JACKSON, Miss. (BP) — The 2024 Mississippi State Fair has drawn to a close, and with it, Mississippi Baptist fair evangelism. With the help of newcomers and veteran churches, groups and individuals, the engagement exceeded years past. This year, 195 volunteers had 2,824 Gospel conversations, resulting in 373 decisions for Christ.
For many volunteers, fair evangelism creates a safe environment to share the Gospel for the first time. Among the newcomers was First Baptist Senotobia, Miss., led by Pastor David Haynes, who participated in the evangelism efforts at the Dixie National Rodeo. One of Haynes’ favorite moments from his time at the Mississippi Baptist Convention Board (MBCB) tent included a member’s simple prayer being answered.
“One of FBC’s members, who is named Mae, began praying that she would be able to tell someone about Jesus,” Haynes recounted. “Mae was able to talk and pray with a young man as he placed faith in Jesus. During our four-hour session at the state fair, we had 160 Gospel conversations and 15 of those resulted in salvation.”
Hearing the Gospel for the first time evokes a variety of responses. Christians are called to share the Gospel but are not promised they will see the fruits of their labor, yet it is a gift when the Lord allows it…