Tina Carriger
Tina Carriger
Tina Carriger
First Church in Springfield, Tenn., is a small, family church right outside of Nashville, Tenn. It is located in front of the only hospital in Springfield, and across the street from a major car dealership. First Church also sits on three beautiful acres of land. This church is a gold mine with great visibility, a world of opportunity, and a rich history of tremendous pastors, including Patrick Vincent, current pastor/evangelist. But, it’s not enough to be a shining church on a highway if an impact is not made in the community.
Though the pandemic was hard for all churches across the North American Division, what it did allow for was Temple members refocusing their time, talents, and financial resources to serving the community. As they have moved forward in faith, God has given them favor. They have a partnership with Second Harvest Middle Tennessee Food Distribution, which helps them to give away free groceries and gas cards to anyone in need. They’ve obtained grants that have allowed them to upgrade their physical plant, as well as purchase equipment and supplies to enhance their food program. Through this initiative, every month they have a growing database of individuals who are requesting Bible studies and want to know more about the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Usually, Adventists are known for what they don’t do, but God is using them to show the community that they do love Jesus and they do love His people.
Matthew 25:40 NASB says, “And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of Mine, you did it for Me.’”
South Central | October 2021
