The Petra Zone

During December 31, 2005 and January 1, 2006, I had the great honor to work with Pastor Tommy Fields of Murhphy, North Carolina.

Tommy was 15 when he got his first Petra album. The Band meant alot to him over the years.

This was the man with a right heart to be the host of the final Petra Farewell Concert.

He spoke that weekend of how thrilled he was that the Lord Jesus allowed him and his church in western North Carolina to host the concert. He was so thankful for what had touched him as a teen was able to complete a circle in life.

You can see a picture of him on the cover of our www.atwr.org web page, wearing a special Petra Farewell T-Shirt.

The following words came from his dear wife today:

"This evening at approximately 6 pm, Pastor Tommy went home to be with the Lord. He fought a 7 day battle for his life after being diagnosed with Acute Leukemia on Wednesday 11/22. He fought the good fight of faith and has by now heard the Lord say "Well done, my good and faithful servant. Enter into the presence of the Lord."

Funeral arrangements are not finalized at this time but are tentatively set for the following:

Family visitation, Friday Dec. 1st 6-8 pm,
at the Ivie Funeral Home in Murphy, NC

Celebration of Pastor Tommy's Life, Saturday Dec 2nd 1 pm, at On Fire Family Church, 4871 U.S. Hwy 64 E, Murphy, NC 28906

For more information you may call the church office at 828-837-7815, my cell 828-361-1861 or visit the church website at www.onfirefamilychurch.org.

Join with me as we remember and give thanks for the life of Pastor Fields, 9/30/1959 - 11/29/2006

AMEN!!!

I was very surprised to hear of his being hospitalized a few days ago, and then passing away.

We even talked in summer about bringing John back down....

How sad for the church, but how glorious for Tommy!

It is great that Tommy's in Heaven, but it's sad that he diagnosed with cancer and that he and his family didn't really have a chance for that news to sink in before he passed away.

The news of Tommy's death is hitting me a little more today.

Many times we give honor to the music and those who play it. Thank God for those gifts.

But, the history of contemporary Christian music is yet to be filled with kind pastors and youth leaders who would take risks to bring in a band! Much detail work is always provided prior to any concert. This was done by leaders such as Tommy and his church.

I would encourage everyone reading this post to pray for his family, and the church. Plus take it up another level, and send a card to:

On Fire Family Church
PO BOX 615
Murphy, NC 28906

What a wonderful expression of God's love for all of us to show the love to the Mrs. Fields and her family. Remember James 1:27 this holiday season.