For the members of Manheim Grace Church, connecting with the community is important. They invite the community to come for a Holiday Hope Dinner, providing a free meal and fellowship.

"This is the first time that we are holding this event," shared Kelly Baker, office manager. "We want to be 'in our community, for our community,' and this meal is meant to be more than just eating food. It is about feeding the spirit of people in need of connection and a chance to enjoy a holiday meal with the company of others."

The meal will be served on Saturday, Nov. 29, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the church, 333 E. High St., Manheim.

"We will be serving turkey casserole; green beans and corn; applesauce; rolls with butter; pies and cookies; and tea, coffee, lemonade and water," Baker said. "Our congregation will be donating and preparing the food, as well as serving the food. It will be buffet style, but if someone needs food served to them at the table, we can do that as well."

Along with the meal, the event will include other activities.

"We will have a craft, table games, live music and a prayer team available in the sanctuary for anyone wanting prayer," Baker noted.

Everyone is welcome to attend the event, she said.

"We want to fill the void of those who are alone or don't have family close by to share a holiday meal," she commented, noting that families and individuals are invited. "We want those who come to leave not with just a full belly, but with a joyful heart and happy memories."

She acknowledged that the holiday season can be hard for many people, and the church members are hoping to help with that.

"If you find yourself with no family or friends to enjoy a meal or spend time with for the holidays, please come. We hope that this can fill a void for anyone who needs company, friendship and/or connection and help make this time of year a happy and memorable time," she said. "We are excited to welcome you! This will be a fun, lighthearted, casual event with the hopes of bringing joy to those who come."

Manheim Grace Church holds worship services at 10 a.m. on Sundays. Grace Kids, for children through fifth grade, is held during the service. Edge Youth Group, for students in grades six through 12, is held on Sundays at 6 p.m. Play Cafe, for children up to age 5 and their caregivers, is offered on Thursdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Reservations are required for the Holiday Hope Dinner and must be made by Saturday, Nov. 15. To make a reservation, contact the church at office@manheimgrace.org or 717-665-2334. For more information on the church, visit http://www.manheimgrace.org.