prayer.
Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort, Servant of JESUS CHRIST
Today is also the first day of a 31 day period of fasting and prayer for the Canaan Missionary Baptist Church. We're fasting and praying for Spiritual and physical health. We're asking every member of our church family that can and will to commit to no less than thirty minutes of prayer a day with a certain focus. Our prayer time will focus on our commitment to our new ministry theme for 2010 and beyond.
The theme is: "One Voice, One Vision, One Victory". By One Voice, I mean our hearing God's voice; by One Vision, I mean our heeding God's vision; by One Victory, I mean our commitment to develop mature disciples of Jesus Christ. In addition to praying and asking The LORD to help us embrace His voice, vision and victory, we are also praying that we will become more "simple and dynamic" in 2010 and beyond. We're embracing this idea of "Simple Church". It's an attempt to not complicate what The LORD has not complicated. To keep our Christian lives and the way we "do" church simple and dynamic.
I've also asked our church family to pray for "families". There are so many children, youth, single adults, couples... families in trouble. It's interesting to note that we have ministries specifically designed for children, youth, single's, couples, senior adults, etc., but we don't have a ministry specifically designed for families. We want to change that in 2010 and beyond. Moreover, we hope to make the family the primary place for discipleship. More on that later.
In my attempt to keep this morning's blog short, let me say that it is my goal to blog about my journey with respect to my diet during these 31 days of January 2010 as our church comes together to fast and pray. I have asked those CMBC family members who can to eat a diet consisting of water, fruit, vegetables and fish. I've asked those who can't commit to that diet due to dietary or medical reasons, to please remove red meat and pork from their diets for the month of January 2010.
During the month of January 2010 we're also praying that The LORD will move in great ways during our church revival. Our revival begins as our period of fasting and prayer ends. That is to say, the last day of our fast and prayer time is Sunday, January 31, 2010. Sunday, January 31, 2010 is also the first day of our church revival.
Now then, whether you're a member of our church family or not, you're welcome to join us as we fast and pray for Spiritual and physical health in the month of January. And to those of us who may eat or drink the wrong thing one day, as you hustle and flow throughout your day- don't quit the fast and prayer time... Just start over. Hang in there. Let's see what The LORD will do in and through us.
Today's morning. So far this morning I've had a green apple and an orange. I'm in the process of cooking some black eyed peas right now. I intend to make some brown rice, and add some vegetables to that and eat it later. I hope to go walking soon. There's a group of people from our church who are scheduled to meet at the home of Bro. Daniel and Sis. Deborah Carter and go on a hike. I don't know that I'll make the hike, but I look forward to walking today nonetheless.
May our GOD continue to bless and keep each of you is my prayer.
Safe in CHRIST,
Pastor Fort, Servant of JESUS CHRIST
Friday, November 20, 2009
SOME GREAT PREACHERS!
Too often- I think, the majority of Christians call the names of only the most popular preachers on the national scene when asked to provide a list of "great preachers".
Recently, I've had the privilege of hearing and hosting two great preachers right here in Arizona. Who are the two you ask? First, Reverend Arthur Lee Jr., pastor of the great Bethlehem Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona. Pastor Lee was our guest preacher at the 7:50AM service for our 3rd Annual Senior Saints Sunday at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona.
Wow! What a sermon... what a preacher! Pastor Lee has been a long-time preaching personality on the scene here in the 'valley of the sun'. He's served in various capacities with respect to the State Convention, community agencies and the like. But without question one of his greatest gifts is preaching The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Lee took me to school as he preached a dynamic and clear gospel message centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ on the cross. His message was challenging, life changing and encouraging. And, watch this- he didn't take all day to do it.
I thank my God upon each remembrance of this wonderful pastor and his Christ-centered sermon.
For the same ocassion, on the same Sunday morning at our 10:20AM service, Rev. James N. Preston, pastor of the Bethesda Community Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona preached The Gospel of Jesus Christ at CMBC.
Pastor Preston brought a phenomenal message that blessed our congregation in great ways. His preaching was practical, powerful and absolutely carefully crafted. He walked through the passage, breaking down key words and phrases, presenting The Gospel of Jesus Christ with clarity. Then, he closed. Pastor Preston closed the sermon in a great way.
The Lord blessed him to "hit on all cylinders".
These are just two examples of local preachers who presented a wonderful word to us. Men, who like me, may not make the list of the 50 greatest preachers ... according to Ebony Magazine or some other publication. But still great preachers in their own right.
During the Pastor Summit 2009, our chief facilitator, Dr. Fred Campbell, encouraged those pastor's in attendance, to seek the "Amen" of God; as opposed to the "Amen" of men. That said, when I come to the end of my days, (and, quite frankly while I'm walking in this world right now); I want to hear The LORD say "Amen" to what I'm doing... to what I'm preaching... to how I'm living!
I take nothing from the great preachers who have been recognized on the national and international scene, but let's not forget my brothers and sisters, there are preachers who've come and gone, that can out preach any one of us ... on any given Sunday. Some of them preached sermons in back alley's, never in a pulpit. Some of them preached sermons in small country towns, never on large stages or pulpits around America and the world. Most of them, we've never even heard of I'm sure. But believe this, when we get to heaven, there will be some people (some preacher's); walking around with rewards that astound us; while some other, well known, much applauded preacher's will be there too- but with minimal "hardware" if you will.
Let me be clear now, I believe we will all "cast down our crowns"- our rewards and accolades at the feet of Jesus Christ. The point I'm trying to make is be faithful in what you do for The LORD as a gospel preacher. And remember you're doing it for Him, through Him and by Him... so to God be the glory- ALL THE GLORY for the things He has done, is doing and shall yet perform.
Preach On!
Sherman J. Fort
Recently, I've had the privilege of hearing and hosting two great preachers right here in Arizona. Who are the two you ask? First, Reverend Arthur Lee Jr., pastor of the great Bethlehem Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona. Pastor Lee was our guest preacher at the 7:50AM service for our 3rd Annual Senior Saints Sunday at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona.
Wow! What a sermon... what a preacher! Pastor Lee has been a long-time preaching personality on the scene here in the 'valley of the sun'. He's served in various capacities with respect to the State Convention, community agencies and the like. But without question one of his greatest gifts is preaching The Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Lee took me to school as he preached a dynamic and clear gospel message centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ on the cross. His message was challenging, life changing and encouraging. And, watch this- he didn't take all day to do it.
I thank my God upon each remembrance of this wonderful pastor and his Christ-centered sermon.
For the same ocassion, on the same Sunday morning at our 10:20AM service, Rev. James N. Preston, pastor of the Bethesda Community Baptist Church in Phoenix Arizona preached The Gospel of Jesus Christ at CMBC.
Pastor Preston brought a phenomenal message that blessed our congregation in great ways. His preaching was practical, powerful and absolutely carefully crafted. He walked through the passage, breaking down key words and phrases, presenting The Gospel of Jesus Christ with clarity. Then, he closed. Pastor Preston closed the sermon in a great way.
The Lord blessed him to "hit on all cylinders".
These are just two examples of local preachers who presented a wonderful word to us. Men, who like me, may not make the list of the 50 greatest preachers ... according to Ebony Magazine or some other publication. But still great preachers in their own right.
During the Pastor Summit 2009, our chief facilitator, Dr. Fred Campbell, encouraged those pastor's in attendance, to seek the "Amen" of God; as opposed to the "Amen" of men. That said, when I come to the end of my days, (and, quite frankly while I'm walking in this world right now); I want to hear The LORD say "Amen" to what I'm doing... to what I'm preaching... to how I'm living!
I take nothing from the great preachers who have been recognized on the national and international scene, but let's not forget my brothers and sisters, there are preachers who've come and gone, that can out preach any one of us ... on any given Sunday. Some of them preached sermons in back alley's, never in a pulpit. Some of them preached sermons in small country towns, never on large stages or pulpits around America and the world. Most of them, we've never even heard of I'm sure. But believe this, when we get to heaven, there will be some people (some preacher's); walking around with rewards that astound us; while some other, well known, much applauded preacher's will be there too- but with minimal "hardware" if you will.
Let me be clear now, I believe we will all "cast down our crowns"- our rewards and accolades at the feet of Jesus Christ. The point I'm trying to make is be faithful in what you do for The LORD as a gospel preacher. And remember you're doing it for Him, through Him and by Him... so to God be the glory- ALL THE GLORY for the things He has done, is doing and shall yet perform.
Preach On!
Sherman J. Fort
Thursday, November 5, 2009
JUST JESUS!
District Associations, State Conventions, National Conventions...
This week marks the 89th Annual Session of the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona Incorporated.
Upon joining the convention I was asked to serve as President of the Minister's Conference. A job I took on with joy and enthusiasm. At this year's Annual Session, on the "Minister's Conference" night, I was blessed to preach just prior to Rev., Dr., Jerry Carter, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Morristown New Jersey.
My, my, my, what a preacher. He shared a poignant and powerful message that helped me personally. He titled it: "News From Another Network". One of the things he shared that my wife quoted to me today while riding in the car is the idea that hard work must accompany the gifts God has graced us with.
Friday of this week is "president's night". Our new president of the Paradise State Convention is Rev., Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church, Phoenix Arizona. I expect he's going to preach a dynamic and daring message that will challenge the convention to change in a manner that calls for Christian courage.
In addition to being part of the PMBSC (and consequently the National Baptist Convention of America USA Incorporated); I also associate with the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention (part of the national Southern Baptist Convention). I've been impressed for some time by the emphasis they seem to place on evangelism, missions and discipleship.
No matter what convention you're a part of, ... or not a part of for that matter- make sure you're part of the family of God. You can join God's family by placing your faith in His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.
All conventions have their problems. And most of them have some really good points too. I look forward to the day when we will all gather under the banner of love... God's love. No more conventions, no more presidents, no more cabinets, no more denominations... just JESUS!
Agape,
Pastor Fort
This week marks the 89th Annual Session of the Paradise Missionary Baptist State Convention of Arizona Incorporated.
Upon joining the convention I was asked to serve as President of the Minister's Conference. A job I took on with joy and enthusiasm. At this year's Annual Session, on the "Minister's Conference" night, I was blessed to preach just prior to Rev., Dr., Jerry Carter, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Morristown New Jersey.
My, my, my, what a preacher. He shared a poignant and powerful message that helped me personally. He titled it: "News From Another Network". One of the things he shared that my wife quoted to me today while riding in the car is the idea that hard work must accompany the gifts God has graced us with.
Friday of this week is "president's night". Our new president of the Paradise State Convention is Rev., Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church, Phoenix Arizona. I expect he's going to preach a dynamic and daring message that will challenge the convention to change in a manner that calls for Christian courage.
In addition to being part of the PMBSC (and consequently the National Baptist Convention of America USA Incorporated); I also associate with the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention (part of the national Southern Baptist Convention). I've been impressed for some time by the emphasis they seem to place on evangelism, missions and discipleship.
No matter what convention you're a part of, ... or not a part of for that matter- make sure you're part of the family of God. You can join God's family by placing your faith in His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.
All conventions have their problems. And most of them have some really good points too. I look forward to the day when we will all gather under the banner of love... God's love. No more conventions, no more presidents, no more cabinets, no more denominations... just JESUS!
Agape,
Pastor Fort
Saturday, October 24, 2009
PASTOR'S SUMMIT 2009
GOD IS FAITHFUL ... PERIOD!
First and foremost I want to thank God for His love, mercy and grace. I also want to thank my wife, the incomparable Mrs. Angela Monique Fort for her genuine (that's a big word); support and excitement with respect to the Pastor's Summit 2009. I also have to thank the steady and sweet Sis. Angela Garmon, (a member of CMBC and the person who worked diligently to bring this event to pass); for her kind, consistent and most of all Christian character in causing the Pastor's Summit to take place.
Now then, let me say that the Pastor's Summit was, in my estimation a life changing event. The goal of the "Summit" was to have a "safe place" where select senior pastors could come together and share their hearts with one another where the work of the pastoral ministry is concerned.
From the very beginning my goal was not a numerical one. I wanted no more than twelve pastors for the Summit with the thought that the smaller number would better lend itself to the intimacy, honesty and building of what I hope would be real relationship between brothers of like faith, mind and heart.
From the very beginning my hope was that a time of personal refreshing, revival and renewal would take place in the lives of those pastors in attendance. With the largest emphasis of that refreshing, revival and renewing being of a "Spiritual" nature.
From the time the vision for this Summit was birthed and I began to put feet to my faith (this happened in October 2008)- in terms of contacting the hotel, producing the initial flyers and beginning to share the word, via word of mouth about the event- to the time it all came to fruition much took place.
As a Christian pastor seeking to host this event, out of a need I see for this event to take place and with the approval and leading of our most High God, I wrestled early on with trying to attract senior pastor's with the lure of a nationally known pastor and/or preaching personality as our Summit facilitator. To this end, I initially contacted three men. one of them significantly better known than the other two with respect to being a national preaching personality. Those three men were the inimitable Dr. Charles E. Booth; the inimitable Pastor Harry R. Fort; and the inimitable Pastor Fred Campbell. From here I had flyers produced and mailed out, sharing news of this event; and had the event advertises via the HOPE Ministries website on the world wide web.
Within months of the Summit Pastor Harry R. Fort was no longer one of the facilitators. With weeks to go until the Summit, I decided to cancel the event out of personal frustration and a closer look at my financial obligation. Consequently I shared the news with my wife Angela and contacted Dr. Booth to share the same.
For whatever reason I delayed sharing that decision with Pastor Campbell.
With weeks to go until the Summit, I had a change of heart and was moved to move forward with the event- honestly knowing the entire time that the need for this event and the calling to do it, host it, have it ... was what is most important.
It's Saturday evening now. 6:26PM on October 24, 2009. And let me say this "To God be the glory for the things He has done"! The Summit by all indications was a success. And by "indications" I speak of the spiritual indicators that count most. By "success" I speak to the original goal of having a safe place where senior pastors could come and grow together.
The location of the Summit is the beautiful and secluded Sheraton Wildhorse Pass and Resort in south Chandler Arizona. The location was a very important decision since I wanted to have this event take place somewhere that was accessible yet gave a sense of being secluded... almost isolated. The location was important because I wanted some place that was "excellent" in terms of it being a quality, top shelf, first class- if you please hotel/resort. The Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa is all of those things and more.
The lone facilitator or conversation starter as I like to call it for the Summit was Reverend Fred Campbell, pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Redwood City California.
The senior pastors in attendance at the Summit were, Pastor Troy C. Allen, of Phoenix Arizona; Pastor/Dr. Johnny Baylor, of Carson California; Pastor Shawn Buckannon, of Sierra Vista Arizona; Pastor Michael Collier, of Mesa Arizona; Pastor Melvin Foard, of Queen Creek Arizona; Pastor Abram Moore, of Coolidge Arizona; Pastor Claudell Myles, of Phoenix Arizona; and Pastor Welton Pleasant, of Los Angeles California. Counting Pastor Campbell and myself there was a total of ten senior pastors.
Our time together was probing, powerful and precious. I believe that healing and genuine love was shared this weekend. From our initial dinner and session on Thursday, through our three meals and three sessions on Friday, and our breakfast and closing session this morning The Lord worked on us. We shared more than meals these last three days, we shared an experience that can never be repeated.
I've already begun mentioning and setting up meetings with Mr. Merold Porter, my sales representative at the Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa for next years Pastor's Summit. And unless The LORD says otherwise, we will have a glorious time with Jesus and one another.
To my brother pastors who attended this years Summit, let me say: Thank you for coming. Thank you for caring and thank you for committing your time, resources and most importantly yourselves to this weekend. To Pastor Fred Campbell, thank you for leading us as our facilitator for the weekend. We had no "agenda" so to speak, we simply asked The Lord to take control. To my other fellow pastors who said they were coming and did not. Or, who wanted to come and could not. Let me say that I've already begun working on The Pastor's Summit 2010. The weekend has already been determined. It is Thursday, October 21st through Saturday morning, October 23rd. The location has already been decided. It is the Sheraton Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa in south Chandler Arizona. And a numerical cap is being worked out now. With respect to the number of senior pastors in attendance I don't want to exceed 20. And, at this point I am thinking of stopping at 15.
That said, if you are a senior pastor who is interested in coming begin doing a few things: 1) Pray. Ask The LORD if the Pastor's Summit 2010 is for you. 2. Begin putting some financial resources away now to that end.
Then, once you've heard from The LORD, please contact me via the information provided on either the HOPE Ministries website (WWW.HOPEMINISTRIESAZ.ORG); or the Canaan Missionary Baptist Church website (WWW.MYCMBC.ORG); and let me know of your decision.
Now, may the love of God and sweet communion of The Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.
Sherman J. Fort, Servant of JESUS CHRIST
First and foremost I want to thank God for His love, mercy and grace. I also want to thank my wife, the incomparable Mrs. Angela Monique Fort for her genuine (that's a big word); support and excitement with respect to the Pastor's Summit 2009. I also have to thank the steady and sweet Sis. Angela Garmon, (a member of CMBC and the person who worked diligently to bring this event to pass); for her kind, consistent and most of all Christian character in causing the Pastor's Summit to take place.
Now then, let me say that the Pastor's Summit was, in my estimation a life changing event. The goal of the "Summit" was to have a "safe place" where select senior pastors could come together and share their hearts with one another where the work of the pastoral ministry is concerned.
From the very beginning my goal was not a numerical one. I wanted no more than twelve pastors for the Summit with the thought that the smaller number would better lend itself to the intimacy, honesty and building of what I hope would be real relationship between brothers of like faith, mind and heart.
From the very beginning my hope was that a time of personal refreshing, revival and renewal would take place in the lives of those pastors in attendance. With the largest emphasis of that refreshing, revival and renewing being of a "Spiritual" nature.
From the time the vision for this Summit was birthed and I began to put feet to my faith (this happened in October 2008)- in terms of contacting the hotel, producing the initial flyers and beginning to share the word, via word of mouth about the event- to the time it all came to fruition much took place.
As a Christian pastor seeking to host this event, out of a need I see for this event to take place and with the approval and leading of our most High God, I wrestled early on with trying to attract senior pastor's with the lure of a nationally known pastor and/or preaching personality as our Summit facilitator. To this end, I initially contacted three men. one of them significantly better known than the other two with respect to being a national preaching personality. Those three men were the inimitable Dr. Charles E. Booth; the inimitable Pastor Harry R. Fort; and the inimitable Pastor Fred Campbell. From here I had flyers produced and mailed out, sharing news of this event; and had the event advertises via the HOPE Ministries website on the world wide web.
Within months of the Summit Pastor Harry R. Fort was no longer one of the facilitators. With weeks to go until the Summit, I decided to cancel the event out of personal frustration and a closer look at my financial obligation. Consequently I shared the news with my wife Angela and contacted Dr. Booth to share the same.
For whatever reason I delayed sharing that decision with Pastor Campbell.
With weeks to go until the Summit, I had a change of heart and was moved to move forward with the event- honestly knowing the entire time that the need for this event and the calling to do it, host it, have it ... was what is most important.
It's Saturday evening now. 6:26PM on October 24, 2009. And let me say this "To God be the glory for the things He has done"! The Summit by all indications was a success. And by "indications" I speak of the spiritual indicators that count most. By "success" I speak to the original goal of having a safe place where senior pastors could come and grow together.
The location of the Summit is the beautiful and secluded Sheraton Wildhorse Pass and Resort in south Chandler Arizona. The location was a very important decision since I wanted to have this event take place somewhere that was accessible yet gave a sense of being secluded... almost isolated. The location was important because I wanted some place that was "excellent" in terms of it being a quality, top shelf, first class- if you please hotel/resort. The Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa is all of those things and more.
The lone facilitator or conversation starter as I like to call it for the Summit was Reverend Fred Campbell, pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Redwood City California.
The senior pastors in attendance at the Summit were, Pastor Troy C. Allen, of Phoenix Arizona; Pastor/Dr. Johnny Baylor, of Carson California; Pastor Shawn Buckannon, of Sierra Vista Arizona; Pastor Michael Collier, of Mesa Arizona; Pastor Melvin Foard, of Queen Creek Arizona; Pastor Abram Moore, of Coolidge Arizona; Pastor Claudell Myles, of Phoenix Arizona; and Pastor Welton Pleasant, of Los Angeles California. Counting Pastor Campbell and myself there was a total of ten senior pastors.
Our time together was probing, powerful and precious. I believe that healing and genuine love was shared this weekend. From our initial dinner and session on Thursday, through our three meals and three sessions on Friday, and our breakfast and closing session this morning The Lord worked on us. We shared more than meals these last three days, we shared an experience that can never be repeated.
I've already begun mentioning and setting up meetings with Mr. Merold Porter, my sales representative at the Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa for next years Pastor's Summit. And unless The LORD says otherwise, we will have a glorious time with Jesus and one another.
To my brother pastors who attended this years Summit, let me say: Thank you for coming. Thank you for caring and thank you for committing your time, resources and most importantly yourselves to this weekend. To Pastor Fred Campbell, thank you for leading us as our facilitator for the weekend. We had no "agenda" so to speak, we simply asked The Lord to take control. To my other fellow pastors who said they were coming and did not. Or, who wanted to come and could not. Let me say that I've already begun working on The Pastor's Summit 2010. The weekend has already been determined. It is Thursday, October 21st through Saturday morning, October 23rd. The location has already been decided. It is the Sheraton Wildhorse Pass Resort and Spa in south Chandler Arizona. And a numerical cap is being worked out now. With respect to the number of senior pastors in attendance I don't want to exceed 20. And, at this point I am thinking of stopping at 15.
That said, if you are a senior pastor who is interested in coming begin doing a few things: 1) Pray. Ask The LORD if the Pastor's Summit 2010 is for you. 2. Begin putting some financial resources away now to that end.
Then, once you've heard from The LORD, please contact me via the information provided on either the HOPE Ministries website (WWW.HOPEMINISTRIESAZ.ORG); or the Canaan Missionary Baptist Church website (WWW.MYCMBC.ORG); and let me know of your decision.
Now, may the love of God and sweet communion of The Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.
Sherman J. Fort, Servant of JESUS CHRIST
Thursday, October 8, 2009
THANK YOU LORD!
Recently I've had the opportunity to preach for two wonderful brothers.
The first, Rev., Dr. David L. Wade, Pastor of the historic Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona. I've had the distinct pleasure of knowing this gregarious, generous, giving Pastor since he first arrived in Arizona a few short years ago.
Pastor Wade was scheduled to go out of town on preaching business and asked me to come and share The WORD of GOD with his people at Mt. Calvary. I'm thankful that The LORD gave me clearance to leave my Canaan familly and preach at Mt. Calvary that Sunday ... particularly since Pastor Wade and I pastor different churches in the same city. In truth, our churches are just a few miles apart.
The Calvary Church family proved to be welcoming, warm and friendly. The service was vibrant. The choir (yes, I said choir... not praise team); sang one of my favorite gospel songs from bygone years. Namely, "Uncloudy Day". Dr. Wade's associate Minister and Deacons were kind as well.
It is my prayer that our God was pleased with my attempt at preaching His WORD to His people (those Dr. Wade calls "the sweet members" of Calvary.
I thank my God for this preaching privilege.
Most recently, just last week in fact, I was blessed with another wonderful preaching opportunity. Believe it or not, I preached for the inimitable Rev., Dr. Emil M. Thomas.
Pastor Thomas serves as Pastor of Destiny Church in the Washington DC/Baltimore Maryland area. WOW! What an experience. When it comes to Dr. Thomas it has been my distinct pleasure and privilege to know him for better than twenty five years now. When I was a much younger preacher he allowed Pastor Fredrick L. Fairley, Pastor Thomas E. Fisher, myself and so many other
"young preachers" to preach at the Jerusalem Baptist Church, in Palo Alto California- during his tenure their as Senior Pastor.
Not long after I began serving as Pastor of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Thomas preached at CMBC. And, since that time he has become a favorite of both Pastor and people. In fact, Pastor Thomas has now exceeded my friend and brother Rev. Fredrick L. Fairley Sr., as the preacher who has preached most often at CMBC. I believe he's conducted our Annual Church Revival for five years in a row. And, if The LORD says the same he will join Pastor Louis B. Jones II, one Sunday in January 2010 as our special guest lecturer that day.
Let me get back to the point. Pastor Thomas allowed me the privilege of preaching for him last week at Destiny Church. His church is alive, vibrant, kind, friendly, warm and welcoming! The music provided by the Male Chorus was excellent! Not only was Bro. Jones on point with both playing and singing, it was The Holy Spirit active in these men that took service to another level.
And, in spite of Pastor Thomas telling a joke about the Washington Redskins football team, the men presented him with an authentic Philadelphia Eagles/Michael Vick Jersey. They gave him the real thing. The men remembered his making reference to the jersey some time earlier and gave it to him on this their first Annual Men's Day.
Again, I hope The LORD was pleased with my effort to preach His WORD at Destiny church.
Thank you Pastor Wade. Thank you Pastor Thomas.
THANK YOU LORD!
Grateful,
Sherman J. Fort
The first, Rev., Dr. David L. Wade, Pastor of the historic Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona. I've had the distinct pleasure of knowing this gregarious, generous, giving Pastor since he first arrived in Arizona a few short years ago.
Pastor Wade was scheduled to go out of town on preaching business and asked me to come and share The WORD of GOD with his people at Mt. Calvary. I'm thankful that The LORD gave me clearance to leave my Canaan familly and preach at Mt. Calvary that Sunday ... particularly since Pastor Wade and I pastor different churches in the same city. In truth, our churches are just a few miles apart.
The Calvary Church family proved to be welcoming, warm and friendly. The service was vibrant. The choir (yes, I said choir... not praise team); sang one of my favorite gospel songs from bygone years. Namely, "Uncloudy Day". Dr. Wade's associate Minister and Deacons were kind as well.
It is my prayer that our God was pleased with my attempt at preaching His WORD to His people (those Dr. Wade calls "the sweet members" of Calvary.
I thank my God for this preaching privilege.
Most recently, just last week in fact, I was blessed with another wonderful preaching opportunity. Believe it or not, I preached for the inimitable Rev., Dr. Emil M. Thomas.
Pastor Thomas serves as Pastor of Destiny Church in the Washington DC/Baltimore Maryland area. WOW! What an experience. When it comes to Dr. Thomas it has been my distinct pleasure and privilege to know him for better than twenty five years now. When I was a much younger preacher he allowed Pastor Fredrick L. Fairley, Pastor Thomas E. Fisher, myself and so many other
"young preachers" to preach at the Jerusalem Baptist Church, in Palo Alto California- during his tenure their as Senior Pastor.
Not long after I began serving as Pastor of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Thomas preached at CMBC. And, since that time he has become a favorite of both Pastor and people. In fact, Pastor Thomas has now exceeded my friend and brother Rev. Fredrick L. Fairley Sr., as the preacher who has preached most often at CMBC. I believe he's conducted our Annual Church Revival for five years in a row. And, if The LORD says the same he will join Pastor Louis B. Jones II, one Sunday in January 2010 as our special guest lecturer that day.
Let me get back to the point. Pastor Thomas allowed me the privilege of preaching for him last week at Destiny Church. His church is alive, vibrant, kind, friendly, warm and welcoming! The music provided by the Male Chorus was excellent! Not only was Bro. Jones on point with both playing and singing, it was The Holy Spirit active in these men that took service to another level.
And, in spite of Pastor Thomas telling a joke about the Washington Redskins football team, the men presented him with an authentic Philadelphia Eagles/Michael Vick Jersey. They gave him the real thing. The men remembered his making reference to the jersey some time earlier and gave it to him on this their first Annual Men's Day.
Again, I hope The LORD was pleased with my effort to preach His WORD at Destiny church.
Thank you Pastor Wade. Thank you Pastor Thomas.
THANK YOU LORD!
Grateful,
Sherman J. Fort
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