Sentinel File Photo/DENNIS ROSENBERGER
DINNER IS SERVED — Community members fill their plates at Salem Presbyterian Church on Monday, Dec. 25, 2023, while attending the church’s annual Christmas Day dinner. The event has been a mainstay in the Salem community for more than 40 years now, providing food and fellowship during the holiday.
By DENNIS ROSENBERGER
stceditor@salemtc.net
SALEM — Salem area residents looking for a place to enjoy fellowship and a free meal on Christmas Day can find it at Salem Presbyterian Church, which will once again be offering its annual Christmas Day Dinner.
The church will be hosting the 48th annual dinner, with doors opening at 11 a.m. on Dec. 25. Dinner will be served at noon.
“No one will have to eat Christmas dinner alone this year, thanks to a continuing tradition started 48 years ago,” state a press release from organizers. “The food and fellowship are for everyone, (including) singles, couples, families or anyone looking to share Christmas Day (with others).”
Church leadership notes that the annual Salem Presbyterian Church dinner is not planned as a charity venture and has nothing to do with being rich or poor.
“It has to do with fellowship — good food, conversation, Christmas music — and a congregation of caring people who are not afraid to make new friends,” states the press release.
Area residents who would like to attend the dinner at Salem Presbyterian Church are asked to call (618) 548-2754, from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, to make reservations, so that organizers can prepare the right amount of food for the expected attendance on Dec. 25.
Carryout is not being provided, since fellowship is the reason for the dinner.
There is no charge for this event. Salem Presbyterian Church is located at 201 East McMackin Street in Salem.
