April 7, 2011 - On Saturday, April 2, a number of local churches gathered together for Praise in the Park with Pike Baptist Church coordinating the activities. The event was held at the Leonard City Park from noon to late afternoon. It was a beautiful day for churches in the area to gather together with one goal, to praise and worship the Savior.

After enjoying hot dogs and fixings, the event started off with Pike Baptist Church. Seventh grader Carlee Martin played "Victory in Jesus" on her clarinet, followed by Mickey McCarley and Kim Kuykendall with various solos. Gerald Coyle brought a message on Christian Living to the audience.

Second on the agenda was The New Life Refuge church. They entertained the children with a puppet show followed by worship singing by their group, led by Jeremy Nolen.

Next was the United Methodist Church Youth Praise band. The crowd was delighted by their display of talent and enthusiasm.

The Daughters of Thunder then led in worship followed by Pastor Tim Camp of Blue Ridge Bible Church who gave a short and timely message.

The event ended with an open microphone for anyone who wanted to sing or play instruments. First Baptist Church lent support, bringing and setting up the sound equipment. Drew Preston of Pike Baptist Church brought the drums, and Jeremy Nolen supplied the keyboard.

The participating churches donated door prizes which were drawn throughout the afternoon. The organizers would like to thank everyone who participated, and said they look forward to the fall, when another Praise in the Park event with the local church community is planned with the theme "Fall in Love with Jesus".

(Pictured top) KimKuykendall with Pike Baptist Church shares in song during Praise in the Park; and (bottom) the FUMC-Leonard Praise and Worship band sing a special song at Praise in the Park last Saturday.