WILLOW GROVE, Pa., (BRN) – On Saturday, July 15, the First Baptist Church of Crestmont in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, hosted its “Church Family Cookout” at Neshaminy Shore Picnic Park in Hulmeville, Pennsylvania. 

In 1 Corinthians 10:31, it states, “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” This thought is again supported in Scripture by Colossians 3:17: “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” 

When we get together as a church community – such as with a picnic – we are in God’s will. We edify each other and have opportunities to be more Christ-like when we gather together.  

There are many passages that describe the benefits of coming together as a church. These benefits bolster our faith and glorify God. Getting involved and fellowshipping with each other creates a backdrop for God to move in mighty ways. Being together as a church community, not just within the four walls of the church building, protects and provides for the body of Christ. It empowers, equips and grows us. 

The first followers of Jesus worshiped, studied, ate and prayed together. The early church grew, and lives were transformed. God’s power was released, and the Lord “added to the church daily those who were being saved.”  

Being together as a church community not only pours blessings upon those who are there, but the gathering is also a natural witness of God’s goodness to the world. The togetherness of the church is living proof of a loving God to a watching world.  

Further, the word of God tells us in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” God was truly in the midst of Crestmont’s family picnic. 

Throughout the day, as cream and crimson shirts moved throughout the park reading #ilovemychurchCRESTMONT, church goers enjoyed barbecue, live music, dancing and various activities, which included mini golf, rock climbing, swings, slides, basketball, beach volleyball, pool volleyball, pool slides, swimming and more.  

The park also featured a dunk tank, with the head of the church’s Usher Board sitting on the seat, and Crestmont’s pastor with a baseball in hand. According to various church members and photo evidence, pastor’s still got it.  

On Sunday morning, following the picnic, Rev. Dr. Jerome F. Coleman, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Crestmont and National African American Fellowship (NAAF) vice president, gave his remarks to the congregation saying, “We had a wonderful time in the Lord, fellowshipping with one another and hanging out in the Lord.” 

“I thank God for everyone who came out. I can’t wait to see how God grows this thing, as He continues to add to the church, and I’m imagining the attendance will just increase when we do this again.” 

The First Baptist Church of Crestmont, its pastor and the varied leadership of the church, is excited about what God is doing from the corner of Fairview and Rubicam, waiting in tip-toe anticipation of what God is going to do through the church, for the advancement of the Kingdom and for His glory.