Children that live in Vincent have a new gathering place. First Baptist Church of Vincent has revitalized its old playground to give Vincent a new park.

Pastor Darryl Wood said the playground was expanded, with new, safer equipment added as well as benches and picnic tables. The church also planted new trees and installed an irrigation system.

“It’s more than just a playground, it’s a park area now,” Wood said. “It’s a place to play and also a place where people can relax and be together as a family.”

The park, which is adjacent to First Baptist Church, has been part of a master plan to revitalize the church’s different facilities and programs.

Planning and development started in the summer, but carrying out the improvement plan only took about six weeks of labor. The park was completed this week, Wood said.

“It’s a part of our ministry to enrich people and to minister to people in all circumstances,” he said. “It provides for the development of the whole person and provides a place to play and be productive.”

The church will be dedicated at the morning church service on Nov. 9. After the service, the children of the church will lead the congregation to the playground for the official unveiling and ribbon-cutting.

Until then, all the equipment will remain hidden under black tarps.

“Nobody’s really seen the equipment yet, and up to this point, they’ve been very pleased and excited,” Wood said. “It’s a great addition to our church, and I’ve heard a lot of comments about that.”

Vincent Mayor Ray McAllister said the playground would become a focal point for the community.

“We think it’s going to be a real good addition to the community because the children will have a place to play,” he said. “It’ll be a good place for adults to take their children and maybe relax a little bit.”