ThisWeek 09/18/2014
http://www.thisweeknews.com/content/stories/canalwinchester/news/2014/09/15/community-festival-church-to-welcome-visitors-with-free-food-games.html
The congregation at Gender Road Christian Church is hoping to continue growing its relationship with Canal Winchester area residents by hosting a fall community festival.
Pastoral intern Karen Gebhart said this year marks the church’s 15th anniversary at its current location, 5336 Gender Road, and the festival is a way of thanking the community for its support. The festival is free and open to the public from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at the church.
In a video posted on the church website, genderroadcc. com, senior pastor, the Rev. John Romig invites people to, “Come by yourself, bring a friend, bring a neighbor, bring the kids, for free food, hot dogs, face painting, games and live music throughout the afternoon.”
At 12:30 p.m., a free meal will be served inside the church. Food will continue to be served until 2 p.m., Gebhart said, and weather permitting, she hopes to have snack foods available outside as well.
Beginning at 1 p.m., the Columbus Division of Fire will have its Safety House open for children to explore while learning about fire safety. There will be several fire trucks on site, along with vehicles from the Franklin County Bomb Squad, she said.
Throughout the afternoon, there will be bounce houses, children’s games and entertainment provided by various Christian bands, Gebhart said. Adults and children are invited to join in three-on-three basketball and cornhole games.
As Gebhart works to complete her studies at seminary, she said she is focusing on using what she’s learned for “bridge-building” between the church and broader community.
“Spreading God’s love by connecting to all who are beyond the walls of the church,” is one of her favorite quotes, she said, and that has helped guide the planning of community festival.
Gebhart said anyone interested in worshipping with the congregation is invited to attend the morning services as well, with a contemporary service beginning at 9:30 a.m. and a traditional service at 11 a.m.
“We’re very passionate about our mission and outreach,” Gebhart said. “This is a great way to spend the day and meet more of your neighbors and community.”