By JESSA PEASE / Staff Writer

PELHAM—For members of Lakeview Pelham’s First United Methodist Church, the neighboring lake creates a perfect setting to celebrate Independence Day and to launch its new ministry.

“This is a large undertaking for a church our size (180-200 members), but we are excited to host a God sized event,” said Jeremiah Mote, a representative with the church.

Mote expects to have a turnout of 400 to 500 people, featuring attractions such as inflatable bouncy houses and a slide, free games with prizes, clowns, face painting, an eating contest, kayak races and a fishing rodeo. There will also be live music, with genres such as country, oldies, modern classics and current Christian contemporary.

Before Lakeview used its lake as a setting for fireworks and fun, it was mainly used for baptisms within the church. Then two years ago, Mote approached Pastor Michael Miller about using the lake to its fullest potential.  He formed a ministry called Lakeview 4:19 with the lake acting as a center point for fellowship.

“It grew from there with fireworks being provided, and our church stepping up to host a huge festival to show the community our love for them,” Mote said. “This year having July Fourth on a Saturday is a great way to invite our community to come have a fishing rodeo for the kids.”

This year, Mote said Lakeview will use the festival as an opportunity to launch its new ministry Heart of Joseph. The goal of the ministry is to help fatherless young men deal with the absence of that figure in their life.

“It’s a new ministry for our area that we feel is needed,” Mote said.  “We as a church hope to help those with children without Fathers in their lives.”

Through group bible studies and activities Mote said the ministry will work to encourage young men in spiritual growth while teaching them life skills that are important for maturing young men.

The Fourth of July community outreach festival is open to the public, taking place July 4 from 4-9 p.m. at the church’s campus, 5154 Highway 11 in Pelham. Guests can bring coolers and chairs, but alcohol is not allowed.