Freedom Independent Baptist Church Mayport, Florida

By Dr. James Kennard

A celebration is in order for Mayport, Florida. For years something has been lacking in this area. While there are numerous churches in the area, there has not been a concerted effort close to the base to reach the thousands of sailors and coast guard stationed at this location.

Freedom Independent Baptist Church now exists, specifically with these service men and women in mind, for the purpose of carrying out the Great Commission. On May 7, 2006, the doors were opened for the first time. I was personally impressed by all I saw and heard while I was present at this momentous occasion.

As one might imagine, much hard work went in to preparing for this day. Missionaries Chris and Lou Anne War led the way as 35 members of their sending church (Putuxant Baptist Church in Maryland) arrived a week earlier for the purpose of canvassing the area with a welcome for all to come and worship. Their hard work and commitment to be a part of this monumental occasion paid off with rich dividends.

There were 58 visitors on this day, in addition to the group from Maryland, a total of 95 altogether. So much planning and hard work went in to making this day possible, and it was truly exciting to see the immediate results. This first service was the organization service, with the roll open for the first month, in which all who joined would be considered charter members. Now the sailors, airmen, and marines stationed at Mayport, and those passing through, will have a ministry specifically designed to meet their spiritual needs.

Baptist International Missions, Inc. is proud to be a part of this great work, and we look forward to all God is going to do as we partner together for the work of the Kingdom. As our young men and women of our armed services are deployed and reassigned globally, there is great anticipation as to the impact that Freedom Independent Baptist Church is going to have in their lives. Now, when a sailor or marine is transferred into the Mayport area, sending pastors will have a church near the base to recommend. In addition, as Freedom Independent Baptist Church co-ops with BIMI, Pastor War will have churches that he can recommend as his people are reassigned to the four corners of the world.

Please rejoice with me and please continue to remember Pastor War and his family as they faithfully serve Christ in Mayport, Florida. Join with me in prayer for this great work, and pray that many lives will be changed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our hope and prayers are for God to impact the lives of thousands as He tarries His return.

Editor’s Note: Freedom Independent Baptist Church organized with 26 charter members. At this writing, they have had more than 55 professions of faith and more than 15 baptisms.