Locking Arms Men:

Over 50 men ages 12-70 gathered at Promise Camp (Family Guidance Camp in Clinton) to be challenged in their faith by some great speakers, to fellowship with some good brothers, and to worship with Stu Hayes and the Locking Arms Band. Men commented on the powerful testimonies from Eric Gregory and from Mike Pierson. Our theme was “The Blood of Christ Speaks.” Our theme verse was from Ephesians 1:7, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace..” All of our speakers, but especially Jon Kolb and Milton Raiford shed a bright light on the power of Christ’s blood to pay sin’s penalty and with the Spirit to break sin’s power over us.Men enjoyed the camp facilities; playing basketball in the outdoor pavilion while another group enjoyed a sunny afternoon playing some touch football. the food was terrific and the ice cream buffet a very big hit. Special thanks to our brother Ed Savolskis (Conrad Catering) who catered our Friday night dinner, the Promise Camp staff and brother Jim Buchanan who took care of snacks, beverages and provided 7 off road bikes for the men, young and old alike, to enjoy over the weekend.

We had a powerful Christmas Breakfast on 12/12. Approximately 200 strong enjoyed the Christmas Carols led by Stu Hayes and the Locking Arms Band. The trumpet trio section could accompany the Angels! We were challenged by a stirring message from our brother Pastor Hollis Haff on Jesus the LIGHT of Christmas. A new twist this year that was well received; we honored Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert and presented him with our Locking Arms Challenge Coin. Tunch Ilkin has been meeting with Scott and shared some great words about Scott’s love for his fellow officers and his spiritual commitment. Scott spoke briefly honoring the 12 officers who accompanied him and expressing thanks for all his officers and for their invitation to join us. This was followed by a prayer for all Pittsburgh P.D. personnel led by John Cullen. Our board member Bill Krahe honored Steve Sheldon and presented a Locking Arms Coin for his faith, love and great work at Training Institute of Pittsburgh (T.I.P.). From their spacious training center in Homewood they are embracing men coming out of prison; they are being trained in the building trades and placed in good paying jobs. We are very thankful for your support and prayers. Special thanks to Ed Savolskis & Conrad Catering for our breakfast, Dario Donatelli, our table sponsors and our setup/teardown volunteers.