When the members of Glossbrenner Church host their annual Community Christmas Party, they have a special mission in mind.

"This event is important to myself and our church family because we want the community to know that Glossbrenner exists to love and serve others," said Jessica Rockey, children and youth director for the church. "What better way to do that than to provide an evening of fun festivities for not just families but anyone of any age who is looking for some fellowship?"

The Community Christmas Party will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13. The drop-in event will take place in the church's fellowship hall, which is handicapped-accessible. Glossbrenner Church is located at 713 Church St., Mount Joy.

Calling it a "community" party is intentional, Rockey noted, adding, "It is a celebration of the glorious season of the birth of Jesus that we can come together as a church family and welcome the community in!"

The party will provide a variety of fun activities.

"There are always a couple unique craft stations for all skill levels and ages," Rockey shared. "They make a great decoration or a lovely gift for someone. Free food is a must, and you have to try our kitchen crew's amazing barbecue. We also provide hot dogs and a cookie decorating station for dessert!"

Attendees can also enjoy hot chocolate and then pose for a free family photograph.

"We also provide festive frames for the photo we take, which can also make a great gift or an annual tradition," Rockey said. "As of last year, we started providing a community Christmas gift table for those who are having trouble purchasing gifts for their families this season. We also provide a wrapping and card station so everything can be complete!"

The event is designed to be a casual, fun evening, she said.

"We have plenty of tables set up to simply sit and socialize while listening to Christmas music in the background," she explained. "It is just a happy atmosphere that is worth taking the time out of whatever might be going on in your life, and just enjoy the holiday moment."

She invites anyone who is interested to come to the party.

"You can expect to meet a smiling face and have some delicious food and fun, all free," she said. "We know times are tough and it is hard for people to enjoy an evening out, so we want to take that burden off the great people of our community and provide them a night of joyous memories."

The Community Christmas Party also serves as a way to bring new people into the church, Rockey commented.

"No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are always welcome here at Glossbrenner Church. We are a church for all ages and backgrounds," she said. "No matter where you are at, Jesus wants to meet you where you are, and we want to meet you, too, any Sunday at 10 a.m., which is our worship time. We have Sunday school for all ages to follow immediately after the service, and we always have something in the service for the kids!"

Glossbrenner will hold Christmas Eve services on Wednesday, Dec. 24, at 3 and 7 p.m.

"Both services will have candle lighting, which is always a precious time to celebrate the reason for the season, which is Jesus," Rockey said.

For more information on Glossbrenner Church, visit https://glossbrenner.net.