The Centre Wellington Branch of the Canadian Bible Society (CBS) held its annual fundraiser at Alma Bible Church on April 5.
After Rev David Whitecross led grace almost 210 guests sat down to a beef dinner prepared by the volunteers of the catering group from the church.
Master of ceremonies Peter Ellis introduced the Hilltop Singers, a 40-man chorus, under the direction of Doug Sargent and accompanied on the piano by Joan Wilson. They offered several rousing selections of old-time gospel music. A special treat was added when the Journey Men, a male quartet, appeared from within the ranks of the chorus and presented a couple more numbers.
Rev. Don Miller, Director of Canadian Ministry for the CBS, gave an update on the translation and distribution of Holy Scripture within Canada and around the world.
The guest speaker, retired RCAF Colonel Gerry Potter, president of the Military Christian Fellowship of Canada, shared personal challenges he had been overcome by hearing and reading God’s Word as a junior officer. His marriage and career had been saved by conversion to Christ and from bible reading.
Potter’s mother, hospitalized with a deep depression and facing electric shock therapy, found healing through her son reading scripture to her over a three-day period.
Finally a disappointing posting in Afghanistan turned into a blessing, as encouraged and led by scripture, Potter helped to establish a Christian church for expatriates in Kabul.
A pastoral prayer for the evening was raised by Rev. Paul Hudson of Bethel Baptist Church, who also is retired from the RCAF.
It was an interesting surprise to Hudson and Potter to discover their paths had crossed while in service during their careers.
The evening was closed with the singing of Oh God Our Help from Ages Past and a benediction by Rev. Fran Darlington, chaplain for the Fergus Legion.
Almost $6,000 was raised and is being dedicated to the CBS support of the Canadian Military with bibles and materials to assist with the treatment of post-traumatic stress (PTSD).
