By Ben Lawson
ben@seymourherald.com
Seymour Community Church kicks off their annual Bible School this Sunday at a time when they feel programs like this are needed most.
Neighborhood Bible Time was founded 62 years ago by Dr. Charles Homsher, who recruited young evangelicals to help him spread the message by traveling across the nation.  Today, the program continues to reach young people.
“We’ve been doing this for 30 years,” said Pastor August Koster of Seymour Community Church.  “It’s an amazing outreach and time of teaching.”
Designed for children in the second grade up through high school teens, the program will take students through an instructive class time, followed by a rally time with members of the NBT organization where they will listen to gospel verses, songs and presentations.  The teens will have a special fireside event on Thursday night and refreshments will be provided for all.
Seth Williams, NBT director, said children just need to show up to register for free.  They’ll be provided with a punch card and a booklet.  By completing certain tasks, such as book assignments or bringing a friend, their card will be punched.  The punches will be tallied and awards given out during the closing ceremonies on July 3.
Koster said the importance of Bible School cannot be underestimated.
“We’ve had kids come to Bible School who weren’t in church and grow up, have their own families, and still be in church,” he said.
Years ago, the church had more than 600 children attend, requiring them to rent out the high school to hold the event.  While that number has declined, Koster still expected to see 200 students, as they have in recent years.  No matter the number, reaching out to each and every one of those kids is their goal.
“Now, in our society, it’s even more important,” he said.
Neighborhood Bible Time starts at 6:30 p.m. on June 26 and will continue Monday through Friday from 6:30 to 9 p.m.  Seymour Community Church is located at 994 South Old Sevierville Pike.  
For more information, or to schedule a ride to the church, contact the church at 577-5500.

 

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