Many know that Mission Arlington responds to emergency needs in people’s lives every day.  Hundreds of people every day come to our downtown location for help with food, clothes, household items, furniture, and emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, and more.  Not everyone knows that much of Mission Arlington®’s work actually happens away from our downtown location, but instead, all across the city.  Over the past 28+ years, 349 Bible studies and congregations have been formed which meet weekly all across our community.   Volunteer Bible study leaders from this group provide a host of activities for the children and youth that live in these communities.

One of those activities is Mission Arlington® gym nights. On Friday, January 9th, we held our first gym night for youth, and 90 students from multiple Mission Arlington® Bible studies participated.  Last night, Friday, January 16th, we held our first gym night of the year for children, and 249 children came to enjoy the evening.

Bible study leaders come to the mission offices early on Friday afternoon to get a van, then transport the students from home to the Mission Arlington® gym in central Arlington.  The children run, play, laugh, and have a great time.  Adult leaders spend the time playing with and listening to these children.  Spending time with them is such a great gift.

Some of the children who don’t enjoy playing basketball go to another room filled with card tables and all kinds of table games that they can enjoy.  Before the children head home, they get to hear a creative lesson from the Bible designed to help them know more about the Lord and His Word.

The Mission Arlington® family “loves to love” children.  We are so grateful for the privilege of serving our Lord in this community. One of our greatest privileges is getting to do what we do alongside you.  Your support, and your gifts of time, money, and service make such a difference here. To God be the glory!