Joshua 4:6 “…so that this will be a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you, “What do these stones mean to you?”
When the people of Zion Hill Baptist Church in Cabot began to plan a celebration to honor their pastor for 25 years of ministry, church member Dennis Wilkins thought back to the Old Testament for an idea of stacking memorial stones.
Beginning with Terry Fortner’s call to the ministry in 1971, they identified 18 areas of ministry to be recognized. A church member fashioned lightweight “stones” to be stacked as part of the morning worship service on April 24. A stone representing Fortner’s call to the church in April 1997 was laid by Mrs. Freva Johnson, Zion Hill’s longest attending member.
State Representative David Ray laid a stone representing Fortner’s serving multiple times as a “chaplain of the day” to the Arkansas State Legislature and read a letter from the governor. Additionally, his service with Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief, North Pulaski Baptist Association, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary’s Extension was recognized.
Fortner’s church leadership was recognized with a stone noting the 20 mission trips he has led while at Zion Hill. A stone representing the 290 people he has baptized was laid by his grandson, Colt Fortner, who was recently baptized by his grandfather. Additional stones represented the number of weddings and funerals performed and hospital visits and home visits he has made.
The personnel committee hosted a potluck reception immediately following the morning worship service.
5 Responses
Well done, Bro. Terry.
It is a privilege to know brother Terry. He is a wonderful person and pastor. With his soft demeanor he makes you feel welcome. There are truly treasures in heaven for this man. Thanks for all you do.
What a wonderful way to celebrate a man of God. And his wife. Love to them both. Chrysti Love, Midway Baptist Church, Lamesa, Tx
So proud for you and family. What a legacy God’s best to you as you continue to serve the Risen Lord.
A wonderful Pastor and Mariah’s best friend ! We were always so proud to call you our loving friend and Pastor over 20 plus years ! A dedicated man to the Lord , your church and community . There’s a special place for your name in the book of life for certain . God Bless you and yours for all you do , and all they have sacrificed for you to serve beyond the family . Much love to you always .