contributed by Libby Doss Lloyd, APR
Fellowship. Community. We seek both. When we’re fortunate to find them, we embrace them.
The North Little Rock First United Methodist Church (NLRFUMC) did that when recently hosting their first-ever back-to-school event for the youth, their families, and those they had connected with through summer ministries.
The “Taco ‘Bout A Party” event, held on Sunday, August 7, followed the “Blessing of the Backpacks” morning worship service. Over 100 attendees feasted on a wide array of tacos, burritos, nachos, salsa…you name it, they had it!
One of the biggest hits was the dessert table. Correction: tables – plural! This youth-inspired addition was a friendly competition judged entirely by the youth and children.
No youth event is complete without games – ‘Taco Games’ to be exact. Tortilla Toss? Check. Congratulations to the winners!
The “Welcome Back to School” sign station for the church’s neighboring school, Indian Hills Elementary School, was extremely popular. Attendees took turns making signs that were used on the first day of school to greet the young students. Church members held signs wishing the students a wonderful year.
“This event was a great way to get everyone together after a summer of activities,” said Senior Pastor, Rev. Sara Bayles Charlton.
Throughout the summer months, the NLRFUMC hosted a Summer Reading Camp, Vacation Bible School, and a Youth Mission Trip. The fiesta-themed event was a creative way to build upon the church’s existing efforts and bring summer to a close while welcoming the new school year for the youth. It has provided a new opportunity to open the door for future ministries and outreach.
Charlton added, “As I personally reflected on the evening, I was reminded of how much people desire to be part of a community, to gather together, and now more than ever to have that strong sense of fellowship.”
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. – Matthew 18:20