March for Jesus Returns Oct. 3

Christians from across Olney and the surrounding area will take their faith into the streets on Saturday, Oct. 3, during the 28th annual Olney March for Jesus.

Participants will begin lining up at 9 a.m. at Tommy Perkins Memorial Park. The parade will start at 10 a.m., travel down Avenue C to Main Street and then proceed along Hamilton Street to First Baptist Church of Olney.

The march will conclude with music by the First Baptist Olney worship band and a message from First Baptist Church of Holliday Pastor Teddy Sorrels at approximately 11:15 a.m. A free community lunch featuring brisket sandwiches will follow, along with drawings for bicycles, a tricycle, a television and other prizes. Bibles also will be given away.

Event founder Verma Fobbs, organizer Shirley Jeter and First Baptist Olney Pastor Dr. Chad Edgington discussed the celebration during a special edition of the Olney on Air podcast.

Ms. Fobbs said she founded the event after noticing that people marched publicly for many causes, but no one was marching for Jesus.

“I just had a heart to do what the Lord had laid on my heart—to actually march in the streets of Olney, Texas, for Jesus,” Ms. Fobbs said.

This year’s theme is “Time Is Short, It’s Time for Jesus.” Ms. Jeter said the theme grew from the word “urgency” and Joel 2:1, which warns that “the day of the Lord is coming.”

Dr. Edgington said the message calls people to turn toward forgiveness, love and Christ now rather than waiting.

The event also emphasizes unity among Christians from different churches and traditions. Participants may walk or join with decorated floats, bicycles, ATVs, horses, signs and banners. A float with 24 seats will be available for those unable to walk.

Everyone is welcome, regardless of church membership. Event T-shirts cost $15 and may be ordered by calling Ms. Jeter at 940-564-6755.