NORTH AUGUSTA --- With sleep barely wiped from their eyes, North Augusta teenagers shuffled Wednesday toward a table at Fairview Presbyterian Church filled with breakfast treats.
They grabbed a bagel and a scoop of Billy Bob grits, then curled up on couches to discuss everything from looming tests to prom decor -- with their Sunday school leaders.
The group meets before school twice a month for food and fellowship, a practice that started this school year after church teachers wanted extra fellowship during the week, according to teacher Ray Fleming.
Now Mr. Fleming, his wife, Lyn, and others are up at 4:30 a.m. on Wednesdays scrambling eggs or flipping pancakes.
He said there hasn't been a week where turnout wasn't great. "They are naturally adventurous and it's a different start to an average day," Mr. Fleming said.
Breakfast clubs such as the Fairview Breakfast Initiative aren't a new idea, Mr. Fleming said, but it's an idea that's bridging a conversation gap that can sometimes happen between teens and adults.
Grace United Methodist on Georgia Avenue has about 70 teens attend God's Reminder to Inspire Students twice a month as well.
The time allows community leaders to connect with teenagers in a way that might not happen at home and it has also bonded North Augusta High School students.
"When it comes down to it, these kids are so busy and time is such an issue. We came up with the idea to have a breakfast because it wakes you up and it gives you a sense that I'm going to do my work for the good of God," said Karen Denny, Grace United Methodist youth ministries director.
The teens aren't begrudging about their time either.
"It's cool to wake up and have this to look forward to. It's better than being alone in your kitchen or not eating breakfast at all," said Sydney Scaggs, 15.
"It's nice to put in a prayer request and it helps you get through the day," said Margaret Ann Williams, 16. She attends GRITS as a church member, but frequents the FBI because she enjoys the smaller, intimate setting.
"I'm very proud of most of my kids," said Ms. Denny. "They have the motivation to wake up and drive here when 90 percent of them already have mom and dad at work. It says a lot and I hope it's something that makes them feel good."
Reach Julia Sellers at (706) 823-3424 or julia.sellers@augustachronicle.com.
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