Published: March 28, 2008 12:25 pm         

Former Harlem Globetrotter bringing message to Calvary Baptist

CRESAPTOWN - Calvary Baptist is gearing up for its annual King of the Court basketball tournament, which the church will host on April 5.

For the past two years, there have been almost 70 teams that have entered the competition and more than 275 people in attendance to hear a gospel presentation.

As always, this year's tournament will be a way for the church to reach out to the community. The church has invited Seth Franco to share his ministry from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Franco is billed as the only white member of the Harlem Globetrotters since 1942.

"His incredible ball-handling will dazzle and impress, but his story will captivate every person in attendance," said an event planner.

The tournament and presentation are open to the public.

Calvary Baptist has made it easier to register only at www.calvarybaptistmd.org. There are three divisions for boys, ages 12 to 14, 15 to 16 and 17 to 18, and two for girls, ages 12 to 14 and 15 to 18. There is a per player fee. There will be a three-point shootout and a slam-dunk competition.

All teams will be seeded for a single-elimination tournament with prizes for the top two teams in each division. Individuals or businesses with questions or wishing to donate prizes or a make a monetary gift toward the event may contact James Stargel, pastor of student ministries, at (301) 729-0784, ext. 12.