BENNETTSVIILE— Scripture wrapped around the streets of Bennettsville Friday when the “City on the Move” paused for 24-hours to hear the Bible read from the center of town during Bennettsville: A City Set Apart, a community prayer event led by local Pastor Jacob Orr and Bennettsville Mayor Tyron Abraham, alongside several area churches. Many volunteers participated in the 24-hour scripture reading marathon by reading verses and by setting up and taking down equipment for the event.
Pastor Jacob Orr said he felt like the goal established by Mayor Abraham and himself at the outset was accomplished and a blessing for them to see come to fruition.
“Our goal was to spend 24 hours reading scripture in the middle of the city. We definitely were able to do that. I have already started seeing its impact on the hearts of the people,” Orr said.
When it comes to recreating the event again, Orr shared, “We are open to these types of interdenominational events being more frequent. It shows unity among the churches in our area that is needed for all of us to be successful. I have only received positive feedback from those who participated in the event and reading, and those who liked the idea but were unable to attend due to other commitments and scheduling conflicts. The more we do things together, the more responsive people are going to become. These are the types of things that should slowly shift the culture in our city.”
Despite the event succeeding in the overall goal, Orr said he wished attendee turnout had been more prevalent. “While I would love to have seen a great multitude of people at this event, I am grateful that there were multiple churches represented there at any given time,” Orr said.
He also shared a poignant moment for him from the Bennettsville: A City Set Apart event.
“There was a moment when the passage of the dedication of the temple was being read in the middle of the night, and I looked up and the courthouse bell tower transformed into a steeple. It was so representative that we were turning this place into holy ground,” Orr said. He added, “I am grateful for Mayor Abraham’s support and participation. I am grateful for the other city and church leaders who led out in this event, and I am optimistic about the effect speaking the word has over the city and the power it possesses to change hearts.”
To Mayor Tyron Abraham, the city’s first community prayer event was a big success!
He said, “As Mayor, I am grateful for the unity, faith and support shown by our community. There is power when we come together in prayer and seek God’s guidance for our future.”
The mayor also wished to thank several people that graciously donated their time and talents to ensure the event went off without a hitch. Abraham added that he thinks holding the event annually will be more impactful on the city and its residents over time.
“My hope is that this meaningful gathering will become an annual event, bringing our community together in faith, love and unity. I’d like to thank everyone who participated and helped to make this special occasion possible. May God continue to bless the city of Bennettsville and our entire community.”