When I became editor of Palmetto Messenger in 1997 I would not have imagined that I would hold that place for seventeen years. (In 1999 the name was changed to Carolina Messenger.) With this issue I have decided to pass the responsibility to another. With only a few exceptions, there has been a deadline to meet month after month and I have decided to take a rest. The board of directors has selected Paul Kirkpatrick to continue the paper as interim editor. Brother Kirkpatrick is the able preacher for the Warners’ Chapel Church of Christ in Clemmons, North Carolina, and is the Director of the N.C. School of Biblical Studies. The board is determined for the publication to continue. In view of our current financial situation the schedule for now will continue to be six issues per year. The purpose and principles have not changed. From the beginning the purpose has been to apply the instructions of 2 Timothy 4:2. “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.”
Much gratitude is due to those who have cooperated in this endeavor: members of the board (past and present), writers who have contributed articles, the late Oscar Craft and Jerry Craft as business managers, Michael Jordan in charge of mailing lists, and Jimmy Bates of Bates Printing Company, which prints and mails the copies. It has been a fellowship of good work. Of course our efforts have been supported by individuals and congregations who provided the funds.
Over the years we have received many notes of appreciation and encouragement and we are grateful for every kind word. There has also been criticism. When it has been constructive, it has been appreciated. When it has been in opposition to biblical principles we have espoused, we have not been dissuaded.
Though for several months I have been doing most of the preaching at the Charlotte Avenue congregation in Rock Hill, SC, my intention is to be retired from full-time work. I will continue to do some writing and to preach as there are opportunities.
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Salute to Jerry Craft
Our faithful and efficient treasurer and business manager has decided to resign. Jerry Craft has been in this position since 2005. His brother Oscar Craft had managed the business aspect of the paper since the paper was started. At the time of Oscar’s passing, we knew we needed someone who would show the same diligence. Accordingly, Jerry was added to the board of directors and asked to serve as Treasurer. Jerry’s efficient work has provided perfect financial records and has kept us on track in meeting our obligations. As a member of the board he has been a keen adviser. As a brother in Christ he has been a faithful encourager. In whatever good the paper has accomplished, Jerry Craft has been an essential part. We are grateful for his unselfish service.
— The Board of Directors
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Men’s Fellowship
March 8, 2014 is the date for the 16th Annual Carolina Men’s Fellowship. This is a one-day lectureship with the purpose of encouraging men from churches of Christ over the Carolinas (and from a few other states.) It is a day of strong Scriptural messages, tremendous singing, and visiting. The Charlotte Avenue congregation in Rock Hill, SC, continues to host this gathering and provides a barbeque lunch. There is no need for advance registration, no charge for attending, and no collection is taken. Last year’s attendance was over 600.
In the first years the program was held in the Charlotte Avenue building. Later it was moved to a public school building, then for a few years has been in the larger facilities of the Gold Hill Road Church of Christ in Ft. Mill, SC. It is a cooperative effort with the Rock Hill congregation providing the program and the Ft. Mill congregation providing the location.
The keynote speaker this year will be Gary Hampton from Jacksonville, Mississippi. Brother Hampton is the author of several books and was formerly the Director of East Tennessee School of Preaching. One thing that differs from many lectureships is that several speakers are included, but very limited in the amount of time allowed. The brief time between speeches is used for singing.
It is sometimes asked why this is designed only for men. There is no reason except it is thought to be expedient and it has been successful in bringing together so many men from so many places. Some lectures have been of particular application to men and boys. Every message is intended to strengthen faith and to encourage steadfastness. Opportunity is also provided to browse displays and bookstore selections.
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There was a warm fire in the courtyard where Peter was. His surroundings were more pleasant than those in the building where Jesus was on trial. Great issues were at stake, but Peter was not concerned about them. He was thinking of his own welfare.
How many people today are willing to wait until the battle is fought before they are willing to identify themselves with the cause involved?
— Leslie G. Thomas, Another Hundred Sermons
Carolina Messenger 