They’re no ordinary lawn ornaments. A trio of “Buddy Barrels” recently appeared on Mearl Minter’s front lawn and he couldn’t be happier. Throughout May and June, the ornaments have appeared on various lawns in Oskaloosa and Pella. The cartoon barrel ornaments are part of a program used by the First Assembly of God Church in Oskaloosa to raise money for mission efforts and to help send youth to church camp. Those who choose to donate to the dual-purpose fund, such as Minter, then get to choose the next lawn to bear the barrels.

“Buddy Barrel” is a kind of mascot for all youth programing associated with First Assembly of God churches throughout the U.S.

Minter was especially pleased to know he’s helping provide a faith-based summer camp experience for young people.

“It’s part of growing up and getting spiritual values that are important for everyday life,” said Minter. “You see kids uptown running around on the street doing drugs and everything else. Some kids really don’t have a father figure in their life. We need to support these kids in various ways to make them better individuals.”

Minter then recalled the benefits of finding faith early on in life saying he began regularly attending church at age 10. He said it’s fun to be able to participate.

“I accepted the Lord into my heart and it makes a difference, you know,” said Minter. “It’s a matter of life and death.”

The Rev. Troy Renter serves as children’s pastor at the First Assembly of God Church. Renter has been involved in getting young people to go to church camp for 15 years and said its a good way for them to develop self-esteem and character.

The church’s youth attend camp at Sunstream Retreat Center in Ogden, near Ames. Renter said activities range from off-road go-karting and zip lines to listening to speakers discuss faith.

“It’s a great opportunity to get away and be able to have one week to have fun and enjoyment and they get an opportunity to connect with God,” said Renter.