As a celebration of the 100 years of the Church of God in Christ, Inc., the Mississippi Southern First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction sponsored a scholastic motivation ministry as part of the State Auxiliaries in Ministries Convention on June 11 through June 15 in Jackson.

The primary purpose was to get the children involved in specific activities, such as the spelling bee, bible bowl, talent, drill teams and steppers. Children participated from all over the state of Mississippi.

District 5 was represented well and students excelled greatly. Students won awards from first place to third place in their particular division.

The following students from Murray Temple COGIC in Natchez were awarded trophies: Anthony Butler, first place Division 1 spelling bee; Kaitlyn Green, second place Division 1 spelling bee, and Kaliyah Dunmore, second place Division 2 spelling bee and second place, steppers.

Roderick Lewis Jr. of Greater Works COGIC in Natchez was awarded trophies for placing third in the senior division spelling bee and second in the senior division Bible bowl.

Dannielle Sanders of Davis Chapel COGIC in Gloster was awarded trophies for placing first in the senior level division Bible bowl and first in the senior level division oratorical.

The District 5 Youth Department extends special thanks to the pastors, parents and youth leaders. We appreciate you and we look forward to working with you in other upcoming activities.