2571 Carter Street, Lynchburg VA

Today’s visit to Harvest Baptist Church marks a truly remarkable milestone in my ongoing journey of exploring every Christian church in our city.

This 17th stop holds a special place in my heart because it’s the very church where my daughter and I were baptized on the same blessed day some years ago.

The memories of that profound moment are etched deep in my soul, and I’m forever grateful to have shared that sacred experience with my precious child.

From the moment we stepped through the welcoming doors of Harvest Baptist Church, my dear friend Jill and I were enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and friendliness.

We were greeted with genuine “hello’s” and radiant smiles, and it felt like we were reuniting with old friends, even though we were stepping into a new and treasured chapter of our journey.

As we entered the beautiful Sanctuary, a flood of cherished memories washed over me. The familiar surroundings, now upgraded and offering even more comfortable seating, served as a backdrop to the heartwarming scene before us.

The congregation was a diverse group of all ages, with many young families and energetic children who exuded sheer joy at being in church.

It was a sight that filled my heart with happiness, knowing that this was a place where everyone, regardless of age, felt completely at home. And in their embrace, I too felt right at home.

Harvest Baptist Church lives by the mission “Be The Light,” derived from Matthew 5:14, and I can wholeheartedly attest that they are living out this mission within their church community.

Their commitment to radiating the light of Christ is evident in every warm smile, every heartfelt greeting, and every act of kindness extended to newcomers like us.

Pastor Mark Snowden, a beacon of hospitality himself, personally welcomed us with a newcomer’s gift bag that held a water bottle, a bracelet, and a personal letter from him. His words were deeply meaningful and made us feel not only welcomed but genuinely embraced as part of the Harvest Baptist family.

It was a touching gesture that demonstrated the church’s dedication to creating a sense of belonging.

As the worship service commenced, the gifted worship team, led by Mel on the acoustic guitar, guided us in singing hymns that we were familiar with.

The timeless melodies of “Are You Washed In The Blood Of The Lamb” and “Where We Will Never Grow Old” filled the sanctuary with a simple yet profoundly reverent praise. In a special moment of inclusion, my friend Jill and I were invited to join the ladies on stage to sing “Hilltop On The Mansion,” a privilege that touched our hearts deeply.

A husband and wife duo, Mel and Sue, graced the congregation with a beautiful rendition of “Have A Little Talk With Jesus,” and their performance ignited an infectious spirit of joy, prompting clapping and toe-tapping from the entire church.

We took a moment after to greet one another by shaking hands and engaging in heartfelt conversations, and the warmth and enthusiasm of the congregation made us feel genuinely welcome and cherished.

Before delving into his sermon, Pastor Mark Snowden fell to his knees in prayer, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. It was a poignant moment that set the tone for what was to come—a sermon that would not only touch our hearts but also provide practical guidance for our daily lives.

The Pastor’s message, titled “Making Love Last,” centered on the sacred institution of marriage.

Drawing inspiration from Philippians 2:2, he used seemingly unconventional props like a bell and jellybeans to illustrate profound insights into marriage. The analogy of marriage as two funerals, signifying the act of self-sacrifice and unity, resonated deeply with me.

I appreciated how Pastor Mark seamlessly wove this message into our relationship with Jesus Christ, emphasizing the spiritual significance of marriage.

Throughout his sermon, Pastor Mark’s blend of humor, practical biblical wisdom, and relatable anecdotes kept the congregation engaged and enlightened. It was evident that he spoke not just as a preacher but as a caring shepherd guiding his flock toward deeper spiritual understanding.

This visit to Harvest Baptist Church was a privilege and a blessing that I will forever treasure. I’m deeply thankful to everyone in the congregation for their kindness, hospitality, and the genuine love they shared with us.

You can find out more information about the church by visiting their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/HarvestBaptistChurchLynchburg

Please plan on visiting Harvest Baptist Church in the near future, you will feel right at home, and loved!

I am filled with gratitude for the warm embrace of Harvest Baptist Church, a place where the light of Christ shines brightly, and the spirit of love and unity prevails.

As my journey continues, I look forward with eager anticipation to the next church, knowing that each stop brings with it the opportunity to witness the diverse and beautiful ways in which we worship our Savior, Jesus Christ.