While on assignment with Samaritan's Purse in 2008, I had the opportunity to visit with SP volunteer Richard Brown and others as they helped rebuild Franklin Avenue Baptist Church with the church's pastor Rev. Fred Luter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The church and the community around it were heavily damaged by standing flood waters from Hurricane Katrina.

The church and Samaritan's Purse made it their mission to help rebuild many homes and restore hope to residents. Franklin Avenue Baptist was a base for volunteer operations. Rev. Luter was a kind man who was clearly loved by his congregation, residents around the church and by Samaritan's Purse volunteers. 

Rev. Luter was elected the first African-American president of the Southern Baptist Convention. As a life SBC member myself, I am proud of our members and leadership for electing Rev. Luter.

©2008 James Edward Bates.

See more photos of Rev. Fred Luter Jr. at work in New Orleans

Horses in the morning light at the Gulfport home of Peggy and Mayor George Schloegel. 

See more photos of the Schloegel horses.

The setting sun cast a gorgeous backdrop as cool spring temperatures filled the air during Florence Gardens' Live! On the Green outdoor concert. The sounds of musicians The Only Sons of Murfreesboro, Tennessee,  filled Town Green as adults enjoyed barbecue as they watched their children run, play and dance to the music. This was the fourth in a series of concerts at Florence Gardens in Gulfport.

See more images of Live! On the Green with The Only Sons