Pastor Gary Carringer proudly describes Polly Ann Baptist Church as “the small church with the big heart.” About 40 people fill the pews on Sunday mornings, but this humble congregation makes a big impact on its community — most notably through its annual clothes giveaway.
Each year on the third Saturday in July, the church’s fellowship hall is transformed into a free clothing store, with people lining up outside even before the doors open. This summer was no different, as hundreds from Eubank, Mount Vernon, Somerset and Monticello came seeking not only clothing but kindness and connection.
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“They’ve been doing this for years,” said Carringer, who just completed his first year as pastor. “Church members donate gently used items, and some go out and purchase brand-new clothes in Somerset. Everything here is free, and it keeps growing every year.”
To help guests shop more easily, volunteers hung clothes on racks this year. Gift bags were handed out at the door, and attendees quickly filled them with clothing and household goods — ranging from baking dishes to small appliances, the kind of treasures you might find at a yard sale.
In addition to clothes and kitchenware, everyone left with a 10-pound bag of potatoes and a warm meal of hot dogs, chips and drinks.
Day of ministry
New Haven Pregnancy Center also came and made eight connections. They also manned an ice cream truck donated by a Somerset bank.
But the day was about more than physical needs. It was a day of ministry.
“We had gospel conversations all throughout the day and were able to pray with so many,” Carringer said. “One woman asked for prayer for her pregnancy, and a gentleman came asking for prayer as he battles cancer. It was a powerful time.”
The following Sunday, several new faces appeared in the worship service — evidence that the event’s impact reached beyond material needs.
“It was a great day for our community,” Carringer said. “I call us the small church with the big heart — and I remind our members of that often.”
Humble beginnings
The church’s outreach has come a long way from its humble beginnings. The first clothes giveaway took place in the church parking lot, but the event has since moved indoors to the fellowship hall for comfort and convenience.
Polly Ann Baptist remains active throughout the year. This fall, it will host a gospel concert with a meal and a women’s banquet. Their outreach also extends beyond state lines.
“We support our local pregnancy center monthly, a church planter in Cincinnati, and a ministry in India,” Carringer said. “All of this with just 40 people — but they have huge hearts. They want to see this church grow and watch people come to know Jesus. I’m so blessed to be their pastor.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Mark Maynard and originally published by Kentucky Today.
