Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Will MC Sesquicentennial Celebration

I have been asked to serve as a Master of Ceremonies (MC) during the Baker County Sesquicentennial Celebration on Saturday, September 24, 2011.  A full day of activities will celebrate the 150th anniversary of one of Florida's First Coast Counties.  The events will be centered around a historic area of the City of Macclenny, and will include a parade, demonstrations, arts & crafts, civil war re-enactors, historic displays in the old jail, art exhibit in the library, antique car show, a variety of music, historic tours, a fly-over by Jim Leward Air Ranch flying World War II P6’s, plenty of food, and much more!  Visit the celebration website for more information about the events or participating.  You'll also find some historic photos from the county on the site and links to even more photos of the area and families from the past.

Ok, so you may be asking, why was the 3'10" tall evangelist asked to be the MC?  I'm not exactly sure, but I'm proud to do so, because my family and I have a lot of history in this county.  I started living in the west Baker County community of Olustee regularly in 1969 beginning 6th grade at Macclenny Elementary School and graduating from Baker County High School (in Macclenny) in 1976.  My dad, Johnnie Croft, Jr. and his dad, Johnnie Croft, Sr. had lived here basically their entire lives.  In fact, my grandfather served as county commissioner from Olustee for several terms.  He name is even on one of the cornerstones of the current courthouse in Macclenny. (See Time Capsule video)

Stetson & Croft
I received my Associate of Arts degree at Lake City Community College, now Florida Gateway College, in 1978.  Have you noticed the older we get the more things have changed their name?  Maybe, it's just me.  While in high school and some in college, I even wrote a few articles for The Baker County Press newspaper.  I even co-authored a cartoon with a high school friend, David Burnett, that had a very short run (no pun intended) in the same paper.  While in college I passed a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) test and received a Radio Telephone Third Class Operator's Permit with a Broadcast Endorsement.  That was required to become a radio DJ at that time.  That led to me working for the very first radio station in Baker County, WBKF-FM "BK-92" (now WJXR), when it first went on-the-air in October 1978.  This is when our station manager Frank Thies (of WQIK fame) gave me the nickname "James the Giant", and, boy, has it stuck!!  I was on the air as a DJ and the station's news director.  While working in radio I tried my hand at entertainment.  I was a booking agent for several bluegrass, country and gospel bands, was co-promoter with Wayne Stetson, aka Cherill Mobley, of the twice-yearly Lawtey Bluegrass Music Convention, MC'd bluegrass festivals in Florida, Georgia and Alabama, and had a syndicated bluegrass music program on five Florida stations.  At one point, I even moonlighted as a part-time dispatcher with the former Macclenny Police Department.

Croft with NRSWA Reps & Gov. Martinez
In 1984 I felt the call to public service and made a run for the Baker County Commission and was elected.  During my first meeting on the commission I was elected as Chairman at the ripe-old age of 26.  (See the Flashback 1984 video In 1988 I was un-elected to the Baker County Commission!  Ahhh, Baker County politics... now that's another story.  My role in local government led me to work for New River Solid Waste Association (NRSWA) serving Baker, Bradford and Union Counties.  This put me back in public service to my home county working with local organizations, volunteers and each of our great schools.  During these "trash talkin'" days, the Lord led me into His service, preaching the Gospel as an evangelist.  I left NRSWA in late 2006 for full-time ministry service.  The Lord is now using me for more than the traditional revival meeting preacher.  The James Croft Evangelistic Association now has the opportunity, in part because of my past "careers", to be utilized by God in nursing homes, schools, prisons, on the web, and at many special events.  (See the JCEA website for info on all of these ministry areas.)

Over the years and through all of the "careers", I have continued to live in the same home (my grandparent's home) and conduct all of my adventures from the thriving metropolis of Olustee!  It has been, it is, and shall continue to be "home".

I still may not have answered the original question of "why me for MC"?  The answer could be as simple as no one else would do it?  I don't know, but it was fun reminiscing for a little while.  "Reminiscing", is that an age thing too??

NOTE: Follow Evangelist James Croft online:

Monday, August 29, 2011

Morriston Sunday Morning

I will be preaching in supply for Pastor Keith Stewart at Morriston Baptist Church on Sunday, September 4, 2011.  The services will begin at 8:30am, and 11am.  The church is located at 20291 SE 33rd Street in Morriston, Florida.  For more information call the church at (352) 528-4080.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Friday, August 26, 2011

Kidney Stone Procedure Update

I’m sorry it has taken me so long to give an update on my kidney stone procedure, but I haven’t felt much like using the computer the past 2 days.  Here’s what I know as of now:

The doctors aren’t sure if the stone will completely pass or not.  It appears that there was some “crumbling” of the nickel-sized stone, and they hope more will occur over the next two weeks and that it will pass.

I had a lot of pain the first night, and then extreme nausea and some fever the next day.  The pain has subsided greatly and is basically a mild discomfort.  However, all things change with urination (sorry to be graphic) as it is VERY painful; sometimes to the point of needing to rest afterward.  The doctor said it would feel like a knife sticking in my side and that pretty well describes it.

I will have the stent for two weeks until I return for my first doctor visit.  At that point, if e-rays or scans look good the stent will be removed.  If not, I will keep it longer or another procedure will be scheduled.

Boy, am I excited…  NOT!!  8-)

Your continued prayers are appreciated.

NOTE: Read a related post here.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Agnus Dei From Child Singer

This is awesome!

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Kidney Stone Procedure

I have a kidney stone that is estimated to be almost the size of a nickel.  I will be having a "sound blasting" procedure today which will, hopefully, destroy the stone.  The procedure is scheduled for 12:15pm at North Florida Regional in Gainesville, Florida.  The doctor says I will come home the same day if all goes well, but he warned me that due to the size of the stone the procedure may not work.  I'm praying for the Lord's perfect will to be done.

NOTE: I know believers are like "living stones", but I would prefer that not to include kidney stones!

4 Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.  (1 Peter 2:4-5 NKJV)

Monday, August 22, 2011

Morriston Baptist in September

I will be preaching in supply for Pastor Keith Stewart at Morriston Baptist Church on Sunday, September 4, 2011.  The services will begin at 8:30am, and 11am.  The church is located at 20291 SE 33rd Street in Morriston, Florida.  For more information call the church at (352) 528-4080.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Large Print Edition

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Prayer Service For Schools Sunday

I will be the guest speaker tomorrow during the Community-Wide Prayer Service at Baker County High School.  The service begins at 3pm in the school cafeteria and will include music by Junior Combs & Southern Joy, recognition of teachers, school staff, and students.  Following the service, attendees will have the opportunity to visit the school of their choice to pray for students and faculty.


Two community-wide prayer services for the Baker County School District are held each year.  The first service is the Sunday before school starts in August and the second is held the Sunday after students return to the classroom from Christmas vacation in January.


I attended Baker County Schools from 6th grade to my graduation in 1976.  I am excited about the opportunity to share Jesus during this special service.  Please join me in praying for the service and for the upcoming school year.

Baker County High School is located at One Wildcat Drive in Glen St. Mary, Florida.

Friday, August 19, 2011

Recalculating, Recalculating

I picked up an unwanted object in one of my car's tires last week as I was on my way to visit a nursing home in Lake City, Florida.  This "bolt" was about the size of a pencil and approximately 6 inches long!  My brother, John and his son Jay, came to my rescue even with the heat index hovering around the century mark.  They got me on the road again with that little "doughnut" spare tire.  Now, my plans had quickly changed as I headed to the store where my tires were purchased last October.  Two hours later I began the nursing home visit.

It's amazing how something so small can rearrange your day, and sometimes your life.  I mean, think about the "little" things that have caused you to change your daily activities and develop another plan.  It's kind of like making a wrong turn and hearing your GPS unit say, "Recalculating, recalculating."  I personally know these changes can, sometimes, completely throw us for a loop.  Let's look at some of the resulting "recalculations" brought on by this object in my tire.
  • How do I get to the tire store, after all there is no way I can change a tire.  "RECALCULATING"... I called my brother, and with God's timing, he was able to come to my rescue!
  • I had planned to pick up lunch at a drive thru and eat with my great-aunt at the nursing home.  "RECALCULATING"...  There was a take-out pizza place just a few feet from the tire store.
  • How much will this cost?  "RECALCULATING"... My warranty covered everything!
  • My nursing home visit and other errands will be delayed.  "RECALCULATING"... I spent more quality time at the nursing home than I had planned, and took care of the errands the next day.
Now, I know not every "recalculating" event we face is always painless, trust me, I've had my share of those too.  But, we also know the Lord has never let us down in the past, and He's not going to start now!  So, let's praise Him even when He's "RECALCULATING".


6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Shiloh Baptist in Ft. White Sunday

I will be preaching in supply for Pastor Earl Tuten at Shiloh Baptist Church this Sunday, August 21, 2011. The services will begin at 10:45am and 6pm. The church is located at 173 Shiloh Way in Fort White, Florida. For more information call the church at (386) 454-4978.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Predestined?

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Evergreen Service Scheduled for October

I will preach one night during revival services at Evergreen Baptist Church on Wednesday, October 19, 2011.  The service will begin at 7pm.  The church is located at 2509 224th Street south of Lake City, Florida.  For more information call (386) 935-3497.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Friday, August 12, 2011

Island Grove, FL Revival Services Scheduled

I have just scheduled revival services at Island Grove Baptist Church at the end of September.  The services will begin on Friday, September 30th and continue through Sunday night, October 2, 2011.  The Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening services will begin at 7pm and the Sunday morning service begins at 11am.  The church is located at 20905 SE 219th Ave. in Island Grove, Florida 32654.  Island Grove is 10 miles south of Hawthorne on US 301.  For more information call Pastor Steve Matchett at (352) 317-5525.

This will be my first time preaching at this church.  Please be in prayer for the preparations, services and travel.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

New Oak Grove Revival in September

Evangelist James Croft will be preaching  revival services at New Oak Grove Baptist Church next month.  The meetings will begin on Sunday, September 25, 2011 and continue through Wednesday, September 28th.  The Sunday services will begin at 11am and 6pm with the Monday-Wednesday services beginning at 6:30pm.  The church is located at 18100 NW 262nd Ave. in Alachua, Florida.  For more information contact Pastor Terry Elixson at (386) 462-3390.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on the preaching schedule of Evangelist James Croft visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Tuesday, August 09, 2011

Preaching at Praise Christian Assembly

I will be preaching at Praise Christian Assembly in Graham this Sunday morning, August 14, 2011.  The morning worship service begins at 10:30am.  Praise Christian Assembly is located on County Road 18 east of Graham, Florida.  Please be in prayer for this church as they search for a pastor.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Monday, August 08, 2011

FBC Olustee Homecoming

Gail Moore & Kevin Owen sing.
I had the honor of preaching the 71st anniversary Homecoming Service at First Baptist Church of Olustee on Sunday.  A crowd of over 110 packed into the church for the celebration.  Those attending included current members, former members, a former pastor, members of two charter members' families, and several guests.  It was great seeing friends that I haven't seen in years and visiting with some that I do see more often.  The service was filled with congregational singing led by Kevin Owen, special music by Gail Moore, a brief church history, recognition of guests and the preaching of God's Word.  The service began with Pastor Mike Williams baptizing a new believer in Christ.  What a way to start an anniversary celebration.  This shows the Lord is still at work in the church even after 71 years of service!

James Croft preaches the Gospel.
You can view more photos from the anniversary service in the FBC Olustee Homecoming 2011 photo gallery.

As a side note, I was raised in this church and baptized here (actually, in Ocean Pond) after being saved in a Vacation Bible School in Green Cove Springs, FL.  FBC Olustee also licensed me as a minister in the Gospel Ministry on Sunday night, December 4, 1994.

Sunday, August 07, 2011

Infestation

Saturday, August 06, 2011

Another Long Trip

I'll be making this long drive again tomorrow to preach "Homecoming" service at at First Baptist Church of Olustee.  The church will be celebrating its' 71st anniversary. during the 11am worship service.  Kevin Owen and Gail Moore will be providing music for the service which will be followed by dinner-on-the-grounds.



As a side note, I was raised in this church and baptized here (actually, in Ocean Pond) after being saved in a Vacation Bible School in Green Cove Springs, FL.  FBC Olustee also licensed me as a minister in the Gospel Ministry on Sunday night, December 4, 1994.

First Baptist Church is located at 23311 Lakeside Lane in Olustee, Florida. For more information call Pastor Mike Williams at (386) 438-9717.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Friday, August 05, 2011

Careful! Careful!

A wife was making a breakfast of fried eggs for her husband.  Suddenly, her husband burst into the kitchen.  "Careful," he said,  "CAREFUL!  Put in some more butter!  Oh my gosh! You're cooking too many at once.  TOO MANY!  Turn them!  TURN THEM NOW!  We need more butter.  Oh my gosh!  WHERE are we going to get MORE BUTTER?  They're going to STICK!  Careful.  CAREFUL!  I said be CAREFUL!  You NEVER listen to me when you're cooking!  Never!  Turn them!  Hurry up!  Are you CRAZY?  Have you LOST your mind?  Don't forget to salt them.  You know you always forget to salt them.  Use the Salt.  USE THE SALT!  THE SALT!"

The wife stared at him.  "What in the world is wrong with you?  You think I don't know how to fry a couple of eggs?"

The husband calmly replied, "I just wanted to show you what it feels like when I'm driving."

Thursday, August 04, 2011

Cedar Creek in October

I will be preaching on Pastor Appreciation Sunday in October at Cedar Creek Church for Pastor Wayne Williams.  The service begins at 11am on Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 11am.  The church is located at 14742 County Road 124 north of Sanderson, Florida.

Tuesday, August 02, 2011

Shiloh Baptist August 21st

I will be preaching in supply for Pastor Earl Tuten at Shiloh Baptist Church on Sunday, August 21, 2011. The services will begin at 10:45am and 6pm. The church is located at 173 Shiloh Way in Fort White, Florida. For more information call the church at (386) 454-4978.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.

Monday, August 01, 2011

71st Anniversary at FBC Olustee

I will be preaching the homecoming service this Sunday, August 7, 2011 at First Baptist Church of Olustee.  The church will be celebrating its' 71st anniversary. during the 11am worship service.  Kevin Owen and Gail Moore will be providing music for the service which will be followed by dinner-on-the-grounds.

As a side note, I was raised in this church and baptized here (actually, in Ocean Pond) after being saved in a Vacation Bible School in Green Cove Springs, FL.  FBC Olustee also licensed me as a minister in the Gospel Ministry on Sunday night, December 4, 1994.

First Baptist Church is located at 23311 Lakeside Lane in Olustee, Florida. For more information call Pastor Mike Williams at (386) 438-9717.

NOTE: For up-to-date information on my preaching schedule visit the schedule page of the JCEA ministry website. If you would like to receive schedule information via e-mail follow this link: Subscribe to James Croft Ministry Opportunities by Email.