CrossNet Plans 2023 Banquet

Explaining the theme of the CrossNet 2023 annual banquet, which is "Transformation - Yours and Mine," Meredith Dahl, CrossNet executive director, is sure to touch on how different aspects of the community work together toward goals of the ministry. "Our mission is to offer help and hope in the name of Jesus," she began. "Our lives are transformed as God is working in and through us ... and as we're serving, others' lives are transformed."

Evidence of those transformations will be presented by participants and volunteers who give testimony at the 22nd annual banquet to be held on Tuesday, March 28, at the Shady Maple Banquet Center, 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl. Inspirational speaker, recording artist, and author Laura Story will be the keynote speaker. Dahl will give an update on the ministry, and Carl Edwards, CrossNet director of development, will serve as master of ceremonies.

Dahl said that a lot of research and prayer was involved in selecting Story to speak. "I have always loved (Story's) song 'Blessings,'" said Dahl of the Grammy and Dove award-winning artist. "I researched how the song came from her story," Dahl added, calling Story's testimony "beautiful."

Story, who has authored three inspirational books, encountered adversity early in her marriage when her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The situation changed their perspective by forcing them to take steps of faith toward God's vision for their lives. Story will perform two songs in addition to speaking.

At last year's banquet, Dahl spoke about the organization's capital campaign, which was designed to raise $3 million to allow CrossNet to purchase and remodel a large warehouse on the south side of Franklin Street in New Holland. The new building will allow expansion of the ministry's offerings to the community, which currently include a nutrition center, a youth center, and social services.

Table sponsorships and a virtual option, which includes supplies for viewers, are offered for those wishing to attend the banquet. Sponsorships and links to the livestream, which will begin at 7 p.m., may be purchased at http://www.elancocross.org. Readers who have questions may email office@elancocross.org or call 717-355-2454.