Church uses cowboy ways to reach people

Bible scripture recounts Jesus' Great Commission in Matthew: 28 to "go and make disciples of all nations."

To make disciples of all nations means reaching people in all settings. For some, this is becoming a missionary in a foreign land. For others, it's starting a church locally that connects with the community.

This is what happened as Cape County Cowboy Church started in January 2004. As told in a recent Southeast Missourian story, the church began in a livestock barn and had room for 275 people. As the congregation grew, so did the church's facility. Today the church still has a cowboy theme and has 1,300 seats and has been instrumental in helping other cowboy-style churches begin.

Jim Matthews, the pastor of Cape County Cowboy Church since its beginning, preaches at the Oak Ridge facility and a second location for the church in Gravel Hill, Missouri.

The church offers several opportunities to be involved beyond Sunday morning, including midweek services at 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. On Tuesday night at Gravel Hill, there are roping events before and after the service. Attendees can bring horses to participate in the rodeo activities.

We applaud Cape County Cowboy Church for finding unique ways to reach people close to home. To learn more about the church, visit capecountycowboychurch.com.

Thanks also to other area churches that spread the message of Christ and provide activities that engage members and guests, provide community and connect individuals to the Gospel.