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Mahoning Valley Association of Churches plans Taste of the Faiths Festival
By LINDA M. LINONIS
BOARDMAN
There’s a reason why there are so many church-based cookbooks. That’s because there are so many good cooks at places of worship, where they prepare food for fundraisers, special events and funeral repasts.
Mahoning Valley residents will be able to sample food of many ethnic varieties and American fare during the annual Taste of the Faiths Festivals planned at 5:30 p.m. May 4 at St. Charles Borromeo Church social hall, 7345 Westview Drive. The event will include musical entertainment at 6:30 and a pick-a-prize auction.
The Rev. Dr. Robin Woodberry, executive director of Mahoning Valley Association of Churches, which sponsors the event, said, “We have a good response from congregations.”
There will be a range of food offerings including appetizers, salads, main courses and desserts.
“Of course, the food is the best part. It’s a time to taste foods you can’t get all the time,” she said. “The fellowship is another drawing card. Everyone comes together, and food is the common ground.”
Bill Cooper, festival coordinator and member of Wickliffe Presbyterian Church in Austintown, said 14 churches have committed so far. “Every church has a speciality ... some food they’re noted for,” he said.
Cooper said he is in his third year on the MVAC board but can recall when he received a phone call from Elsie Dursi, retired MVAC director. Cooper said he had just retired from his sales position with Snyder-Bentley Co., an industrial supply company in Youngstown, and Dursi called him. “She told me they needed a Presbyterian on the board because that [denomination] wasn’t represented,” Cooper recalled. He agreed to serve a three-year term.
“I like the idea of churches coming together in projects,” Cooper said. “I think it’s good for everyone to be united in a common cause.”
The Rev. Dr. Woodberry and Cooper said bringing people of different faiths together promotes fellowship.
Tickets are $15 in advance or at the door. Cash and checks are accepted. For tickets and information, call 330-788-5914 or email execdirectormvac@gmail.com. Visit www.mvaconline.org to learn about the Mahoning Valley Association of Churches.