By Mark Hershey

Recently, Freedom’s Way Baptist Church hosted its “Meet the Candidates” event.

Pastor Jerry Cook of Freedom’s Way Baptist Church opened by saying the program provides an opportunity for the people to meet the candidates who seek to represent them, an opportunity for candidates to meet their constituents, and a chance for the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ to reassert our dominance as a force for good and righteousness in the world.

Pastor Cook welcomed 15 candidates during the service and granted them approximately two minutes to introduce themselves and say a few words.

United States Senate candidate Mark Meuser spoke with energy and encouragement. We learned he is a devout Christian with a very engaged religious family.

United States Congressional candidate Lucie Volotzky, a regular visitor of Freedom’s Way Baptist Church, spoke with her usual candid and honest approach about how she will serve our community.

Other candidates included incumbent Councilwoman Marsha McLean and newcomer Denise Lite for Santa Clarita City Council, as well as Joe Messina, Robert Jensen and Teresa Todd for the William S. Hart School District;

Sharlene Johnson and Jesus Henao attended the event as candidates for the Saugus Union School District, Bill Cooper and Maria Gutzeit are running for Santa Clarita Water Board, Abby Baron for L.A. Superior Court Judge, Marie Manvel for Board of Equalization Member, District 3; and Jessica Martinez and Raul Ortiz, Jr. for California Assembly Districts 56 and 64.

The message was given by Todd Starnes, a devoted Christian, Constitutional conservative, columnist, and syndicated radio host.

Starnes opened by telling us he traveled here from Memphis, Tennessee: home of Elvis, Justin Timberlake and smoked pork butts.

His sermon concentrated on keeping God involved in our country. When God is taken out of our founding documents and government, the citizens will experience chaos.

He recalled a CBS program reporting on the Taliban which said when they invade another country, the first thing they do is target their cultural centers: burn down museums, tear down statues, take down pictures, remove historical records.

That process seems similar to what is going on now in the United States. He continued by saying if we really want to fix what is broken in America, it will start in the Church house, not the State house.

We, Christians, must stand resolute and defend our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Following the extended service, Jersey Mike’s meals were served with an overabundance of desserts.

The candidates stayed for lunch and mingled with Church members and visitors for another hour. Candidates were able to answer individual questions and get to know everyone a little bit better.

Everyone left with a full belly and closer view of the candidates.

Another great week at Freedom’s Way Baptist Church.

Ed. Note: This story was written by Mark Hershey

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