LANSING, MI — On July 10, 2010 at Walsh Park, Faith Fellowship Baptist Church, located at 1001 Dakin Street, partnered with Potter Walsh Neighborhood Association and the Eastside Community Action Center along with many volunteers, held the annual “Praise in the Park Neighborhood Block Party”.
This event was filled with lots of food, fun, enthusiasm, and fellowship. Not only was this event enjoyed by the kids of the community, but many adults came out to enjoy this beautiful day in the park. This event really had a neighborhood feeling with a multi-ethnic audience. Howard Thompson who recently moved into the area stated he indeed had a joyous time with his friends along with meeting new neighbors. Maria Lopez stated she really enjoyed watching her children play with children from different backgrounds.
Throughout the day children were engaged in many different games and other activities, the adults gathered at the center stage to enjoy some gospel entertainment which included both traditional and contemporary sounds. The entertainers were very representative for both the young and the seasoned saints. Gospel performances were rendered by Teen Challenge Band, Faith Fellowship, Messiah Dance Troop and others.
Not only was there live entertainment on stage, but lots of prizes such as gift cards, Gospel and Jazz CDs, games, and other assorted prizes for the kids and adults were given away. The grand prizes were 2 bikes given away to the children. The children were filled with anticipation before the give away and each child who won a bike was delighted.
Although this day was filled with lots of food, fun and fellowship, it was also a day of “Faith”. Pastor Stan presented the gospel “The greatest story ever told: the love of Jesus Christ”. Praises where lifted to God as 27 children responded and accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. Several other children and adults rededicated their lives to Christ. Although the follow up will require many home visits and hours of one on one discussions, Pastor Stan stated “the work ahead is well worth it”. Pastor Stan is excited about the future of those who gave their lives to Jesus Christ, he stated “they are young saints now, but with the proper training they will become mature and have a positive impact on their generation for Jesus Christ”.
The final count of attendees for “Praise in the Park” was almost 300 people from in and around the community. This was an increase over last year’s 230. Many of the attendees who have attended in the past stated they look forward to the event, as it brings the neighborhood and community together in a very positive way. This event will be followed up with Vacation Bible School July 12-15, and new neighborhood summer lunch program, “Lunch on Us”. Children and Adults will be provided free lunch on Monday’s and Wednesday from 12 Noon to 2pm, and will take part in “Life Circle” discussions on how to be a positive asset to your community. This program is being sponsor by Eastside Community Action Center located inside the Faith Fellowship Church.
Faith Fellowship Baptist Church, Potter Walsh Neighborhood Association and Eastside Community Action Center are grateful to God and the many volunteers who helped make this event possible and a great success.
This story was originally printed in the July 18, 2010 – July 31, 2010 edition.
