Churches Helping Churches
Today, as we attend the 208th meeting of General Synod, we have the opportunity to share space with other Synod agencies and organizations in the Mike and Lib Patrick Conference Room in The Lodge at Bonclarken Conference Center – where Synod delegates sign in.
As Rev. Meredith Cavin stood at the French Camp Academy display table, he and FCA Public Relations Director Lance Ragsdale discussed the special relationship that Cavin’s church – Brighton (TN) ARP has formed with French Camp Presbyterian Church and the neighboring academy.
It seems that when the Brighton Church was searching for a short term mission to serve four years ago, they had to look no further than the ARP Magazine.
As Cavin read the feature about French Camp, MS, and neighboring French Camp Academy, he realized his church could help with needed repair and cleanup work at the church and the Christian school.
Since then, a group from the church has been traveling the three hour drive annually to help in any way they can.
“We fit a niche,” Cavin said. “It’s amazing what we accomplish in 4 ½ days. Cavin says they do everything from plumbing work, painting, clearing debris, and even power washing French Camp Church.
As a result of the annual mission trip, Cavin says they have made good friends at French Camp and look forward to returning each year. “We love helping a fellow church,” he said. “And I encourage churches to reach out to other ARP churches who might need a helping hand.
French Camp Pastor Alex Coblentz says Lakeside Fellowship in Mooresville NC, has also sent a mission team and New Sterling ARP will take a team this summer.
If you are interested in short term ministry to French Camp, email arpeditor@arpsynod.org. -Delores McDonald