Outreach to our Community
At First Baptist Church we believe we are located in downtown Reading for a purpose. This sense of calling to the city prompts us to reach out to our mostly-hispanic neighborhood in several important ways:
Homework Study Program
First Baptist Church enjoys a special relationship with the local Tyson-Schoener Elementary School. For the past 15 years students come twice a week after school for help with their homework. Adult and student tutors give personal attention to each student in reading and math. Students also enjoy a snack, and are rewarded with computer time or craft activity when their homework is completed. Student tutors come from the local Southwest Middle School and St. Peter's Catholic School. Adult volunteers are recruited from the congregation and other community groups. Most of the children served are Hispanic. This year we have a total of 37 students and 40 volunteers helping with this highly successful program.
Sharing our Facilities
First Baptist shares our chapel and other facilities with an Hispanic congregation:
Casa del Alfarero
Pastor Rev. Frank Gonzalea
Annual "Giveaway Day"
(formerly known as "Free Yard Sale")
Each summer we solicit clothing, household goods, toys, furniture and other items to be given to the community. On the appointed day, our neighbors are invited to take what they need from tables heavy with donations from members of the congregation.
Vacation Bible School
Every July we offer a week-long Vacation Bible School for the children of our community. We partner with other local congregations to teach the Bible, enjoy crafts and refreshments, learn songs of faith, and have an annual "Water Night" when everyone gets wet!
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