The First Baptist Church of Vincent dedicated its new youth house Oct. 26.

The house is intended to be a place for church youth and community youth to come together, said Pastor Darryl Wood.

“It’s just to give the youth a place for education, but also to promote fellowship and provide a place for gathering and fellowship,” he said.

The church purchased the house, located across the street from the church, a few years ago. At the end of 2007, church officials began renovating the house for the youth. The renovations were completed in September.

The building now houses a small stage, lighting and sound equipment for plays and concerts, as well as an office and a game room.

Youth from the community use the house regularly, Wood said.

Vincent Mayor Ray McAllister said the house offers the community a safe place for teenagers to go.

“I think it just gives them a place where the influence they get will be good, and the activities they participate in will be positive rather than something they shouldn’t be doing,” he said. “It gives them a place to go and be with kids their age.”