5 /5 FRANCIE BROWN: From past to present Rowland Springs Baptist has been a home to many believers. To those who have strayed and come back, to those who have been believers early in life, and to those who are just beginning the most wonderful journey of salvation and striving to be more Christlike. People here welcome you in no matter your “reputation”( some have bolder ones than others), what you look like, or where you come from. For 30 years I have attended this body of believers and have grown in knowledge of the word, become more aware of the Holy Spirit and his mighty power, and have been held accountable to my status as a “Christian”. When I’ve been down, they comfort me. When I’ve been sick, they bring me meals. When I need prayer, their knees stand by mine at the altar of the Most High God and they cover me with prayers to a Savior who is able. Are they friendly people? Do they care? Do they love? The answer is a resounding Yes. However, the body of believers at Rowland Springs are far more focused on my spiritual growth with Christ and knowledge of scripture because this is what a body of believers does. They hold you accountable, but show you love and grace. They lift you up with scripture and prayer. They turn to the Bible for answers to help you. Rating? You can’t give a rating for a church, only God can. What you can do is lift up fellows believers, show the world your fruits of the spirit, lead other to Christ. I once heard a wise man say,” we could argue all day long on each verse, each line, context, etc. But make sure the main thing, is the main thing.” Are you leading people to Christ or away? That is a question I can answer about Rowland Springs Baptist, they lead you straight to Christ and it is as evident now as ever.