Boy Scouts spearhead EMCC Chapel work
SCOOBA — Braden Smith and other members of Boy Scouts of America Troop 70 in Meridian upgraded the meditation garden adjacent to the Chapel in the Pines on East Mississippi Community College’s Scooba campus.
Smith planned and executed the work, along with his fellow troop members, for his Eagle Scout Service Project, the final step in achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Scouts BSA program.
Smith and the other Troop 70 members removed tree limbs and debris from the garden and pruned, fertilized and mulched rose bushes. They also planted daylilies donated by Scooba resident Debbie Waller.
In addition, the Scouts pressure-washed sidewalks and concrete angels and pedestals, which were placed throughout the garden.
After completing the project, the Scouts enjoyed a brief time of prayer and devotional and were presented a history of the chapel by Mary M. Smith, who is the coordinator for the Chapel in the Pines, which serves as home to the Student Christian Fellowship, Baptist Student Union, Wesley Foundation and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Braden Smith is a seven-year State Superior Bible Drill winner and a member of Northcrest Baptist Church in Meridian where he operates the lights and sound for the church’s 40-member youth group. He participated in a mission project for the church in New Orleans over spring break.