NATCHEZ — The Forest Aid Baptist Church Youth Department decided to have a fundraiser with a little outdoor flair.

The church hosted a rodeo at the Adams County Equestrian Arena, which was deemed a great success by organizers.

The church had done several fundraisers in the past such as car washes and softball games, but this was the first time they had hosted a rodeo to raise money.

However, once the idea was brought up, it was quickly determined it would be a good idea.

“This is the first time we’ve ever done a rodeo and the kids love it,” youth director Arlene Hall said. “They have been looking forward to it for several weeks.”

The rodeo included events such as goat roping, calf roping and team roping.

Hall said it was easy for the church to decide to host a rodeo, as several men in the church are big into the sport.

“Several members of our church are rodeo people,” Hall said. “We felt it would be a big event for us. It is also the first rodeo of the season.”

The nice weather didn’t hurt either, Hall said.

“We prayed for the good weather and the Lord answered our prayers,” she said.

Seven-year-old Lawrence Smith said he was having a good time at the rodeo.

“I’ve had a lot of fun,” Smith said. “My favorite part is the goat roping.”

For 15-year-old Sydney Brooks, the rodeo fun was tempered only by the 80-degree heat.

“I’ve had a lot of fun, it’s just hot,” Brook s said. “I’ve had a good time out here today.”

But thanks to the great weather and enthusiastic crowd, the church was able to have a successful outdoors fundraiser.

“This has been a great event for us,” Hall said. “We wanted something we could do for the kids.”