By Robert Barron
Staff Writer
Payback, at times, can be awfully fun. Sunday was one of those times.
Enid police and fire and Garfield County sheriff’s officials were honored by two local church congregations who said they wanted to pay the civil servants back for their service.
The Rev. Brad Menden-hall, pastor of World Harvest Church, with the Rev. Wayne Bland, pastor of Grace World Outreach Church, said Sunday evening’s event was a way of “blessing” those who serve Enid and the area.
Inflatable games and even a paint ball arena were set up on property behind Grace World Outreach Church at 2502 W. Elm. There also was a drawing for an opportunity to drive a new Dodge Viper for a day, a prize donated by Johnsons of Enid. Food was provided by United Supermarket, and Bank of Kremlin and Security National Bank provided cash donations. RE/MAX Premiere Realtors displayed a hot-air balloon.
“We just wanted to bless back to the civil servants. They are among the jobs with the highest stress, and they do it because they love it,” Mendenhall said.
Barbara Monroe, assistant pastor and missions director at Grace World Outreach Church, said they wanted to “serve the people who are serving us.”
Bland said the idea originally came from a group that meets every week and decided to do something for the community.
“Ministry is getting out of the four walls of the church and getting into the community,” Bland said.
Firefighter Ben Moritz said he likes the idea. He believes such gatherings are great for the community and boost morale.
Between bites of his hamburger, Mark Morris said some were concerned about attending a function sponsored by churches for fear of being “pressured.”
“That has not happened,” he said.
In his 10 years with the department, Morris said he has seen a few celebrations to honor emergency workers.
Undersheriff Jerry Niles said the idea was great.
“Besides bringing everyone together for the day it’s good fellowship,” he said.
