Our History

In the 1952 U. S. Supreme Court decision in Zorach v. Clauson Justice William Douglas wrote, “When the state encourages religious instruction or cooperates with religious authorities by adjusting the schedule of public events to sectarian needs, it follows the best of our traditions. For it then respects the religious nature of our people and accommodates the public service to their spiritual needs.”

History & Facts

  • In 2000, Coastal School Ministries (CSM), formerly Horry C.A.R.E.S., was formed under the guidance, direction, and support of national released-time ministry School Ministries, Inc.
  • In January 2001 CSM offered a pilot released-time program to St. James Middle School with 150 students attending and 40 giving their lives to Christ.
  • On August 7, 2001 the Horry County Council passed a resolution of support (#114-01) for released-time programs offered through Horry C.A.R.E.S. (now CSM).
  • On June 2, 2006 the South Carolina Released-time Credit Act was signed into law by Governor Mark Sanford. Now a law as Act 322, it states that released-time is legal according to the United States and South Carolina Constitutions and that local school boards have all the power they need to grant elective high school credit for Bible classes taken off campus.
  • Horry County School District has approved a released-time policy county-wide and granted approval for high school credit.

GOD is ALIVE!

And HE is at work in our community.

Help Reach Students in our Schools!

Just like any organization, funding is always an issue. We have buses, teachers, books, business, and marketing needs to grow and expand our mission. Please help us reach more students where they are by supporting our Fundraising Campaign!