Cape County Cowboy Church

If you build it, they will come. Look at the growth and construction of churches in Cape Girardeau County during the past few years. There are some amazing examples of faith communities that have attracted hundreds of members. And none of this has seemed to lessen the numbers of worshippers elsewhere.

One church that has experienced phenomenal growth in its first five years is the Cape County Cowboy Church. This church, which started as a mission of Red Star Baptist Church in Cape Girardeau and Fruitland Community Church, took the approach from the start that worship with a Western flavor would appeal to individuals seeking a casual atmosphere where blue jeans, Stetsons and seed-company caps would be taken for granted.

The Cowboy Church has been a magnet for folks from all over the area. Growth has been rapid, and members have been generous with their support. Earlier this month, the congregation held its first worship services in a new 32,000-square-foot facility at the Oak Ridge exit off Interstate 55. Each service -- on Thursday nights and Sunday mornings -- attracts 600 to 700 people.

The church -- which is a little bit Grand Ole Opry, a little bit country-western band and a whole lot simple Gospel -- offers an easygoing atmosphere while getting the message of hope and salvation across to everyone in attendance. Even pets are welcome.

"God does't care as much about the exterior as he does the interior," says pastor Jim Matthews, who keeps his cowboy hat on his head during his sermon.

Congratulations to the Cape County Cowboy Church and its members for recognizing yet another way of reaching out to the spiritual side of our communities.