Sandi Hache explains the rules to the judges for the first annual chili cook-off at Franklin Baptist Church. Justin Safrit enjoys a bowl of chili in the background.
A Time of Fun and Fellowship
Many people enjoy the fall because of football season and the mild temps, while others enjoy the fall because of the variety of activities such as fall festivals and craft fairs.
At one time fall festivals were a way for farmers to share their produce at the end of the growing season, but today fall festivals have as many variations as there are communities. Franklin Baptist Church in Salisbury, NC, sponsors a fall festival each year as a fun, safe alternative to Halloween. This year organized by Sandi Hache, Sandi said the hard work of volunteers such as Bobby Safrit, Jason Plummer, Tara Safrit, Norma Thomas, Becky Bost, Dina Plummer and many others is what made the event a success.
A chili cook-off, pumpkin carving, cake walks, games, inflatables, face painting, glitter stenciling, oversized bicycles, food, and, of course, candy, were some of the items and activities available. Cathy Saine said one of her favorite things to do each year has been the cake walk. She said, “That was especially true during the years Louise Nicholson made her red velvet cake. There was always pushing and shoving going on to win that cake. And yes, I have to admit I was one of the “trouble makers”. Even now, people laugh about those days.”
One of the most memorable events this year was a hay ride to points of interest about the life of Christ known as the “Portrait of Jesus”. The four points were the birth, miracles, cross and resurrection. At each stop, Jason Plummer read a script written by Sandi Hache with an explanation of the event such as an empty tomb for the resurrection. Betsy Safrit said the final destination is what touched her heart the most and that was the plan of salvation. Using four pumpkins, Betsy Bost explained how the seeds and pulp inside represent our sins and when we ask forgiveness Jesus takes the bad stuff out to make us clean.
Sandi sees this year as a success not just because of the fun and fellowship or because of the 500 hundred hot dogs served. No, Sandi sees this year as a success because … “through sharing the gospel of salvation, we now have four new brothers and sisters in Christ and that’s what it’s all about.”
Does your church, school or community sponsor a fall festival? What is your favorite part of the event? Share your experience or memories by leaving a comment below, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com.
Thanks,
Dicy
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