Mississippi Church Sponsors Successful “Stuff the Bus” Event
Last year members of Morgantown Church of God in Morgantown, Mississippi collected school supplies for one area school. This year they expanded their vision and brought a community together for a “Stuff the Bus” event. Almost $3,700 was raised in cash in addition to numerous school supplies donated by individuals and local businesses. Four area schools will benefit as a result.
Pastor Cory Odom explained the event is part of Morgantown Church’s commitment to reaching out and serving the community. “Our church’s theme this year is ‘Church for the City,'” he said. “We are being intentional to get outside the walls of the church and go into the community.” Morgantown is a rural community of about 300 residents, but the church’s vision is not confined to the local community only.
While Morgantown Church sponsored the event, Pastor Odom was intentional to include other area churches and make it an event for the entire county. It was held at a central location in the county at Columbia’s city park from 10 to 4 on Saturday, July 20th. Various singers and ministry groups from several churches entertained the crowd throughout the day.
In addition to typical carnival-style food and sweets, other activities for the family to enjoy included face painting, balloon animals, jumpers/slides, dunking booth, craft table, and fingerprint table. Several vendors had booths set up as well.
“The community really came together for this event,” explained Pastor Odom, who received air time to promote the event on a regional television news segment and local radio stations. “Businesses, churches, and community residents worked together to make this day successful.” He also noted the dedication of church members he leads each week. “We have a great team at Morgantown Church willing to work and serve. And God is blessing us,” he said. “We want to share His love by being a blessing to others.” In an economy where school supplies are expensive and finances are low, several children will receive a backpack filled with school supplies who wouldn’t have been able to have one without this event.
“Our church also commits to pray for our area students, teachers, and administrators this upcoming school year,” noted Pastor Odom.
For more information about Morgantown Church, visit them online at www.morgantowncog.org.
