It was an inspiring and encouraging visit to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mattoon, Illinois, around an hour east of Springfield, IL (if you were a fast driver).
The visit started with a presentation on Saturday Feb. 23rd, at 1 PM. In the beginning, I was concerned and thought that a few people would show up, because the church was in the middle of the fields. Just a few minutes before 1 PM, scores of people started to arrive, and the fellowship hall was full, with the president of the District, in Central Illinois, Rev. Mark Miller in attendance. That was the inspiring part, with farmers interested in reaching lost souls, and asking good questions on Islam. Mostly elderly people who still carry in their veins the faith in the American dream, and the values of chivalry future generations will miss.
Also preaching on Sunday from a traditional pulpit, like that of Dr. Martin Luther, was an experience in itself, reminiscent of my days, as an interim preacher, at Tabor Lutheran in Chicago, IL, that has almost a similar one. My host, Rev. Rev. Paul Hopkins,
In addition, it was encouraging to visit with a brother and sister in Christ, on fire for the Lord; Rev. Paul Hopkins, and his wife Joan. Mrs. Hopkins made our visit most enjoyable with her generosity and hospitality.
Finally, the small Salam delegation of four drove to the Capitol in Springfield, IL, for an educational tour on American history.
Hicham Chehab