“Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-3
Runners came from around the state to participate in the Galatians 6:2 race.
Mt. Airy Baptist Church, in Maryland, will have their third annual “Galatians 6:2” 5K race on August 31. The church sponsors the race as a way to interact with the community while raising funds and collecting non-perishables for Mount Airy Net, a cooperative of churches and other organizations that help people in need. Participants run or walk, carrying backpacks that hold eight months of prayer requests from the church and community. It’s a great visual of Galatians 6:2, “Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Student Minister Chris Gerlich, who initiated the race, said he felt compelled to do more outreach in the community. He spoke with the church’s Sunday School Superintendent David Karlheim, a seasoned runner, about a potential race. Karlheim suggested a 5k and provided the logistical help and advice that Gerlich needed. “David was a great help,” said Gerlich.
Referring to Galatians 6, he said, “We want to let our community know we are a church that prays, and that we’re there for them.”
Church members pray over the requests in advance, and many runners take time to pray before the start of the race.
The community response has been fantastic, according to Gerlich. People from across the state participate. One Southern Maryland resident saw a post about the first race, asked questions about the backpacks and prayer requests, and now runs each year. “He sent me an email about how much he loves the race and likes to encourage others to participate,” said Gerlich.
“A Methodist church pastor, who runs each year, asked me to mail the backpack to him ahead of time. He has his congregation share prayer requests, and before the race, he preaches a sermon on Galatians 6:2,” Gerlich added.
Even the mayor of Mt. Airy gets involved, either running or providing encouragement and support.
“It has been good. It has really helped us with the town. The Recreation and Parks Department says it’s well organized and is pleased. Some of the employees even participate in it,” Gerlich said.
The race begins at Watkins Park in Mt. Airy and goes through differing terrains ranging from blacktop to hills and wooded areas. Various organizations set up booths, and volunteers provide water and encouragement along the way. A professional timing organization provides electronic tracking.
Captivate Church ordained Tyrell Brown to the Gospel ministry.
Participants can run or walk and prizes are awarded. The cost is $6.20 for online pre-registration or $10 at the door.
Ordination Services
Captivate Church, in Towson, Maryland, ordained Tyrell Brown to the Gospel ministry at a special service on Aug. 18. Tally Wilgis, the pastor of Captivate Church, said, “Our role is simply to acknowledge God’s calling on Tyrell’s life and affirm that we see his calling, character and theological competency for the role. We’re looking forward to seeing how God uses these days for His glory!”
Captivate Church ordained Roberto Mancia to the Gospel ministry.
North Glen Community Church ordained Roberto Mancia to the Gospel ministry. Mancia now pastors Comunidad De Gracia, the church’s Hispanic congregation. NGCC held a special ordination service during its gathered worship on Aug. 11 and provided a carry-in dinner afterward.
Leadership Training
The Montgomery Baptist Association, in partnership with the Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware and Global Mission Church of Greater Washington, invites all to participate in “Body Building: Strengthening Your Church’s Ministry and Mission,” the association’s annual leadership training. The free event is on Sept. 9 from 5:30-9 p.m. and includes dinner.
The opening session and dinner will begin at 6 p.m. The breakout sessions will run from 7:30-8:45 p.m., and the evening will end with a brief closing session.
Breakout sessions will include Baptist Structure and the Cooperative Program; Child Safety Practices; Christian Financial Management; Church Security; The Disciple-Making Process; Language Ministry and Immigration; Multiplying Bible Study Groups; Single Mom’s Ministry; Spiritual Disciplines; and The Outreach Focused Church.
To register, call the MBA office at 301-740-7144 or email Shirley Riggs at sriggs1613@aol.com. Please include the conference you will attend. The registration deadline is Aug. 30.