Recently I did some things I’ve never done before. To my knowledge I have never canceled a meeting due to a health issue. Due to strained vocal cords the doctor, on June 19,  put me on voice rest for a month. So I had to cancel all services up until July 13. I started back a little early with VBS at the Hamilton Church. However, I did have to use a weak wimpy voice. I have been told many times growing up to “shut up”. Even under doctor’s orders and a nurses careful supervision (Sally) I found being quiet is hard to do. I really do appreciate my friends encouraging me though during this time. Some said when Sally answered my cell phone for me “tell Bro. Rick that was the best conversation I ever had with him.” Some just said “tell Ricky to shut up”. One even said  it made him happy to be able to say whatever he wanted to and have absolutely no concern about me replying. Don’t worry Bro. Mickey I won’t tell who said that. Anyway, thanks for all the prayers and words of encouragement during this difficult time for someone who finds it hard to “shut up.” At the doctors appointment on July 17 the doctor said the vocal cords had cleared up and he released me. Since they were clear I asked if that meant I could sing now and he said I could do whatever I felt like doing. I told him that was good because I could never sing before. Give me a call if you would like to have an Acts 1:8 mission service or would like to have me for a concert.

The 2008 Alabama State Association will meet at the First Free Will Baptist Church in Dothan November 5-6. Due to the Dothan Peanut Festival meeting at the same time motel reservations may need to be made early. Motels are listed: Econo Lodge $49 334-673-8000 Clarion $59 334-794-6601 Quality Inn $59 334-794-6601 Fairfield Inn $84 334-671-0100 Prices are plus tax. All have continental breakfast. All are within 2.5 miles of the church. The prices listed are for double beds or king. Please identify yourself with Alabama Free Will Baptists. For questions call Bro. Steve Trail 334-792-3316.