By Nicole H. Holland
Columbia, SC
August is Children and Youth Month at Bible Way. This year’s theme is Kingdom Business, and it started with a host of successful Back-to-School events, drawing families from across the Midlands to Atlas Road. Events included a children’s cookout, a teen field day, back-to-school haircuts and hairstyles, a back-toschool service and gift card giveaway, and an educators’ reception.
These annual events are designed to support families in preparing for the new school year while offering a fun and engaging environment. Hundreds of youths were served, 350 youth were provided gift cards to be used for essential school supplies, ensuring they head back to school equipped and confident.
The children’s cookout and the teen field day were also a big hit, providing 126 children and 100 teenagers with the opportunity for some outdoor fun and fellowship. These events were high-energy, featuring music, fellowship, and free food!
On Monday, August 4th, complimentary haircuts were generously provided by talented barbers and stylists who served 200 youth, providing haircuts and hairstyles free of charge.
“These events are about more than just bookbags and school supplies,” said Youth Pastor Antoine Jackson, “It’s about creating a sense of community, making sure families feel supported, and helping children begin their school year with a sense of pride and excitement.”
In addition to these activi-
ties, we provided special services and invited speakers to offer words of encouragement to both students and parents. On Tuesday, August 5, Sen. Overture Walker inspired hundreds with his message, “Don’t Waste Your Youth,” and on Sunday, August 9, Richland School District One Superintendent Todd Walker was present to encourage our educators.
Bible Way Church of Atlas Road would like to extend its gratitude to all of the volunteers, barbers, stylists, and local organizations who contributed to the
success of these back-toschool events, as well as the families who attended and made them memorable experiences for all.
“But, there is still more to come,” announces Jackson! “August is Children and Youth Month, and our 2025 theme is Kingdom Business. We encourage all parents to involve their children in our Children and Youth Ministry, allowing them to learn and grow together in spiritual maturity. Children and Youth
Month offers exciting events and spiritual empowerment.” List of events for August 20 – 31
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Saturday, August 23. WIRED Youth Ministry is hosting a Mental Health Summit, “Safe & Seen,” for all middle and high school students and their parents. Join us at the Youth Development Center from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for this important discussion.
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Tuesday, August 26. Midweek Bible Study is hosted by our Children and Youth Ministry and is open to all. Join us in the Sanctuary at 7 {: } 0 0 \mathrm { p m } with Minister Kourtnee Jackson. Corporate Prayer will be held at 6 {: } 0 0 \mathrm { p m } .
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Sunday, August 31. We are excited about Children and Youth Day 2025! Services will be held in the Worship Center at 8:00 am with guest speaker, Minister Jonathan Chambers, and at 11:00 am with guest speaker, Autumn Simone Tisdale! In keeping with their 2025 theme, Kingdom Business, children are asked to wear business attire: white tops, black bottoms, and black neckties.