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Written by Sparky Pritchard Saturday, 17 October 2009 07:00

Who will ever forget the horror and tragedy of 9/11?  (I can’t tell you how often I have glanced at a clock and seen that it is 9:11 AM or PM and images rush back into my mind!)  Thousands of lives were lost in the attacks on twin towers of New York, at the Pentagon in D.C., and in the fields of Pennsylvania.  “Where was God in all of this?”  It’s a question many have asked.  And with the approach of Veterans Day, we have invited Lt. Col. (Ret) Brian Birdwell, a survivor of the terrorists attack at the Pentagon, to share how God “fit” into that ugly scene that left Birdwell marred for life.  The American Airlines jet struck just 20 yards from this man.  The ensuing explosion and fire threw him to the floor, a flaming mass.  By God’s grace and in His sovereign plan, Birdwell survived though severe burns covered 60% of his body.  Those who have heard his testimony have been moved to tears and strengthened in their faith.  I want you to experience this first hand.  Join us on Sunday night, November 8, at 6:30 P.M. as we honor veterans and celebrate our heritage in Patriotic song and a soul-stirring video presentation.  After the service you will have an opportunity to meet Lt. Col. (Ret) Birdwell at a reception in our Fellowship Hall and get a copy of his book, Refined by Fire.  To learn more about this man visit his website at www.facethefire.org

The following week (November 15) we will welcome back The Brethren, an incredible vocal group that has blessed us on two other occasions.  With four recordings now released – Brethren: The Hymn Project, How Sweet the Sound, Then Christmas Comes, and Homeland – the rich harmonies of these men are gaining a wide hearing.  You don’t want to miss this opportunity to be blessed by their music.  Their latest project, Homeland, is a collection of patriotic songs accompanied by orchestra and organ including The Star Spangled Banner, God Bless America, and many other favorites.  Our evening service will be preceded by Soup, Salad, and Song at 5:00 P.M.  (Tickets for the meal are $4.00 per person or $20 maximum per family.)  This will be a time of great fun and fellowship.  Then our hearts will be enriched by an evening of praise and worship at 6:30 P.M. – with a sprinkling of Christmas thrown in for good measure to prepare us for the approaching holiday.  Their website – www.brethrengroup.com – will provide additional information about their music.

Reserve space on your calendar for these exciting events at Immanuel.