Grace Congregational Church of Harlem is hosting a Family and Friends Day picnic to enjoy a day of peace, harmony and socializing with community members. The event takes place this Sunday, Aug. 28 immediately after the 10 a.m. mass service.
“We do this once a year for an end-of-the-summer event just so everyone can relax,” explained the Rev. Nigel Pearce, who is helping host the event. “I’m going preach in shorts, even though most folks dress to the nines for church.”
A buffet of summer barbecue grub, face painting and games are some of the treats the church is putting together, completely sponsored by the ministry and a few benefactors.
Attendees will also be treated to an open house with two seminaries for those interested in pursuing a career in the ministry. “It’s an opportunity to understand religion,” said Pearce. “You don’t necessarily have to become a pastor; there are many callings in this field.”
The event is free and open to the public, and guests are welcome. Grace Congregational Church of Harlem is located at 310 W. 139th St. Festivities start around 11:30 a.m. and run until 4 p.m. “Our annual event is always a fun day,” Pearce stated. “You get to come to church and actually spend some time with people in normal attire, just picnicking and enjoying the last days of summer.”
