Celebrate community and history while enjoying some delicious food at a Cinco de Mayo Dinner. The event will be held at Saint Luke Episcopal Church, 209 S. Market St., Mount Joy, on Tuesday, May 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. The meal will be available for dine-in or takeout.

"Each meal will include two mouth-watering tacos, either chicken or beef, on your choice of a hard or soft tortilla," said Lynn McCleary, a member of the church's hospitality committee. "Guests will garnish their own tacos with fresh veggies, cheese, sour cream and salsa, plus sides of Mexican rice, refried beans, warm nachos, salsa, dessert and a drink."

The meal will be prepared by the church's Chef Steph.

"Back by popular demand, our own Chef Steph will bring a sizzling taste of Mexico to Mount Joy," McCleary remarked. "Steph's culinary career has taken her in many delightful directions. Because real estate is now her main job, Steph treasures any time she gets to spend in the kitchen, especially when cooking Mexican food and balancing all the spices just right."

Salsa music will stream during the meal, adding to the festivities.

"And if anyone is inspired to dance, we'll find a way to make room!" McCleary said.

This is the first time the church has held a Cinco de Mayo meal.

"We were brainstorming ways to host a crowd-pleasing event between our pancake supper and strawberry festival," McCleary explained. "This date worked perfectly."

She noted that the celebration is more than just a meal; it's a way to honor history.

"Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 - a moment when determination overcame the odds," she said. "After Mexico suspended payments on foreign debts, France, under Napoleon III, invaded with the goal of establishing a monarchy. In the town of Puebla, a modest and largely outmatched Mexican force of roughly 2,000 to 4,500 soldiers, led by Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza, achieved a stunning victory over a well-trained French army of about 6,000. Although the triumph did not end the war - the French would later capture Mexico City - it became a lasting symbol of resistance and resilience against foreign intervention."

McCleary added that in the United States, Cinco de Mayo has taken on additional layers of meaning.

"During the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, Chicano activists embraced the day as an expression of Mexican-American cultural pride and a call for social justice," she said. "At Saint Luke, we honor Cinco de Mayo with intention."

She hopes people will come to the meal to share in fellowship.

"We also see the day as a bridge between cultures and communities - a chance to gather, share stories and enjoy delicious food together," she said. "In a time when dining out can feel like a luxury, our supper offers families a welcoming, affordable way to enjoy a meal together, whether dining in or taking it to go. And for those who love Mexican cuisine but would rather skip the crowded restaurant scene on a busy weeknight, Saint Luke is the perfect place to be."

Proceeds from the meal will support the building fund of the church, helping the congregation care for a historic church that has served the community since 1909.

"Maintaining an older building brings ongoing repair needs, and keeping pace with modern technology requires thoughtful upgrades, all of which place added demands on our budget," McCleary said. "Fundraisers like this one help close that gap. Just as importantly, the people of Saint Luke embrace these events as more than financial support. They are opportunities to come together in shared purpose, fellowship and joy."

She invites anyone who's hungry for food and friendship to come to the meal.

"Let us cook for you, let us serve you, and let us enjoy Cinco de Mayo together," she said. "You are guaranteed to leave snapping your fingers, smacking your lips and smiling. Nos vemos alli - Spanish for 'see you there.'"

Advance ticket purchase is helpful for planning, but advance tickets are not required. To order tickets, call or text Gail at 717-538-0810.