Purpose in the Park

By Editor | June 12, 2024 |

Photo by Christy Porter
Jake Carver, with Church Underground in Licking, gave an honest, compelling message at Saturday evening’s Purpose in the Park meeting.

By Christy Porter, Managing Editor

Purpose in the Park, a gathering with a purpose of fellowship, praise, worship and God’s Word, was held at the Old City Park Pavilion on Saturday evening.

The nondenominational event began with an early meal of hot-off-the-grill hot dogs, chips, drinks, and an almost world famous chocolate chip cookie.

Registration tables for Boone Creek Baptist VBS and G1 God First Free Youth Camp were set up, as well as a Face Painting station, which was enjoyed by many of the children.

Praise and worship music was provided by Mellie Simpson and Zenaida Diaz – gospel music with a Caribbean flair; and an uplifting mix by the Licking Pentecostal Holiness Church Band, whose members include Isobel McConnell, Shelly Vestal, Chris Link, Charissa and Christopher McConnell and River Vestal.

Jake Carver with the Licking Church Underground gave an honest, heartfelt and compelling message, sharing scripture and personal testimony.

“We are called to reach somebody,” shared Carver. “We get it wrong when we have a lack of love, a lack of caring, and when we forget we were dead in sin. Don’t pass the buck.”

“Every single thing you do, do for Christ,” he emphasized.

“I don’t want people to be in slavery anymore,” said Carver. And as he discovered, “When God calls you to do something, you’d better do it. Do what you’re called to do right now and let God take care of the rest.”

Others shared their testimony after Carver spoke, followed by an altar call and closing music.

A very attentive 134 attendees fulfilled the purpose of the gathering, with those of all ages and denominations joining the celebration.

“Prayer is taking place now for a future Purpose in the Park celebration,” shared Delta Hernandez, “at which we would like for more of the many area ministries to join us.”

“You should not stay away from the church meetings, as some are doing, but you should meet together and encourage each other. Do this even more as you see the day coming.” (Hebrews 10:25, NCV)