Central United Methodist Church celebrated 50 years of spreading Christmas joy with a free community meal, offering connection and warmth to neighbors in need.
ROGERS, Ark. — Central United Methodist Church in Rogers served hot meals to the community on Christmas Day, continuing a tradition that’s now reached a major milestone.
The church hosted its annual Community Christmas Meal from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2025, marking the 50th year volunteers have worked together to provide a free meal for anyone who wanted one.
Coordinator Vicki Mansker said the goal is simple: make sure neighbors have a place to go for a warm plate of food and a sense of connection on the holiday.
“This is our 50th anniversary of serving a community meal to anybody in the community who desires one,” Mansker said.
Inside the church, volunteers served meals to guests eating on-site. Organizers also offered to-go options and delivered meals for people who couldn’t make it to the church, including along Meals on Wheels routes.
Mansker said planning begins weeks in advance, with several days of preparation leading up to Christmas Day. Volunteers donate cooked turkeys, help carve the meat, and prepare side dishes like dressing, sweet potatoes, and mashed potatoes. She said she arrived before 5 a.m. Christmas morning, and by 7 a.m., more volunteers were already there warming food and setting up to serve.
“It’s just spreading the joy of Christmas around, and I think it really shares the true spirit of Christmas with our neighbors, whoever they are,” Mansker said.
Mansker said anyone interested in volunteering for future meals can call the church office at 479-636-1630 for information.
Dining and Cooking