What Will They Find?

a guest blog by Rebecca DeLucia, Next Generation Pastor

I am so excited because today (Wednesday, June 4th), the 6th grade class is going on a town wide scavenger hunt – and our church is featured as a stop –  which means 36 sixth graders and parent chaperones will be welcomed into our building. 

But even more amazing is the clue they need to solve to find us: 

At the heart where voices raise,
A beacon lights with hymns and praise.
Steeple stands both tall and true,
A place for hope and faith anew.
Seek the center, calm and bright—
Where many gather day and night.

This clue captures the heart of who we are at Central Baptist Church: a group of people that live by faith, a place that is known by love, and that is a voice of hope. 

It reminds me of the early church as described in the book of Acts: a community rooted in togetherness, generosity, and prayer. Acts 2:44–47 says:

“All the believers were together and had everything in common… They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.”

That passage gives us a powerful vision of what church can be: a joyful, welcoming community where people of all ages gather, find encouragement, and grow together in hope. It’s a place where needs are met, prayers are shared, and hope is renewed.

That’s the kind of church we aspire to be.

Whether we’re hosting worship on a Sunday morning, sharing meals with neighbors, running youth programs, or opening our doors to a fun town-wide scavenger hunt—everything we do flows from that same spirit of joyful hospitality. 

As calendars open up and the weather gets nicer, what are ways that we, together as a church or as individuals, can continue to be beacons of light into the community? 

We can begin with simple acts of presence and kindness. Everything from volunteering to hosting a meal with a neighbor is an opportunity to reflect God’s love. As we gear up for Gazebo services this summer, we can invite others and create moments that bring people together. All of these things build relationships, foster belonging, and help people see the church not just as a building, but as a living, breathing community of faith and love.

Lastly, let’s not overlook one main thing in Acts: they gathered together to pray, as we open our doors, let’s also open our hearts; praying for our neighbors, our town leaders, and all who seek hope and healing. When we listen deeply, care generously, and serve faithfully, we shine the light of Christ in ways that go far beyond Sunday morning. So let this scavenger hunt not just be a fun adventure for our sixth graders but also a reminder for all of us that the church is more than a destination. It’s a way of life.