Greetings, CrossNet Family!
We are off to an incredible start in 2025, as God continues to open doors for ministry both locally and beyond!
VITA Tax Ministry: More Than Just Taxes Our VITA tax ministry is in full swing, welcoming dozens of individuals through our doors. But this is about so much more than tax assistance! Each person served has the opportunity to hear the Good News of Christ and experience His love through the kindness and dedication of our wonderful volunteers. This vital program supports low-income families, the elderly, and those for whom English is a second language—giving us a direct opportunity to impact the lives of some of our most vulnerable neighbors.
Guatemala Mission: Growing and Preparing Excitement is building for our Guatemala mission trip! Led by Pastor Shane Williams, the team has already held two meetings in preparation for their journey to Patulul this fall. Interest is growing, especially as we strive to keep costs affordable for everyone. The Phil Taylor Mission Scholarship is available to help cover a portion of the expenses for those in need. If you’re interested in joining us on mission, there’s still time! Let us know by April 9th.
Disaster Relief: Serving with Compassion Our Disaster Relief efforts continue to expand! A huge thank you to Pastor Rodney Bice and Waterville Baptist for hosting our regional training event on February 7th, where 165 volunteers were equipped to respond wherever disaster strikes. Another team from our CrossNet churches, led by Bill McConnell, will be in Elizabethton the week of March 23rd, helping rebuild homes devastated by last fall’s hurricane and floods.
Through our partnership with Tennessee Baptists, we have allocated $25,000 to the Arise & Build initiative, which aims to reconstruct at least 40 destroyed homes while repairing many more. In addition, thousands of dollars in direct aid have been sent from CrossNet through our sister churches to support these communities. The work is far from over, and we are grateful for the hands and hearts making a difference!
A Milestone Moment: Launching Our Second Hispanic Congregation One of the most exciting developments this month has been the launch of our new Hispanic congregation! On February 16th, Pastor Juan Ortiz gathered with a small but passionate group at the association office to embark on this new journey. As they work toward partnerships with our established churches, their mission is clear: to reach the growing Hispanic community with the life-changing message of Jesus, which transcends all cultural and language barriers. We especially appreciate the prayers and encouragement they have received from Pastor Antonio Revilla andPastor Daniel Malone along with the congregations of Iglesia Bautista de Restauracion and Big Spring Baptist. We are thrilled to see how God will use this new ministry!
Looking Ahead: A March Filled with Ministry March promises to be an action-packed month, kicking off with our Pastors’ Vision Trip to Blue Oval City as we explore new ministry partnerships. Then, mark your calendars for our next Quarterly Disaster Relief Fellowship on Friday, March 7th, at 6 PM—featuring a delicious chili dinner! Meanwhile, our VITA ministry will continue to serve through April 12th.
Spring Training: A Can’t-Miss Event! The highlight of our spring calendar is Spring Training on Saturday, March 29th! This incredible event is designed to equip and encourage every member of your church. With specialized training for Sunday School teachers, deacons, pastors, and more, plus a mini VBS clinic, block party training, and a session on how your church can be on mission locally and globally, there is something for everyone! We are excited to offer this time of learning and fellowship, and we deeply appreciate your continued support in making it possible.
Together in Ministry Everyone at CrossNet is honored to serve alongside you. We are co-laborers for Christ, and we are excited for all that God has in store! Thank you for your dedication, prayers, and partnership as we continue to impact lives for His glory.
God bless!
Sincerely,
Johnathon Powell