On Sunday, area churches hosted a community Thanksgiving feast at Stafford Elementary that made even the best cooking grandma’s meal pale in comparison. BBQ chicken, sausage and brisket, prepared by Mt. Gilead, Union and Mt. Zion, were just a few of the delights offered at the Thanksgiving Feast.

Over 300 people poured into the gymnasium at Stafford on Sunday as the Italy Ministerial Alliance and Italy ISD came together to celebrate Thanksgiving and each other. Taking nourishment in body and spirit. This is the way a city should be. All the local churches were represented in some aspect. Either serving or cleaning, overseeing the children or cooking. It was a glorious sight-side by side, elbow to elbow.

Pastor Bill Morgan from Fellowship Church welcomed the crowd. He introduced Superintendent Barry Bassett. Mr. Bassett explained the dinner being a partnership with the school district and Italy Ministerial Alliance, “This is school board approved.” He said, “I have shared a vision with the area churches, that we can be on the same side with our children. There is a generous spirit here.” Mr. Bassett recently hosted a luncheon with community and church leaders. His stated his intent and objective is to keep the community on an even playing field with the school district and keep the children in our sights, first and foremost.

Pastor Preston Dixon from Mt. Gilead Baptist Church delivered a short sermon during the meal and Christian music was ever present. Bounce houses were outside filled with children, overseen by the National Honor Society of IHS, and stomachs and spirits were filled as well.

The next combined event including the Italy Ministerial Alliance will be the Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 4 downtown and again all will be welcomed. It is a warming feeling to worship side be side with your neighbors as well as your friends. Don’t miss it. The spirit will move you towards Christmas.