POMEROY — In a time when people are looking for hope, a story from the Old Testament deluged in hope is sailing back into port at Hillside Baptist Church outside of Pomeroy on Ohio 143.

The church, along with Power in the Blood Ministries, is once again presenting the outdoor drama “Noah’s Ark” at 7:30 p.m., Aug. 21-23 and Aug. 28-30. Admission is free and concessions are available. The drama features a replica of Noah’s Ark.

Pastor James Acree Sr. of Hillside Baptist Church said this is the tenth year for the production which will also have a cast of around 50.

“We’re trying to make it bigger and better,” Acree said, adding he hopes to have more animals in the production as well. He is asking anyone who wants to act in the production to call his office at (740) 992-6768 or 992-5705.

A replica of the ark sat beside the church for several years, but began to deteriorate and was completely rebuilt last year. The new replica is about six feet longer than its predecessor with dimensions of 86 feet long, 12 feet wide, 29 feet high. Volunteers have also constructed a baby ark playground nearby.

Acree said the drama will be held in the church’s amphitheater and visitors should bring their lawn chairs. Handicap accessible parking will be available.

As for why he feels the story of Noah is relevant in today’s society, Acree said Noah’s story is the prelude to the end of times in the Old Testament and he feels at this time in history that “man’s imagination has probably reached the point of no return. Man’s becoming more egotistical, proud and there’s no commitment to one another.”

Acree said the ark is a physical representation of salvation which is why he believes the story is relevant now in a time when he believes man is headed toward destruction.

Clinging to a boat in the storm, the dove returning with the olive branch, the story of salvation in the Old Testament, can all be borne witness to on a hillside in Meigs County beginning next weekend.