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ERIK ALSGAARD/UMCONNECTION The Rev. Herb Watson picked up eight computers with the help of his Baptist neighbor. Before the day was over Living Springs, New Milton Ave., John Wesley, Calvary/Casa del Pueblo and St. Matthews UMCs all had computers to aid their programs.

COLUMBIA - One corner of the Conference Center was abuzz recently with activity as pastors and members of several churches came in to pick up free computers.

The computers were all in working order and had been donated by individuals who no longer needed them to a United Methodist-based ministry in Mechanicsburg, Pa., according to the Rev. Ed DeLong who made the first arrangements.

The Rev. Jim Rudy, coordinator of the Mission Central Computer Ministries, began the ministry last July to provide computers to small churches or for outreach programs. The ministry has grown so that it reaches many denominations and non-profit agencies, including some in Russia, Afghanistan, Mali and Rwanda, Rudy said.

Arthur Childress, from New Beginnings UMC, picked up seven computers for a community class he's about to set up. He also brought the 40 computers from Pennsylvania to the conference center.