Trinity United Methodist celebrates 119th Harvest Dinner
Sequim Gazette staff
Before Sequim was officially a city and the Irrigation Festival paraded the town there was Trinity United Methodist Church’s Harvest Dinner.
The 119-year tradition that began with locals bringing homegrown food to a community fair called the Harvest Home continues on Friday, Oct. 22.
Many church members get involved with decorating, preparing meals, waiting tables and cleaning up.
Helen Rice, who has led food preparations for 15 years, said people look forward to the dinner.
“It’s a wonderful evening of friendship, fellowship and laughter and some hard work,” Rice said.
Food remains the highlight for the evening for about 300 attendees each year.
The staple Swiss steak and mashed potatoes with homemade gravy have been a part of the menu for at least 15 years.
The Rev. Bill Gordon said the steak remains some of the best he’s ever eaten.
Other meal items include coleslaw, vegetables, homemade cake, ice cream, coffee and tea.
“I’m proud of it,” Rice said of the dinner. “It’s an achievement of a group that’s all volunteers. A lot of hands are involved.”
Audrey Gift, organizer, said the thing that’s distinct about the event is that people sit down and are served by church members and Gordon.
Gift said when she first came four years ago she expected the event to be more of a cafeteria experience.
“This is great because you get to talk and meet other people,” Gift said.
Several local stores help the dinner tradition by donating food because ticket proceeds benefit local charities.
Sales will help local Boy and Girl Scout troops, CareNet, Dungeness Valley Health & Wellness Clinic, Lite Lunch and Sequim Community Aid.
Dinner music features four rotating pianists and church members: Judy Gordon, Donna Grubbs, Pat Lewis and Sue Ninemires.
Meals also are available for delivery by calling the church at 683-5367.
Tickets are for sale now at Trinity United Methodist’s Church office, Sequim Sound Community Bank and at the door.
For a Spiritual Spotlight on your church, spiritual group, special person and/or event contact Matthew Nash at mnash@sequimgazette.com.
Who: Trinity United Methodist Church
What: 119th Harvest Dinner
Where: 100 Blake Ave., Sequim
When: 5-6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22
Details: $12 adult, $5 children, 10 years old and younger
Meals available for delivery by calling the church.
Tickets available at the church and Sound Community Bank, 541 N. Fifth Ave.
Call 683-5367 for more information.
