Students of the Praise Assembly of God Christian Academy are seen here leading their first open-to-the-public chapel on Friday. They invite you to come share in their worship service. (Times photos by Cherri Crockett)

Students of the Praise Assembly of God Christian Academy are seen here leading their first open-to-the-public chapel on Friday. They invite you to come share in their worship service. (Times photos by Cherri Crockett)

RUMFORD- What better way to start a weekend than to visit Praise Assembly of God on Congress Street to witness students of the Christian Academy share their calling of faith through song and prayer.
Last Friday, the Praise Assembly of God Christian Academy leaped out of their comfort zones by opening their 45-minute chapel service up to the public, in hopes to share their love of God, His power and what He can do for others.

Student leader, Brandon Chase, introduced Pastor Justin Thacker, who in turn offered up a prayer over the offering. Any offerings are applied toward student field trips, instruction books, as well as other student-based functions.

Chase then spoke to those gathered, referring to Ephesians 4.

“When I was praying the other night, God told me that there is no calling too big or too small. They’re all important to God. Ministry is not just preaching like Pastor Thacker does. There are many ways to help God’s church. He asks us to continually pray so we will hear His calling to us.”

Chase then gave those in attendance the opportunity to approach the altar in prayerful thought of what God may be calling them to do. He sat and prayed with each person while the worship team played and stood to sing Breathe.

Chase then came back to the podium to ask Pastor Thacker to close the service.
In closing, Pastor Thacker praised the work of God in the teens for their service. “You know what I always say,” stated Pastor Thacker. “Serve with a smile. Leave those lemon faces at home. There’s always something special about seeing a young person serve the Lord and you never know who you may be in the presence of.”

Advertisement

Pastor Thacker reminded those present that worship is vertical and not horizontal. “We lift God up on high. We praise Him.”

Following the service, Chase noted, “I’ve always wanted to do something to serve God and to help lead. I was called to this spot when Pastor was absent one day and we needed a leader. I believe it is my calling from God.”

Students are led by Cynthia Clark-Bulger as the new music teacher, instructor Erica Jamison and Pastor Justin Thacker.

If you feel led to attend and support Praise Assembly of God, the student-led chapel is now open to the public on Fridays from 2:15 p.m. until 3 p.m. If you feel the need to financially support the academy, cash or checks are graciously accepted and can be made payable to Praise Assembly of God.


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.