Sammy Hudson, executive director of The Refuge, performed and prayed for students at Arendell Parrott Academy Wednesday. Photo by Junious Smith III / Neuse News

By Junious Smith III

A trio of schools took part in a national event recently.

“See You At The Pole” is an event focused on student prayer, where groups meet at the school’s flagpole and fellowship for the betterment of the area. It started with a group of 10 students in Texas in 1990, and has exploded to more than 2 million participants with the event taking place annually on the fourth Wednesday in September.

Lillian Warner, a senior at Arendell Parrott Academy, said it was important to take part in the event.

“A group of us wanted to come together to pray for the school, community, the nation and the world,” Warner said.

APA had their “See You At The Pole” day a week late, but hundreds participated Wednesday morning. Among those in attendance was Sammy Hudson, executive director of The Refuge, who prayed and delivered words of encouragement.

“I was asked to come out and I responded to the call,” Hudson said. “It was an incredible event and I was all for being a part of it — if I could reach out to one person, it’s definitely worth it.”

On opposite sides of the county, North Lenoir and South Lenoir participated in the event Sept. 25. North Lenoir teacher and assistant football coach Tony Hill said it was essential for the school community to come together and it did in spades.

“We had a lot of great involvement, and Wheat Swamp Church pastor Hank Jarman came out to lead us in prayer,” Hill said. “It was a great opportunity for students to start the day off strong and for some to know this isn’t just something you do on Sunday. We prayed for other students, teachers, law enforcement and first responders, and there were quite a few kids here.

“The one thing I remind students is you don’t have to be an athlete to be a part of the (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) or meet for this event — it’s open to everyone.”

South Lenoir chaplain Christopher Hardy said it was wonderful to see the student body come together for a great reason.

 “The event was extravagant,” Hardy said. “It’s always wonderful bringing people together to talk with God, praying that He keeps the school safe. We’re all brothers and sisters in Christ and it was wonderful to see the turnout, as students and teachers came together to strengthen their relationship with God and with each other.”