September was such an incredible month for us.  We were in "revival" with BEC, and Pastor Ken Colegrove.  We love this sweet group of people at Brownwood Evangelism Center.  They always make us feel at home.   

Each service was explosive, as the Lord was so kind to visit with us! Many received the Holy Ghost, and many were baptized throughout the month.

From a Howard Payne football player to one of the local city favorites…. we were blessed to see so many amazing conversions. 

Far greater than a swelling number of people in attendance, far greater than how many were baptized or filled with the Holy Ghost…a tremendous momentum has taken place, and the people of BEC are poised for an astounding harvest, in the days ahead.

We love large crowds, and appreciate staggering numbers; however, we believe the foundation must be sound, and the people must be ready to retain, assimilate, and disciple each new convert. Therefore, we find it refreshing to say that BEC is actively implementing concepts that will significantly impact each guest.

Pastor Ken Colegrove and his lovely family have long since been some of our favorites!  He has such a passion for souls.  He does such an incredible job of "living" the message that he has preached effectively for years.  If you're looking for a pastor that you can count on to be in his office (five days a week), then don't look here! (Try the halfway houses, coffee shops, & neighborhoods).  

On Tuesday evenings, the LIFELINE ministry team heads out to the local "success" houses, and visits with the men and women who have had difficulties with substance abuse. This team is dedicated to loving, befriending, and helping others get their lives back on track, and establish or re-establish a relationship with the Lord!

The results over the previous year have been astonishing, as it is obvious they have found favor with the people of each "success" house.  Many conversions have taken place, and a multitude have been reacquainted with their families in other cities. To God be the glory!

On Wednesday nights, they are teaching a class that helps provide immediate tools for people who are experiencing substance abuse issues.

If you are ever in Brownwood, TX, please stop by and visit.  You won't be disappointed!  For more pictures of this great church family, click here.

BEC, we miss you already!

We have "bragged" on Sis. Carla many times in our travels. She would never ask for recognition, but is driven by the scripture "…Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me." Matt. 25:40 The Message.

Every service, Sis. Carla and her mother, bring a large crowd of beautiful children to church.  These are children and young people that she has personalized! Many have stayed in her home, know her family and have found her to be a listening ear when no one else seems to care. 

Sis. Carla's kids fill up the first pew (and often times the second and third pew as well) at BEC. Not only are these children and young people right in the front, but she teaches them to worship, and explains all of the "big" words that they don't understand. Throughout the service, they will stand, clap, raise their hands, and worship with all their hearts, because they are following her example. At altar call, this group is normally the first to respond. Most of "Carla's kids" have received the Holy Ghost and have also been baptized in Jesus' name. (We have never seen anything like it!!!!)

Perhaps Sis. Carla's amazing and inspiring passion is because she too, was once a "bus kid." Or maybe she just has a driving desire to see her city reached, even the ones who at times are "overlooked or ignored".

Sis. Carla-We admire your devotion to your "kids." You are truly an inspiration to us and to everyone who meets you. Continue to love and train these precious children. No doubt Heaven is fully aware and applauding your faithful work. "…All that's left now is the shouting—God's applause!…" 2 Timothy 4:6 The Message

200 Kellington Dr. Apt. 17106

Kingwood, TX  77339

Thanks to everyone who has called and emailed to check on us! We are in central Texas and far away from the effects of Hurricane Ike.

Ken's family lives in LaPorte, Texas…just blocks from the Gulf. They bravely weathered the storm, but will be without power for weeks! Please keep them and all the Texas and Louisiana coast residents in your prayers!

SIDE NOTE: We are enjoying a wonderful revival with Pastor Ken Colegrove and Brownwood Evangelism Center. This church is poised for revival and exponential growth. We're excited to be a part of the team. 

WE WOULD LIKE TO ASK THAT OUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY CONSIDER MAKING A DONATION TO, OR MONTHLY PLEDGE TOWARD OUR MOBILE BAPTISTERY!  THIS HAS BEEN SUCH AN EFFECTIVE MEANS TO BRINGING THE MESSAGE OF JESUS CHRIST TO MANY, MANY PEOPLE…. AND IT'S JUST THE BEGINNING!

THE INITIAL COSTS OF THIS TRAILER AND BAPTISTERY HAVE YET TO BE COVERED. IF YOU HAVE SEEN THIS SET-UP, THEN YOU UNDERSTAND HOW ADVANTAGEOUS IT IS TO THE KINGDOM OF GOD IN THIS HOUR.  

WITH GENERAL CONFERENCE QUICKLY APPROACHING, WE REALIZE THAT THIS WILL BE AN IMPORTANT TIME TO PROMOTE THIS CONCEPT TO THOUSANDS.  WE ARE NOT INTERESTED IN MAKING MONEY FROM THIS EVANGELISM TOOL; HOWEVER, WE ARE INTERESTED IN SEEING MANY OTHERS UTILIZE THIS CONCEPT AND INCLUDE IT IN THEIR CHURCHES, AND/OR THEIR EVANGELISTIC MINISTRIES.

PLEASE CONSIDER MAKING A DONATION TO THIS PROJECT.  YOUR CONTRIBUTION WILL BE APPLIED TO THE BALANCE, AS WELL AS, TOWARDS THE OUTSIDE BODY-WRAP THAT WILL DETAIL THE PLAN OF SALVATION!  

WOULDN'T IT BE TREMENDOUS TO KNOW THAT YOUR CONTRIBUTION HELPED REACH SOULS IN EVERY CITY THAT WE MINISTER IN? 

WE SINCERELY APPRECIATE YOUR PRAYERS AND YOUR FINANCIAL BLESSINGS IN THIS MATTER.  YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN THERE FOR US, AND WE CAN'T EXPRESS THE MAGNITUDE OF OUR GRATITUDE IN THIS SMALL BLOG.  HOWEVER, YOUR GENEROSITY AND YOUR WILLINGNESS TO INVEST IN THE KINGDOM (THROUGH "US") IS GREATLY APPRECIATED, AND WILL NOT BE MISUSED.

HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THIS WORLD!

TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

WHETHER IT'S $5, OR $500, YOUR GIFT WILL GO DIRECTLY TO THIS PROJECT, AND WILL BE ACCOUNTED FOR.  ALL CONTRIBUTIONS WILL RECEIVE WRITTEN RECEIPTS, IF NEEDED.    

THANKS,

KEN AND JULIE COOK      

Revival is alive and well in Lufkin, Texas! Just ask the fantastic folks at Cornerstone, and Pastor Nathan Scoggins. We're sure they will tell you that something BIG is happening there! 

From the conversion of an incredible 9-year old boy, that seems to have an amazing anointing already upon his life, to the conversion of entire family units, great things became very common throughout these two weeks. 

Prior to our arrival, we maintained close communication with Pastor Scoggins. We firmly believe that this is necessary for the success of most revivals! Communication is vital to the cohesiveness between a pastor and evangelist.

From the first night, we sensed something special in the Spirit. After teaching on Lifestyle Evangelism, the confirmation of the Lord settled into the sanctuary, and we were all aware of the magnitude of the moment!

Although it rained for several days, we were all determined to get out into the city, and personalize as many people as possible!  And by all means, the Lord honored our diligence.

During one afternoon outreach, Ken knocked on the door of one of the former CIP students. After talking, they planned to meet again. The next day, Ken and Pastor Scoggins went to his residence and met with Jacovy and Chalove. They were ready for a closer relationship with the Lord. We made the trip back to Cornerstone, and both were baptized in the lovely name of Jesus! Jacovy prayed for several minutes, and was touched in a tremendous way by the Lord. Chalove received the Holy Ghost while she was still in the baptistery! 

Throughout the week, we saturated the city with fliers and invitations, and trusted that God would lead us to the hurting and the downcast. We find that God will always lead his people to those that society views as a liability. These are the people that Jesus spent most of His time reaching for, and we should do the same.

On Wednesday, several guests were present. Ten people where baptized and 7 received the Holy Ghost!

The next day, we went back to the streets, and continued to personalize everyone that we spoke with. We went to one apartment complex close to dark, and decided to put fliers on the doors, because it was getting late. Donald Wilsie (affectionately known as just "Wilsie") met a lady who asked him to come to her apartment and pray over it and for her family. After prayer, Wilsie began to talk with them about the gospel and Renee and her two daughters came with us back to the church. Renee and Shakorie were baptized in the name of Jesus!

On Friday evening, we hosted a special dinner and showed the LIFELINE DVD to several of the CIP students. Three more were baptized in Jesus' name!

On Saturday, Ken went out with some of the young people and they had an incredibly fun time! Many of them dressed in costumes. They handed out candy and personalized anyone that would stop long enough to speak. This group took outreach and personalization to a new level. Definitely, the entertainment highlight of the week!

On Sunday, the weather began to clear. We felt a certain sense of excitement permeating the atmosphere. The expectation level was at an all-time high, and we were poised and positioned to minister to the guests that would come.

During the morning service, we saw over 100 first-time guests! We were able to personalize every one of them, and establish contacts. The altar working team, along with the baptistery team was in place and ready to go. During the altar service, 23 were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and 20 received the baptism of the Holy Ghost! TAKE THAT DEVIL!! 

Following the service, Kevin Fleming grilled sausages and chicken for all the guests. We had a great outdoor lunch! 

Sunday night, Cornerstone was tired in their bodies, but revived in the spirit! The Lord continued to perform marvelous things as several more were baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost!

The following Wednesday evening was utilized as an awards ceremony for all of the new people that God had sent us. From standing ovations, to hugs and many tears, Cornerstone ensured that each guest knew they were loved and needed! After passing out the baptismal and Holy Ghost certificates, a PowerPoint presentation was shown. Special thanks to Bobbie Sue Wilsie who captured every baptism on camera.

Saturday, we had another time of fellowship with a tremendous response. Once again, the ladies from Cornerstone and Kevin "grill-man" Fleming, knocked it out of the park. The guests were amazed by the hospitality and Cornerstone went out of their way in an effort to connect with our guests.

The second Sunday, Nikki and Mya who had just been baptized and received the Holy Ghost the previous week, sang with the choir. The presence of the Lord moved in an incredible way as people began flowing to the altar.

In total, 53 baptized were baptized in Jesus' name and 43 received the Holy Ghost! To see more of this incredible revival, click here.

The retention and assimilation teams have been very active. We believe that what we are seeing is just the beginning of the greatest revival, and the greatest harvest, that Cornerstone has ever seen! To God be all of the glory!

WHAT:  IN JUST (3) SERVICES, WE HAVE SEEN 45 PEOPLE BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST & AT LEAST 35 HAVE RECEIVED THE HOLY GHOST FOR THE FIRST TIME!

WHERE: CORNERSTONE UPC, LUFKIN, TEXAS. 

PASTOR: NATHAN SCOGGINS.

THE GREAT PEOPLE AT CORNERSTONE HAVE WORKED RELENTLESSLY OVER THE PREVIOUS TWO MONTHS IN PREPARATION FOR OUR TIME TOGETHER!  THEY HAVE PRAYED, FASTED, AND PUT TOGETHER TEAMS THAT ARE WORKING IN UNISON…..  THEY ARE DETERMINED TO SEE A GREAT HARVEST, AT ANY COST!

(IT HAS BEEN SO REFRESHING TO BE AT HOME WITH OUR PASTOR & HIS FAMILY, ALONG WITH OTHER SPECIAL FRIENDS!)

WE CAN'T WAIT TO TELL EVERYONE ABOUT THE HARD WORKING TEAM MEMBERS, AND HOW THEY HAVE REALLY INVESTED THEMSELVES INTO THIS REVIVAL.  THERE ARE MANY OUTSTANDING TEAM MEMBERS (THOSE THAT HAVE GONE ABOVE AND BEYOND), AND WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO BLOGGING ABOUT SOME OF THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE LORD!

GOD IS REALLY DOING SOMETHING SPECIAL IN THIS LOCAL ASSEMBLY, AND WE ARE SO THRILLED TO BE ON BOARD, AND ON THE TEAM!

PLEASE CHECK BACK IN A COUPLE OF DAYS….FOR MORE EXCITING DETAILS, AND PICTURES!   

Throughout our stay, we have placed a large amount of our focus on effectively setting up, as well as restructuring a few ministries.  I would like to honor Pastor Foster for believing in us enough to take on such a task. 

Working with people whose lives have been negatively affected by drugs and/or alcohol, has always been a burden for this church.  The Lord has shown us favor in the initial phases of establishing this much-needed ministry.  We have met with the County Commissioner, as well as the Supervisor of Assessment Services for the entire Dallas County.  He is the lead supervisor of all 17 courts, and hundreds of employees.  As of September 1, 2008, they will be looking for a faith-based program to sanction within each of their courts.  Help us pray for this great opening.  We have several meetings scheduled in the near future with other agencies, and we need the help of the Lord in each case.

We have established a mentorship ministry, as well.  This ministry will be the lifeline between the A.C.T.S class and the church body.  The mentors are being taught a series of lessons, and will continue to do so for the next several weeks.  Each mentor has a job description, and is committed to transitioning their mentee from where they are to where God wants them to be.  This ministry has been well-received, and there is a multitude of participants already enrolled.

Along with the mentorship ministry, we have begun the Hospitality team.  This ministry team is a group of sweet women that are committed to supplying food, snacks, and beverages for each A.C.T.S class.  They are already doing such a great job at setting the environment, and making the students at ease.  What a group of people that are working together!

Next, we have had the privilege of designing the Community Relations (Ministry) Team.  Working vigorously, along with many other people, we have already seen a tremendous level of success.  This ministry has a broad foundation that involved many people in many areas of ministry.  However, the ultimate goal is to reach outside of the four walls of the sanctuary, and "personalize" the community.  In doing so, a large harvest will be reaped. This will be one of the most organized outreach-related ministries that I have ever seen.  We are so proud of the leaders, as well as each individual team member that has stepped up and served/ministered.

Each member has his/her personal name badge, and t-shirt.  They are serving on specific teams, with specific goals, and they are doing so with a spirit of unity that's unparalleled.  From re-establishing previous church contacts, to establishing new ones, this team of soul winners has a heart for the work of the Lord.  From door knocking and passing out fliers to block parties and street services, their hands are full, and they love it!  This ministry will be strategically used in the fulfillment of many prophecies spoken over this local assembly.

Last week, the Sunday School department hosted one incredible Vacation Bible School!  With over 100 children every night, Sis. Jodi and her staff performed at such high levels of leadership!  The kids loved it, as well as the parents! 

On the final night of VBS, the entire staff and group of kids decided to end the successful week with one more laugh!  The children took turns at dumping slime on the heads of each staff member, and anyone else in the way.   Sis. Jodi secretly arranged for a mystery person to be slimed! The children did a great job of keeping the secret all night, but at the very end a little boy walked up to Ken and asked, "Are you Bro. Cook?" When Ken responded, "Yes", he said, "You're going to get it!"

Always one for a practical joke, this time the tables had been turned on him! The children had a great time, sliming Ken!!

Saturday night, Bro. and Sis. Billy Cole arrived and spoke at a dinner for DFC's leadership and ministers. We were so thrilled to ride with the Cole's and their team to John and Dana Marlin's beautiful home. Bro. Cole shared testimonies of amazing miracles and spoke about the power of intercession. The evening ended with a powerful prayer meeting.

Bro. and Sis. Cole and their team were in service Sunday morning. What an incredible presence of God as this apostle spoke from his heart! 

This weekend was also spent in the neighborhood and apartments close to Pecan Grove Park, in preparation for our street service on Sunday night. Several members of DFC Community Relations Team braved the 100-plus degree weather to "personalize" the residents.

On Sunday night, God honored our efforts with an enormous crowd!  The CR Team served hot dogs, and gave away several prizes to area residents.   The crowd was very responsive, and the atmosphere was wonderful.  Many were moved by the singing and preaching. What an incredible time we had in the presence of the Lord.

With the mobile baptistery on site, seven were baptized in the name of Jesus and at least one (1) of our guests received the baptism of the Holy Ghost during the altar service!

What we appreciate more than great swelling crowds, is the "personalization" that must take place when we are in their presence. Not allowing them to feel as though they are simply a number, or part of a statistic. Rather, ensuring that we know each person's name, and treat them as though they are important to God, and to us.    

The wonderful results from this street service are as follows: 

*a total of 410 people were registered.

*177 adults + 127 boys + 106 girls: 410 people!

*11 prayer requests!

*6 signed up for end-time prophecy classes!

*7 baptized, 1 received Holy Ghost!  

The overwhelming majority of each of these guests were personalized.  Therefore, this week will be filled with discipleship, follow-up, and a continued "personalization." 

Please keep Pastor Foster and this local assembly in your prayers, as they are in the process of achieving great things for God!  Pastor Foster has a tremendous insight into leadership, and he is doing some incredible things for the kingdom of God!  

For more pictures of DFC's VBS, Bro. Cole, and the street service, click here! 

We had blown a tire on the mobile baptistery and were running on the rim! Unfortunately, our new trailer did not have a spare tire or a jack! There was an RV dealer close by, but they had already closed. The tire store in town had closed too! Welcome to Small Town USA!

We finally pulled limped the trailer…at about 5 miles per hour…to a truck stop down the road. They allowed us to drop the trailer overnight, until we could get help the next day. We drove back to Houston (the hotel in Small Town USA was pretty rough), and spent another night at the same hotel we had just check out of that morning! We were right back where we started!

The next day, Day's Tire and Auto Center in Waller, Texas, sent a mechanic to the truck stop to fix our tire. He was so kind and helpful. After paying for the repair (and purchasing a spare), we were back on the road!

If you or someone you love lives remotely close to this assembly…… encourage them to visit!  They will love the Lewis family.  While they are mightily used of the Lord… they are also easily entreated.

Each service was power packed, and contained a specific message for the moment!  His Word was confirmed "each night" and a multitude were filled with the Holy Ghost! 

Throughout the week, we focused our attention on the guests who came out for each service.  We made sure to leave our comfort zones, and "personalize" as many people as possible.  Although this took a little time… the results were visible from the very first night!  Almost all of the guests returned for each scheduled service.    

On Thursday night, God performed amazing works! Several people were physically and emotionally healed during the altar service.  To God be the glory! 

On Friday evening, we were honored to spend time with a portion of the leadership team.  What a tremendous time we had during the "open forum" question and answer session.  By the end of the evening, an openness took place, and some spoke about their painful pasts, and where God has brought them from….  

Saturday night was an especially powerful service. The presence of the Lord covered the sanctuary, and the Lord spoke directly to the congregation!  Many of these sweet people spent approximately one hour in the altar in deep prayer.  There was a heavy burden released for those that are outside of covenant relationship with the Lord.

Sunday morning the atmosphere in the sanctuary was electrifying.  An incredible display of praise and worship ushered us into the presence of the Lord. Many were filled with the Holy Ghost during this time.  At the close of the service, three more were baptized in Jesus' name, and many more received the Holy Ghost. (One young lady was so excited about receiving the Holy Ghost… that when she stepped into the water to be baptized….. she began to baptize herself……).

Sunday afternoon, the youth hosted a fund raiser for their homeless ministry.  The music along with the skits, as well as sincere praise and worship choruses… took this fun time to another level!  By far, this was the most exceptional youth event that we had ever been a part of.

Please check out the pictures from this event, as Bro Hodges & Sis. Katie were the dubious recipients of this Oatmeal Plunge experience!

Sunday evening was also a life changing service!  Many more were baptized and many more received the Holy Ghost during this service!    

As always, we give all the glory and honor to the Lord, and realize that He is worthy!  It is because of His goodness that great things happen……

As a final note, please do not discard the tremendous ministry of "door knocking."  Possibly, the reason that door knocking has received so much scrutiny is due to the intrusive/confrontational approaches that many have taken.  We teach biblical concepts that allow door knocking to be exciting, fun, and by all means, non intrusive!  (We must knock doors while there is time).

On a monthly basis, we see hundreds connected to the local assemblies via this door knocking ministry.  In fact, the majority of the guests that visit during the revivals we are connected with… are a direct result of door knocking!  And the overwhelming majority continue to attend that local church, long after we are gone.

The key to any outreach endeavor is "personalization"! 

In the near future, we will be selling a series of outreach oriented sessions that are sure to revolutionize your local "outreach ministry" endeavors.  The material will be easily absorbed, and the cool thing is that "everyone" in your local assembly can be effective in this type of outreach!

We love and appreciate each of our family members, friends, and fellow laborers in the Gospel.  Please continue to reach out to everyone…everywhere!