Members of Reliance Church of St. Petersburg were on a mission Wednesday night to help ease pain at the pumps.

It was the type of offer that could stop traffic.

The church picked up part of the tab for people filling up at the Suncoast Exxon on 34th Street N. between 7 and 8:30 p.m.

Reliance Church brought down the price of gas by 40 cents a gallon.

"I'm just hoping to fill on up today," said Bonnie Willis who was one of the first driver's in line.

Pastor Danny Lewis says Reliance is a new church that's looking to focus on the community.

"We want to be out in the community meeting them where there's a need," said Pastor Lewis. "What greater need is there than cheaper gas? We have to use gas to get around to do everything."

Church members rolled up their sleeves to help people fill up.

They heard lots of stories from drivers who said they were grateful for every drop.

"I just started working and it's been a struggle," said Willis. "Everything has been on my husband."

"Every penny helps right now," said Sherri Beaudrea. "I'm a single mom and it's tough. Times are tough," 

"If we can help ease that a little bit, then we're hoping that in some way they respect that, that they see it as an expression of love," said Pastor Lewis.

As the price meters rolled, Pastor Lewis said "rack it up."

"I'm hoping it costs us several thousand dollars," he said.

He said serving the community is worth every penny.