Parishioners and community can share weekly meal

Breaking bread with friends and family, what could be a better way to start an evening of devotion and inspiration• The folks at the Falcon Drive Cafe at the Connellsville Church of God couldn't agree more.

Held from 5 to 6:30 every Wednesday evening in the fellowship hall of the church, this unique approach to meal sharing started several years ago by parishioners who developed the idea when approached by fellow churchgoers who possessed rather hectic schedules.

"People had said that they wanted to come to our Family Night but, because of their busy schedules, they wouldn't have time to eat," church secretary Beverly Hileman said. "So we thought that maybe we could do a meal first that everyone could attend."

Family Nights at the church are a busy time. Several programs and activities are held weekly. The evening offers youth programs, a women's study group, a men's study group, a prayer group, and of course, children are also welcome.

"There are several small groups that meet," Hileman said. "And we offer child care for those with small children who wish to participate."

The meal prior to all programs is open to everyone.

"We started the meal with just soup and sandwiches," Ron Porter said. "Now we offer a full-course meal."

Porter and his wife, Lu, have volunteered their time to run the Falcon Drive Cafe. They have been doing it for several years, and with the aide of a small, dedicated group, prepare a meal each week to feed those who wish to take advantage of the opportunity.

"We have about 70 people, sometimes more, sometimes less," Lu Porter said. "We're not in this to make money. It's for fellowship, an outreach. We want the outsiders that do come in to enjoy it. We want to make them feel welcome."

The menu varies from week to week, with the exception of a full spaghetti dinner that is served the last Wednesday of every month.

"What we make depends on what comes to mind or what is on sale," Lu Porter said. "And Ron will see what is on sale that week and spend half the day Monday shopping."

Once the groceries are purchased, Ron Porter, who does a large portion of the cooking, begins the Wednesday meal preparation early in the day.

"He starts about 9, 9:30 on Wednesdays to get ready," Lu Porter said. "We finish up about 7:15, 7:30."

"We really enjoy this," volunteer Lois Jenkins said. "We get a lot of satisfaction from it."

"God has extremely blessed this ministry," Lu Porter continued. "Families like to come and sit and talk with people."

Assistant Pastor Kay Kurtz agreed.

Kurtz explained that in the past the church had two Sunday morning services, and some parishioners said they were unable to see those who attended the other service. "They can come and share a meal, and it is also a good outreach into the community," she said.

"You just can't find nicer people anywhere," said Clyeda Fullem, who shares in the meal with her husband Babe. "And you never will."

"People really seem to enjoy this," Lu Porter said. "Everyone is welcome."

The Connellsville Church of God is located at 126 Breakneck Ave. For more information, call 724-628-3510.