The season of giving began on Saturday with the annual Marion County Baptist Brotherhood Thanksgiving in the Park.
The event was held at the Columbia Water Park with estimates of 140 to 150 people attending. More than 400 plates of ham, sweet potatoes, dressing and more were handed out in the big pavilion despite the chilly air.
Pastor Darell Daniels of Improve Baptist Church said the event has been going on for more than nine years.
Dave Nichols, pastor of Holly Springs Baptist Church, said the brotherhood does it each year to show the love of Jesus.
Prior to plates being given, Daniels addressed the crowd, sharing the message of salvation. Attendees then completed a card and turned it in to get a meal and to be registered for one of the many turkeys that were given away.
Sitting down at one of the tables, Rico Newsom said, “It’s good. I so appreciate it.”
Mary Terrell said, “It is wonderful for the poor people who have nothing.”
The leftover food after the event was divided up and delivered to some of the shut-in members of the different churches represented.
“All in the blessings of Jesus,” Mitchell Alford said after finishing his plate.
Regarding the food, Ruby Green said, “I think it’s wonderful. Good and thankful. I’ve wanted some dressing. It is a good thing they have done.”
Nichols said he was very pleased with the outcome. On the cards which were handed out, 41 people made a profession of faith.
“It was a whooping success with 41 people receiving Christ. A great day,” Daniels said.
Nichols said, “It’s not about a free meal; it’s about the Bread of Life.”
