Kent: Baptist youth minister

Jon Kent recently joined the staff of First Baptist Church as minister of youth, says The Rev. Fred Bueto, church pastor.

Kent attended Liberty University and is a recent graduate of Christian Bible College in Rocky Mount, N.C. His father is presently the senior minister of a church in Pelham, N.C.

He enjoys playing guitar, having been in several bands, and is a big Duke University sports fan. He was a member of a state baseball championship team while attending high school in Virginia.

“My ministry for the Lord evolves around Bible study and scripture found in Matthew 6:33,” Kent said. “I look at holiness instead of hype while stressing the importance of prayer and standing up for Christ.

“I believe strongly in evangelism and that growth starts from within the church. We’ve already seen a jump in attendance with our core youth group more than doubling in size.”

There are separate worship services each Wednesday night in the Youth Center for junior high and senior high teenagers. Kent leads the older group in Bible study and assisting is Kenny Johnson, who meets with the younger group. There are adult leaders who also take part by sitting in on the services and assisting during social gatherings. Other adult volunteers Kent refers to as “reserves of the army” are called upon when needed.

Fun activities have included movie night, after-game lock in and a friendship rally with a musical concert set Oct. 13.