Blog

We’ve all heard the saying, "The first step is the hardest." But for FBC Ripley and their Beach Club, every "first" has been a powerful, life-changing step toward building bridges of faith and hope for the next generation.

From securing school board approval to gathering a devoted team of 28 volunteers, to witnessing 12 children make life-altering decisions for Christ, FBC Ripley’s Beach Club has been marked by remarkable firsts this year. These milestones not only highlight the church’s commitment but also reveal the heart behind their efforts to reach and disciple young lives in their community.

Gaining Approval, Gaining Trust

The journey began with a significant victory—the approval from the school board to bring Beach Club to local schools. This was no small feat, but the dedication and prayerful perseverance of the team at FBC Ripley paved the way for this crucial step. Gaining approval was more than just a checkbox; it was a testament to the trust the community has in the church’s mission and vision to positively impact the lives of children.

A Team United in Purpose

One of the standout features of FBC Ripley’s Beach Club is the incredible volunteer team. With 28 passionate and committed individuals, the church has formed a strong foundation for its program. Volunteers aren’t just there to help; they’re there to invest, to pour into these children, and to build meaningful relationships that will leave lasting imprints on their hearts. Each volunteer brings their own unique talents, energy, and love for Jesus, creating a dynamic, powerful team that is truly on mission.

A Busload of Dedication: Leadership Luau

Another "first" that stands out was FBC Ripley’s extraordinary participation in the KBC Leadership Luau. In a beautiful show of unity and enthusiasm, they rallied their entire volunteer team, filling a bus with many devoted individuals and traveling together to the event. This act of dedication wasn’t just about transportation—it symbolized the collective heart and passion of their church for the Beach Club mission. The Luau wasn’t just a training session; it was an energizing moment of equipping and inspiring leaders who are deeply committed to reaching kids in their community.

Life-Changing Moments: Children Coming to Faith

However, perhaps the most profound firsts have been the moments when children have come to faith. Since the start of their club, they have had 12 children make Jesus their forever friend!

These powerful, life-changing decisions are the culmination of months of prayer, planning, and hard work. For the children who have decided to follow Christ, this isn’t just a "first"—it’s the beginning of a journey that will transform their lives and families. These moments, where children make the decision to trust Jesus, are the heart of the Beach Club mission, and they’re what make all of the hard work and dedication worth it.