FCFI Annual Conference: Finding Gospel Opportunities Beyond the Convention – by Art Free

During the 2026 FCFI Conference in Branson, Missouri, longtime FCFI volunteer Art Free challenged attendees to recognize that some of the greatest opportunities for ministry may be found right in their own communities. Art and his wife, Susan, have been active in FCFI outreach efforts for several years, sharing the Gospel at FFA conventions, local fairs, and agricultural events throughout Texas.

Art began by expressing his admiration for missionaries who faithfully serve around the world.

Having spent decades serving in the United States Army and traveling internationally, he reflected on the contrast between military service and Christian missions.

“Everywhere I went, I went with automatic weapons, body armor, and armored vehicles,” Art shared. “Missionaries go with Christ.”

He encouraged those involved in missions and outreach to recognize the eternal value of their work and the impact they are making for God’s Kingdom.

Reaching Students Where They Are

A simple question from Susan sparked a new outreach idea several years ago after attending the Texas FFA Convention.

“Why do we have to wait for the convention every year? Why can’t we just go to the FFA chapters?” she asked.

That question led Art and Susan to begin visiting local FFA chapters, 4-H clubs, and collegiate agricultural programs throughout Texas. They discovered that agriculture teachers are often looking for guest speakers and are open to hearing from individuals who can encourage and inspire students.

Using FCFI’s Wordless Bracelet ministry and sharing the Gospel message, they have been able to connect with young people and introduce them to the mission of FCFI. Art encouraged others to consider similar opportunities in their own communities.

“Every little farm community has opportunities,” he explained. “All we have to do is look for them.”

Ministry Beyond the Convention Center

Art also shared how God opened unexpected doors during the 2026 Texas FFA Convention.

After FCFI was no longer permitted to exhibit inside the convention, volunteers organized a peaceful outreach effort on public sidewalks surrounding the event. Rather than viewing the situation as a setback, they saw it as an opportunity to reach even more people with the Gospel.

What they expected to be a modest effort quickly expanded. Volunteers distributed thousands of Gospel packets and bracelets, far exceeding what they had originally planned.

The experience reinforced Art’s belief that God often provides opportunities in unexpected places when believers are willing to step forward in faith.

Standing Firm and Sharing Faith

Drawing from Ephesians 6 and the call of Ezekiel, Art encouraged believers to remain faithful in sharing Christ and to stand firm in their convictions.

He reminded attendees that ministry does not always require traveling overseas or organizing large events. Sometimes the mission field is found in local schools, county fairs, agricultural conferences, farm shows, and everyday conversations.

Art emphasized the importance of reaching the next generation, noting that young people are searching for purpose, truth, and hope. Through simple acts of faithfulness, believers can make a lasting impact on students, families, and agricultural communities.

Start Where God Has Placed You

Art concluded with a practical challenge: begin where you are.

Whether sharing the Gospel at a local FFA meeting, volunteering at a county fair, speaking with a neighbor, or investing in your own family, every believer has opportunities to serve Christ and make disciples.

“The Gospel can be shared anywhere,” Art said.

For Art and Susan Free, that commitment continues to open doors across Texas and beyond—one conversation, one student, and one opportunity at a time.