Knoxville Church Gives Away Thousands in Free Gas

Overcoming Believers Church hosts 'Gas & Glory' event ahead of Easter holiday.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:10pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of cars lining up at a gas station, with soft, warm pools of light reflecting off the vehicles and pavement, conveying a sense of community, generosity, and spiritual purpose.A church's act of generosity and compassion brings light to a community in need.Knoxville Today

Overcoming Believers Church in Knoxville, Tennessee gave away thousands of dollars in free gas on Saturday as part of its 'Gas & Glory' event ahead of the Easter holiday. The church had originally planned to give away $8,000 in gas, but ended up distributing close to $10,000 thanks to donations from both members and non-members. Volunteers engaged with the long lines of cars, offering $20 in gas per vehicle along with prayers and invitations to the church's Easter service.

Why it matters

The 'Gas & Glory' event reflects the church's mission to be 'the hands and feet of Jesus' by serving the local community, especially during difficult economic times. The gesture of providing free gas aligns with the Christian values of generosity and compassion that are central to the Easter holiday.

The details

When the church's director of service, Star Starks, arrived at the gas station at 6:30 a.m., there was already a line of cars waiting. Throughout the day, volunteers kept the line engaged with a 'testimony area' and a bingo board while each car received $20 in free gas. As drivers reached the pump, church members would pray for them and invite them to the Easter service.

  • The 'Gas & Glory' event was held on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • The church originally planned to give away $8,000 in gas, but ended up distributing close to $10,000.

The players

Overcoming Believers Church

A church in Knoxville, Tennessee that hosted the 'Gas & Glory' event to serve the local community ahead of Easter.

Star Starks

The director of service at Overcoming Believers Church who oversaw the 'Gas & Glory' event.

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What they’re saying

“When we think about the significance of this weekend and really how Christ sacrificed so that we could have life, and gave us so many, I mean his entire life was a testament to how we should live. And the Word says, 'Whatever you do for the least of these you do for me,' and so we want to make sure we're doing everything we can to serve within this community.”

— Star Starks, Director of Service, Overcoming Believers Church

The takeaway

The 'Gas & Glory' event organized by Overcoming Believers Church demonstrates how a local faith community can come together to support its neighbors in tangible ways, especially during challenging economic times. By providing free gas and prayers, the church is living out its mission to be 'the hands and feet of Jesus' and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those it serves.