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Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists
2025 Proceedings
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
EASTERN DISTRICT ASSOCIATION

Thursday Morning, October 2, 2025

The Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists convened in its 173rd annual session hosted by Marion Robinette Memorial Church in Rogersville, TN

Marion Robinette Memorial

Christians who were interested in building a Primitive Baptist Church near Hawkins-Greene County line met at Brother Jeff and Sister Virginia Burchette’s home one night in 1947. This body agreed to build a church on land in back of the new cemetery donated by I. H. Robinette Sr. This group was led by Virginia Robinette Burchette, I. H. Robinette, Sr., Luther Robinette, Vada Robinette Carter, Leonard Robinette, Marion Carson Robinette Sr., Lester Robinette, and Polly Robinette Ward, children of Elder Marion Franklin Robinette, who wished to build a church in their father’s memory. They began work by cutting timbers, sawing logs, and delivering logs to the designated location. Monetary donations include 87 individuals, families, organizations, churches, and members of the surrounding communities. Henry Hawkins was employed as chief carpenter. The group organized into a body of worshipers to be known as Marion Robinette Memorial Primitive Baptist Church, named in honor of Elder M. F. Robinette. Nineteen members of sister churches Hopewell, Sulphur Springs, Long Hollow, and Caney Creek came by letter to become the charter members of the church.

The church was established on November 5, 1950, and the building was dedicated on July 22, 1951. The church has had 5 pastors: Elder Dana Crawford, Elder John Henry Sybert, Elder John Arnott, Elder Everette Weems, and Elder Curtis Hale. Four clerks have served the church: Madge Burchette Kyle, Evelyn Robinette Jessee, Elizabeth Rose Kite Manes, and Shirley Sizemore Lawson. Nine deacons have served the church: Jeff Burchette, Bob Kyle, Marion Carson Robinette, Sr., I. H. Robinette, Sr., Lester Robinette, Charlie Gray, Steve Burns, Bill Manes, and Ralph Lawson, Jr.

Marion Robinette Memorial hosted the association in 1957 and 1967 and is blessed to host it again this year, the seventy-fifth anniversary of the church.

Smiles were abundant as God’s children convened for the 173rd annual session of our beloved Association hosted by Marion Robinette Memorial Church. Sisters Zula McCullough and Kim Robinette, and Brother Bradley Brown led the congregation in singing songs of anticipation of our Heavenly Home. We’re looking forward to a wonderful time this week and a more wonderful time when get to our real home. Jesus saved my soul from death, so I’ll live on when He opens the gates of Gloryland. There’s no other friend on whom we can depend.

Elder Terry Sizemore, the moderator, welcomed everyone to the 173rd annual gathering of the Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists, thanking God for how good He is and for the blessing to gather in His name once again. He spoke to the lost, stating his desire is that they’ll come to know Jesus before they leave the grounds today.

The Moderator asked all ministers to sign the minister’s book, including ministers from other associations and church affiliations.

The moderator reminded everyone to turn in church letters, obituaries, and financial contributions. The Letter Committee for 2025 was appointed beforehand, to consist of David Horton (chairman), Clifton Horne, R.B. Louthian, and Danny Lawson (alternate). Brother Clifton Horne has gone on to Glory, so Brother Lawson will serve in his place. Brother Corey King was added to the committee as an alternate.

The moderator appointed the Committee on Religious Exercises, which consists of Joe Horton (chairman), Roy Jones, and Butch Woodward.

The moderator reminded the delegates that ribbons are available.

Sister Zula McCullough led the congregation in singing the Association’s standard song, “Brethren, We Have Met Again” written by Elder I.S. Robinette. Let us join in prayer that holy manna be showered around this place this week.

Elder Burnice Sybert came to the stand on behalf of Marion Robinette Memorial Church to welcome all in attendance, stating it was wonderful to see this crowd. He also called on Brother Mitch Jessee, the owner of the land, to come forward.

Many praised God for His goodness and for answered prayers. Prayer requests were made for several lost souls, our country and its leaders, David VanHoose, Gail and Nancy McCullough, Brenda Ward, Vicky Jones, Roger Jones, Nora Jones, Robert Stevens, Elijah Stevens, Anita Howell and her family, Anita Moore, several members at Poplar Grove with declining health, and many unspoken requests. Elder David Roller came to the stand, thanking God for the opportunity to gather together again, and he led the congregation in prayer, praising God, thanking Him for sending Jesus, and begging that the lost would be saved.

Elder Sizemore asked the congregation to stand and sing as members of Blue Springs, Duffield led “I’ll Live in Glory.” I want to be of service along this pilgrim way and lead the lost to Jesus as fervently I pray.

Having been chosen to preach the introductory sermon, Elder Oscar Irvin came to the stand, stating that it was a privilege to declare God’s word here today and that he was thankful for the host church and their love towards us. Elder Irvin took his text from the third chapter of Deuteronomy, reading the verses 23 through 29, using a portion of the 24th verse as the thought, “O Lord God, thou hast begun to shew thy servant thy greatness.” We can begin to see God’s greatness when we look at Moses and the Children of Isreal. In the land of Goshen, the Israelites lived in peace as they were spared the plagues. We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. At the first Passover, God spared the firstborn when He saw the blood applied to the doorposts and lintel. We are spared judgement when God sees the blood has been applied to our hearts. All the Children of Isreal were able to make the journey. We’ll all be able to make the journey, too. God has provided Jesus, and He is all that is needed. When they ran out of water, Moses struck the rock of Horeb and water came out of it. We are able to drink from the Rock that was Christ, and that water is the water of life. When God sent the fiery serpents, Moses lifted the serpent of brass so that all that looked on it might live. Jesus said as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up, and if I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me. We can see the greatness of God knowing that we also have a better place to go where we will finally see His greatness.

Elder Curtis Hale, chosen as the alternate, followed, preaching from the same thought and text. When Moses and the children of Isreal were heading towards the Promised Land, ten of the spies said they could not take the land, but two had faith in God’s word. We won’t inherit a land here on Earth, but we are promised to inherit a land that is Spiritual through faith in Jesus. There is a greater home waiting for those that have accepted Jesus Christ and had His blood applied to our hearts. There is an opportunity for every man to accept Jesus. Where else could we go? Who else has the words of eternal life? Those that have been redeemed by Christ know there is a better place to go where we will be singing and praising His greatness for eternity. You must see Jesus with your spiritual eyes and accept the blood that was shed on Calvary. The same Jesus is just as real today and is still able to save. If you do not accept Jesus and be saved, then you will never enter into Heaven to see His greatness.

The congregation sang Amazing Grace and fellowshipped one with another as we were adjourned for lunch.

Thursday Afternoon, October 2, 2025

After an abundant and delicious lunch, the brothers and sisters in Christ gathered to the stand and began the afternoon service by singing “Joy Unspeakable and Full of Glory.” The moderator then welcomed everyone back for the afternoon session. There was special singing from Brothers Billy Marcum and Neil Castle.

Prayer requests were made for the lost, the sick, Betty Sizemore, Joe and Emma Jean Robinette, Daniel Hurd, Paula and Charles Ayers, Paul Gilliam, Dan and Virgie Cross, Ralph Baker, August Robinette, Mike Horne, Wanda Malone, our churches, and many unspoken requests, along with several wonderful testimonies. Elder Chris Salley came to the stand testifying of the Love of God, then led the congregation in prayer, humbly asking God to speak to the lost, to touch each prayer request, and to bless this congregation.

Brother David Horton, Chairman of the Committee on Church Letters, came forward to give the report of our state and standing. The church letter from Copper Creek has not been received, but it is expected to be delivered on Friday. With 33 churches total, it was motioned, seconded, and voted to accept the recommendations of the committee to seat those delegates duly elected or appointed by their respective churches as the voting body of the Association.

The moderator asked for nominations to serve as moderator pro-tem during the election of the association officials. Elder Oscar Irvin was nominated. No other nominations were made. It was motioned, seconded, and voted for nominations to cease. Elder Irvin came forward to serve during the election.

The moderator asked for nominations to serve as clerk and treasurer of the association. Brother Kevin Hale was nominated, and it was seconded for him to serve as clerk and treasurer. It was motioned and seconded for nominations to cease. Through the vote, he will serve for the ensuing year.

The moderator asked for nominations to serve as moderator of the association. Elder Terry Sizemore was nominated, and it was seconded for him to serve as moderator of the association. It was motioned and seconded for nominations to cease. Through the vote, Elder Sizemore will serve as moderator for the ensuing year.

Elder Sizemore humbly thanked the delegation for the honor and blessing to serve the Association. We pray that the Good Lord will guide every move and decision to help us fulfill our duties to the Association.

The moderator asked for a motion and second to allow him to appoint all committees necessary to carry on the business of the association. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the moderator to appoint any and all such committees.

The moderator then appointed the following committees:

Committee on Electrical and Technologies: Delmer McPherson (chairman), Scott Mellons, Clifford Bledsoe, Danny Lawson, Adam Lawson, and Curtis Hale.

Committee on Obituaries: Gary Hall (chairman), Shannon Payne, and Kevin Cross.

Committee on Arrangements and/or Queries: Ministers: Oscar Irvin (chairman), Scott Tipton, John Banks, Jason Robinette, Roger Van Hoose, Burnice Sybert, and David Parsons.

Committee on Newly Constituted Churches: Ministers: Mike Fullington (chairman), Sammy VanHoose, Joseph Robinette; Deacons: Doug Willis, Christopher Gibson; Laymen: Bud Dukes, Null Lawson.

Brother Joe Horton, chairman of the Religious Exercises Committee, came forward to give the committee’s report.

Revival starts at Wallen’s Creek November 16th with Joseph Robinette and David Roller. Revival starts the first Sunday in November at Poplar Grove, held by Terry Sizemore and Curtis Hale. Revival starts at Swan Creek on October 12th with Jason Robinette and Dax Tauby. Flower Gap will resume 4th Saturday night services.

The moderator reminded the delegation that Excused Absence forms are available at the clerk’s desk, as well as a Community Service form.

The moderator called attention to the Trustees list. Due to the passing of Brother Earl Dodson, the moderator appointed Rodney Dodson to take on the responsibility of that position.

Brother Delmer McPherson, chairman of the Committee on Electrical and Technologies, came forward to give the report. Brother McPherson began by thanking the Lord for saving him when he was unlovable. He also thanked the each one that helped in preparation and during the Association. He reported that two outside speakers and one inside speaker had to be repaired over the last year. There is also some obsolete PA equipment that was appraised at no value. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow Brother McPherson to get rid of any obsolete equipment as he sees fit.

It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the clerk to pay fees and replenish the necessary forms and supplies to properly perform his duties.

It was motioned, seconded, and voted to have all things which are standard printed in the minutes.

It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the clerk $2,000 in appreciation for his services.

It was motioned, seconded, and voted to allow the moderator $1,000 in appreciation for his services.

Elder Scott Tipton came forward to report that the new stage has been purchased and is being used. The churches of the Association gave in abundance, and there was money left over to donate to the Association.

The clerk reported all financial transactions for the year to the delegation. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to accept the financial report as read.

It was stated that to-go dinners would be available for anyone that would like one.

The business being concluded, the delegation was dismissed in prayer by Brother Richard Stevens until Friday morning, October 3, 2025.

Friday Morning, October 3, 2025

The second day of the 173rd Association opened with congregational singing led by Sister Zula McCullough and Brother Bradley Brown. I have found a friend in Jesus; He’s everything to me. I desire to point souls to Calvary to the Crimson flow.

Elder Terry Sizemore thanked God for all those in attendance and welcomed them to the Friday morning service. He spoke to the lost, telling them of the hope that we have in Christ.

We were blessed with spiritual testimonies from members the host church and singing of the wondrous Love of Jesus and of His mercy and His grace. There’s something about the name of Jesus, for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Spirit-filled testimonies were shared, and prayer requests were made for the lost, Hershel Baker, Betty Jo Lawson, Amy Baker, Adam and Holly Lawson, Darcy Lawson, Bobbi VanHoose, Tommy Meade, Frank and Juanita Gilliam, Sue Johnson, Nora Jones, Evelyn Trent, Anita Dollins, Mack and Bee Hatfield, Emma Jean Robinette, our children and grandchildren, our churches, those in the nursing homes, many unspoken requests, and several the clerk could not hear. Elder Roger Trent came to the stand, stating God is always the same, and His salvation is always the same. He then led us to the throne of grace, praying for God to speak to the lost, to answer each prayer request according to His will, and to send His blessings down on His people today.

The moderator led the congregation in “He Got on a Cloud and Went Home.” We’ll shout the victory when we shed this old clay!

The delegation was called to order to transact the business.

It was motioned, seconded and voted to adopt the business proceedings of yesterday as amended to include the Sunday service at Rollers Chapel.

The moderator asked Sister Aubra Hill to come forward to sing as the congregation stood to stretch their legs prior to the sermons.

Elder Terry Sizemore, having been chosen by the Committee on Religious Exercises, came forward to preach the first half of the service, reading from the first chapter of the Epistle of James, verses 12 through 25. In the Garden, lust brought forth sin, and sin brought forth death and eternal separation. All of Adam’s descendants have died due to his sin. But of God’s own will, He begat us with the word of truth, that we should be the firstfruits of His creatures and find justification and sanctification in His resurrection. We can’t work our way back into grace. But we should work, because we’ve been directed by God to offer evidence of our faith. Will the lust of the flesh rule us, or will we bring it under subjection to honor God? Lust conceived into sin brings death and separation from God. We all have to repent daily, as sin will suppress the spirit and witness in your life. Jonah didn’t think the people at Ninevah were worth it, so he ran the other way. When he paid the fair, he went from the presence of the Lord. We need to repent and ask Him to bear our sins.

Samson went outside of the Hebrew people to find a wife. A little look into sin can become a lifestyle. He laid his head in the lap of Delilah, and he lost his blessing. God wants us to be a people to carry the burden of the cross for Him. He wants us to repent and serve Him instead of serving the flesh.

Elder Jason Robinette came forward, as he was chosen to take part in the second half of the preaching service, also preaching from the 1st Chapter of James. Men want to blame evil things on God for allowing them to happen, but God cannot be tempted, and we aren’t tempted by God. We are only led away by our own lusts. All sin can be traced back to Adam, but there was a good and perfect gift that took away sin so that we could say that we’re the children of God. Repent! Be saved! Get rid of the turmoil and claim peace through Jesus. We have access by faith into grace, and we can rejoice in the hope of the glory of God! Because of what Jesus did on the cross, I can live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me. It’s a gift that will never perish. You can get it for yourself for free. Why carry the weight of sin around with you? It’s stealing your joy. Confess your sins, for Jesus is willing and able to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Then you can truly know for yourself that you are saved.

Elder Sizemore made an altar call to the ones that need Christ and may be feeling His drawing power. The congregation was dismissed for lunch.

Friday Afternoon, October 3, 2025

The host church provided a wonderful and plentiful lunch. The fellowship turned into praise as singing and preaching could be heard around about the grounds. Sister Zula McCullough led the congregation by singing the songs of Zion. Praises and preaching erupted as the Holy Spirit moved during the singing. Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus our blessed redeemer! The Holy Spirit moved as we were blessed with testimonies and songs of praise from Everly, Lexi, and Payton Robinette, Millie and Camryn Hale, Shauna Bolden, David, Leslie, Katelyn, and Jack Roller, Ronnie Johnson, Antah Johnson, Dennis and Karen Stewart with Roger VanHoose, Sammy VanHoose, and Scott Tipton, and Jason Robinette. God loves us like we’re His only little lamb. He can alter your future, no matter your problem. After all of these trials, we’ll hear Jesus call. It’ll be worth it after all when face to face I will behold the one who saved me by His grace.

Prayer requests were taken by a show of hands, and Elder Kevin Cross led the congregation in fervent prayer.

The delegation was seated in order to transact the business.

Brother David Horton, Chairman of the Committee on Church Letters, came forward stating the letter for Copper Creek has been received and reported on their state and standing. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to accept the recommendation of the committee to seat Copper Creek into the voting body of the association.

The moderator appointed the Letter Committee for 2026: R.B. Louthan (chairman), Danny Lawson, Corey King, and Roy Jones (alternate).

Brother Joe Horton came to the stand with the report from the Committee on Religious Exercises. There were no changes to the previous report, but there were several additions:

The clerk read the Resolution of Thanks that he had prepared. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to print it in the minutes.

The moderator reported that there were $5,795 in receipts for the year. Elder Sizemore called attention to the fact that yearly expenses are greater than the church donations. We thank each church as they generously give to the Association year after year.

Elder Gary Hall testified and reported on behalf of the Committee on Obituaries that 30 have been received at this time. A reminder was given to turn in any remaining obituaries as soon as possible, if it is desired to be included in the 2025 minutes.

Elder Mike Fullington, on behalf of the Committee on Newly Constituted Churches, reported that none had been received this year.

Elder Oscar Irvin, on behalf of the Committee on Arrangements and/or Queries, reported that none have been received.

The moderator noted that committees are dismissed upon delivering their final report.

The men chosen to write the circular letter for 2025 were Elder Robert Brown, Deacon Corey King, and Brother Ronnie Johnson. The three men came forward, and Brother King read their letter. Its message was focused on grace and truth, which came by Jesus Christ. It was motioned, seconded, and voted to print the letter in our minutes as it was read.

The moderator appointed the Committee on Circular Letters for 2026 which includes: Elder Tyler Stapleton, Elder Scott Tipton, and Deacon Dennis Stewart.

The moderator read the Articles of Faith of The Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists and encouraged those in attendance to read along with him.

Brother Carl Osborne led the congregation in singing “When the Roll is Called up Yonder” as several volunteers took up an offering. A generous donation of $1,900 was received.

There were four churches that asked for the association to meet with them next year. These are Blackwater Lick, Fairview (Bellbrook), Marion Robinette Memorial, and Poplar Grove. Marion Robinette Memorial withdrew prior to the plea.

The moderator reminded the delegation that only those chosen or appointed by their respective churches as delegates were allowed to vote, and the maximum number of votes per church was 4, if all delegates are present. Likewise, if only one delegate was present, then the church would only have one vote.

Elder Mike Fullington delivered the first plea for Blackwater Lick to host the next Association. Josh Harkleroad made the initial plea on behalf of Fairview. Steve Hunt came forward to ask for the Association to come to Poplar Grove. Danny Lawson made the second plea to host the Association at Blackwater Lick. Elder Joseph Robinette then pled for the Association to be sent to Bellbrook, OH. The last speaker was Elder Oscar Irvin, pleading on behalf of Poplar Grove.

There was no clear majority following the initial vote for the three churches. The church with the least number of votes, Fairview, was removed from the next round of voting. Through the vote between Blackwater Lick and Poplar Grove, the Association was sent to Poplar Grove, where, the Good Lord willing, we will convene on the Thursday morning (October 1, 2026) before the first Saturday in October 2026 for the 174th annual gathering. The introductory and alternate sermons will be preached by Elders Oscar Irvin and Burnice Sybert, respectively.

Elder Scott Tipton dismissed the congregation in prayer.

We were adjourned until Saturday morning, October 4, 2025.

Saturday Morning, October 4, 2025

The sun rose bringing warmth to our bodies as God’s children gathered once again for the Saturday service. Sister Zula McCullough and Brothers Bradley Brown and Carl Osborne led the congregation in songs of praise bringing warmth to our spirits. Tell the world that Jesus saves today! Earth holds no treasure, but Heaven holds all to me. I’ll be satisfied when I’m praising Christ the Savior in the promised land above. Won’t it be wonderful there!

Elder Terry Sizemore welcomed everyone to our Saturday morning memorial service of the 173rd annual gathering and thanked God for the wonderful time this week.

Special singing was shared by Mark Dickerson, the pastor at New Freedom Church, Vahl Gosnell, Danita Dodson, Kim Robinette, David and Wanda Parsons, and Bradley Brown. Testimonies were made to glorify God, and prayer requests were spoken for the lost, the sick, our churches, the upcoming revivals, Daniel Hurd, Mary Hensley, Roger VanHoose’s family, Easton Leonard, along with many unspoken requests. Brother Roy Jones led us in humble prayer to our Heavenly Father, thanking God for the opportunity to tell Him the most sincere desires of our hearts, praising the True and Living God for salvation, and asking God to save the lost.

The delegation was seated in order to transact the business.

The moderator reported on behalf of the Committee on Religious Exercises, stating there was one addition since yesterday’s report.

It was motioned, seconded, and voted to adopt the business proceedings of yesterday as read.

It was stated that the Electrical and Technologies, namely Adam Lawson, could help get announcements on the website, if desired. We certainly appreciate all the work he does for the Association.

Elder Curtis Hale came forward on behalf of the host church, giving thanks to God for the opportunity to host the Grand Ol Body and for all the blessings He provided in doing so. He also extended special thanks to: Frost Construction, S&J Produce, Rogersville Produce, Hawkins Co. Co-op, MC Septic, Premium Waters, Ingles Market, Loves Truck Stop, Food City, Super Dollar, Phillip and Nancy Thurman, Glenda Edwards, Vicki Goforth, L. Paul Hale, Richard and Donette Carter, Travis Arnott and family, Mitch and Kim for use of their land, the ones that attended the Association, the ones that helped the hosts, and ones that brought cakes and pies. Mitch Jessee came to thank Curtis and Kendra Hale and all those who attended.

For many years, the Saturday morning service has been dedicated as a memorial service for those saints who have been called home to Heaven. The moderator read the names of those saints that have gained their eternal reward in the past year.

Sister Zula came forward to sing as the congregation stood. The sun of our life is sinking fast, but He’s prepared a beautiful eternal home for us.

Elder Burnice Sybert, who was chosen to take the first part of the preaching service by the Committee on Religious Exercises, came to the stand sharing some of his personal history in the association. The first memorial service was held in 1956, just one year before Marion Robinette Memorial hosted the association for the first time. Elder Sybert then read from the 14th chapter of Job verses 1, 2, 5, 6, 10, and 12, with his thought coming from the 5th verse, “Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months are with thee.” Death will come to us all, just like it did to all the ones before us. Just like every name that was read, God has set the bounds of time that we cannot pass. The most important thing is that at some time in their life, they have given their heart and life to the Lord. You must accept Jesus when the Holy Spirit calls. Don’t pass on the Lord when He passes by you. If you die without Jesus, it will be too late. Don’t turn down your opportunity to be saved. When death comes, there is no fear if you’ve prepared for death by accepting Jesus. Your name must be in the book of life, otherwise you’ll hear depart from me, I never knew you. If your name is in the book by believing and accepting Jesus into your heart and life, then you can hear “Well done, good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”

Elder Mike Fullington came to the stand to take the second part of the memorial service, testifying and thanking God for all He has done for him and for our goodly heritage. Elder Fullington preached from the same verse. Since we don’t know the bounds of our life, we need to do our part to praise and serve God while we are able. Those that died in faith were looking forward to Christ. We should press forward and fulfill our days serving the Great I Am, wholeheartedly, praising him above all else. We have do our best today, always moving forward, since we don’t know when death is coming. We have a hope of a better day if we can say “I’ve been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,” but we can only say it for ourselves. Stand on the foundation that is Christ; it’s always been Him and only Him. Let us keep the goodly heritage of Christ going, moving forward today, not waiting until tomorrow.

Elder David Parsons was chosen to preach the final portion of the memorial service, also preaching from the 14th chapter of Job. Sin in the Garden brought for death by separation from God, but it also brought forth death of this natural body. List of names were ones that professed faith in our churches and reached their bounded time. There is also a set time when mankind will end that only the Father knows. God set up certain things so people can understand others. The law was to show there was nothing we could do to save ourselves. It is appointed that we will all die. After death, there will be a judgement. God sent His Son to reconcile the world, so death would be a reunion instead of a separation. Our life is brief compared to eternity. If you’ve not been washed in the blood of the Lamb and cleansed, then you’ll take part in the second death, cast into the lake of fire forever. You need to know that you’re saved and know that Jesus is coming back. When He does, the dead in Christ will rise first, and we will begin an endless day. He will call and we will have to answer.

It is wonderful when our loved ones have left a testimony so that we might have joy in knowing they are with Jesus when they have moved from time to eternity.

Elder Terry Sizemore spoke of blessing it has been for him to serve 31 years as moderator, and he asked that the Association pray for God’s guidance in selecting a new moderator next year.

Brother Andy Wallen came forward to lead the congregation in singing “Angel Band” during fellowship. We were adjourned until Sunday morning, October 5, 2025.

Sunday Morning, October 5, 2025

God’s children representing several churches gathered under the tent once again for the Sunday morning service of the 173rd annual meeting of our beloved Association.

The congregational singing was led by Brothers Tommy Arnott and Carl Osborne, praising God with each song. I’m going to Heaven to be with the happy and free. When my labor and toiling have ended below, I’ll exchange this old home for a mansion up there in that pearly white city where earth’s sorrows and cares are forgotten. Make sure you’re washed in the soul cleansing blood of the Lamb, so you can join Christ on that happy day.

Brother Ralph Lawson, Jr. shared a thought that the Lord had laid upon his mind. We don’t know what the body will go through, but ones that know Christ have no dread for what will happen to the soul.

Elder Mike Fullington welcomed those in attendance to the Sunday service of this Association. How wonderful it has been to see the Holy Spirit move from breast to breast this week. What a wonderful and awesome God we serve and how wonderful it is to know Him.

Spirit-filled testimonies were shared, thanking God for His Spirit at this Association and meeting with us again, just as He has met with us since the beginning. Prayer requests were made for the lost, our churches, the association, John Huggins, Shelby Roberts, Danny and Becky Lawson’s grandchildren: Darcy Lawson, Deion Talbott, and Casey Hartsell, and many special unspoken requests. Elder David Stapleton lead us in prayer, thanking God for salvation and asking God to answer these prayer requests according to His will and to have mercy on the lost.

Elder Jason Henry Robinette came to take the first part of the preaching service, reading first verse of the 43rd chapter of Isaiah and verses 6-17 of the second chapter of the First Epistle General of John, with the thought coming from Isaiah, “I have called thee by thy name.” After Adam ate of the tree, God called him by name in the Garden. God spoke unto Abram by name, that Christ might come through his bloodline. Jesus spoke to Mary when she came to the tomb. She didn’t recognize His image, but she recognized His voice when He called her by name. He called us by name to be saved, and when He comes back to receive us into immortality, He will call us again. Salvation must come through the blood of the Lamb. The Lord is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. When we answer His call, we’re placing all our hope in Jesus and in His righteousness.

Elder Tyler Stapleton came forward to preach the second half of the service, preaching from the same text in Isaiah. The god of this world has blinded the lost that they can’t see the Light of the Gospel. The Light is always able to overcome the darkness. That Light is Christ, and we are the light to the world. Jesus came to reconcile us from a dead state to a lively hope. Jesus went to the tomb of Lazarus and told them to roll back the stone. He cried with a loud voice and called to Lazarus by name. He had to be set free from the grave clothes. He had already told Martha “I am the resurrection, and the life.” When we believe on Jesus, we are set free from our dead state. You must accept Him and claim Him when He calls your name. He opened the book of life and has written our name in it. No one can take our name out of that book. Claim the blood-stained banner of Jesus. Leave the darkness for His marvelous light. When He calls your name, accept Him at an altar of repentance, so you will know Him in the power of His resurrection.

Brother Tommy Arnott sang as the congregation fellowshipped for the final time under the tent this year. God has blessed His children all week, and I pray that God will continue to bless us throughout the year. Be much in prayer for the 174th annual session of the Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists to be held at Poplar Grove.