The Ends of Earth Regional Team has the specific responsibility to call out those in our congregation with passion for ministry outside the state of Virginia. Our two main partners are listed below. While on mission we find ourselves serving in a variety of ministries:  construction, children's camps, leading Bible study, planning field trips, singing/playing concerts, crafts & cooking.  We will continue to train, equip and send people into the world to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Joining God in His work is always an adventure at the Ends of the Earth.  We hope you join in soon!

Early in 2007, HRBC joined Hyaets in their vision to reach the neighbors in Enderly Park in urban Charlotte, NC. The leaders at Hyaets are excited about this journey with us. They love to share about their vision of building relationships and sharing the love of Jesus.

Children come from broken or abusive homes. They are often left to plan meals, supervise siblings and maintain the home on their own. The Hyaets homes provide safe, nurturing environments where children can experience the love of Christ. Neighborhood adults often need a listening ear, or an encouraging word. They will find both at Hyaets.

Over the course of our partnership, we have worked alongside this community to learn from one another. We have participated in community meals, an annual Share Day, Vacation Bible School, and more. One of our more largest projects was the conversion of an old garage into a clubhouse. Through a grant from the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and lots of manual labor, we were able to convert this garage into a valuable ministry tool. The young people love being in that space that they take ownership of, and they diligently show up with books in hand in the afternoons to get some assistance, as well as to play games and do some crafts. Hyaets so grateful for the tremendous gift that this space has been to their ministry.

To learn more about the Hyaets ministry, visit their web site.

In late 2009, the EoE team discerned God’s call to become involved in ministry in Owsley County (“The OC”), identified by CBF as one of the twenty poorest counties in America. We have spent time with local pastors Jerry & Susie Lacefield and Wayne & Dianna Elliott learning about the community and its people, and hearing about how we can minister to their needs. We also work with Paula Settle, CBF's Together for Hope missionary in that area.

The Food Place provides regular food assistance to the people of Owsley County and the Clothes Closet provides clothing for those in the community. Both Food Place and Clothes Closet depend heavily on volunteer labor and contributions.

Although Owsley County has some ministries in place, any talent can be used! Not unlike many ministries in Richmond, we are always welcome to visit with senior adults, interact with the local youth groups and help in the school. Ongoing repair/maintenance of homes is always needed. Those physically unable to travel to Owsley County are encouraged to provide/prepare supplies for mission teams, collect items (food, clothing, housewares, school supplies). As you volunteer your time, skills, and ideas, HRBC will develop its own missions personality and presence in Owsley County!

While on mission, we traditionally stay at the Emma Quire Mission Center. The First Baptist Church of Frankfurt bought the old Goodman Motel to house mission teams and move the Food Place to the ground floor. They have a kitchen with 2 refrigerators, a stove, washer and dryer, an ice machine and basic cooking utensils. There are picnic tables and a grill under a shelter for outside dining. (Mark Howell, Missions Minister of FBC Frankfort, KY, shares some thoughts about Owsley County.)

The Center is in the heart of town which also has a Dollar General Store, a Family Dollar Store, one hardware store, and a building supply store approximately 5 miles away. The town also has a grocery and there is a Save-a-Lot 8 miles away.

The center has 7 rooms and can sleep up to 34 people on extra-long bunk beds. Bedding and towels are included. Each room as its own bathroom.

Other Owsley County Information –
Natural Bridge State Park is 25 miles away. The Park is known (actually 3rd most popular) for hiking, rock climbing and repelling, with many trails and a new Nature Center.

Buck Horn State Park is located approximately 25 miles from Booneville, KY. There is a lake with a lodge, beach, and a bathhouse. Pontoon boats are available to cruise around the lake.

Places to eat in OC include Spencer’s Dairy Bar, Dooly’s Diner, and Pizza & Chicken at the B.P.

This information was shared by Jerry and Susie Lacefield. Jerry is the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Booneville. Jerry stated the following “We are thankful and blessed to be able to serve the people here in Owsley County. We thank each one who has given so freely”.