This week, First Baptist Church of Picayune can be found around the city performing special service projects for the community.

“Jesus said he didn’t come to be served but to serve,” said Rev. Ryan Wade of First Baptist Church of Picayune.

Wade said the church is always trying to serve the community in practical ways.

Monday, volunteers helped the city clean up a property that had been neglected for several years.

“They came to us saying they wanted to give back to the community,” said Picayune Code Enforcement Officer Tom Milar.

This is the second year First Baptist Church has helped the city clean up blighted properties, said Milar.

“It has saved thousands of dollars for the taxpayers,” said Milar.

All cleanup costs typically would be incurred through a $400 fine to the landowner placed as a lean on their taxes, said Milar.

Last year, the church helped board up a vacant house because vagrants had been breaking into it, said Milar.

Volunteers with the church also visited Christian Care Ministires, the Bedford Care Center and hosted a prayer walk Monday.

Throughout the remaining week, the church will be volunteering at local schools, rehabilitation centers, the Meals on Wheels program and other house repair projects.

Thursday, the church is hosting an appreciation lunch for those who work for the police and fire departments, local school districts and other public servants.

PJ’s Coffee House is hosting a Big Questions Over Coffee event at 7 p.m. to discuss spiritual questions with pastors from First Baptist Church as well as visiting a professor and pastors, said Wade.

Saturday there will be a block party with Rose of Sharon Church.

Wade said church members often hear the message of Jesus but these projects help show that message as well.

For more information, call Picayune First Baptist Church at 601-798-4886.