Colonial Baptist Church Blue Ridge VA

Pastor’s Encouragement - Wednesday, September 23rd

Title: “See You at the Pole 2026”
By Pastor John Wiley

In September of 1990, a group of teenagers in Burleson, Texas gathered together at their school, surrounding the American flagpole. It was a very simple concept: “See You at the Pole.” What started as an organic, student-led initiative to seek God in prayer for their school, state, and nation has spread to the whole country over the last few decades. I’ve had the wonderful privilege of taking part in SYATP for several years, which always leaves me encouraged.
This year, I had the chance to start early in the morning at Montvale Elementary School, where roughly 25 teachers, staff, parents, and kids met to pray. A nearby minister, Pastor Ricky, led our group through several prayer points. And then it was an honor to close our time by leading in singing, “Holy Forever.” It was a little misty and dark, but the light of Jesus was shown brightly on the soggy grass and wet pavement encircling the American flagpole.
Next, I traveled over to Roanoke Valley Christian School, where I had the opportunity to teach for 5 ½ years. I would say at least 50 students, with a handful or more of faculty and staff, gathered. This SYATP was student-led from the singing to the praying, and it was so encouraging to be part of that group.
While RVCS held their prayer time, Ms. Vicki Wegner joined up with Lord Botetourt High School for their well-attended SYATP. She counted 48 students, which is phenomenal!
It is wonderful to have the opportunity to pray publicly with parents, teachers, staff, and students in our country–even if it’s wet outside, regardless of the type of school or the age of the students.
This all reminds me of last Sunday night’s evening service, which was a joy to behold, our “Generation to Generation” service. Psalm 145:4-7 says, “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate. They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds, and I will declare your greatness. They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.” Yes, “They” (the next generation) can sing the same chorus of praise to God as the older generation! May we pass on the faith to the rising generation and join them in their pursuit of God.

In Christ,
Pastor John Wiley

You're Invited!!

Come join us for our Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 3rd, from 3:30PM – 6PM!

We'll have free games, snacks, hayrides, dinner, a petting zoo, inflatables, and more!!

So make plans to join us on Saturday, Oct. 3rd for our Fall Festival!

Pastor’s Encouragement - Wed. Sept. 16
By Pastor Joel Wegner

Check out some of the pics from the Christ Life Ministries “Men’s Rally in the Valley“ this past Friday night, held here at Colonial. What an awesome time it was in worship to our Lord! Our hearts were very encouraged through the Word, and one young man received Christ as Savior after the service was over. Praise the name of the Lord! 


We had an amazing first week of games!!!

Please join us in praying for our Upward Soccer players, coaches, families, and season!!