By consford / September 22, 2025
After preaching in Pierre Part last week and saying goodbye to family in New Iberia, I packed up and turned in for the night. The prophets’ chamber at Temple Baptist Church in New Iberia is absolutely amazing, and I slept well—at least until 1:30 a.m., when I suddenly woke up wide awake. Unable to get back to sleep, I hit the road and arrived home by 6:00 a.m.
Laura was already packing for a ladies’ retreat in Wylie, Texas. We enjoyed a few minutes together before she left, chatting and making plans for the busy weeks ahead. Preparing to return to Africa is a lot of work, but it’s joyful work, and we’re thankful for every opportunity God gives us.
Book Signing and a Busy Weekend
Our large order of books arrived just in time! Laura took some for the retreat booth, while I set up a signing table at the San Augustine Public Library. Both events were a success—book sales were steady, conversations flowed, and I was able to share the gospel with several people who had real questions. That alone made the weekend worth it.
On Saturday morning, Bonnie and I loaded up for the trip to Wylie. Traveling with Bonnie is always a joy—she kept me laughing all the way there. When we arrived, the retreat had just ended, and I was greeted by old friends who wanted me to sign their newly purchased books.
Western Hills Baptist Church – Victoria, TX
From Wylie, we drove to Victoria, Texas, for the World Missions Revival at Western Hills Baptist Church. This faithful church supported us throughout our years in Africa, and it was a blessing to reconnect.
We arrived late Saturday night and decided to eat at The Pump House, a restaurant built inside the city’s old water supply station. The historic décor was fascinating, but the food left something to be desired. Bonnie ordered a chicken fried steak that was so tough she nearly choked on it! We thought we might be headed to the hospital, but thankfully she managed to get it out. That was enough excitement for one night.
The revival itself was powerful. Dr. John Collier preached each service, while different missionaries also brought messages. I had the privilege of preaching Sunday morning, and the rest of the week I soaked in every sermon. It was refreshing and motivating.
Central Baptist Church – Baton Rouge, LA
Early Thursday, we drove to Baton Rouge for services at Central Baptist Church. This church is legendary—many of my heroes were saved or called to preach there.
On Thursday night, I shared our ministry presentation before a fiery missionary to Central America preached. He was saved years ago because of two men from that very church who started a ministry in California. It was thrilling to see the fruit of that ministry return home.
Friday night, I had the privilege of preaching myself. Standing in that pulpit, where so many men of God have preached before me, was humbling and unforgettable. The altars were full, and my heart was stirred.
International Dinner and Meeting Uncle Jerry
Saturday night brought the International Dinner, complete with Louisiana hospitality and food from around the world. Afterward, we heard from “Uncle Jerry,” a man who has spent over fifty years teaching people how to run neighborhood Bible clubs. It was his 64th wedding anniversary, and hearing him preach for the first time was inspiring. His ministry through SMITE camps has touched countless lives.
Faith Independent Baptist Church – Savoy, TX
From Louisiana, we drove into Texas, stopping in Savoy for Sunday services at Faith Independent Baptist Church with Pastor Bradly Horton and his wife, Chandra—dear friends from Bible college days.
I taught Sunday School and preached the morning service. God gave real liberty, and the response was encouraging. We also reunited with Kenny Cantrell and his wife of Badges and Boots Ministries, chaplains to the National Guard. It was wonderful to hear how God is using them.
After lunch and fellowship with the Hortons and Cantrells, we packed up once again.
Friendly Lane Baptist Church – Haltom City, TX
Our final stop was Friendly Lane Baptist Church in Haltom City, another faithful supporter during our years in Africa. It was their missions emphasis month, and I was blessed to both present our work and preach. Reconnecting with long-time friends there was a joy.
Home Again
We finally rolled into San Augustine just before midnight. It was a long road trip, but every mile brought us closer to our goal of returning to Ghana. We’re grateful for the churches that opened their doors, the friends who encouraged us, and the souls who heard the gospel.
This missionary road trip reminded us again that busy days in the Lord’s work are always the best days.
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Thank you for praying and traveling along with us on this missionary road trip.