Visiting with the brethren at the June meeting of the messengers in Springfield was a joy and wonderful opportunity for me to report and discuss the work of the Baptist Sunday School Committee. It is always a joy to get to visit and hear of the work of the Lord all over the world. The extent of mission work happening throughout the world is a source of rejoicing as the Psalmist wrote, “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Psalm 126:5, 6). I appreciate the messengers allowing me to serve for another year at Texarkana.
Bro. Mark Clements will be departing the work on July 10th, after spending some time with our new Editor-in-Chief, Bro. Nathan Luellen. Bro. Luellen will begin on June 7th, giving Bro. Mark and him a few days together. I appreciate Bro. Mark for helping so much with this transition. I also look forward to laboring in the great work with Bro. Luellen as we move forward together.
The work on enclosing the Print-on-Demand area is underway with the installation of a new and heavier electrical supply. The experts continued to inform us that it had to be done to have printing integrity with the Print-on-Demand units.
We also have recently been informed that our “plate burner” is so old that the support services and parts will no longer be available after this year. We have spent time researching and discussing what kind of unit we need for our conditions here. Sometime this year, we will be receiving a new Achieve T800 plate burner with all the accessories needed, installation included. This unit, with accessories and added air support, and miscellaneous needs will cost us about $102,000.00. This is an unexpected cost for this year, but thanks be to God, we should be able to absorb it. This is another example of what I have mentioned this year about having to replace or repair so many things here at the facilities. But God is good and continues to provide.
Again, thank you for allowing me to serve in this great work.