John and Jennifer Edwards Share Their Experiences Coming to Montgomery

Prior to our move to Montgomery last year, Jenn and I prayed that God would provide us with a new church home. We would miss our church in Bossier City, Louisiana were we had many dear friends. Our Bossier City church was our first as a married couple and later as a family with our daughter, Anna-Claire. We dreaded the "church shopping" process that lay ahead, especially since it would consume many Sundays of which we had few during our limited, planned one year stay in Montgomery. Yet, as always, God provided for us. An Air Force friend recommended Gateway, as he had attended there several years before. We were still unsure, but at least God was showing us the way.

During our first visit to Gateway, we were welcomed by many of the members, most notably Glen Spivey and Robby Collins. Their warm reception and genuine interest in us stood out.  We did have some hesitation with a Baptist Church as we consider ourselves to be non-denominational Christians.  Nevertheless, the modern format with contemporary music, relaxed atmosphere and an engaging message from Pastor Alan appealed to all our hopes and wishes.  We felt an initial connection but wanted time to learn about the Baptist Church and Gateway in particular, especially its core values and beliefs.  Thus, we continued to “church shop,” spending the next five weeks visiting other churches.  Yet, we always compared them to Gateway.  In the end, we returned to Gateway where we have been ever since.  Again, God led the way.

                                                                     

It has been one year since our initial visit to Gateway.  During that time, we not only connected with our Church family, but also have grown spiritually.  We began Sunday school, small group and participated in the various other activities.  Most importantly, Jenn and I were baptized, as we had never professed our faith as adults.  It was a decision very much shaped by our new Church family.  Today, Jenn is active with the women’s ministries and Building Committee, while I concentrate on Sunday school, substituting for children’s Sunday school, and helping to lead our Small Group.  God truly has blessed us with a phenomenal church home.  I know he will do the same for you.

                                    

God Bless,

                                                                        

John, Jenn and Anna-Claire Edwards

Comments

[Laura Hicks]

We LOVE your family! You are so precious to us.

[Ray S]

John and Jennifer,

Thanks for recommending Gateway to us. It's neat that we both had our roots in that church in Boisser City, and it's wonderful that the Lord goes before us military people when we move. The church--and you three--have been a blessing to us.

Alongside you, for Him,
Ray and Fam