Another Chance Church Formally Opens in Bath
November 2009 – BATH, NY – The Courier
“You are greater than what your history has been.”
Those words of hope from Pastor Reggie Cox were offered to men and women gathered Nov. 15 for a new worship service at Another Chance Church, located at 311 West Washington St.
Another Chance is focused on individuals from every walk of life and in every socio-economic class, with an emphasis on the veterans associated with the various programs at the Bath VA.
Pastor Cox says Another Chance is focused on providing spiritual health in order to reduce the rate of recidivism among those who have been, or are, involved in substance abuse programs. “Everyone is in recovery from destructive habits, hurts and hang-ups,” says Pastor Cox, “especially those of us who have become trapped in the snare of addictive behaviors.”
Pastor Cox says God always offers those who seek him Another Chance.
Bath mayor David Wallace helped open the doors for the new worship service by cutting a large yellow ribbon. “I want them to understand we, the Village, want to support them. We appreciate their commitment to the community,” Wallace said, adding, “It was kind of fun, they were excited and enthusiastic and when we moved from the parking lot to the front doors, and then into the sanctuary, they just spontaneously broke out in song.”
Another Chance is a cooperative effort developed between Pastor Cox and Reverb Ministries. Reverb is an ecumenical coalition of churches, faith based groups and human and social service agencies devoted to community development in the Bath area. Pastor Ed Spencer, executive director of Reverb, says, “We started this new worship service specifically to minister to a population of individuals who are generally invisible in and around Bath. They have skills and experience to offer to our community. These veterans have a significant contribution to make, and we want to become more deeply and positively involved in Bath and the surrounding communities.”
Another Chance began in September at ReThreads Clothing Pantry, but grew so quickly another facility had to be found. Pastor Craig Buckley, a member of the Advisory Board of Reverb Ministries, then offered the use of the sanctuary and fellowship hall at Bethel Assembly of God.
Each service at Another Chance starts with a time of prayer. “Those who come to the Tuesday afternoon Bible study often share what’s been happening in their lives,” says Pastor Spencer, “then we dig deeply into the Bible for wisdom and inspiration to deal with life’s challenges and opportunities. We find ourselves aligning with God’s promise to bring life, and bring it abundantly.”
Another Chance meets at 311 West Washington Street in Bath. Worship is on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.; midweek Bible Study takes place on Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m.
