An evening of praise

The evening of Victory Baptist Church's 24th anniversary was a service of singing and thanksgiving, with songs chosen by the congregation. Pastor Damon Covalt looked back on seven and a half years of serving at the church, and Bro. Zeke Rivera, who grew up in it, read Philippians 1:6 and gave thanks for those who have prayed over him. Pastor Devon Ortiz also rejoiced with the church over a young person who had trusted Christ as Savior that morning.

Looking ahead to year 25

Pastor Ortiz then shared his vision for the coming year, which he said will take prayer and work from everyone. His goals include seven new church families, with each household inviting others, sharing the gospel, and following up; a van ministry to bring people who need a ride; twelve lay preachers, men and young men in the church who will be trained to handle the word of God; and, by the 25th anniversary, a building of the church's own. The aim, he said, is not to build a kingdom for the church, but to build His kingdom.

God will fight for you

He closed with Joshua 23:3, where the aged Joshua told Israel, "Ye have seen all that the Lord your God hath done unto all these nations because of you; for the Lord your God is he that hath fought for you." Pastor Ortiz gave three charges. Remember what God has done for you, because if we do not take time to think about it we will miss it. Remember what He can still do, because new battles and difficulties will come, and nothing is too big for God. And do not get in His way. God will fight for us, he said, but we have to be on His side. After 24 years, he asked the church to answer the same question Joshua put to Israel: choose you this day whom you will serve.