One year ago, Pastor Eddie Miller stood in the rubble of New Commandment Church of God in Christ's building in Jacksonville, Ark. Today, with help from African American Texas Baptist churches, the Arkansas congregation is getting a new structure. 

Texans on Mission connects Arkansas church with Texas churches

In April 2023, a tornado tore apart the building of New Commandment Church of God In Christ in Jacksonville, Ark. About the only thing left standing were the crosses above the baptismal pool. Today, with help from African American Texas Baptist churches, a new building is quickly taking shape.

Texans on Mission (TBM) responded to the tornado last year and reached out to Oza Jones to let him know of the situation. He is director of African American Ministries for Texas Baptists.

Pastor Jones reported this month he was able to present a generous check to the Arkansas church with money raised by Texas African American churches.

"I contacted several of our AA TXB Pastors, and they were eager to help," he wrote in an email. "They gave to help Pastor Eddie Miller and New Commandment as he was challenged to hold the church together after losing their building and also helping his parishioners rebuild their homes."

An African American Ministries team traveled to Arkansas and spent time in prayer and fellowship with Pastor Eddie and his leadership team.

"This is why I absolutely love our TXB churches and our partnership with TBM," Pastor Jones wrote. "May the Lord continue to use the New Commandment Church to be a light in the city of Jacksonville. Let’s continue to pray for Pastor Eddie and New Commandment."