Bringing
the Bible
to School—Legally
Bladen County Released Time is a nonprofit ministry with a clear and compelling mission: to bring hope and truth to the students of Bladen County by creating meaningful, engaging environments where they can encounter the life-changing power of God's Word.
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As an official affiliate of School Ministries, Inc., we are part of a national network committed to providing legal, off-campus Bible education during the public school day. Thanks to North Carolina’s released time laws, and through parental permission, zero government funding, and off-campus locations, students in our county are able to attend Bible study classes during school hours—legally and freely.
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What began in 2011 with just 2 schools has grown into a thriving ministry that now serves over 1,000 students across 9 schools. Many of these students come from unchurched backgrounds and are hearing the Gospel—sometimes for the first time—during these classes. As a result, hearts are being softened, lives are being changed, and seeds of faith are being planted for eternity.
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We are humbled and grateful to witness God's hand at work in such powerful ways across our community. Every class, every student, every story is a reminder that the Gospel is alive and active—and we are honored to be part of His mission.
How do we teach the Bible during the school day?
U.S. Supreme Court decision Zorach v. Clauson (1952), allows the Bible to be taught legally to public school students under three conditions:
1
no
government funding
2
off
campus
locations
3
Parent
permission
Bladen County Released Time receives no government funding and is funded through churches, fundraisers, and private donors.
All Released Time classes are held at a near-by off campus site. Students are transported by bus or by walking depending on the distance to the location.
Every Released Time student must have parent permission to Bible classes. This permission is given through paper forms given to the school, or online registration.
"Words cannot express the joy on the faces of new students who have never seen the inside of a church. As a Released Time volunteer for almost 10 years, I have had the privilege of explaining the purpose of the altar and baptistry, but there’s no greater joy than in seeing them learn about Jesus. I vividly recall one student who could hardly wait until the lesson ended so she could accept Jesus as her personal savior! I thank God for this opportunity."
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Diane Merritt, Released Time Volunteer
"Released Time is so much more than getting out of class and the candy you get at the end. Released Time gives everybody the chance to learn about God. Some kids don't go to church or are not able to go. But Released Time gives all kids the opportunity to go! Released Time gives me the ability to get a break from the stress of school and get my mind together. I've seen so many lives changed through Released Time this year and look for many more to come. Released Time is a blessing!"
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Jeremiah, Released Time Student