First Baptist Church back-to-school bash offers fun for all

By K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer

First Baptist Church offered area residents a fun way to celebrate the end of summer with their annual back-to-school bash.

The inflatables were popular with all of the kids at FBC's back-to-school bash.

Photo by K.D. Michaels

Held at Branson’s RecPlex, the 16th annual back-to-school bash offered a fun-filled evening for area families, while giving them a hand-up on getting the kids ready for a new school year. The funfilled family event provided each child with a backpack, filled with school supplies. Families also enjoyed swimming in the city’s AquaPlex, inflatables, hotdogs, popsicles, games, music and more.

New this year was a climbing wall, a favorite with kids and adults alike!

A professional motorcycle and BMX stunt show entertained the crowds. Families were given laundry detergent to offset the higher costs of keeping clothes clean, and, most importantly, First Baptist Church staff and volunteers were on hand to pray for and with each family in attendance.

Approximately 2,700 people attended the event, the most in recent years, according to Terry Brown, Associate Pastor of Community Ministries at First Baptist Church.

“We served 2,550 hot dogs, gave away 2,250 popsicles and gave away 1,400 sets of backpacks and school supplies,” noted Brown.

When asked why the church continues to offer this and other outreaches, Brown explained, “My favorite thing is smiles on kids’ faces! Our church wants our community to see us care in action, and not just words. Jesus was and is the best example of serving people because He cared!”

The First Baptist Church appreciates those who helped sponsor the 2022 event, including My 100.1, KOMC; Mercy Branson; Branson Bank; Casey’s; Chick- Fil-A, Branson; Branson 4U, 98.1; Ozark Mountain Ear, Nose and Throat; 106.3 KRZK, Branson’s Official Hometown Country Station; 102.9, The Z; State Farm Insurance; First Community Bank of the Ozarks; Kankakuk Kamps; and the Branson Globe.

First Baptist Church is located at 400 South Sunshine in Branson. Everyone is invited to attend their Sunday morning services. Classic service begins at 8 a.m., and modern services are held at 9:30 and 11 a.m. each Sunday.