We believe Jesus when he said in the book of Acts, “After the Spirit has come upon you, you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the uttermost parts of the earth” (Acts 1:8). We are continually confronted with the needs of those around us in Augusta, our “Jerusalem,” and our vision is to impact this city for Christ.
Many First Pres members are actively involved in and leading local ministries. Here are a few highlights:
Hope for Augusta
It is our desire to be especially proactive in Restoring People and Rebuilding Places in our strategic target area in the Olde Town neighborhood bordering our church. Many of our members have responded to the challenge and vision to return to the heart of the city. They have embraced the culture and are giving their lives not only to the community but to restoring the homes to their past glory.
Restoring people doesn’t happen through government programs or beefing up the police department alone. Restoration comes when God starts moving, when the Word of God begins to prick at the heart and shout, “I love you, I forgive you and I will not leave you where you are!”
The following programs fall under the Hope for Augusta umbrella:
New Town is a weekly Bible study for students in grades K-12 where kids enjoy a meal, play together and learn about the gospel in small and large group settings. To learn more or to volunteer contact Stephen Pittman.
Reaching Higher is a tutoring program for kids in K-5th grades which focuses not only on homework but on how to glorify God through their work ethic in their studies and behavior at school. To learn more or to volunteer contact Stephen Pittman.
Arrow Institute is an after-school art program for 1st-5th grades. Students learn how to create beauty while learning about the Creator of all beauty! Besides cultivating courageous creativity, these budding artists learn to endure in their work and learn to have joyful spirits always. To learn more or to volunteer, contact Stephen Pittman.
Visit the Hope for Augusta website to learn more about this ministry.
Staff Contacts
Stephen Pittman, Director of Hope for Augusta
Luke Niday, Assistant Pastor, Local Outreach
