‘Break-Away’ gives young people an alternative ‘hangout’

By Mike Lange
Staff Writer

    DEXTER — A group of young people who meet every Tuesday night at the Antioch Missionary Baptist Church meeting room in Dexter are trying to make a difference in the community.
    While the “Break-Away” sessions begin with a devotional, the main purpose of the group isn’t necessarily religious, explains Matthew Blake. “Like every other small town in Maine, Dexter has its problems,” Blake said. “This is a place where young people can feel free to come and share their thoughts and concerns – and ‘break away’ from the pack.”

Observer photo/Mike Lange

    DEEP IN THOUGHT — Participants at “Break-Away” discuss ways to apply Biblical teachings to everyday life. Clockwise, from left, are Tammy Phillips, Mike Colomy, Matthew Blake, Corey Page and Nick Sawtelle. Not pictured: Tiffany Dever.

    The group was just formed on Jan. 7, but word is slowly getting out through Facebook and other social media. Even in zero-degree weather, several young people gathered last week for some serious discussion, followed by food, fun and board games.
    Blake led the discussion on applying Biblical practices to everyday life – at work, school and home. “When you see someone eating lunch alone every day, ask to sit with them instead of your usual crowd,” Blake said. “We need to get out of our comfort zones. Even by asking someone how their day is going is a simple, positive act.”
    Corey Page noted that youngsters often toss around insults without thinking about their consequences. “You know that saying about ‘Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me?’ Well, that’s garbage. Words do hurt, and some people are a lot more vulnerable than others,” Page said.
    Break-Away hopes to attract 16- to 30-year-olds including some college students. “This is the age bracket that’s pretty vulnerable,” Page added.
    But Blake emphasized that you don’t necessarily have to be religious or a “church-goer” to be welcomed at Break-Away. “Our purpose is to offer a safe place away from drugs, alcohol and other temptations,” Blake said. “If things go as planned, we’ll have a lot more activities coming up this spring and summer.”
    The Antioch Missionary Baptist Church is at 39 Main St. in Dexter, and there’s plenty of parking at the rear of the building. Break-Away meets Tuesday nights at 6 p.m.