What happens when you bring 350 people together for a meal, a shared moment of gratitude, and a whole lot of joy? You get Central’s first-ever Friendsgiving–and it was unforgettable!
The idea for a combined service on November 24 followed by a meal started with a simple question from Pastor Jeremy Sanderson during a staff meeting: “When does the whole church get together?” That question sparked a vision for something special–a combined service in the sanctuary followed by a family-style Thanksgiving lunch.
What amazed me about Friendsgiving was the team of volunteers who quietly made it all happen.
– Pastor Jeremy.
Who better to make it happen than long-time Central members Rick and Linda Ferree, who jumped in to lead the effort? With Linda and Rick at the helm, the event quickly gained momentum, and more than 50 volunteers helped to pull it off. Heroic awards go to Sally Russell for roasting 18 turkey breasts in Central’s kitchens, and to Sherry Peterson for creating more than 30 beautiful centerpieces out of pumpkins and flowers. Matt Acton led fun and participatory entertainment, and the Philemon Ministry reset the worship center.
“What amazed me about Friendsgiving was the team of volunteers who quietly made it all happen,” said Jeremy. “It’s no small task to serve and feed so many people, and yet our awesome volunteers made it look easy. I’m discovering the remarkable capacity of this congregation to do big things together and to give of themselves in big ways, without fanfare. I was really humbled by the hard work of so many.”
Turkey, ham, Mission BBQ’s mac & cheese and green beans, plus applesauce, cranberry sauce and rolls and butter were served family style at tables in the worship center—all provided by the church. Members brought pies—so many pies! All the luncheon leftovers were sent home to bless families and individuals again, and some pies were taken to ACTC on Monday.
It was such a joy to see people coming together…
– Linda Ferree
But what truly made Friendsgiving special wasn’t just the food–it was the people. The worship center buzzed with laughter, conversations and new connections.
“It was such a joy to see people coming together,” Linda said. “Not just friends and family, but folks who didn’t know each other sharing a meal and meaningful conversations. So many people said they met someone new and felt a stronger sense of community.”
