Managing editor
It was an unusual site — seeing a group of teens walking along Main Street, two of them carrying large wooden crosses.
Passers-by stared, some with their mouths open in wonder.
It was May 16, a typical busy Saturday morning in downtown Marion.
The event was part of a Marion Christian youth group that include Marion Middle School and Marion High School students.
It began with the teens gathering at Marion Christian Church May 15 for a lock-in. The purpose of the lock-in was to give students an opportunity to devote uninterrupted time in prayer and devotion, and to have fun with friends.
The group stayed up until 4:30 a.m., playing games and bowling at SherBowl Lanes. After a few hours sleep, the group was given a hearty breakfast and a ride to the farm of Daryl and Pat Enos, south of Marion.
Daryl Enos had built two crosses out of wood, weighing about 40 pounds each. The teens then took turns, carrying the crosses the three miles to the Christian church. Their route included walking on Main Street.
“We showed our faith in God by doing this in public,” said Lauren McLinden. She said she enjoyed spending time with her friends and getting closer to God.
“It was the best experience I’ve ever felt,” MHS freshman Miller Hendrix said. “It helped me get in touch with God.”
Despite looks from people, no one asked the group what they were doing but Miller believes most knew.
The group was organized and led by Marion Christian Church Pastor Carl Helm and Chris Ensley.
Each teen carried the cross at least 100 yards.
“It was a great experience for each of them that they will remember for a long time,” Helm said.
“We carried the cross,” Hendrix began, “God carried the cross,” he finished.
Any middle school student may join the group but needs to be a member of a local church.
For more information, contact Helm at (620) 382-3122.