The John M. Perkins Foundation for Reconciliation and Development will keep the Reconcilers Fellowship race-relations ministry open, with a new emphasis on youth.

The ministry was cofounded by John Perkins's late son Spencer with Chris Rice. After the death of his 43-year-old ministry partner (CT, March 2, 1998, p. 73), Rice decided to close the Jackson, Mississippi- based Reconcilers Fellowship and its six-acre Antioch Community (CT, Oct. 5, 1998, p. 15).

But the foundation headed by John Perkins purchased the property and buildings for $125,000. Perkins, 68, wants to build a park and playground that will include basketball courts and baseball, soccer, and football fields for youth. In addition, the 11-bedroom Antioch House will be converted into a retreat center. Total cost is estimated to be $250,000.

Rice, 38, is headed to seminary but supports the new venture. Perkins has enlisted the support of 21-year-old Kass T. Welchlin of Minneapolis to assist in fundraising and youth outreach.