The Herald-News - News Story

Most mission teams pack up their bags and travel to other states and countries to serve, but First Baptist Church in Dayton is taking a different approach.

Dozens of adult leaders and students in seventh through 12th grade are hitting the streets of Rhea County this week in what they are calling "Rhea Rescue 2009." The catch phrase comes from Colossians 1:13, which states, "For He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son."

In accordance with that verse, the church's mission goal this year is to serve and share their faith in their hometown.

"We believe there are greater things to be done in this city," said Youth Minister David Hankal.

In the past, the youth group has traveled to places such as Alabama, Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Charleston, S.C., to do mission work, but serving in their own community presents unique opportunities, Hankal explained.

"This is out of the comfort zone to minister where we live," he said. "If you go to South Carolina, you may never see those people again. Here you may run into them at Wal-Mart."

Although performing missions' work locally bears its challenges, the church group is enjoying the week. Several groups have been targeting different needs in the county, from painting and doing construction and yard work at homes, parks or area ministries to visiting nursing homes and care centers. They are even conducting mini camps and Bible studies at various areas such as the Taylor Hills basketball court.

"These kids have a lot of love," youth group member Sarah Spivey said at a mini-camp Monday. "They seem to be really interested in what we're doing. We're having fun just playing games all day."

Several youths are also spending each morning at senior living centers and nursing homes singing gospel favorites, playing games and painting nails.

"It's harder for this age group to witness, but I think it's teaching them how to show love," church member Lynne Harrison said of the young people at Rhea Richland Seniors. "It's a great thing they're doing."

Besides branching out into the community during each day of the week, the church hosted a block party on Monday featuring inflatable bounce houses, refreshments, music and games.
They also held an outdoor praise and worship concert at Centennial Park throughout Wednesday. The group plans to finish up the week with relay races and games at Cedar Point Park on Friday.

Hankal said he hopes this week's ministering will turn into a spiritual movement in the community. For example, some of the students may continue to minister to those whom they have befriended this week.

"The opportunities are there around us - are we taking the time to help?" he asked.

Michelle Friesen can be reached at michelle.friesen@rheaheraldnews.com.