08/01/2026
Highlights from the First Back-to-School Bash & Backpack Blessing!
Co-sponsored by Asbury United Methodist Church-Clinton, TN, and the Clinton City Community Center, clergy and laity from seven local congregations came together to offer prayers and blessings for students, parents, extended family members, teachers, administrators, public officials, state legislators, school personnel, security officers, maintenance staff, and cafeteria workers as they prepared for a new school year.
Participants included Pastor Linda Smith (Martin Chapel United Methodist Church, Knoxville), Pastor Ernest Scruggs (Mount Sinai Baptist Church, Clinton), Pastor Robert Marks (Haven Chapel United Methodist Church, Powell), Pastor David Knight (St. Mark United Methodist Clinton), Sherry Livengood, lay member (Memorial UMC Clinton, TN), and Pastor Wayne Phillips (Main Street Baptist Church, Rocky Top). Pastor Brandon Beth (Norris United Methodist Church, Norris) offered a special blessing over the backpacks.
The event was coordinated and led by Pastor Lee Radford and Dr. Nola Radford of Asbury United Methodist Church, Clinton. Pastor Radford shared a Story Time message entitled, “What It Means to Be a Good Neighbor,” while Dr. Radford served as the presiding leader for the program.
Taylor Cullison, Recreation Coordinator-Programs, Parks & Recreation, and the staff of the Clinton City Community Center organized children’s activities, including bounce houses, and hosted informational displays from various community agencies. Clinton High School athletes and cheerleaders also participated, helping to create a welcoming atmosphere. Free backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to all elementary school students in attendance. It was a wonderful event that brought together churches, community organizations, and volunteers in support of local children and families as they prepared to begin the new school year.
Photos were taken and shared by Donna M. Mosby, lay member of Haven Chapel United Methodist Church, Powell.
