CrossNet schedules annual banquet

"I'm excited to be part of the (CrossNet) annual banquet this year and to celebrate what God has been doing in the ELANCO community," said Carl Edwards, who was recently named executive director of CrossNet Ministries. Edwards noted that although he always looks forward to the banquets, where he has traditionally served as master of ceremonies, this event will be unique. "The night will be very special as we celebrate stories of the past and look forward to what God is going to do in the future," Edwards said.

The theme for the 2025 CrossNet banquet is "Reflections and Horizons," and the event will be held on Tuesday, March 25, at Shady Maple Banquet Center, 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl. Doors will open at 5:15 p.m., and dinner will be served at 6:15 p.m. This year's speaker will be Meredith Dahl, who served CrossNet for nearly two decades in a variety of roles, most recently as executive director.

Because organizers of this year's event expect seats to sell out quickly, Edwards encourages those who may not be able to attend to host watch parties at their homes, businesses, or churches. He noted that the cost to obtain the livestream link is lower than the cost to attend in person, and he suggested getting takeout from an area restaurant to support local businesses during the event.

According to Edwards, Dahl will reflect on her journey with CrossNet over the last 17 years. She began her work with the ministry overseeing the youth center and went on to become executive director as CrossNet grew. The ministry now offers a variety of services, including community programs and a food pantry. "I'm honored to be able to officially 'pass the baton' to the new executive director, Carl Edwards," stated Dahl.

Edwards will speak on the activities the ministry is looking forward to, examining the mission and vision of CrossNet for the future. He will also discuss the renovations of the new CrossNet location at 110 W. Franklin St. "We're moving forward with that, and I am thrilled," said Edwards. "We can start to see (what it will look like) now, and it's great," said Edwards of the construction that has started in what was an empty warehouse. "They have been floor gutting and trenching for electric. They have been working on reinforcements of the front facade, and there's a new roof across the entire space," said Edwards, who noted that the interior framing has begun. "We will have some photos at the banquet - more than the renderings we have shown the last three years."

The banquet has always included testimonies from CrossNet clients. "As in the past, we will have stories of life change and impact that reflect our theme," shared Edwards, who noted that a few new activities will also be part of the event. "We will pause to honor Meredith," said Edwards. "The team and board will honor her for her 17 years of service." Another addition will be a time of worship led by a team from LCBC Ephrata. "That's a different element to our banquet," said Edwards.

Although leadership is changing at CrossNet, with the passing of the baton from Dahl to Edwards, Edwards made it clear that there will be no change in the purpose of the ministry. "Methods might change, but the message will not," he stated. "We are laser focused on who we are and what God is allowing us to do in this community."

A link to the livestream, which will begin at 7 p.m., may be purchased at http://www.elancocross.org by scrolling down to the link on the home page. Readers who have questions may call 717-355-2454.