BROWNWOOD – October 2, 2017 – Howard Payne University junior Candace Stark of Midland served in Arlington this past summer through Go Now Missions, a cooperative organization of Baptist churches that mobilizes Texas university students to share the love of Jesus Christ across the world. Through Go Now Missions, Stark was able to serve at Mission Arlington for four weeks.
Mission Arlington is a center for community ministry in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. The many different service ministries at Mission Arlington provide help with the physical needs of the community’s people while introducing them to the Bible and Jesus Christ.
While serving with Mission Arlington, Stark spent most of her time in the “out back” area where donations of clothing and household items were delivered and sorted. While there, she had the opportunity to share Jesus with those serving with her and to pray with them for four weeks.
“The reason I chose to serve ‘out back’ was because at times when it was not too busy I could talk with the volunteers,” said Stark. “Many people working there were serving court-ordered sentences and were amazed that I chose to serve in that area by raising money to do so. My willingness to open up to those whom others had given up on was a neat and humbling experience.”
While serving with Mission Arlington, Stark also assisted with “Rainbow Express” which is similar to Vacation Bible School. She helped serve food and teach the kids about Jesus while the adults were taught separately about Jesus as well. The event occurred two times per week for two weeks.
“Rainbow Express was such a great success and the turnout was unbelievable,” said Stark. “So many kids and adults accepted Christ during the event and that was a blessing to see.”
In addition, Stark served at Remynse Street Fellowship, a local church in the area. Stark said she was taught valuable biblical and life lessons by a special woman in the church. She had the opportunity to learn more about being intentional in working with the kids in the area and in mission work.
“God really showed how sovereign He is in all situations and how we should not question why or where He sends us to do His work,” said Stark.
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Cutline: HPU student Candace Stark served at Mission Arlington this past summer.