Greater Mount Zion Pentecostal Church Hosts Annual “Back 2 School Summer Fest” to Support Community Students

Greater Mount Zion Pentecostal Church has returned for the third year with its “Community Back 2 School Summer Fest,” aiming to connect with the local community and support students preparing for the new school year. The event, held in Bluefield, West Virginia, brings together various groups, organizations, and agencies to provide education, entertainment, and essential school supplies to children and families.

Senior Pastor Timothy Schofield emphasized the importance of the church engaging beyond its walls to show community members they are valued. “We want to be connected to the community, and we want the community to know we are here for them,” he said. The church’s efforts reflect a broader commitment to outreach and service, aligning with its mission to serve and uplift those in need.

Local groups such as Omega Psi Phi Inc. have participated in the event since its inception, providing backpacks filled with school supplies. Ronald Epps, a member of the fraternity, explained that the initiative began with a desire to address the need for educational resources. “We found a need that… the kids need to go back to school, and we thought we could help them with supplies,” he said.

The event also featured “Bake the Barber” from The Hair Queen, offering free haircuts to children. This service, new to the event, aims to make school preparation more accessible, especially for families with limited time or resources. “It can mean a lot… especially for, like, the less privileged ones that can’t come to the shop,” the service provider noted.

Pastor Schofield highlighted the event’s impact, noting that it typically draws more than 250 people each year. The gathering provides food, fun, and fellowship, helping to ease the transition back to school. “It gets them motivated, it gets them excited, it gets them prepared for their future,” he said. The pastor stressed that community and parental involvement is crucial for a child’s education, creating a mutually beneficial situation.

The event serves as a platform for the church to demonstrate its commitment to service and the love of Jesus Christ. By engaging with the community in practical ways, Greater Mount Zion Pentecostal Church continues to fulfill its role as a supportive and caring institution.

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