South Baptist Church Sets Out to Fill Community Needs

Before Irene arrived like an unwanted guest, the Second Baptist Church held a “no charge for anything event" on Saturday. The event was a free flea market and a back to school give away.  

The church, located on 640 Race St. in Bristol, is “actively engaging” residents in need. A collection of clothing, shoes, bikes, microwave ovens were among the items available. 

“One of the deacons here at the church had a bed set he wanted to donate and from there the congregation got involved. We started to collect items and supplies to have this double event," Rev. Darryl Jones Sr. said. Jones has been the pastor of the church for 10 years.

“This event is to let the community know we are here, have been here, and whoever needs resources, we can assist them.”

The general consensus of many who attended was that a lack
of jobs, a tight economy, and cuts to local resources is why help like Second Baptist Church is providing, is really needed.  

Wayne Pennington picked up a bike “that will allow me to work. I live in a recovery house and right now with things being the way they are, If I can save some money and get something that will help me save, it’s a win–win for me,” he said.

The second part of the day involved giving away school supplies to kids living in the area. Backpacks—120 of them—filled with binders, notebooks, crayons, rulers, glue and pencils were given out to local children. 

“There are teachers buying supplies for the kids because families can’t afford it right now. People are out of work, lost jobs, the resources just aren’t there," Rev. George Legette said.   

Dana Wigfall who came for school supplies for her children said, “this is a big help with prices for school supplies so high... and the increases on utilities, the church doing this is a life saver!”

Wigfall’s daughter, Lark, smiled and added that she got all of the supplies she needed.

The church is in the process of developing a Christian family life minsitry program for the community that should be ready by the middle of 2012, according to Rev. Jones.

“Fellowship with the community and for the community,
that’s what we are here for. To minster to basic needs...it Jesus’s way,”  Jones said.

Second Baptist Church has a food pantry that also supports the community. It's open weekly on Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m, Wendesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday Services start at 10:45 a.m., and all are welcome.