Youth Ministry

We would like to tell you more about Spirit of Success (S.O.S). S. O. S. was started in September 1995 after a group of youth Guarantors, lead by Mrs. Ruby Strong, realized a need for a program to foster healthy behaviors and self-esteem in a faith-based environment among our youth members. Thanks to the great writing skills of Ms. Pamela Walker and the dedication and prayers of a group of dedicated members, seed money was obtained from Kellogg Foundation and S. O. S. was born.

Since then, S. O. S. has evolved from what once was perceived as a baby-sitting service for the children of members who attend choir practice on Thursday nights, to a carefully planned program designed to help build positive life skills. "We currently, have approximately 30 young people who attend S. O. S. on a regular basis and at times it even reached 40." Many of the participants are church members while others live in the community surrounding the church. Over the years we've had many programs.

* Developing high self-esteem
* Conflict resolution
* Peer dynamics including peer pressure
* The political process and mock election                     
* First Aid
* Family structure                                                                   
* Good hygiene practices
* Careers
* Behaving responsibly when home alone
* Developing good manners and social skills
* Planting a garden

We have also had numerous career day speakers from all walks of life from judges, to dentists, to plumbers.  We have also hand-made and delivered gifts to sick and elderly residents in our neighborhood during our annual Christmas carol visit to two local nursing homes.

We believe S. O. S. is bearing fruit. Our members participate in many church activities. They serve as worship leaders, choir members, and have been responsible for welcoming our visitors. Please continue to keep the S. O. S children and counselors in your prayers.

Arlena Sawyers-Bussey                                                                    Webmaster