First Baptist Church
“First Norfolk believes that God has called us to make disciples who make disciples of Jesus—and that journey of discipleship begins with personal evangelism,” shares Pastor Phillip Herring, Executive Pastor of First Baptist Church Norfolk. “Our partnership with CEF and Good News Clubs is a vital part of that mission. This partnership equips members of our church to be on mission in local schools and is truly a blessing to our congregation.”
The church’s Good News Club was first launched in 2019 under the leadership of Julie Hunt, First Norfolk’s Children’s Ministry Director, who was personally impacted by Good News Clubs during her own childhood. That experience left a lasting mark on her heart and vision for ministry, inspiring the church to bring the Gospel into a local school through CEF.
Over the past three years, Ellen and her team have faithfully shared the Gospel with 10 to 15 children each week—many of whom come from challenging backgrounds and are spiritually hungry.
One example of the impact is seen through the ongoing club at Lake Taylor School in Norfolk, led by Ellen, a dedicated volunteer and team leader. Over the past three years, Ellen and her team have faithfully shared the Gospel with 10 to 15 children each week—many of whom come from challenging backgrounds and are spiritually hungry. These children have not only been invited into the local church community, but their families have as well.
This past school year alone, two children made the decision to receive Jesus as their Savior. At the final club meeting, one young girl who had accepted Christ asked to speak and pray in front of everyone. With a handwritten note and a beautiful prayer, she told the team, “Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You helped me learn about my life. Y’all are the best.”
