When I arrived at church on Sunday, July 5, to pray with our youth who were leaving for Passport camp, I learned that the air conditioning was not working in the sanctuary. Not the news a pastor wants to hear on a Sunday in July before church. A technician was on the way but even if the system could be repaired quickly, there wouldn’t be enough time for the room to cool down safely for people to gather. (We later learned that the system had blown a fuse, and the technician needed to drive to Willow Lawn to get the part.)  

So, I collaborated with Pastor David and several key leaders, and made the decision to move the worship service into the Family Life Center (FLC). 

It was about 9:00 a.m., and we had a lot to do. But I had to remind myself—this is Huguenot Road. Our folks didn’t skip a beat. Numerous members stepped up and asked, “How can I help?” “What can I do?” “Just say the word!” 

We sent messengers to every Sunday School class to share the update. Isabella posted on social media, and I sent an email to the church. Others began setting up chairs in the FLC. Another crew transported the Communion table, bread, juice trays, and other worship implements. The media team quickly went to “Plan B,” setting up the sound and video so we could have a fully functional service. Deacons, ushers and greeters all stepped into their roles. Bob Ford accompanied the choir with the digital keyboard, Bill Torres on trumpet, and Jason Naggles on bells. Pastor David and the choir pivoted and beautifully to lead the hymns and anthem. And Beth Parker offered a children’s message that became a lesson for us all. 

Yes, the air conditioning was down. It was inconvenient. But we rose above the problem—and we worshiped! We did not allow the circumstance to overshadow our purpose. Instead, we gave thanks for a campus that allows for flexibility and for the vision of those who came before us, who built a climate-controlled multipurpose space. In a real sense, we honored our foremothers and forefathers as we worshiped together that morning. 

What did I see on Sunday? Not a problem—but the essence of Huguenot Road Baptist Church.  

I saw a people who are loving, unselfish, collaborative, creative, and resourceful—people who are willing to adapt and unafraid to roll up their sleeves and serve. Whether facing a global pandemic, a broken boiler, inclement weather, or a blown fuse during triple-digit heat—or whether stepping forward in generosity through food offerings, Vacation Bible School, Operation Christmas Child, disaster relief, mission partnerships, or, or paying down the church mortgage—we are blessed with some of the most faithful people anywhere.  

This is what makes HRBC a church for the people—a place to call home.  

And if we can rise up with such unity and purpose in the face of challenges, imagine what God can do when that same spirit is directed toward those who are unchurched and far from God?  

This Sunday, July 12, I’ll be preaching Part Two of our July series, We Hold These Truths, focusing on “Soul Freedom,” one of the four historic Baptist freedoms. I hope to see you there! 

God’s blessings,