By Elizabeth Lancaster
The Parsons Advocate
Three local churches will soon welcome Evangelist Dan Frederick as he arrives to preach a six night Revival throughout Tucker County. Pastors Loren and Susan Metzner and Pastor Neil Parsons say they are excited to have the pleasure of hosting the event, which kicks off at 7 p.m., Sunday, August 30th through September 1st, at the Davis United Methodist Church, continues at 7 p.m., September 2nd, at Hendricks United Methodist Church, and concludes at Hambleton United Methodist Church at 7 p.m., September 3rd and 4th. By hosting the event across the County, the group stated they hope to provide more opportunities for locals to experience Revival through Frederick’s sermons and music both of which the Pastors described as “Spirit-filled and powerful.” “He is on fire!” exclaimed Parsons, “and very much in demand. He has a large following. We had to book him a year and a half in advance.”
Frederick, a Kentucky native, is the son of the Reverend A.A. Frederick and his wife Katherine. His biography states, in the early seventies, Frederick strayed from his Christian upbringing, but reverted back to his beliefs after two near death experiences changed his life forever. He began ministry in the 1970s, singing and traveling with gospel groups across the country. He was called to preach the gospel in 1979, and left the singing group to pursue his calling. In 1996 he decided to devote his ministry to evangelism and has received many awards and recognitions for his service. Although he is one of the few United Methodist evangelists, the Pastors said his enthusiastic, Spirit-filled message appeals to all denominations, as is demonstrated by his diverse following. “He is very well-known and said to have conversed with Billy Graham.”
The Metzners and Parsons said they know Frederick personally and have hosted him during appointments in other areas. To their knowledge, this is Frederick’s first visit to Tucker County. S. Metzner explained, “Revival is such an important time to the church and to each and every one of us. We need a time of refreshing and restoration to refuel ourselves mentally, physically and spiritually. As we come into the church we are filled with the Spirit and refreshed so we are able to scatter for service in the name of the Lord.” The Pastors said they believe Frederick’s style of preaching carries the necessary elements to make their Revival successful. “He preaches salvation and hope to everyone. We are all in need of Revival, and a guest evangelist offers a fresh spiritual perspective.”
“He has a powerful, direct, scriptural approach to his preaching−it’s captivating,” said Parsons. “He also has a powerful and exceptional singing voice. In fact, Television Evangelist Charles Stanley has been known to call him out of the crowd to sing on stage. Frederick hits the ground running, filled with fire, yet he has a sense of humor. He relates to every person in the church and makes them feel as though he is speaking directly to them.” L. Metzner added, “I can honestly say he has one of the strongest altar calls I have ever seen. He is a true evangelist.”
Frederick will offer a different message each night. Love offerings will be accepted to help support his ministry. The Metzners, Parsons and the Tucker County United Methodist Parish encourage everyone to attend. For more information contact Pastor Susan Metzner of Hambleton and Hendricks United Methodist Charge at 304-478-3439, or Pastor Neil Parsons of Davis United Methodist Church (Blackwater Charge) at 304-614-8704.