Reaching the Civil War tourists 01/15/09

Guest: John Wega (usccgettysburg.org)

Interview by: Gerry Stoltzfoos

 

John Wega and his family have an unusual  museum on Baltimore Street in Gettysburg, PA.  They teach the history of the Christian Commission to the tourists that visit Gettysburg, as a means of outreach. The Wegas share the gospel every Sunday morning in a civil war style (under a canvas) at a location on Chambersburg Street in Gettysburg. John uses salvation stories from the civil war to reach people for Christ. "We are working to invade a town that is in spiritual darkness, " he says about the ministry, which attempts to usher in a portion of the 3.5 million tourists that visit Gettysburg each year.

 

John has spent a lot of time researching the history of the battle of Gettysburg and particularly the history of the US Christian Commission. He strives to take the focus away from the gloom of the battle, and replace it with the same hope of Jesus Christ that was offered to the soldiers of the war.

 

A lot can be learned from John Wega. There is much value to knowing your surroundings and the history of the people you are trying to reach. It is to your benefit to gain the respect of the local government and authorities. God honors and gives opportunities to people who work for the harvest. The relationship is the key to ever leading anybody anywhere. You will not save anyone if they won’t trust you.