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Grandson of Billy Graham to be guest evangelist

COURTLAND

As a way to uplift and unify people, Courtland Baptist Church has planned a two-day revival to feature Jonathan Lotz, a grandson of the late evangelist, the Rev. Dr. Billy Graham.

The prelude will begin at 7 p.m. on Nov. 14 in the church, which is located at 22264 Main St., Courtland. The Sunday service starts at 10:30 a.m., and the main event will commence at 3 p.m. on the Franklin-Southampton Fairgrounds, 25374 New Market Road, Courtland.

Jonathan will be present for all three services, said the Rev. Dr. John-Paul Lotz, cousin to the guest speaker.

The pastor said about about Jonathan, “He’s kind of an evangelist at a lot of churches. To some degree he’s regional — mostly preaching at small churches in North Carolina. I felt like he would be an ideal guy to speak to us. He is a great and personal speaker and a friendly guy.”

In large part, hope will be the guest’s theme.

“What do we hope for in times of crisis,” asked the host pastor, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, political, financial and social turmoil in this country and the world. He added that getting through such seemingly insurmountable challenges “takes something bigger than yourself.”

Further, Lotz said that “people are struggling with despair and profound loneliness. [Citing social media] We’re relating to one another in unfulfilling ways. We need to know we’re not alone. This will be a message of hope about a God who loves us all. You need a community to reaffirm and grasp that.”

Should the weather be favorable, the revival will take place outside at the stage. If otherwise, the service will be moved indoors. There is room for 250 people, which takes into account social distancing. Attendees are to bring their own chairs or blankets. Wearing masks is encouraged.

For more information, call 757-653-2945, email courtlandbaptistsecretary@gmail.com, or visit www.courtlandbaptist.org.