Mission First: Transformation in Motion

Southern Soul makes impact with Mission First

2010-01-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

Like many non-profit organizations in the Metro, Mission First has felt the strain of atypical economic times. However, the first annual Winter Southern Soul made a great impact on the financial health of Mission First. Please view the photos provided by Adam Hudson Photography for a wonderful depiction of the events of the evening!

** Mission First wishes to thank Adam and Allison Hudson of Adam Hudson Photography for their support of Mission First.

Upward on the rise at Mission First

2010-01-08T11:12:00.001-08:00

PHOTO: The Upward program at Mission First involves individuals from all walks of life from across the Metro.

JACKSON, Miss. (January 8, 2010) – Upward basketball and cheerleading make a home at Mission First with sign-ups for the inaugural season taking place this month. After a stellar pilot run at Mission First this summer, ministry leaders expect even greater impact and interest with a full season of over 100 children involved in both basketball and cheerleading.

“We knew the Upward program would be popular at Mission First, but the demand and impact we had in the months of our pilot program superceded our expectations. We look for this season running from February through April to build upon the foundation we laid over the summer,” said Willis Bridges, director of sports programs at Mission First.

With a cost of only $15 for both basketball and cheerleading programs, Upward at Mission First is a value financially, athletically and most of all spiritually.

“We know that our volunteer coaches, referees and staff want to help the children across the Metro develop in every way possible. It is our desire to utilize the wonderful plan of the Upward model to raise up children who understand that they are winners in life because of the promise of Christ in their lives,” said Lee Thigpen, Mission First executive director.

Registration for the Upward Urban program at Mission First takes place on daily basis at the Mission First Campus located at 275 Roseneath Street in Jackson. Interested volunteers may also contact Coach Willis Bridges by calling 601.608.0046.

The schedule for this year’s program is as follows:

Evaluations and orientations:
- Kindergarten through 2nd grade boys and girls:
Monday, January 11, between 4:00 PM and 7:30 PM
- 3rd and 4th grade boys and girls:
Tuesday, January 12, between 4:00 PM and 7:30 PM
- 5th and 6th grade boys and girls:
Thursday, January 14, between 4:00 PM and 7:30 PM

League schedule:
- Practices begin the week of Monday, February 8, 2010
- First game is Saturday, March 13, 2010
- Awards celebration is Sunday, April 25, 2010

Upward, the world’s largest Christian sports program for children, was created with a vision to provide the best sports experience possible for every child. Each year some 1 million people around the world play, coach, referee, or volunteer in Upward sports leagues and camps hosted by more than 2,600 churches and non-profit organizations.

Mission First, located in the West Park community of Jackson, is an independent non-profit missions organization established in 1999 with the hope of meeting the spiritual, physical, mental, social, and educational needs in the Metro-Jackson area by providing comprehensive Christian ministries and care.

To register or for registration information contact Coach Willis Bridges at 601.608.0046.

2009 Christmas Store

2009-12-23T11:52:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Store at Mission First is one of the highlights of our the year for our families. We have an opportunity to talk intimately with parents and children, provide amazing refreshments and meet parents at their point of need during the Christmas season. Volunteers man every station as personal shoppers guide families through a plethora of gift options. The evening concludes with each gift lovingly wrapped and prepared for Christmas morning. Take a look at this years Christmas store!

Help-Portrait, behind the scenes.

2009-12-20T11:38:00.000-08:00

When the Mission First, Help-Portrait Jackson partnership began, neither entity knew exactly what impact would occur. However, at the end of our time together, there were hundreds of photographs taken, many volunteers mobilized and even more lives encouraged by the gift of hope. Take a few minutes and check out some of the views from behind the scenes.

Help-Portrait and Mission First in the news!

2009-12-18T15:03:00.003-08:00

Help-Portrait and Mission First in the news!

2009-12-18T15:03:00.001-08:00

Help-Portrait is coming to Mission First!

2009-12-01T14:15:00.000-08:00

Check out the work that will be happening on Dec. 15th!

Feasting on Thanksgiving

2009-11-30T14:05:00.000-08:00

At Mission First, we love to feast on Thanksgiving! We invite all of the children and youth from our programs and their families to have a one-of-a-kind Holiday treat! Almost a hundred volunteers from FBCJ and Pinelake helped us treat our families with the greatest and best during Thanksgiving!

Jackson Reclaimed event featured in the Northside Sun!

2009-09-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

We would like to thank our friends at the Northside Sun for showcasing Mission First and the recent Jackson Reclaimed event! Please check out those photos through their online edition!

BSBC: My week was so rewarding!

2009-07-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

Courtnie Watkins
Bullard Southern Baptist Church
Age: 17

Prior to my week at Mission First, I thought it was going to be a long one. I hadn’t been home a lot the entire summer and didn’t have time to catch up on my sleep before traveling to Jackson. This would be the last stop before I would be at home for the summer. Now don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t dreading the trip by any means and was very excited for the journey, but didn’t expect to have the energy that I did. God did a work in me and gave me the strength I needed for that entire week.

Since the group I went with didn’t go through MFUGE; we worked directly with Mission First’s staff. This was so much fun because we had the opportunity to work with both the children’s educational program and the community development program. It was so amazing to invest in the lives of children, and to help rebuild a house in the community just a block away from the campus. I cannot tell you how blessed I am for having the opportunity to experience working in those two different areas.

The first day we met the children. They automatically gave us their biggest smiles, enormous hugs and asked us what our names were. It amazed me to see how much they knew and how fast they could learn. I had many of the kindergarten and 1st graders read challenging books to me. By the end of that first day, almost every child in the place was calling us by name, even those that were not in our class. I knew that the reason these children were doing so well academically was because of the facility and programs that Mission First provides for them.

When we made it to the work site and got a chance to look around at everything, it really hit me at how much of an impact this organization was making on their community. These people needed help rebuilding their homes and lives back up to what it had been before. Mission First is doing an exceptional job with this task.

It really isn’t possible to completely describe what Mission First is like. It is full of loving, caring people that put the kids and the community before themselves all the time.
No matter what we did, having fun playing with the children or using the circular saw and cordless nail gun (oh yea, that was me!), together we were helping serve families, children and adults. It’s so amazing how doing the Lord’s work, whether loving relationally or serving with physical labor could be so much fun. It truly is rewarding.

MFUGE: Impacted in a huge way!

2009-07-27T11:30:00.001-07:00

Hannah Young

First Baptist Church

Chipley, Florida

Age: 16

Wow. I seriously cannot put into words how amazing this week at Mission First has been! I’ve learned so much from being here this short amount of time. When my Bible study leader, Nick, told us about each of the kids, I could tell that he was completely in love with them. Of course, I was super excited to meet all of them. Since I was involved in the Children’s Ministry track with M-Fuge, we set up VBS-type activities which included: Bible study, crafts, music, and play time. Each day I did something different and I seriously cannot tell you how much fun I’ve had.

Yes, I am definitely worn out by the end of the day. But I wouldn’t have chosen to spend my week here doing anything else. Coming in everyday and being greeted with so many smiles and hugs pretty much made my day. God has taught me so much through my experiences here at Mission First and I’m going to miss spending time with the kids here.

Mission First really is one huge example of how God provides in any situation. The love the kids are shown here amazes me. I hope that God will use me just as he has used Mission First, in such a big and effective way. Leaving on my last day is going to be incredibly difficult and very sad. But, I hope to visit again and see what else God will do in the children’s lives through Mission First. I am so blessed to have had such a wonderful experience here and I will never forget how God used Mission First and the children to impact my life in such a huge way.

MFUGE: Work at Mission First "indescribable"

2009-07-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

Lauren Woods

First Baptist Church

Chipley, Florida

Age: 15

How can I really describe this week? Before we ever came, Nate, my leader for games and recreation told us the background story of Mission First. When I first arrived, I just looked around and saw a miracle. We toured the facilities and saw the sights – it was amazing. Then, we went in the gym and met our buddies from Mission First for the first time. When I saw the look in the students’ eyes I wanted to cry. They had that look of happiness, and they just let me know from that second, this week was going to be the best week of my life.

I can’t even tell you the first game we played because I am so tired. The students have so much energy. It even lights up all of the Mission First buildings. We have played dodge ball, freeze tag, noodle tag, pac-man tag and ships and sailors. Honestly, there are so many more that I just don’t even remember.

However, just getting to know the background of the students was the best experience of it all. The staff of Mission First and Fuge care about the students so much. But, most of all God loves these students more than anyone in the world can ever offer, and that is what Mission First lets them know everyday. They let the kids see God through them. I am very sad that I have to leave. I hope that I get to come back to Mission First next year and see how God has moved them. I love Mission First and everything they do and I am praying that God moves in a mighty way through them.

Through the eyes of a child... Art in Motion.

2009-07-21T08:01:00.000-07:00

By: Mary Katherine Segrest

My time at Mission First began as an opportunity to serve with the Junior League of Jackson, but ended in blessings upon blessings from the Lord. When I was driving in my car on Monday morning, I prayed that the week would be wonderful and the kids would have a great time and learn a lot. Then, I arrived at Mission First and knew right away that this week was going to be more than an “art camp.”

A few weeks ago, I received my assignment for the camp. I was to be the t-shirt coordinator and photographer. Although I was unsure of the title of t-shirt coordinator, I was very excited about being the photographer. I thought it was a coincidence that I worked as an assistant to a wedding photographer and this would be my 'job' for the week... but as a follower of Jesus, I should know better than to bank on coincidence! It was all God. As I floated around campus snapping my camera, I got to witness PURE JOY. The children were full steam ahead! They jumped in and were ready to learn. When I looked back at my pictures later, I saw it plain as day.

..the joy in their eyes.

…the focus and desire to do good.

…the love for each other and for the adults serving them.

…the excitement for all of the neat activities that they participated in during the week.

The kids gave out hugs freely. By the second day, the smiles came more easily to my camera lens as well! If this 'coincidence' had not occurred, I would not have gotten the same experience. I was able to meet and see everyone in every area. By the grace of God, I toted my camera from room to room - and was HAPPY about it! (I have to mention that I also played some serious games of dodge ball!) I laughed and laughed with them as they danced for us. I was blessed by watching the staff at Mission First love on the children. It made my heart happy to see the other volunteers love on the kids - and the kids open up and love them back! I loved seeing the boys and girls SO proud on Friday night - when they showed their parents/families what they had learned during the week! The artwork, music, drama... they did so well and worked so hard.

I left Mission First Friday night very tired. But it was a pure, happy tired. My cup overflowed with blessings from the week. I take with me the look of pure joy in the eyes of those children - simple JOY that only God can give in the eyes of the child. I look forward to serving there again.

Junior League of Jackson gets the arts in full motion

2009-07-20T12:27:00.000-07:00

MFUGE: Mission First is helping, working and impacting

2009-07-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

Jacob Tatum

New Life Baptist church

Atlanta, GA

Age:16

Helping, working, impacting - three words that can be used to describe what goes on at Mission First. The staff here are dedicated to showing Godly love to whoever may need it, regardless of background. The lives blessed and touched by Mission First are apparent and can be seen even by those who are here for just a couple hours a day.

During my time at MFUGE this week, I decided to do step out and do something different, just for the fun, to see what amazing things God would show me through my time here. Paint, construction and yard work (PCY) was not my strongest area of ministry. After all, I'm not the strongest or most hardworking individual. However, I knew God was going to bless me somehow. Sure enough, the first day on site was amazing, and God's presence was apparent. Children and youth are loved and nurtured in a way that will raise them to be the next generation of Christ-followers. This showed me Mission First is a place where I wanted to help in any shape, form or fashion.

God has blessed me through this work. It was amazing just to see children and youth light up when we stepped on campus, even if we weren't serving directly with them. Even through mowing the grass and working, they were happy to see us. The need is great. There is no question. But, by serving with Mission First - even when it is tough, strenuous and tiring work - I was blessed by God. There is a much bigger picture than what I ever thought about. What Mission First is doing is what's most important.

As followers of Christ, we are called to help others. God has given me this opportunity and opened my eyes to notice, "Hey, I'm being selfish and need to help others and not how can I help myself. I'm blessed to be here and it has changed my life. I hope that the work done here will impact some person who is in need, and they will get to know God just from a couple hours of work." Working in hot weather is a small price for me to pay to receive a larger blessing of showing people the love of Christ. It is my prayer that they will receive salvation through it. It makes me smile to think about that and the impact Mission First makes on this community.

MFUGE: Stand up to the challenge

2009-07-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

Derek Ferguson

First Baptist Church Ville Platte

Ville Platte, Louisiana

Age: 15

This week at Mission First, I was part of the recreation group of MFuge at Mission First. It has been a great experience. I can tell the staff loves what they do, because they work very hard to provide the youth with a place to have fun, but to also learn about Christ while they interact with each other. The coaches are very devoted to their job and work really hard.

I personally wish I had a little more time here to spend because I can really see that the youth appreciate us being here, and that our work really makes a difference. Mission First is a great place to serve with. I hope Mission First continues to grow and build for many years to come. I hope that everyone across the city gets a chance to experience it!

One thing I have learned this week is to take what God gives you and do your best for the good of everyone around you. No matter what happens, God will stand with you so you can stand up to the challenge!

MFUGE: Oh, to be a kid again

2009-07-13T12:06:00.000-07:00

Nicola Callahan

Faith Baptist Church

Meridian

Age: 15

When I first found out that I was placed in the children's ministry rotation, I must admit I was disappointed. I honestly said, "God, I was chasing kids around the week before at my church's Vacation Bible School! Not kids again!?!"

But, I prayed to God that night. When I showed up the first day at Mission First, I expected nothing less than kids putting glue and glitter in my hair. Then, I went into the kid's music class and started singing. I started singing like a 15-year old, then a 10-year old and then a five year old. It was amazing!

The Lord worked in my heart so much since the previous night, and made me a kid again. I played, laughed and sang with all the kids. I made up games and enjoyed their sweet smile.

Even when it was rough, I remember what our MFUGE leader, Nick, said, "Its only fun if you want it to be." When Jesus allowed me to remember this fact, I saw Him in every nervous, loud, playful, and energetic child. I am so going back next summer.

MFUGE: Part of the transformation

2009-07-03T14:36:00.000-07:00

Erica Peterson

First Baptist Church Mountain Park

Stone Mountain, Georgia

Age: 17

When I first came to Jackson, all I thought about was the heat! It is probably about 10 degrees hotter in Jackson than at home, so it definitely took some getting used to. Walking across the campus at Mississippi College, I prayed that God would allow me to choose the right track for my M-Fuge rotation. I was torn between two options, but chose to work with the children’s program at Mission First.

So, early Monday, we all piled into a charter bus and set out for Mission First. I noticed a lot of things in the neighborhoods were very different from where I live. I could tell that in areas it must be difficult to live here.

Coming to Mission First, I didn’t know how much I could invest into the lives of the children. However, when I arrived, I could already see God and His hand at work. From the beautiful mural on the playroom walls, to the hand made crafts in all of the rooms, I could feel the joy and love of God everywhere.

I was very impressed with the way the staff and volunteers cared for these students. It’s truly a great thing that God has going at Mission First! I am so glad that I had the opportunity to be a part of the transformation!

Youth enjoying the playroom sponsored by the

Junior League of Jackson.

MFUGE: Love is what the world needs

2009-07-03T14:33:00.000-07:00

Miranda Carter

Memorial Baptist Church

Buies Creek, North Carolina

Age: 14

My week at Mission First was absolutely awesome! It was my very first year participating in M-FUGE, and I am so glad that I did. When we were choosing tracks, my first choice was children, then games and recreation, then social. My plan was to be in the children’s track, but God had other plans. I was a little upset until my friend Bradley told me that God had me where He wanted me.

The first day we had the opportunity to meet the student that we would be partnered with for the week. My partner’s name was Jasmine. She is 11 and is going into the sixth grade. We had a great time getting to know each other and sharing about what was going on in our lives. I truly have grown to love all of the students here.

Through my time at Mission First, we learned a lot about teamwork and caring for each other. All of us are very competitive, but it was so much fun. I pray that God continues to provide for this organization, because they are giving this city what everyone needs most – LOVE.

MFUGE: Work for the Lord

2009-07-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

Noah Norris

Love Memorial Church

Goldsboro, North Carolina

Age: 13

This week has been awesome, and I wish I could stay longer. They do so much for so many people here. Eric Troyer, the projects coordinator, is one of the coolest, hardworking people you will ever meet. He has a ton of energy, and desires to make Mission First the best it can possibly be. It has been so great to see how many people are impacted through Mission First. There is no doubt that lives are changed everyday through the work here. I pray that it stays around for a very long time.

One thing that I have learned this week comes from Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at is with all of your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”

Eric Troyer, Projects Coordinator

overseeing the summer work at Mission First.

MFUGE WEEK 4

2009-06-29T12:27:00.000-07:00

A few shots from MFUGE Week 4:

MFUGE: Transformation revisted

2009-06-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Donna Broussard

Dutchtown Baptist

Prairieville, Louisiana

Adult volunteer

Working for God is a passion, and a direction I feel that He continually affirms as my act of service. In preparing my heart and mind for camp, I was reminded about my last camp experience two years ago as a chaperone. As a PCY (painting/construction and yard work) enthusiast, I signed up as a PCY leader/driver. I was blessed by being brought to Mission First. Driving to Mission First you quickly realize that the area in which it resides is somewhat forgotten and dilapidated. How surprising to drive up and see a real community center in the middle of this seemingly "forgotten" neighborhood. Two years ago the surrounding houses, commercial area across the street and the fence surrounding this beautiful campus were in such disarray that the prospect of parking on the street (because there was no other choice) was a more than a little disheartening. But the Lord blessed our week and we were able to do our little part in maintaining the campus to allow them to continue to bless this neighborhood.

Now fast forward two years . . . I was excited as we drove up to Mission First and to park in the new parking lot that a generous donor had been lead by the Lord to provide for them. The fence that was falling down around the center to make it a secure area had been replaced by a beautiful iron fence that not only gave you a sense of safety and comfort but it looked beautiful! But the most exciting news was to learn that the commercial strip center that had been abandoned for many years is being renovated to move the medical, dental and legal aid offices so that they are better able to serve even more brothers and sisters in Christ and those that don't know Him! God has blessed the community center in so many ways because of their steadfastness in Him. None of the “projects” have been done haphazardly and without much prayer . . . it is evident in the joy found in every person you come across at the center and the ease at which the children of the neighborhood play, laugh and smile as they walk through this amazing place. What better way to share your love of Christ than to paint, construct and tend to the wonders He has provided to us!

Mission First will always have a special place in my heart and I can’t wait to come back next year and the year after that to see how God has continued to make this His Mission First.

MFUGE: Experiencing amazing love

2009-06-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Cheyenne Bright

FBC Denham Springs

Denham Springs, LA

Age 16

This week at Mission First has been truly amazing! When I first decided to come to Fuge, I was originally going to go to Centrifuge. Two days before I left, my youth minister asked if I wanted to do Mission Fuge instead. I, without a doubt, accepted the offer. I felt like God told me to go for it and I did. When I had to pick which group I wanted to work with, I knew children would be it. I have always had a passion for working with children, and I was so blessed to finally have a chance to do so. I went into this week not really knowing what to expect from the group of children I would be working with, but Nick (our leader) explained it all so well that I was beyond excited!

This week changed my life. I feel like God put me here to tell me I need to pursue missions work with children. The look on their faces when we arrive each day is priceless. They did not know us personally, but they knew who we were. The look up to us in so many ways, and knowing that just gives me this spiritual high that is the best feeling in the world.

God has really shown me this week how truly blessed I really am. Also he has taught me to have lots of patience when working with children. I was a little worried at first that the kids wouldn't like me, but the moment they stepped in the room everything was so natural. As I leave this week, I pray these children will continue to grow spiritually. I will without a doubt look into doing missions in my hometown to work with children! Thank you Mission First for letting me experience love like this!

MFUGE: Mission First is a blessing to the community

2009-06-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Amee Rachal
Escatawpa Baptist
Escatawpa, Mississippi
Age: 16

This week at M-Fuge has been so amazing! I’ve met new people, played games and most importantly, I’ve grown closer to God. I chose the recreation track and I’m so thankful I did! Our mission site was at Mission First. There we made friends with youth and teenagers from the inner city area. It has been so wonderful spending time with everyone here, playing games with them and getting to know them. They were so welcoming and it just seemed like they really wanted us to be there. It was so easy to see how much fun everyone had at Mission First.

It’s easy to tell that God surrounds this place with his love and safety. And, it just warmed my heart when the youth would volunteer to pray or when they had their Bibles out. With Mission First these youth get an opportunity to see how amazing God really is! Mission First is such a blessing to the community.

Triple M Student Ministry: Serving the one and only

2009-06-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

Hayden Mosley

McGregor Baptist Church

Fort Myers, Florida

This week at Mission First has been absolutely awesome! God really opened my eyes to see that even though I am just a middle school student, I can still help and even impact people, towns or states for Him. This week, I felt that God gave me the strength to go out of my comfort zone and do amazing things for Him. Before this mission trip with my church, I was a Christian, but I was just floating along. I was not doing anything to help those that did not know Him. I was just going through the motions.

When my mom talked to me about signing up for the trip on the last day of sign-up, I said, "Sure, I'll go." I had mixed feelings about it until we went to Gateway Rescue Mission in Jackson. When I was there, I felt so blessed. I also felt that I needed to do more to serve my awesome God. So on Wednesday we were singing worship to God, His Holy Spirit touched my heart and gave me the strength to tell other people about Him. I am so glad that I came to Mission First with my church. I would like to thank Mission First, Steven and Kristi Anderson, Dwayne Ziegler, my mom, dad, brothers, sisters and Ryan. Thank you for leading me in the right direction.

The Safari goes bowling!

2009-06-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

Paradise Lanes in Jackson welcomed elephants, giraffes, snakes and other creatures today when the OASIS Educational Program went bowling. The 40+ children, divided into different animal groups, found a little piece of paradise as their classes competed in striking out the competition. The stop at Paradise Lanes is just one of the locations on the itinerary for OASIS Summer Safari taking place this summer at Mission First.

MFUGE student sees Mission First as the "presence of Christ in Jackson"

2009-06-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

Shelby Gibson
FBC Meridian

Meridian, Mississippi
Age: 15

This past week at Mission First has been such a blessing to me and the other students at M-Fuge. Coming to M-Fuge, I always feel that God is going to place me in the mission track that He wants me to be in. This year as I stood in front of the table where we would choose our track, I was faced with a decision. I was trying to choose between the children’s track and the social track. It was such a tough decision, but as I stood there I felt God telling me to "pick children’s." As much as I would have liked to put the social track, I ended up writing down children’s. Sure enough God blessed me with my decision throughout this past week.

My first day at Mission First I wasn’t sure what to expect. My Bible study leader, Nick, told me that children are sometimes a challenge. No matter what, he knew that our experience at Mission First would be amazing. And sure enough, Nick was right! During my first day I had a a little frustration, I must admit, but as the day rolled on I began to calm down and really get to know the kids. As the week continued I realized that God truly put me there for a reason, and I was starting to see what that reason was. Everyday when we arrived, the children would shout our names, and I could really tell that it brightened their days just to see us there!

Who knows, maybe just our presence there planted a seed in one of the children’s hearts. I am so thankful for everything that has happened this past week at Mission First. The kids there are so special and are blessed to have a wonderful staff teaching them about God’s amazing love!! All of the staff members at Mission First were so welcoming and loving. You could tell that they really put their hearts into their jobs. As I leave this week, I pray that God will continue to watch over and bless everything that goes on at Mission First. Mission First is the presence of Christ in Jackson, Mississippi.

MFUGE: A seed planted two years ago has grown and multiplied!

2009-06-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

Joshua Owen
Memorial Baptist Church
Murray, Kentucky

This past week at Mission First has been one of the most loving and most unbelievable experiences for me! This was not my first time at Mission First. I had the opportunity to serve here two years ago. At that time, I was searching for a way God could use me and my life. I didn’t know what my gifts and talents were, and if I really had any. But, the impact the students had on my life was simply amazing. I thought I was here to teach them, but God proved me wrong. While I was here Coach Bridges said something to me that I will never forget. He said, “nothing is impossible with God.” I asked him, “Where is that in the Bible?” He replied, “Luke 1:37.” This small word told me that getting plugged into God’s work WAS possible for me. The love of God showed up in me as I served.

This year, I will be going on my first overseas trip, and I got to serve again at Mission First where I had the chance to tell my story. I hope they have been able to see the light of God in my life. I want to thank Mission First for planting the seed in ME!

Shocco Springs summer staff serves with Mission First

2009-06-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

M-Fuge shares faith with children

2009-06-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

Abi Thornton
M-Fuge Week Two
Children's Educational Program

It has been a tremendous experience to work with the children at Mission First this week. The facilities, staff and environment showed me that sharing God's love was a top priority here. My only regret is that I don't live close enough to be an active part of this ministry on a regular basis, but I definitely plan on coming back with my family. It was a blessing for me to have the opportunity to share God's love with these students!

Colonial Heights youth serve with open hearts

2009-06-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

Conner Fortenberry
Colonial Heights Baptist Church
Ridgeland, Mississippi
Age: 13

Working at Mission First has been a real joy for me. Seeing how the children have grown, and to know that God has used me and my friends to help them out has been such a blessing. I love how when I look around see Christians with a fire in their belly for Jesus and how they serve Him through missions. Mission First has been an amazing missions opportunity for me to just draw closer to God by working for Him. I know I'm serving Him by serving other people. I love coming here and helping out in any way that I can.

The United Way's Day of Action connects with Mission First

2009-06-11T08:07:00.000-07:00

Click here to view the story from 16 WAPT News, and gain more information on the United Way's Day of Action!

Jackson Reclaimed: Creating change for our city

2009-06-10T08:23:00.001-07:00

Jackson Reclaimed, held on June 4th, was quite possibly one of the most exciting events that I have ever been a part of in the life of Mission First. Nearly 300 Jacksonians met up at the Cedars to inaugurate an event that will be a staple in the life of the City of Jackson for years to come. In fact, we've even heard some hail Jackson Reclaimed as "the best art show in the city!" A few words that come to mind. Amazing. Humbling. Exciting. Fueling. Transforming. All of these words are applicable, but none do the night justice. Thank you to everyone who made Jackson Reclaimed a success in 2009!

Take a look back at our blog for more photos of Jackson Reclaimed in the coming weeks!

Check out other articles about Jackson Reclaimed:

The Clarion-Ledger

The Northside Sun

2009 Field Day at Mission First

2009-05-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

Pinelake Christian School and Pinelake Clinton College Ministry partnered with Mission First this year to bring Field Day 2009 to Children's Educational Program. All of Mission First's students enjoyed this special treat at the end of their school year.

Ballet Magnificat! visits Mission First!

2009-05-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

In May, Ballet Magnificat! made a special visit to Mission First to perform for the children participating in the after-school program and the sport's ministry. The dancers performed to special selections and then shared their program "The Narrow Road." For more information on Ballet Magnificat! please visit them online at www.balletmagnificat.com

Jackson Prep supports Mission First

2009-05-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

Mission First exists because of Jesus' provision for our ministry through numerous partners. Today, the National Junior Honor Society at Jackson Prep continued this provision by donating $1045.00 to support this mission of change for the City of Jackson.

Photo: Courtesy of Jackson Prep

Purchase Jackson Reclaimed Tickets!

2009-05-06T21:42:00.003-07:00

Spring Performance Night

2009-04-29T11:51:00.000-07:00

The Children's Educational Program always loves showcasing what our children have learned throughout the semester. The 2009 Spring Performance night, "An Evening with the Stars," showcased the stars of our children's program, the children themselves. We began the night with an arrangement of "Who is like the Lord?" claiming the Truth of the never changing character of our Lord. Then, each student had the opportunity to sing, dance, act and share memory verses with their friends and family. Enjoy the photos from this wonderful evening!

2009 Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-28T11:16:00.001-07:00

The students enrolled in the Mission First Children's Educational Program egged on the fun during the annual Easter egg hunt held on the West Park Ministry Campus this Easter season. Children raced throughout the campus to find over 900 eggs filled with special prizes and hidden for each age group. Mission First would like to thank our volunteers for collecting eggs, candies and stuffing each egg.

Southern League Champions invest at home through Mission First

2009-02-26T10:41:00.000-08:00

The Mississippi Braves Foundation has selected Mission First as one of their 2008 grant program recipients. Funds for the Braves Foundation come from loyal fans through season-long fund raising opportunities.

For more information on the Mississippi Braves look to M-Braves Online.

Photo: Mission First Executive Director Lee Thigpen and Mississippi Braves General Manager Steve DeSalvo.

MS Supreme Court Justices visit Mission First

2009-02-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

On February 12, 2009, Mission First Legal Aid Office welcomed the Justices of the Mississippi Supreme Court for a tour and lunch. Patti Gandy, Legal Aid Office Director, reported on the number of cases opened and the type of services provided to the community during the calendar year 2008. The Legal Aid Office was established by Mississippi College School of Law and Mission First, Inc. to answer God's call to seek justice and mercy by providing legal services and spiritual counsel to qualified residents of Hinds, Madison and Rankin Counties. It was made possible by a generous grant from the Hurst family in tribute to one of Jackson's leading attorneys, the late Joe Jack Hurst. Hurst was a proponent of service to the underserved throughout his distinguished career. The Legal Aid Office is also funded in part by a grant from the IOLTA Program of the Mississippi Bar Foundation, Inc. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 601.608.0056.

Pinelake singles serve with open hearts

2009-02-09T08:51:00.000-08:00

By Emily Sharpe

Our plans for that day depended on the weather. We were going to be mobilized into the community....weather permitting. A leader from Mission First thought it would be great to show up at someone's door, rain or shine, to show them the love of Christ through any kind of weather. But...I was wondering just how much rain my group could take...myself included!

The day started off a little rough. It definitely looked like rain, and that, mixed with the fact that we were going to have a small turnout, weren't really sitting well with me. I was a little discouraged as I made my way to Primos to meet the other four. My spirits were soon uplifted as I sat down with everyone and I thought, you know, there is no reason to worry, God is going to provide exactly what we need. Not long after that, Jared informed me the two women sitting at the next table were actually part of our group. That was quick! Already our numbers were increasing. Jared thought there may be another one or two people meeting us at Mission First. Things were already turning around.

When we got to Mission First, we had another four volunteers. How awesome is that!! The four had quickly turned into ten!! God was really putting together a team for us. We circled up and a leader shared some Scripture from that mornings Life Journal. The passage came from Luke 10:25-42, The Parable of the Good Samaritian. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' We were pumped and ready to go! We prayed and were on our way, and we were on our way. We headed to the shed to grab gloves and a rake, and then made our way down the street. What a sight we were!!

Plans had been made prior to our day of service, so we set out on a mission. We knocked at the door as the others began to rake the yard. It took a little while, but finally someone opened the door. It was Mrs. Mary. She was a little taken back by two strangers at her door so early on a Saturday morning. We talked for a minute, and then she agreed to let me come in so she and I could get to know each other a little better. We sat down to chit chat, and our talk quickly turned to God. She revealed to me that there was some sin in her life that was keeping her from going to God. I told her that we didn't have "to get right" to go to God, we could go to Him just as we were. We prayed together and then went outside to check the progress of the group. They were almost finished. It is amazing how quickly you can get something done when everyone chips in. Mrs. Mary stayed outside and watched as we finished up, and others were able to come meet and talk with this precious soul.

To end the day, we huddled together in her front yard to pray for Mrs. Mary and her family. Mrs. Mary was so overwhelmed that she began to cry. She could not thank us enough. We hugged her and said our goodbyes. We were two seconds away from walking out of her yard when a few of us felt a drop of rain. Remember that all week the weather men had been predicting it to rain Saturday morning...and there had not been one drop. We all stopped and looked at each other as we realized that we had been exactly where God wanted us to be at exactly that moment. I don't think I have ever been in a more perfect space of time - framed down to the second by the rain! God is so good.

Some people don't understand the desire to help others in the inner city. I just wish I could take everyone to meet Mrs. Mary.

Mission First Legal Aid Office Tax Clinic helps residents see green

2009-01-20T09:59:00.001-08:00

Fewer Jackson residents will see red this tax season. In fact, more of them will likely see green thanks to the Mission First Legal Aid Office Tax Clinic sponsored by Mission First, Mississippi College School of Law and TurboTax.

Persons with an adjusted gross income of no greater than $30,000 or who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit may receive free assistance and electronic filing through the program. Though volunteers do not prepare tax returns for taxpayers, they do assist them with the electronic filing of taxes via TurboTax online filing system.

The goal of the tax clinic is to encourage low-income taxpayers to utilize free e-file software and receive a refund by direct deposit as an alternative to using much of their refund to pay for tax submission services. When the taxpayer combines e-file with direct deposit, they may receive a refund within as few as nine days.

As most Mississippians have experienced the impact of the struggling economic environment, Mission First anticipates the program will lift the burden of filing taxes for the citizens of Jackson and encourages individuals to file taxes early to receive much needed tax refunds.

Cassandra Allen, a past tax clinic participant, said, “The Mission First Tax Clinic has lifted so much of a burden for me because so many other places you have to wait a long time to speak with someone and then it’s still sometimes hard to understand what to do, but here they walk you through the process.”

This year’s participants will receive assistance from local attorneys and Mississippi College School of Law students who have a heart for helping people and making a difference one person at a time.

“The tax clinic provides a valuable service to truly deserving and grateful people. As a second year law student, I can only hope that I can continue to make the same positive contribution in the community when I graduate, as we do through Mission First and the tax clinic,” said student organizer Pat Zimmerman.

The tax clinic will begin on January 24 from 9 AM until noon and continue every Saturday through March 7. While appointments are not necessary, they are highly encouraged for faster service. Interested individuals may contact the Mission First Legal Aid Office at 601.608.0056 or by e-mail at Gandy@mc.edu.

PHOTO: Mississippi College School of Law student, Andrew Holmes assists Cassandra Allen complete her 2007 tax returns last year at the Mission First Tax Clinic.

Belhaven football team serves on MLK Holiday

2009-01-20T09:44:00.001-08:00

In the news: Legal Aid Office

2009-01-18T10:53:00.000-08:00

Click here to read the full story!

Thank you Clarion Ledger for great news coverage!

In the news: Mission First Medical & Dental Clinic

2009-01-15T10:50:00.000-08:00

Click here to read the full story!

Thank you Raymond Reeves for such wonderful coverage!

Christmas store gives great gifts, to families and volunteers

2008-12-22T10:37:00.000-08:00

So many times I have taken for granted things that I have truly been blessed with. I have so much to be thankful for, even when I do not feel like it. I am reminded of that every time I leave the comforts of my home and drive down the street just a little ways and see a city where I used to reside in, a place where I grew up, a place where I went to church, and a place where almost everything you wanted to do was right there at your fingertips. Many people can look at Jackson and say, "That's their problem, let them fix it." The truth of the matter is, we are called to reach out a hand to our brothers and sisters. We are called to speak to the nations. Why not start right here, in Jackson? As Jesus was ascending into Heaven after His resurrection, He told us that we were to be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the rest of the world. Our Jerusalem is right here – the City of Jackson.

I cannot help but think of one of my favorite songs when I go and serve alongside the team at Mission First. It was most definitely on the forebrain this year after serving during the Christmas season. The song says, "Jehovah Jireh, my Provider you are more than enough for me. Jehovah Raepha, you're my Healer by your stripes I've been set free. Jehovah Shammah, You are with me you have supplied all of my needs. You are more than enough for me." This year was a little unique for me. My first time to serve at Mission First was a little over a year ago. After leaving there that day, I knew there was something about that place that I truly loved. I totally felt a presence of God in and through that area, even though most would say it is a place of poverty and darkness. Since then, I have participated in different service days at different ministries in the Jackson area and I went to Kenya this past summer. After hearing that my church was doing a choir tour in Jackson, I was so excited. I knew what that meant. I knew we were headed to Mission First, before even hearing the places we were going.

The Christmas Store was just an amazing end to a great weekend. My weekend started that Saturday after waking up at Mission First. Several of the members of the Pinelake Worship Choir spent the night at Mission First that Friday night. We were joined by several other choir members along with the 5th graders from the church also. We assembled in the multi-purpose room for devotion, prayer, and to get our job assignments. I signed up before that morning to help with the setting up of the Christmas Store. I began envisioning what we were doing, why we were doing it, and what were going to be the implications for doing what we were asked to do. As we were working to get all of the items ready for the store, I just felt that we were going to be a part of something that was HUGE! I knew then that I wanted to come back for a definite to see it all put together. There are so many times that we do things to help others and never get to see the outcome of what we have done and how it impacts those we have helped. I did not want this to be one of those times.

After arriving on campus that night and going into the multi-purpose room, where a little over 72 hours before looked nothing like a winter wonderland, I was seeing the end product to what had already begun. I could tell that lives had and definitely were still being touched. It was a place where parents of the children and adolescents in the afterschool program were getting Christmas delivered to them, in which would not have happened if it would not have been for people donating. Not only were the parents getting the necessities for their kids, they were able to give a few fun things also. More importantly, these parents experienced a love that could not have been shown if it weren't for the Holy Spirit reigning down on that place. Many people got to hear the Truth for the very first time, while others were being reminded of the Truth. The Christmas Store was definitely a place that lives were continuing to be changed for people in the West Park Community.

Not being there every day or even once a week, I don't know everyone's story. I do know they all have one. As I looked around the room waiting to help families get items for their family. I saw a lady so touched that she was crying. She could not believe that people would do this for her family. As I saw Mallory Rosamond, Children's Educational Director, embracing her as she was standing there crying tears of joy, I could not help but think "now this is what life is all about". This is just one out of many stories that could be shared from people that were all across the room. We are called to love and serve God, first and foremost. We are also called to love and serve people. How can those who are blessed, not only by earthly things, but because we are Children of God, not do things to help their neighbors out? Through helping them, it is showing them the love of Christ. The City of Jackson is not Jackson's problem; it is part of our problem too.

While some can say the not so nice things about Jackson and turn their back on it, I cannot. Lives are being changed there just like they are anywhere else in Mississippi, the US, and other parts of the world. It starts with God's people saying yes to something that He has called them to; and that is to go tell about Him and show God's love through our lives. I love Chris Tomlin's song God of This City. It is a constant reminder that we are God's people and He is going to take care of His people. It says, "You're the God of this city. You're the King of these people You're the Lord of this nation You Are. You're the Light in this darkness. You're the Hope to the hopeless You're the Peace to the restless You are. There is no one like our God." My most favorite part in it is where it says, "For greater things have yet to come and greater things are still to be done in this City. Greater things have yet to come and greater things are still to be done in this City." God's not finished with the City of Jackson. There are too many things going on in Jackson to bring glory to the Kingdom of God. I am truly blessed to have been able to be and continue to be a part of what's going on in Downtown Jackson.

- Jennifer Crane, Christmas store volunteer

GLORY - Pinelake Christmas Tour

2008-12-13T20:05:00.000-08:00

Pinelake Worship Choir Tour Rocks into West Park

Where do I begin? Today’s experience was beyond my comprehension. I have lived in or near Jackson, Mississippi all my life, and I have never dared to go past a certain street or area of town that wasn’t developed and appeared to be safe. Today, I left my comfort zone and saw the hand of God touch many lives, mostly mine.

Let me make clear, I expected God to do great things, and to change me forever. Not only did He meet my expectations, but He went above and beyond. My day serving at Mission First started by knocking on doors throughout the area near the ministry campus, and handing out flyers for a carnival that my church put together for the community. In the beginning, no one answered their doors. Then, the group I was with, worked our way down a street where some houses were abandoned. At times I was amazed at the lifestyles of some of the folks that lived there.

Then out of the blue, we hit the jackpot. Children began peaking out the windows of their home curious to know what we were doing there. Slowly, they began cracking their doors just enough for us to hand them a flyer and tell them to come where there would be free food, games and a concert just for them. As we would leave each house, a roar of children’s voices could be heard in excitement for the event. As we finished up our effort to invite as many people as possible to come, we headed back to the carnival to prepare for a day of fun and activities for the children and the families in the community. They came in all shapes and sizes and races.

As we began to love on these people through all the fun and games, they began to warm up to us. One boy in particular, Andrew, put his arms around me like he had known me all of his life. He was so happy to be a part of something fun and accepting in abundance. To be able to offer something that cost me nothing, but that brings such delight to someone else was amazing! That’s how I see Jesus. He doesn’t cost anything to have because He already paid the price. And, to have Him in abundance and without strings attached is the greatest thing anyone could ever hope for. I do plan to go back and serve this organization because I believe in its purpose and its desire to provide hope for the community through Jesus Christ.

- Cora Beth Hartfield

Feasting on Thanksgiving

2008-11-21T08:02:00.001-08:00

Then they came to Elim (Exodus 15:27)

2008-11-11T13:01:00.000-08:00

When the chidren of Israel came to Elim, they had arrived at an oasis in the midst of the wilderness; Mission First today provides a place of spiritual as well as physical refreshment in the middle of a needy area.

After having been blessed by mission teams from FBC Jackson to Oadby England for three years, a team from Oadby has finally made the return trip to Jackson. Six adults and one baby got to stay at Mission First in West Park for a week to learn about this community transformation programme first-hand and to help where we could.

We had some experience of working with children, young people and older people in church, school and community settings, and trusted the Lord to link these to ministries at Mission First. We were soon given the vision for the whole development from Lee Thigpen, the executive director, which described the progress from initial prayer walks in the area, through magnificent provision of volunteers by God's prompting and the efforts of His people. Eric Troyer then became our task master, sorry, projects coordinator, and he helped to sort us out and suffer our daily abuse of the American language. Eric had us painting with brushes and rollers, cutting with mowers and trimmers and generally helping to get the place ready for the annual Fall Festival. This event helps to share fun, food and fellowship with the families of all the children who come to the OASIS after school programme at Mission First. The day went really well, and a bit of rain was not allowed to dampen any enthusiasm!

For us, we will take back fond memories of God's love in action through children's work, health, dental, legal and sporting activities that are all building up the local community and restoring dignity to people's lives. We will also take many ideas for what we should do in our area in order to put 'Mission First.'

- The Odbe England Team

Fall Fest Fun!

2008-10-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

What an afternoon! I got shown up by children half my age in nearly every game I played, the rain outside was gaining flood potential with every second, and yet, I couldn’t have pictured a more beautiful day than this one. My small group and I had come fishing for an opportunity to serve at Mission First’s annual Fall Festival with hopes of making an impact on the lives of the young children in the afterschool program held there. Praise God, because He did a work in both parties that day.
When we arrived, the gym was set up with games of all kinds including: a pickle walk (a modified version of the cake walk), moon bounce, obstacle course, face painting station, inflatable slide, hoola-hoop contest, and ping pong toss. The volunteers were then scattered across the gym to be stationed at each of the various games, each equipped with candy or small toy prizes. The children came in two rotations, and were given a bag, which they were to fill with their winnings from all of the games. To each bag was stapled a coupon for cotton candy and popcorn, which they were to use at their own discretion. When the kids arrived, the fun really began, as the gym quickly filled with sweet smiles, infectious laughter, and loads of energy. I was immediately reminded of the scripture in Matthew 19 that says, “… Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” At this fall festival, I was blessed to again see the innocence and faith of the eyes through which a child views life. I also was reminded of the lasting value of a cheerful heart. Proverbs 17:22a says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” As a nursing student, I know all about the effects of a quality medicine on the body and mind. What God made clear for me that day at Mission First was the availability of spiritual therapy through an attitude of joy.
-Jannae Morris, Pinelake Church

Pinelake First Timers Day

2008-10-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

Ashley Ramage

Pinelake Church

Brandon, Mississippi

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.” - 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

On Saturday, God took a group of willing participants, united us for a common cause, and used our unique abilities to further His kingdom. He took a group of nurses, stay-at-home moms, lawyers, teachers, and accountants and turned us into construction workers!

When we arrived at Mission First, we were quickly told about the different opportunities to serve. We divided up according to different task. I headed to meet up with the construction group. The group walked to the construction site and quickly got to work. As I was standing there unloading wheelbarrow after wheel barrow, the group I was with realized that we needed a system. Within 30 minutes we had a system! There was going to be a group who would get debris from the different areas and bring it to the dumpster. There would be two people that would get the wheelbarrow into the dumpster and push it up our “home-made” ramp to the top of the pile of rubble. Finally, there was a group at the top of the pile to empty the wheelbarrows! We worked for a solid 3 hours, moved lots of bricks, relocated a few snakes and had a really blessed time!

I love to see how God brings His people together to achieve goals for His kingdom. Simply seeing how God has given us all gifts and how we all use them uniquely reminds me about how marvelous the God we serve truly is!

Pinelake deacons serve Jackson

2008-09-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Rusty Ryan
Pinelake Church
Brandon, MS

When I woke up on Saturday morning, I'd have say that at first I didn't want to get out of the bed. Honestly, I had a million other things I thought I’d rather have been doing on such a sunshiny day. However, I came because of a commitment I made to be there. When I first arrived, my feelings didn’t change much. Upon arriving, I even found myself drifting back into dreams about what I was missing in the world outside. After a quick overview, we met Eric who promptly put us to work and broke out what was probably the coolest jam box I'd ever seen. It had a roll cage. Awesome!!!!

Once we started to get to work the tension sort of broke. The radio was rocking out and we were singing. I'd look at my brothers and tell them how much I loved them and how much I appreciated them (I didn't tell that to everyone. Just my brothers that I felt comfortable enough to say that to). They'd return the sentiment. By the time we left I honestly wasn't really ready to go. I felt the Spirit of God in us and around us. It was wonderful. We were giving of ourselves for no other reason but for the glory of God. None of us were getting paid and yet we received our payment in full. We left and carried that Spirit with us.

Mark Mays and I stopped off to grab a bite to eat afterwards at The Big Apple Inn on Farish Street, which is one of my favorite places. They have these sandwiches called smokes that I think are killer. Anyway, just before we left, a guy asked me where I worked. I told him that I worked at the Gateway Rescue Mission. We were talking about the economy and how bad it was all over Jackson. I told him that God is doing an incredible work. While man is at work restoring buildings, God is at work restoring lives.

The guy said “I ain't never heard nobody talk about God like you do. You said His name 6 or 7 times since we started talking.” He said “something really bad must have happened to you for you to speak out about God like you do.” I said "it wasn't so much something bad that happened to me, as much as it was something really good." He laughed and said most white folks offer a few words but nobody ever takes the time to really talk like you guys have. We thanked him and then prayed over him and the girl he was with. We walked them out and said goodbye. Then, Mark and I got in the car and drove off.

Mark looked at me and said this was one of the best days of his life. I nodded and said "God willing, it won't be that last."

Transformation in motion: Find a place at Mission First

2008-09-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

By: Pam Johnson
Special from Pinelake's Community Missions

"Welcome!" proclaims the colorful banner at Mission First, located at the corner of Roseneath and First Street in Jackson's West Park Community. Indeed, all are welcome at this serene center of Christian service, planted nine years ago at the site of the dilapidated, infested Rosedown apartment complex.

How it happened is a typical story of the way God weaves His purposes in discreet stitches until we are presented with a gleaming tapestry woven for His glory. Such is Mission First.

In 1999, the Lord moved a group of believers to prayer walk in what many considered a lost and unredeemable area of the capitol city. Among the dead properties they whispered blessings over were a couple of abandoned apartment buildings - home to desperate and faceless inhabitants of the shadows of life.

Lee Thigpen, the mission's current Executive Director, was one of the prayer walkers.

Soon, the apartment owner contacted the prayer warriors and indicated he was approachable for a sale, John Kelly explained. John, a Pinelake member, is the director of public relations and communications at Mission First.

Surprised, I asked how the owner knew whom to call.

John chuckled and replied the prayer walkers weren't too hard to spot in the neighborhood. Word travels.

And thus the mission to reclaim the dismal neighborhood through a living demonstration of the love of Jesus Christ began. Through prayerful evaluation, the group pinpointed two attainable services the community needed - a safe place for children and access to dental and medical care.

The first missionaries were three-fold: the volunteers who helped gut and renovate the old apartment complex, the donors who lovingly provided the funds for the project, and the believers who claimed God's promise to be there where two or more are gathered in His name.

In 2001, the second wave of missionaries arrived. They were the medical providers who opened doors of healing to the hurting, the frail, and the desperate and the loving teachers who offered the neighborhood children a safe, instructive sanctuary from the streets.

Today Mission First is an independent non-profit organization with six thriving programs staffed by servant believers from diverse backgrounds and congregations - like FBC Jackson, St. Luther's, Calvary Baptist Church, and Pinelake - all with eager clients, grateful for the chance.

Expanded from one afternoon a week to four, and now serving children pre-K to fifth grade, the after-school program is ministering to the needs of working families by making sure the youngest generation is nurtured and inspired toward living a Christ-filled life.

The Medical and Dental clinic attended to over 700 medical and dental calls last year, virtually free of charge to the patients, John reported.

In addition to these two initial services, Mission First has added four others. There is now a legal aid office with pro bono lawyer services offered in partnership with the Mississippi College School of Law, a comprehensive wellness program designed to combat the prevalent diseases of the community - diabetes and hypertension - through nutrition counseling and workout opportunities, a community development program devoted to enhancing the neighborhood environment, and a new sports and adolescents program.

John's smile broadened when he described the ministry of Coach Willis Bridges' sports and adolescents program. "He teaches these young men and women things that they are not learning at home. For many he is a father figure. He mentors and even teaches the young boys how to tie a tie. He simply journeys with them through life."

Each of these programs needs volunteers to thrive. And, John insisted that anyone can find a place to serve at Mission First.

"We can basically tailor the service opportunities to whatever a volunteer is led to do," John said. He encourages every person with a heart for inner-city service and a desire to demonstrate the love of Jesus through service to contact him. Here's his phone number: (601) 608.0043.

Volunteering at Mission First will enable a person to "join in an effort that is ongoing and bringing about transformation that is God-sized, truly in every way." John said.

On a recent Wednesday evening people were arriving, mostly in couples, for Bible Study. Among the pristine and sharply clean lines of two renovated apartment buildings and a gleaming state-of-the-art gymnasium nestled sweetly on a green, trimmed lawn interspersed with flowery plantings, strode a young man with a purpose.

His name is Devonte Jones, "age 10 going on 11" and he was taking his mama a canned drink out to where she sat in a truck in the parking lot.

Devonte also mentioned how he liked Mission First because it provides opportunities for playing basketball and "sharing the environment with other people, like my friend TJ and his brother Eric."

"Some of the kids come and learn about Jesus and how He has shared his love with us," Devonte said, clearly pleased with the ministry.

Mission First was "born out of a group of people praying together," John says. That group of prayer walkers followed the Lord's leading and created a nurturing, healing place where believers can demonstrate what it means to follow Jesus Christ.

If you're looking for a place to demonstrate your faith, call John. He's waiting to hear from you.

Mission First Community Ministry Center - 2008

Rosedown Apartments - 1999

Bear Valley Church

2008-08-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

Erich Shore
Bear Valley Community Church; Colleyville, TX
Youth Volunteer Leader

I love coming to Mission First every year. I’m not sure if it is seeing all the smiling faces, the many lives that are being touched, or just witnessing the tremendous progress and growth that occurs every year but something draws me to this place annually. It is amazing to see continued building and improvement in this community and I am certain I can see God’s hand on all that is going on here.

We have brought a group of teenagers to Mission First for six out of the last seven years. We sometimes struggle getting teenagers to sign up for camp or for other summer events, but our most attended event in the summer is our mission trip to Mission First. God truly blesses our relationships when we work side by side with other believers. This trip is the final youth trip of the summer and God uses our time here to bring us together in ways I cannot even begin to describe.

The first time I came to Mission First I couldn’t have imagined the tremendous love that God is sharing in this community. It amazes me to see many of the same young smiling faces each year and it touches my heart that God has provided the young people in this community such great resources and positive influences in this inner city Jackson community. It especially warms my heart to see the young kids that we taught in VBS just a few short years ago are turning into today and tomorrow’s leaders.

God continues to bless our church by allowing us to be a part of the many efforts in Jackson. We have cut grass, demolished houses, built and painted. We have also taught VBS, prayed with kids, loved, laughed, grown spiritually and yes, even cried. My sincere hope is that God will continue to use Mission First to bless this community and that he will continue to allow Bear Valley Church to be some small part of the efforts in Jackson for many years to come.

Medical missions: Great opportunities in every season of life

2008-08-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

Anna Lovett
Medical/Dental Clinic Volunteer

In the summer of 2006, I found myself asking God countless questions about my future. I was a recent Furman University graduate who had been placed on the waiting list at the University of Mississippi Medical School. In the midst of uncertainty, one of the few things I knew with certainty was that God had a future for me in medicine, and one aspect of that future was medical missions. I did not know how or even when that vision would come about, but for whatever reason, God wanted me to be in the medical field and He wanted me to wait before going to medical school. So, what was I going to do in the meantime?

Prayerfully, I considered serving in international missions, but nothing seemed to fit. A friend from Colonial Heights connected me to Mission First and encouraged me to volunteer at the medical clinic. I figured it couldn’t hurt to at least volunteer until God showed me where He wanted me. Therefore, I called Mission First in September 2006. Lori (the Clinic Director) told me how the medical clinic worked, and I committed that I would do anything if they taught me.

The following week, I showed up at Mission First, excited to be there in spite of not having the slightest idea of how to even check vital signs (they don’t exactly teach you all the practical, hands-on application in undergraduate pre-med courses). Lori taught me how to fill in the patient charts, check blood pressures, use the scales, etc. On my first day, I did not exactly master all of the different skills, but Lori was patient. One thing I could do, from my volunteer and mission experience, was talk to patients. So that’s what I did exactly that. I talked, or mostly listened, to what they had on their minds. I was able to volunteer whenever the clinic was open, and after the first month or so of Lori’s extreme patience, I had finally learned how to take patient vital signs. It was so exciting to learn how to take a blood pressure, find a pulse, and check a patient’s blood sugar. I came as often as I could because it was a joy and privilege to serve patients at Mission First.

God is also very present at Mission First…when you walk in the door, you just know there is something different. If you ask the patients, they notice the difference, even if they do not have a relationship with the God. One of my favorite patient quotes was this: “I don’t want to offend you, but are ya’ll Christians?” God had provided me with the time, the financial circumstances, and the place for me to serve while gaining experience in missions and medicine. And, I didn’t even have to leave the country…I was serving in my “Jerusalem.” (Acts 1:8) What more could I ask for!

Over two years I learned how to handle a variety of patients and their medical complaints, and how to communicate better by listening more. I also learned so many practical clinical skills: taking blood pressures, learning medical terminology, weighing patients (everyone’s least favorite part), and so much more. And, I learned how to depend on the Lord even more…whether I was praying that I wouldn’t pass out when I was around blood for the first time or checking a patient’s vital signs for a routine check-up. As I depended on God more, He helped me find a way of life that combined the passions He had given me.

Furthermore, interacting with some of the best doctors, nurses, and phlebotomists I have ever met showed me that there really are health care professionals who are mission-minded in Jackson, Mississippi; they aren’t all on the foreign mission field. The doctors and nurses who volunteer do a wonderful job of balancing compassion with the objectivity needed to address patients’ health concerns. They are also very good teachers, which I experienced first-hand. As a pre-med volunteer, they took time to point out interesting cases. They also provided examples for me to look to, knowing that there are really medical professionals in this world that combine their faith and medical practice in a way that glorifies God.

As I continued pursuing medical school, taking the MCAT again, applying, interviewing, and waiting for my acceptance at UMC, the staff and doctors encouraged and prayed for me. There is something special about being able to celebrate a victory with those who have helped you along the way, and I will always have sweet memories from Mission First as I gained acceptance into medical school. Now, as I begin medical school this fall of 2008, I can see how God used my two years at Mission First to mold and make me a little stronger and wiser. God provided more than I could have ever asked or imagined through the “hands and feet” of Mission First, and I have been blessed beyond measure.

Spiritual growth marks summer success

2008-08-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

Mallory Claire Rosamond
Children's Education Director

What an exciting summer we had at Mission First this year! We were incredibly blessed by all of the volunteers who served over the summer. The children had a blast! Their mornings were filled with Bible studies, field trips, reading, exercise, art and various other activities. M-Fuge (Mission Fuge) came and led the children in bible stories, arts and crafts, music, recreation, and water day in the afternoons. They were definitely a great blessing for us!

Ultimately, the best part of the summer was getting to watch God move in the hearts of the children. What a joyous occasion it is when a child comes to know Christ personally! I know that seeds were planted, and spiritual growth was encouraged on a daily basis with the kids through all of the volunteers and staff members. God is moving in this neighborhood, and He is using our children to make a difference!

Additionally, one of our little boys experienced a great loss this summer. His father was murdered. I sat in our playroom and held him as he cried. After he calmed down somewhat, we prayed together and rejoined his class. One of his classmates asked him what was wrong, and he told him that his father was killed. I couldn’t help but cry when the two boys hugged and prayed together. Both of the boys were crying as well. His classmate’s father had died two years earlier, and I couldn’t believe the maturity of his words. He said that we have to turn to God for strength and pray to Him. He told the little boy that he would pray for him and listen to him when he needed to talk to someone. This is an example of a Godly friendship, and we encourage the children to develop relationships like these through our ministry. It was a blessing for me to see two such young boys that have been through so much in life already immediately turn to God for comfort and guidance. God is moving in a mighty way. That is unmistakable!

Run for the Son benefits Mission First

2008-08-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

The 22nd annual Run for the Son, sponsored by First Baptist Church Jackson, contributed to the work of Mission First and five other inner city non-profits during the 8.8.08 Transformation Weekend. Racers from across the metro area joined together posting their best times as the race grew substantially larger than previous years. For more information on the 2008 Run for the Son visit www.runforthesonjackson.com.

Pinelake children's choir showcases talent

2008-08-12T09:15:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 9th the Pinelake Children's Choir showcased their summer camp program at Mission First. Families from throughout the community heard Truth shared through song and Scripture readings.

Welcome home

2008-08-07T09:14:00.000-07:00

Overgrown. Overtaken. Overwhelming. When people looked at the small house at 1429 Second Avenue that’s exactly what they saw. That’s what the neighbors saw. That’s even what I saw. The house stood overtaken and barely visible by a multiplicity of vines and shrubs. It seemed those shrubs and vines reclaimed more and more of the abandoned structure day by day. In the 1940s this bungalow was one of many that sprouted up in our city. Citizens embraced the sidewalk community life, and worked to make it their aim and goal. Couples lined the streets and sidewalks for beautiful afternoon walks. The neighborhood was an oasis for families that were finally making it in this world. That was its purpose. That was its design.

Somewhere along the way, however, the house became a little less attractive to renters and buyers as it fell nearly almost beyond repair. That’s where we found it. As Mission First began to seek God about what could happen with the house, we were equipped to purchase it through donated funds. In one week, through the work of a plethora of volunteers, the structure has been stripped to the bare bones. Only a skeleton of the former home remains, but as more work groups volunteer through our community development program, the house will once again be used for great things. This process, though it may be lengthy, only requires time, volunteers, a little money and a lot of heart. Ultimately, this home will be a completely new creation – changed from the inside out.

In the end, this is exactly where God usually finds our hearts and lives – overgrown, overtaken and overwhelming. We are human. We are fallen. We try to make it on our own. We think that our plans somehow might be better than His. Yet, we ultimately find that notion couldn’t be further from any form of reality. Nevertheless, God in His gentleness and power makes himself known to us in a way that is compelling and undeniable. As He comes in, He begins to clean us up. Removing the weeds and vines that closed off our hearts and minds to the Truth that we needed for so long.

Although He cleans us in an instant, the effects of our unyielding spirits for so many years still seem to fill our lives. We will still oftentimes feel the effects of our poor decisions to feed our insatiable desires in “life.” However, now we are new. Not some knock-off, makeshift update, but really new. Likewise, He is constantly there leading us, guiding us and renovating areas of our lives to look more like Him – whispering in our hearts and drawing us to Himself. And, unlike our extreme makeovers on this earth, His work is completely new. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away, and behold, the new has come.+” We don’t have to wonder and imagine what it is that He wants for us. That’s simple. He longs for His children to know Him. Intimately. And, He wants us to join in making Him known.

The next part might be a little harder to grasp, but it’s still real. He creates us unique -unlike anyone or anything else. “Each person is given something to do that shows who God is: Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits.*” Once we have been met with this radical, God-sized, life transformation it’s time to do something with it. It’s time to get up and step out. It’s time to live this life for all that it was meant to be – every day, every hour, every minute, every second.

For many of you, that may be where Mission First comes into play. Regardless of your skill set, background, educational training or stage in life, there is a place at Mission First where you can plug in and use the transformation that God has made in your life to make Him known. Through six diverse and dynamic ministries you can live out what you were created for – loving God and loving others – by funding and/or serving in ministry.

For more information on how you can unite with Mission First Mission First contact our Administrative Offices at 601.714.6900 or lthigpen@missionfirst.org.

+ 2 Corinthians 5:17
* 1 Corinthians 12 (MESSAGE)

Website Samples

2008-07-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! We are testing out some samples of a new website for Mission First. Would you please take a look at these images and tell us what you think?

Just click on the slideshow to see larger photos. Make comments in the comment section below!

On Safari to the Jackson Zoo

2008-07-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

On Friday, July 11, the Summer at the OASIS Program roared through the Jackson Zoo on a field trip.

MFUGE Week 6

2008-07-10T14:23:00.001-07:00

MFUGE Week 6 - Sports and Adolescent

2008-07-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

Hope Phillips
First Baptist Church of Smackover
Smackover, Arkansas
Age 17

Before coming to Mission Fuge the week of July 6-10, I felt like the Lord was calling me to be a missionary. I was being convicted very strongly and now through my experience with Mission Fuge and the site of Mission First that I know that God has plans for me in the mission field. I have been extremely blessed during my few days at Mission First. Spending time with kids who have to live through the struggles of the inner city and certain unfortunate situations has changed my life. I have established friendships with the kids and I sincerely care and love them.

In the Mission First program, I work specifically with the kids in Games and Recreation. We established partners the very first day. A Mission’s First student and an M-Fuge student paired up to grow close and talk to each other. I had never told my testimony before, and this week God allowed me to share my testimony with my partner and mentor her. The youth at Mission First need love and compassion that they might not see in other places. I got to show them God’s love and give them all of my attention, and the smiles on their faces and their urge to want to play with me has touched my heart. I was here to make them feel special, but they have definitely made me feel special. Never in my life have I been as happy as I am this week. Nothing in this world can compare to my experience at Mission First. I am very, very glad I came and I will never forget what Mission First has given me: courage to share God’s word, a perspective from kids who experience inner city situations, and a life changing experience that I will never forget.

I encourage those who feel convicted or called to work with inner city missions to consider Mission First. It is amazing that an apartment complex of complete distraught from things such as drugs and prostitution has been turned into buildings for children who need the Lord’s love. At Mission First they are planting seeds of hope in children’s lives that can make a difference. I’m very privileged to have been a part of Mission’s First during my week at M-Fuge.

MFUGE Week 6 - Community Development

2008-07-10T14:17:00.000-07:00

Noah Adams
Western Oaks Baptist Church
Springfield, Illinois
Age 18

This week at MFUGE and Mission First has shown me how much the small things that we are doing really make a difference. Whether people are playing games with children, teaching them Bible studies or doing yard work for older people, it all really makes a difference. By helping out at Mission First this week and hearing the stories about how Mission First came to be is nothing but proof of how good our God is. He can do absolutely anything at anytime - especially when it is least expected.

I have also learned that by doing mission work and helping people, I have been helping myself just as much. By learning the value of giving, generosity and mission work. This week at MFUGE and Mission First has made a difference in my life, and also in the lives of the people we have served. I have also learned the power of prayer and that prayer in God's name (and for His glory) will bring about amazing and unbelievable results.

MFUGE Week 6 - OASIS

2008-07-10T13:55:00.001-07:00

Peyton Head
First Baptist Church Kilgore
Kilgore, Texas
Age 14

Mission Fuge for me has been a life changing experience! This camp is absolutely amazing. I love how they work with the organization Mission First. Mission First has impacted my life in a major way. I worked in the children’s educational center and have loved every second of it. The Lord really shines through each and every child. They always bring a smile to my face. They have taught me so many songs that were a blast like, bazooka bubblegum, baby shark and lots of others. I love to sing and being able for me to share my gift with them and them to share theirs with me was a blessing.

I also loved playing in the play room. We had a blast and couldn’t stop giggling (I have the battle scars to prove it). I feel like this experience of just sharing with those children have really brought me further in my walk with Jesus. I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world.

Amber, my group leader, has also been amazing. I have learned so much from her. The children’s eyes light up as soon as she walks in the room. If I have made a tenth of an impact as she has it would be amazing. It’s going to be hard to leave these children after just a week. I feel like I have grown so close to them. I thank God so much for letting me have this experience of a lifetime. I hope I have touched their hearts like they have mine.

Colonial Heights Pre-Teen

2008-07-09T09:26:00.001-07:00

Margaret Anderson
Colonial Heights Baptist Church
Jackson, MS
Age 12

I have really enjoyed staying at Mission First. The people who work here are amazing and very friendly. Over the past few days, we have been talking a lot about how to be a servant leader. God has really shown me that helping others sets a better atmosphere for everyone. He has also taught me some good and easy ways to help other people. When we were here, one of our tasks was to knock mortar off bricks one by one to reuse them to build a building for the ministries of Mission First.

It was really tough and sometimes you feel like your little piece that you were putting into the project was just about useless, but then you remember how the rest of Mission First came together: one little piece at a time. Then you think about all of the people that would be helped by your effort.

I like to think about the fact that had Jesus been there he would have helped us. This was an awesome opportunity to use all of the things we had been taught about serving others. Everybody with me always had a cheerful attitude and was willing to help each other. I especially loved all of the enthusiasm everyone had about this project. God has really taught me a lot through my counselors, friends and experiences. This has been a very inspiring trip and I hope that I will be able to come back very soon. I will be praying for Mission First to have God’s blessing as they complete the job we started and in everything else that they do.

MFUGE Week 5 - Sports and Adolescent

2008-07-04T17:57:00.000-07:00

Shelby McDonald
Pensacola, Florida
Pine Terrace Baptist Church

My experience at Mission First was only for a short time, but it was very eye-opening. The youth at Mission First, as well as the staff are some of the happiest and most friendly people I have ever encountered. Though they do not always have the most to work with, they take what they are offered and still shine with God's love. I never thought that just playing with someone for a few hours could create great friendships. I loved hearing about the student's live and some of the struggles they face. It was so easy for me to connect knowing that I had some of the same concerns in life.

I could not wait to meet all the youth the first day. I was a little nervous, but excited. We walked in and immediately they smiled and put their hands up for a high five. I felt God moving me. I felt so humbled because of these students. They came running to me with arms open wide. I thought to myself, "How could someone who does not even know me?" I kept asking myself that question over and over again. They loved me and I loved them.

Finally, I came to realize many of us have God in our hearts. He really did shine through more than ever to me during the week. Although we were all in a gym playing games, we could do it in Gods name. I can see a passion in these youth which I often check myself to see if my light shinned like theirs. If anyone loves youth as much as I do, then Mission First is the place to be!

MFUGE Week 5 - OASIS

2008-07-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

Samantha Hall
Pine Terrace Baptist Church
Age 15

This week during Mission Fuge I did children's ministry with Mission First. It was a great experience because I had an advantage coming to Mission First last year. Some of the children even remembered me. What I love about Mission First is that it is truly a Christian-based place. When I came here, I was so excited to know that the children would know exactly what we were talking about when we talked about Christ. I personally got attached to the children. Some of the ones that I connected with the most were Shakeba, Shanatarian and Jo-Jo.

These children are amazing! Many of them have something that isn't just perfect in their life. All they want is love and someone to care for them no matter what. As soon as I walked in the room each day, they would run up to me and start hugging me. I am so excited that the children at Mission First opened up to me and loved on me as well. I know that I will NEVER forget my incredible Mission First experience!

MFUGE Week Four

2008-06-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

MFUGE Week 4 - OASIS

2008-06-27T15:44:00.001-07:00

Jordan Thompson
Fairview First Baptist
Cullman, Alabama
Age 16

This week God has blessed me so much through the Summer at the OASIS program! The children at Mission First are so precious and willing to love people they don’t even know! It touched my heart to see these children open up and truly love complete strangers. They taught me how to truly love everyone, not just your family and friends. Even though all the kids are special, there were a few that touched me and that I truly connected with.

Over this week I was given the chance to share God’s AMAZING LOVE to 3 of these students. I, along with my friend Natasha, got the chance to pray with a young girl. We were in the playroom and she was looking very sad so we began to ask questions. Even though she didn’t want to tell us what was wrong, when we asked her if we could pray for her, she immediately nodded her head yes. A similar situation occurred with one other little girl who was feeling upset. She was getting ready to rotate to singing and was just sitting in the corner looking depressed. But when we asked if we could pray for her she appreciated that and I think it made her feel good to know someone loved her enough to pray to God for her.

The highlight of my week would have to be God using me to lead a little girl to Christ. The same day we prayed for those two little girls, we sat down with some of the younger children to talk about Jesus. We asked how many went to church, and were saved and half of them raised their hands. So we started talking about the A.B.C.’s of becoming a Christian. When we got done discussing this, a little girl, said to me, “I want to go to heaven. Can you help me get saved?” So I, along with Natasha and Macheala, took her to the side and started talking to her about God and salvation to make sure she understood. When we got done with our discussion, I asked her to repeat the salvation prayer after me. As soon as she finished she started smiling and said, “I feel so much better now!” It was a true blessing and I thank God for his forgiveness and love. I also thank him for the opportunity to share Christ with these children. They have made a difference in my life and I pray I made a difference in theirs.

MFUGE Week 4 - Sports & Adolescent

2008-06-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Aldridge
Dutchtown Baptist Church
Dutchtown, LA
Age 17

My Mission First experience has been amazing! I love the story of how this site where was once an abandoned apartment complex. The great thing is that this center was made new.

I personally think this really helps others learn about Christ and grow in Him. I had the opportunity to serve with the M-Fuge game and recreation crew. Mission First gave me an opportunity to share the wonderful message of Christ Jesus, my Lord and Savior.

Also, the smiles of the kids were amazing I am going to miss seeing their smiles, but my experience gave me an opportunity to witness first hand the impact of serving on the mission field - which I am planning to do one day. I enjoyed the one on one time with the students because the opportunity to share our hearts with the camp participants. I know I will be in continued prayer for what is in the future of Mission First and all of the lives it touches.

I saw Christ move here and appreciate how the kids show respect to those around them - that is hard to find from young people, myself included. Did Christ move in this place? My answer would have to be yes. I would like to thank the staff at Mission First for what they are doing and for allowing us to come here!

M-Fuge Week Three

2008-06-24T09:43:00.001-07:00

A special thanks to Nikki Blackwelder for her help in taking photos and gathering stories this week!

M-Fuge Week Three - PCY

2008-06-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

Garrett Kaiser
Woodland Place Baptist Church
Magnolia, Texas
Age 17

This week has been incredible. It’s been a while since God’s moved in my heart like He did this week. I was with PCY (painting, construction, and yardwork), and after the first day of work, my arms were about ready to fall off. Me and a couple other guys loaded a whole construction sized dumper full of old wood and tin. It took about 4 hours to fill the thing to the top, and then we helped knock a brick wall down. I was drenched in sweat by the end of the day; it was so fun! Just knowing that God is using me to bless these people and this community brings so much joy to my heart. My passion for wanting to know God better is growing more and more by the day.

Thursday was widow’s day. Our group went to a couple widow’s homes and did all their yard work for them. We also got visit with one of them, and she was so nice. It really was a blessing for me to get to talk with her and hear her pray for us.

Because of this week, my youth group has grown so much closer together, and we even have a couple new family members! The people in this community need so much witness, and it was incredible for me to get to be a part of that. God has spoken to my heart this week and I’ve experienced Him in an incredible way. I hope I get to come back next year and do it all over again!

MFUGE Week 3 - Sports & Adolescent

2008-06-23T15:52:00.001-07:00

Sarah Mrazek
Woodland Place Baptist Church
Magnolia, Texas
Age 16

I was very blessed to be able to attend Mission Fuge this year! One of the many blessings during camp was meed Quartiez. he is moving up to the 7th grade this year and is excited about playing basketball for his school. He has three brothers, one of them is his twin, Maraiez, who attends Mission First also.

We have been so blessed by playing games in an air-conditioned gym, unlike other recreation groups! I would say we have been really lucky! Quartiez has taught me a lot of things during Mission Fuge. He has such a gentle and fun-loving personality. There were many moments when I would look over at him and he would be doing a dance off with one of his friends, or just having a fun time! He is always able to make me laugh by dancing or telling one of his many knock-knock jokes.

In the beginning of our friendship, we were assigned break away into groups and get to know each other. After 15 minutes of introductions and talk time, Coach Bridges came by and asked Quartiez to tell him what he knew about me. Quartiez ended up repeating every detail that I had told him! It was astonishing to see these kids hearts. They really care so much for us and enjoyed the opportunity to get to know our hearts. It was then that I new I would be learning so much more from him and the other Mission First youth. It was an amazing experience!

MFUGE Week 3 - OASIS

2008-06-23T15:41:00.000-07:00

Lacey Davis
White Ash Free Will Baptist Church
Marion, Illinois
Age 16

To tell you the honest truth, I had no intentions of attending M-Fuge this summer. I only decided to come to camp two days before we left, but it has truly been worth it. I chose to be in the children's ministry area because I felt led to do so. One of my youth leaders told me that they worked with Mission First last year, and I knew after her explanation that I would absolutely love it!

The first day I was at Mission First I was in the singing room, which I enjoyed a lot! I had a song prepared that I had written a long time ago. It's a fun energetic song that every group seemed to enjoy. No matter what room I was in, the kids would ask me to sing the "Birdie Song!" The kids called me "crazy" because of my different hair color. But it was all in love.

Towards the last couple of days, I became really close to G'Montae! He is so adorable and very caring! He has a heart of gold and no matter what instruction I would give him, he would listen very carefully! I wish that I could be here every day because I became close to the children and got to know them very well! I love them all very much and I will continue to pray for them when I go home!

OASIS bowls through summer

2008-06-20T13:49:00.000-07:00

Today, the OASIS summer program took a field trip to Paradise Lanes in South Jackson. The summer participants and volunteers enjoyed an afternoon of fun, food and bowling.

First Baptist Church, Jackson Mississippi

2008-06-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Kenneth Pickett
First Baptist Jackson, Mississippi
Age 15

When I heard the word around church about Mission First I was a bit skeptical. “Go move dirt and work with people from church? Really?” But after getting here and experiencing it for myself, I’ve learned a bit about what God can do with his hands - people making up the hands. Ground Zero, our work site, was a bit daunting at first. Dirt, brick, mud, trash and a nifty little burned out looking building characterized the location.
However, after a LOT of work from other groups who had already served with Mission First, it was slowly turning into something amazing.

HOT AND SWEATY. Our guide Eric kept shouting it. Before I came here, I didn’t really understood the phrase. But you see, I learned it isn’t about the heat or about the sweat its about honoring God in everything you do - everyday. Not some of the time. All the time.

What I think is the greatest thing is that Mission First is not just a “Church thing.” It’s a community and a God thing.

Work throughout the entire week was one thing - HOT AND SWEATY. That was okay. Once you set your mind to the fact that your doing something for God first the community second things just sort of go forward almost like watching a movie. The last morning was an average morning I guess, but something odd happened the day before. In the honest sense I was a blind Christian. Everyone talks about hearing God talk, but I had never heard it. This day was something different, I felt something weird in the back of my head and I knew I had a message from God popping into the back of my head. All I could feel was a message of change. Then I looked around and I saw change. People were becoming friends who on an average day never would have been otherwise. I saw a crummy old little pile of bricks slowly become something beautiful for Gods glory and the community’s benefit. Sweat brings people together I guess?

I guess all I can say is that God works in weird ways. In everyone’s life whether you know he is or not. So. HOT AND SWEATY! Mission First is a experience that you cant miss out on.

M-Fuge Week 2 Photos

2008-06-13T13:56:00.001-07:00

M-Fuge Week Two - OASIS

2008-06-13T13:06:00.000-07:00

Andrew Mauroner
M-Fuge OASIS Volunteer
FBC Covington; Covington, LA
Age 16

I couldn’t wait for this summer. I had just received a car and I’m working constantly. To tell the truth, I really wasn’t looking forward to this trip. I had signed up, but I was enjoying my summer so much. I reluctantly packed my bags and headed to Jackson, Mississippi for M-Fuge. My first day, I was given a sheet asking what I was interested in doing for camp. I signed up for children’s ministry, I love kids. As I was briefed on how to handle the kids and how to deal with them, I was thinking, “Oh gosh, what have I gotten myself into?” Well, I ended up having an incredible experience!

My first day, I lead arts and crafts with the children; making bracelets mainly. I noticed that the kids just love to hug on you and talking to you. My first day I was taught by the girls how to play a hand game called, “Down by the riverside.” My first day was tiring, but extremely emotional. I met a young boy named Jonathan. He is absolutely priceless.
We bonded instantly, and that bond continued to grow throughout the week.

My second day, I was in the jungle gym, playing with the kids. These kids are very energetic. The kids jump on your back and ask you to go down the slide. They play games like hide and seek and tag. This day I got to see the energy in these children.

My third day, I was doing Bible Study, which I had waited for all week. The children of course, were not looking for it. My group and I chose the story of “ Jonah and the big fish.” As each age group came through, I got to open them up a little and tell them the story of Jonah. About ten minutes before the fifth grade class left, our parent chaperone told the boys I got to ask them five questions and they got to ask me five questions. So, I felt that after asking my questions, this boy, Marcello, opened up to me. He told me of his life, his religion, his likes, dislikes, everything. After I said, “okay, that’s it, that’s my five questions,” he said, “what?! Already?” He asked my questions such as, “What video games you got?” He has a lot of humor in him.

My final day at Summer at the OASIS (the children’s camp), we surprised the kids with a water day. This consist of a mini-pool, slip and slide, and water balloons. I really bonded with the kids this trip and learned a lot about what God has planned for them. He has a future for them in this city. God has taught me a lot this week and I think he taught me the most through the kids.

M-Fuge Week Two - Sports and Adolescent

2008-06-13T13:03:00.000-07:00

Steve Crockett
Sports & Adolescent M-FUGE Volunteer
Fellowship Baptist Church; Liberty Hill, TX
Age 21

When I came to Mission First, I thought I would just be ministering to the youth of Jackson. My thought was that I would come in, love on them, play with them, talk to them and that would be it. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve done that. I love doing that. But I’ve learned so much from working with them.

It has been an amazing experience to see their hearts. From day one, they’ve blown me away. After only about half an hour being here, we went to lunch. I sat at a table of guys ages ten to thirteen years old. They were sandwiched up next to another table of even more youth the same age. It took me back to my days in elementary and middle school, with all the trading of snacks, the jokes and all of the fun. Then, I noticed something different. The boy sitting next to me hadn’t brought a lunch that day—I guess he forgot it or forgot to pack it—but all the other kids at the table started giving him their snacks since he didn’t have anything to eat. They even stuck up for him when other kids tried to jump on the opportunity for extra food or barter for snack, and he ended up with a full lunch, complete with probably more food than he would have brought for himself.

The ministry here is amazing in the way that I, an outsider who has been here for less than a week, can see God’s love mirrored in these students. As Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” There’s an incredible thing here, and I’m privileged to have been a part of it.

M-Fuge Week Two - PCY

2008-06-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Ashley Chambliss
Paint, Construction & Yardwork
MFUGE Volunteer
Liberty Park Baptist Church; Vestavia Hills, AL
Age 19

I came to Mission First this week as a M-FUGE Volunteer doing painting, construction, and yard work. Before the first day started, I was a little hesitant about being outside all day doing work. However, God truly showed me his love and grace which enabled me to forget about all of my distractions and be able to share his love with others. Everyone I met from Mission First has a passion for the Lord and is doing a great job at furthering God’s Kingdom.

My favorite day of the week was Thursday because we were able to go to a widower’s home and clean up his yard for him because he was not physically able to do it anymore. Seeing this man’s face as we walked up was a gift that will never be forgotten; he was so thrilled to see that we wanted to help him out. This made me recognize the importance of being God’s hands. I believe Mission First is a great place for Jackson to have. All of the volunteers and workers are dedicated to serving the Lord and helping those in need. I pray that God’s Hands will continue to be on Mission First and everyone who comes here for any reason will see what the Lord has done for them.

Calvary Baptist Church; Starkville, MS

2008-06-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Taylor Teague
Calvery Baptist Church; Starkville, MS
Age: 16

Coming to Mission First, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I knew we would be working in the city with children and maybe some sort of construction or demolition. When we pulled up, I was surprised to see that we were staying in a newly built dorm with a gym a couple of steps a way and a few other buildings around.

The next day 4 people were picked and they worked with the kids here and the rest of us worked with hammers taking off plaster on walls. It was a lot of fun, we had our Christian music blaring out of the radio, and the people that worked with kids said that the kids were very loving and just wanting a hug.

Day 2, I worked with 3rd through 5th grade girls. They are so sweet and loving, just wanting to sit next to you and talk.

The 3rd and last day I worked demo. Again, it was hard work but worth every drop of sweat.

Through my experience, I learned about Mission First’s heart for the downtown area of Jackson. They are trying to reach out to some individuals who have a hard life. And, they are doing a really wonderful job!

I am very humbled and awed by how much these people love this community. There has been a lot of volunteer work here and there will be a lot more needed to get the job done but this is a wonderful this and is a blessing to everybody that comes to Mission First.

M-Fuge Week 1 Photos

2008-06-10T13:38:00.001-07:00

M-FUGE Week One - PCY

2008-06-06T14:11:00.001-07:00

Jenny Miller
Paint, Construction & Yardwork
MFUGE Volunteer
First Baptist Church Lawton, OK
Age 19

This week I have experienced God’s blessings by being able to help with the needs of Mission First in Jackson, Mississippi. Before I came to Mississippi, I knew that God would give me an amazing experience, but what I didn’t realize was just how amazing that experience would be. Within one day of working with Mission First, I met people who were lost, alone, and all they needed was God’s love. I truly believe that God is working miracles in this place. Mission First is sharing God’s love, the Word and meeting the needs of the Jackson community. I was heartbroken when I saw and met the people who were living in the community, but at Mission First whenever I saw a young child running with the biggest smile on their face, God gave me a sense of relief and peace. I know that God’s power is great here and His mighty hand is at work. I am so thankful He gave me this opportunity to help Mission First. I will never forget the people I met here. They have truly dedicated their lives to serving God and have impacted my life as well.

M-FUGE Week One - OASIS

2008-06-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

Shaw Savage
OASIS - MFUGE Volunteer
Ingleside Baptist Church; Macon, GA
Age 16

My experience at Mission First was awesome! I had a great time connecting with the children because a lot of them came from the same background I did. We had a blast playing games and doing recreation them. We played chase, kick ball and did so many other things. We also did bible study together. It was awesome how these kids, who have faced so much adversity, had such a huge faith in God. They literally just soaked up the Bible stories we told. It was awesome because after one story they were all screaming for us to tell them another, and I could tell that God was working in these hearts of these children.

When it was time to go, they all jumped on me, hugged me and asked me not to leave. When returned the next day, they jumped in our arms and hugged us again and again. It was so amazing to see how God can work even it the worst situations and move people to Him. I cant wait to see what these children will become in the future because I have no doubt in my mind that they will be the best that they can be.

M-FUGE Week One - Sports & Adolescent

2008-06-06T13:43:00.001-07:00

Wyatt Wales
Sports & Adolescent M-FUGE Volunteer
Walker Baptist Church
Age 12

This week I have learned much about God and what he wants for us. Forgiveness, clean hearts and a love for him are a few of these things. The staff at M-Fuge has been awesome. I am in the games and recreation group. This is why I am playing games with the kids at Mission First. Mission First has been awesome to us. I’ve really learned about the kids and their lives. We have played dodgeball, knockout, on the bank and in the river, flags, re-lay, volleyball, trees and so much more! I definitely wont forget the kids that I have played with at Mission First forever.

FBC Brandon Middle School

2008-06-04T12:09:00.001-07:00

Buster Leach
Middle School Minister
FBC Brandon, MS

The work that God is doing through Mission First has been such a blessing to our students and to me as well. During our three days at Mission First God kept bringing to mind the familiar story of the Good Samaritan from Luke 10. The Samaritan loved wholly and completely, without regard for cleanliness, comfort, or anything in return…And we as believers are called to show mercy to our neighbors in the same way. There is something authentic and beautiful about the ministry of Mission First. Mission First serves the community in so many different ways…ministering to the total person, just like the Samaritan. What a priceless gift I was given to watch our students connect with the idea of ministering mercy to our brothers and sisters in need! Whether our students were clearing a fence line, or knocking mortar of bricks, or cleaning out debris from a shopping center…they were doing the work of the Kingdom! Though I live only a few miles from Jackson, I was unaware of all that is going on in the city. Praise God he is doing a work in downtown Jackson!!! I am excited about the chance for our students to continue doing local missions through the mobilization of Mission First. I can only pray that God will continue to move through Mission First and that more people will be helped with physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. We indeed are called to mercy…to minister to those who have fallen on the Jericho Road.

If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? (1 John 3:17)

Chi Alpha Rocks Mission First

2008-06-01T01:53:00.000-07:00

Pinelake Church's high school choir, Chi Alpha, spent Friday and Saturday (May 30-31) with us in downtown Jackson. They, along with a number of downtown area churches, worked on the ministry campus and in the community during Saturday morning. Saturday afternoon, the choirs presented a concert for the residents of the West Park community.

Click here for more information on the 2008 Chi Alpha Tour.