West Tennessee Hardeman County District Association Hosts 10th Annual Bible Bowl
By: William D. Young
The West Tennessee Hardeman County District Association celebrated its 10th Annual Bible Bowl on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Smith Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Somerville, where Rev. Moses Stewart serves as pastor.
The annual event brought together youth from churches across Hardeman County to strengthen their knowledge of Scripture through friendly competition and fellowship. This year’s Bible Bowl featured an East Team and a West Team, with participants representing Greater Springfield Missionary Baptist Church, Mt. Salem Missionary Baptist Church, and Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church.
Founded by Bro. Randy Crews of Greater Springfield Missionary Baptist Church, the Bible Bowl was created to encourage young people to study and understand God’s Word. During the program, Crews reminded participants that although the East and West teams competed against one another, “we are all on the same team—Team Heaven.” He added that if even one young person learns more about the Bible through the event, then the effort has been worthwhile.
The East Team claimed first-place honors following a spirited competition. Individual awards were also presented to recognize excellence and Christian character. Braniya Whitford received the William D. Young MVP Award, while Zariyah McKinnie was presented the Shon Beasley Good Sportsmanship Award.
The event reflected the Association’s 2026 theme, “Working Together and Winning Together,” highlighting the unity of local churches in investing in the spiritual growth of the next generation.
The West Tennessee Hardeman County District Association is led by Moderator Rev. William D. Young and Vice Moderator Rev. Shon Beasley.
Click here to watch Bro. Randy Crews, founder of the Bible Bowl, speaking to the audience.
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