Christmas Community Meal
to
First United Methodist Church 203 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53703
press release: On Wednesday, December 25, from 12:30 – 2:30 pm, First United Methodist Church, 203 Wisconsin Avenue, invites individuals and families to join a free Christmas meal. For more than 35 years, the church has welcomed hundreds of people from the downtown neighborhood – many who enjoy sharing a holiday meal in community. Over the years, individuals who have experienced homelessness have found the meal to be a special event. This meal brings together neighbors and friends – both new and long-standing.
The Rev. Dr. Mark A. Fowler, lead pastor, observes, “We are a church where Downtown for Good is expressed in the many ministries of the church. This meal is an excellent example of how we carry out one of those ministries.” According to Dr. Fowler, those who were once in need often come back and volunteer their help for the meal. “Individuals have experienced both physical and spiritual nourishment from the food, fellowship and festive atmosphere.”
This year, the lead chef will be Bill Novak, who comes with many years of restaurant experience. This year’s menu: Beef or Ham; Mashed Potatoes or Candied Sweet Potatoes; Beans, Corn or Collard Greens; Cranberry Sauce; and Pumpkin, Apple or Chocolate Crème Pie.
The church sanctuary will be open for guests to experience special holiday music. Cliff Frederiksen, a well-known local guitarist, is a regular performer and will again be providing his talent.
First Church is a reconciling congregation in downtown Madison, open to full participation of all persons, celebrating diversity of race, gender, national origin, religious background and sexual orientation. We are committed to being “Downtown for Good.” For more information about the church, visit fumc.org.