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Fred Winters

I received a message from a friend of mine a little while ago about a mutual friend of ours. This morning Fred Winters was shot during their first worship service in Maryville, Illinois. Details are still sketchy, but it appears that Fred died because of his faith. My heart goes out to his wife and daughters.

In 2000 I took a class with Fred at SBTS. Fred was not a person who was easily forgotten. I remember Fred as a passionate pastor with a fervent love for lost people. I also remember a prolonged debate I had with Fred about preaching styles. Fred was right, and I have since changed my preaching style. Fred leaves a wonderful legacy of faithfulness and tenacity. He was not afraid to do church differently, and thousands of people came to Christ through his witness.

Fred’s death reminds me of the need to make the days count. His death reminds me of the new world we have entered. Times are certainly changing.

Comments

James said…
When I heard the story, the success of the church's growth, and the connection to the seminary. It all had a familiar ring.

Didn't know whether at some point you or Todd had made mention of him, perhaps neither, but it seemed to sound very familiar.

Tragic and unnecessary. One of those things I struggle to get my hands around, followed by another episode in Alabama (Anywhere close to home?).

You remain in our prayers.
March 11, 2009 at 8:50 AM
21k said…
Yeah, weird week. My first pastorate was in Samson. I also served as interim pastor of another church in Samson. Tough times.
March 11, 2009 at 10:19 AM
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