Under normal circumstances, William Lockwood II wouldn’t regard rain in a negative sense; however, his only desire last Saturday was for a clear, blue sky.

Weather forecasts promised a washout for the beginning of the weekend, nearly wiping out all of Lockwood’s hopes. But that’s when Lockwood sought some divine intervention.

"We did a little praying during the week," said Lockwood, the youth minister at the Rhema Worship Center, as he raised his arms and looked toward the heavens.

"We sure lucked out."

Overcast skies held onto the rain long enough for Rhema’s Y.O. L.I.V.E. car wash and flea market, which took place just outside the Passaic Street building. Though volunteers and members of the congregation were up to the task of manning their stations, the threat of inclement weather should’ve kept people away.

But it didn’t.

A black luxury sedan pulled into the driveway and was soon followed by a mini-van. A white SUV rolled up several minutes later, as the line quickly formed.

As the line grew, so did the number of young volunteers, members of the Rhema congregation and participants in Y.O. L.I.V.E., Youth Outreach Living In Victory Everyday. Proceeds from the Saturday car wash and the flea market, which featured clothing, appliances and exercise equipment, among other items, benefited members of the youth community.

"This is a good way to celebrate and support the youth and make a difference in the community," Lockwood said, who was joined at the car wash by his brother Jamar, while pastors Eric and Holly Brewer oversaw the activities in the rear parking lot.

Members of the congregation will continue their car wash Saturday, June 7 and 14, just outside of the RWC, which is located at 156 Passaic St. in Hackensack.

For information about the Rhema Worship Center or its youth programs and events, call 201-457-1390.