The Greatness of Andy Merritt
by Thomas A Glessner, J.D.
In the first moments of my interview with Andy Merritt for my Care Net book, Leading for Life - 10 Stories of God’s Transformational Power', I realized Andy was a Hero among heroes and a Leader among leaders. Andy Merritt’s passion for his Heavenly Father, for the unborn and for pro-abundant life was palpable. Andy’s story, shared for the book, revealed a life poured out in love and service.
His passion, born from his encounter with a Holy God when he was a college student, never lessened. At this interview nearly fifty years later, Andy still a pastor, had helped establish more than five hundred pregnancy centers and provided many free conferences to encourage pro-life workers.
In this God-timed interview, Andy again encouraged centers, “God is using the worsening storm of opposition to define and increase their ministry.” Andy concluded his encouragement with, “Do not retreat! Advance as never before. Regardless of the price and in spite of persecution, prepare, follow and suffer for Jesus.”
Andy’s stated goal for hosting his free conferences over the years had been to give pro-life workers a ‘hero’s welcome!’ Shortly before my book with Andy's story was released, Andy received his new calling. “Andy, my good and faithful servant” God called, “COME HOME.” On October 11th, 2020, Andy Merritt departed this earth to be with his Lord and to receive a ‘Hero’s Welcome’.
