Hello Folks,
     Last week I had the honor of preaching the sermon at the funeral of my pastor Vernon B. (Bert) Collins.  He was 94 years old and had been in ministry over 60 years.  When I was about 7 or 8 years of age my mother started attending the congregation he pastored in Dayton, Ohio on McClure St. in the East End.  Brother Collins and his wonderful wife, Sally B. (Bea) Collins were giants in my mind.  I remember him preaching and there was never a pulpit that he could stay in while he preached.  Sister Collins would sing and the glory of God would fill the place.  At the age of 21 I was saved, at 23 years of age I was called to preached both under the preaching of Brother Collins.  I became the youth pastor and, later, the associate with Brother Collins where he taught me so very much.  I remember going on visits and meetings with him riding in his car and him talking to me about ministry.  I became the pastor in Pekin, Il in 1980 and for the past 34 years I have realized how indebted I am to him and Sis. Collins. My wife and I learned how to pastor and care for people through their examples.  I fully believe that Bro. Collins is celebrating in heaven today and I look forward to seeing him again one day.  There were 10 preachers at the funeral who came out through Brother Collins' ministry.  God used him for His glory and I found him to be a wonderful spiritual father and friend.  I just pray that my life can be as fruitful as His was for our King Jesus.


Yours in Christ,


HGRudd