More Than Barbecue: Investing in Gospel Ministry Together

More Than Barbecue: Investing in Gospel Ministry Together

Our fourth annual Missions BBQ was a tremendous blessing, and I want to take a moment to thank everyone who helped make it possible.

While many people know the event for the barbecue, the real purpose is much bigger than the meal. Each year, this fundraiser helps support our ministry, mission, and community partners as well as our ongoing mission efforts  throughout the remainder of the year. The funds raised help advance gospel ministry locally, across South Carolina, and around the world.

This year was one of our most successful events yet. We served 351 plates, received 123 completed passports, and raised a total of $18,633, exceeding our goal of $15,000 and crushing the totals we have collected in previous years. We are grateful for the generosity of our church family and community and excited to see how God will use these resources in the months ahead.

Ministry Partners

One of the biggest changes this year was our ministry partner experience. We had 12 ministry, mission, and community partners provide display tables with information and update materials. Seven of our partners were on campus to interact with those who attended. Guests entered through the ministry fair before reaching the food line and received a passport encouraging them to visit every display. Our hope was to create meaningful conversations between attendees and our partners, and from the feedback we received, that goal was accomplished. We are grateful for each partner who took the time to participate and share about their ministry and we are are thankful for the generous donations for the passport drawing.

Friday Night at the Pit

One of my favorite parts of the weekend continues to be Friday night around the pit. Long before the first plate is served, the work begins with gathering wood, preparing the pit, and cooking through the night.

Jay Floyd and the pit crew once again did an outstanding job. Justin DeBrew and others spent time preparing and splitting wood, while Jay and his team managed the overnight cook with skill and dedication. Beyond the cooking itself, Friday night has become a special time of fellowship for our church family.

Families gathered around lawn chairs, children played baseball, guitars were played, songs were sung, and friendships were strengthened. It was a reminder that events like this do more than raise money—they strengthen the fellowship and unity of our church family.

Volunteers Throughout the Day

A tremendous number of volunteers served throughout the event in setup, serving, directing traffic, greeting guests, managing displays, and cleanup. Their willingness to serve allowed our pastoral staff to spend the day greeting guests, building relationships, and engaging with members of our community. Events like this simply do not happen without volunteers who are willing to give their time and energy for the benefit of others.

Kitchen Crew

Special thanks go to Melanie Reese, Terry and Debbie Wells, and the entire kitchen team. They worked tirelessly preparing sides, organizing meal service, managing the food line, and caring for our guests. While the barbecue often gets most of the attention, there is a tremendous amount of work that goes into preparing and serving a meal for hundreds of people. Terry's famous hash was once again a highlight of the event, and the entire team did an exceptional job helping the day run smoothly.

Greeters and Donation Collection Team

A special word of appreciation goes to Mikey Norris, Susan O'Neal, and their team. They welcomed guests as they arrived, collected donations, explained the new event layout, distributed and explained the passport cards and prize drawings, tracked attendance and plates served, and answered countless questions throughout the day.

Because several changes were introduced this year, their ability to communicate clearly and help guests navigate the event was incredibly important.

Our greeters also played a significant role in creating a positive experience. They welcomed guests, pointed people in the right direction, answered questions, and helped everyone feel comfortable. Their friendliness and hospitality reflected the heart of our church family.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Missions BBQ demonstrated what God can do when a church family serves together, giving generously to support gospel ministry while strengthening fellowship, community engagement, and partnerships for the sake of the Kingdom.

Most importantly, every donation represents an investment in gospel ministry. The funds raised through this event will help support ministries that are sharing Christ, making disciples, meeting needs, and serving communities throughout the coming year.

As I reflect on the weekend, I am thankful to God for His provision, thankful for a church family that loves to serve, and thankful for the opportunity we have to partner together in the work of the gospel.

Thank you, Beulah family. I am grateful for you and excited to see how God will use these resources to make an eternal impact in the months ahead.