One of the greatest influences on my life and ministry through the years has been a great man named Denny Duron. As a youth pastor, I used to have Denny in from time to time to speak at youth rallies I hosted here in the Lafayette area. I'd love to tell you my main motive was to expose those young people to one of the greatest preachers I've ever heard, but the truth is I just wanted to get to spend some time with Denny. He is one of the most authentic and inspiring Christians I've ever been around. I almost went to work for him in 1993. One of the most disappointing moments of my life was when I felt I heard God tell me to let Denny know I couldn't accept the position. I moved away not long after that and lost the connection with this great man of God. After returning to Louisiana in 1999, I called a couple of times to invite him to preach for me at Crossroads, but we weren't able to make it happen. A couple of months ago, I had the opportunity to reconnect with Denny through an organization he is helping to coordinate called RAN (Relational Assemblies Network). He asked my help in organizing the Louisiana network and I was more than glad to oblige. (Once again my main motive was getting to spend some time with Denny!) I just went up for a couple of days at his "Vision For A City" conference and it was awesome! The presence of God is all over everything this guy does and I am SO blessed to be reconnected to this great friend and mentor!
Jeff...I totally agree. I remember when I was a kid attending SCC (then First Assembly). Denny was a hero to me. I mean, he was a football player and that was my dream. But he also was just as passionate, if not more, for God. I always kinda felt the same way about you. I just liked being around you.
ReplyDeleteHey Jeff!
ReplyDeleteGreat blog about Denny. I don't really know Denny except for Evangel Christian Academy. We (STM) played Evangel last year and I met him after the game, but that's about it. I've heard great things about the man, though. How awesome it is for you to reconnect with him!
We had the privilage of having roosevelts office on denny's school property. Shawn and I treasured all the wisdom we get from him when he would pop in and sit for a while. Truly a man of God. Glad you were able to reconnect
ReplyDeleteDeny Duron is preaching at the church in Bossier on Sunday a.m. and on Thursday night. Sonya and her boys go there.
ReplyDeleteHe also preaches at his church on Sunday & Wednesday. The church in Bossier was having some financial problems, so he came to their rescue.
Sonya's youngest son, Evan plays in the church band. He plays guitar and her oldest son, Adam plays the bass in the youth band. They love their church!
Hey Jeff! We are attending their satellite church in North Bossier (Northpoint Community Church). Love them. I went to the Glitter Luncheon (for women!) on Wednesday. I feel about DeAnza the way you feel about Denny. So inspired by her!
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