WS Chronicle

Photo by Timothy Ramsey

BY TIMOTHY RAMSEY 

THE CHRONICLE

Church ministries use many methods to raise funds. The stewardship committee of Antioch Christian Church has found a way to not only raise money but also help others get some exercise and spread the word of Christ all at once.

The “Souls For Christ Walk” was started in 2010 as a way to raise funds for the church’s Vacation Bible School.  According to Liz Gilliam, the walk is also a way for the church to go out into the community and let people know there are those in the church who still care.

“I’ve been in walks before and have seen the success they can have, so I thought it would be a great idea to have one here,” said Gilliam.  “Our duty is to win souls for Christ, so as the church we are supposed to win souls in the community.”

The walk started at the church and continued on to the local park, where participants made several trips around and then come back to eat a paid breakfast. While some are walking, other individuals walked the neighborhood, passing out fliers that welcome people to the church.

According to Gilliam, Catherine King and her family are the real reason for the success of the walk and breakfast.  She stated that King was the driving force to get individuals to come and participate. Furthermore the entire King family helps with other aspects of the walk such as preparing the meals and setting up the fellowship hall for dining.

“We wanted to do something as a committee to help the church,” said King.  “This is a small church and we wanted to come up with anything we could do to support the church.  I was raised in this church and I just wanted to help.”

Antioch Christian’s Pastor James Gilliam was also a willing participant in the walk. He canvassed the neighborhood with other members, passing out fliers.  He says as a pastor you have to lead by example, so that’s why he walks every year.

“It’s really helped our kids and get them motivated and teaches them to reach out to the neighborhood,” said Gilliam.  “We are just doing the work of the Lord and building a foundation not only here but in the community as well.  We wanted to reach out to everyone and by connecting with the kids, maybe we will be able to reach the adults, and that is what it’s all about.”

The walk has risen in size year after year. Organizers anticipated having over 200 people come through the church on Saturday, even with humid temperatures.  The members look forward to this event every year.

“I came out today for fellowship and love of the church and to enjoy myself,” said Natasha Matthews of Antioch Christian.