Author Archives: John Harris

Beth, Reagan, and Myself came to FB Maryville on March 8, 2009. This was the tragic day that Pastor Fred Winters was shot and killed while he preached the gospel during the 8:15AM service. It was a scary experience, but … Continue reading →

Tragedy and a pastor’s death shock a congregation in the Illinois farmlands. By John Harris (Church Executive Magazine, Aug. 1, 2010) Pastor Fred Winters was shot by an intruder into the services nearly 18 months ago at First Baptist Church in … Continue reading →

One of the more notable of Jesus’ teaching style was that he taught in parables. They are really beautiful word pictures that stick with us. We all know about the sower who throws out seeds, the shepherd who leaves the … Continue reading →

Don’t worry, there’s a happy ending to this one, however, I’ve never been that scared. I can remember the day when my parents told me my mom had cancer, and when the cancer came back and she had to go … Continue reading →

Every organization has someone at the top, even if you’re governed by a “board” there is a chairman of the board. Even if not by title, there is someone who is the “Alpha Dog” who, either by force or simply … Continue reading →