On Sunday, June 2nd, BBFI missionaries Tom and Regina Franklin and the Bible Baptist Church in Don Pedro, Dominican Republic, marked a momentous occasion with the inauguration of their new building, a project that has been in the works for the past two and a half years. This celebration coincided with the church’s 15th anniversary of preaching the Gospel, creating an event that will be cherished for many years to come.
Over 350 attendees gathered for the festivities, which featured remarkable singing and a four-hour service before the congregation enjoyed hamburgers and cake. Despite the exhaustion, the day was filled with a sense of accomplishment and joy for the church community.
“Our family was tired—exhausted actually—but it was the good kind of tired,” said Franklin. “It was an event that will be remembered for many years to come.”
Alberto Castilla, a long-time missionary friend from the Bible Baptist Church in Guanabacoa, Cuba, was a special guest. He invited the Franklin family to join their 20th-anniversary services next month, a poignant reminder of the enduring relationships and missions that started many years ago. “It is hard to believe it has been that long since we started the churches there,” Franklin reflected.
A highlight of the day was the prayer of dedication for the new building. Two individuals led the prayer. The first was Tyler Franklin, the son of Tom and Regina and current youth pastor at Overland Park Baptist Temple. The second was a long-standing member of the church. “Having Tyler come and pray the prayer of dedication was incredibly special to us,” Franklin noted.
The service also included the presentation of Jose Antonio’s family, missionaries to Haiti, who received a check for one year’s support, underscoring the church’s commitment to missions.
BBFI Missionary Wesley Lane delivered a powerful message emphasizing the importance of building not just physical temples but also spiritual lives. He also educated the congregation on the significance of the altar and the practice of making the church a house of prayer.
“Due to everyone’s busy schedules, this was the first time that all the BBFI Missionaries to the Dominican and their families have been together in the same service—and what a big blessing that was!” Franklin said.
In a touching gesture, Pastor Dial and the church presented a beautiful glass clock featuring the Franklin family and the Cuban, Dominican, and Haitian flags superimposed in the background. “It now hangs in our living room, and we love it!” Franklin shared with gratitude.
The day’s events not only celebrated the church’s physical growth but also reinforced the spiritual bonds and commitments that have defined its mission for the past 15 years.
Note: The picture from left to right – Pastor Jean Dial D.R., Missionary Tom Franklin, Missionary Wesley Lane, Missionary Erik Johnson, Pastor Alberto Castilla – Cuba, Missionary Jose Antonio – Haiti, Missionary Joshua Lane
