Contributed byCowboy Church of the Midlands

A local group of horse enthusiasts is reaching out to the riding community for Christ. Members of the group include endurance riders, show riders, and pleasure riders. Some ride western and some ride English. The group is unique in that it is non-denominational. There are members who are Baptist, Methodist, Nazarene, Catholic and Lutheran. The focus is on their love for God, their love of horses, and love for their fellow man.

White Horse Equestrian Ministries has focused on sponsoring horse related activities from weekend camping trips to fun day shows, educational seminars, trail rides, and most things in-between. Now they have a new project - Cowboy Church, which is currently meeting on a quarterly basis.

Cowboy churches have begun to spring up across North America. There is a need to minister to individuals who may not be comfortable at a traditional or contemporary church service. The Cowboy Church of today is in a setting that smells of horses and hay. People who come will probably be wearing jeans, hats, and maybe even cowboy boots. You won't see stained glass windows and carpet, but if you are lucky perhaps there will be a horse or two around.

To experience Cowboy Church in the Midlands, come to Hendrix Farms at 2205 Augusta Highway, Lexington, SC, Saturday, September 2, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. Plans include some flag horses, some singing, and a chuck wagon with light refreshments. There is no charge. You don't have to be a cowboy, and you don't even have to own a horse. All are welcome.

If you have any questions, please contact Kathy Roberts 803-957-7569 or or ksr914.sc@netzero.net.