By By Adrienne McKenzie
When attending church, many would not anticipate seeing a more than 300-pound man snapping baseball bats, ripping telephone books and smashing concrete.
However, Atmore area residents will see just that if they visit McCullough Christian Center the next few nights.
John Jacobs Next Generation Power Force will be performing feats of strength in an effort to send God's message throughout the week at MCC.
"The strength ministry is designed to use strength and power to get the kids' attention and then share with them the positive message of Jesus Christ," MCC music director Terry Kelly said.
According to Kelly, the Power Force visited MCC in October of 2006 and were well-received.
"They did an excellent job," he said. "We had a really good response the last time. Everybody seemed to enjoy them and we had a very good turnout."
Kelly said there were many individuals who had their lives changed in a positive way because of the Power Force's message.
"Several of those people are an active part of the youth and adult ministries now," Kelly said.
John Jacobs created his strength ministry in 1976 and today it is used to communicate positive messages in many arenas including churches and schools. John Jacobs Next Generation Power Force has been featured in People Magazine, the Saturday Evening Post and on "Walker, Texas Ranger." The team has also been on ABC, NBC, CBS and CNN. And, for more than 10 years the group have had their own TV show entitled "The Power Connection."
Most of the men on the Power Force weigh more than 300 pounds and show great strength in lifting telephone poles and smashing walls. There are many world record holders in the team as well as a former Mr. America finalist. More than 50 governors, senators and congressmen have endorsed the Power Force because of their encouragement to the nation's youth.
The Power Force is not strictly about lifting weights and breaking things, however. The group shares testimonies of hope and inspiration.
"They share the testimony of how God changed their lives and tie it all together with the message that Jesus is your hope," Kelly said.
The Power Force will perform at MCC today at 6 p.m. and Monday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. nightly. The event is completely free of charge and everybody is invited, Kelly said.
For more information or directions to McCullough Christian Center, visit www.purposemcc.com.