The Demopolis First United Methodist Church will be continuing a long-standing tradition when it opens its doors for the annual United Methodist Women’s Bazaar on Wednesday, Nov. 9.
The bazaar dates back approximately 60 years and features an assortment of items for purchase. The event also includes a silent auction for specific items as well as eat-in or carry-out lunches.
Martha Sampson, one of the co-chairs for the event, said the event provides funding for the church that is used for a variety of missions.
“This is a very important event for the church,” Sampson said. “It’s our only fundraiser during the year that benefits missions. We hope everyone can visit and have a good time browsing through the wide variety of items on display.”
Those who attend the bazaar will visit different rooms of the church where many items, including Christmas decorations, are available for purchase. The rooms have themes, such as the “Christmas and Home Accents Room,” “Attic Treasures,” and the “Bake Room.” Along with items featured in those rooms there will be other unique items on display for a silent auction. There will also be a drawing for an afghan.
“All of our merchants have been so generous and helpful in giving to the bazaar. We appreciate it very much and could not do it without them,” said Peppi Cowart.
“It truly is a community-wide effort even though it is a church event,” Catherine Meador added.
After so many years, one of the challenges is to incorporate some of the new with some of the old, according to co-chair Sheron Laney.
“We are proud that we’ve been able to keep it fresh while maintaining the tradition that was started 60 years ago. It is also a privilege to have the opportunity to work side-by-side with all the ladies who volunteer their time for the bazaar,” Laney said.
The money raised through the bazaar will benefit a number of organizations, including the University of West Alabama Wesley Foundation, the Demopolis Food Pantry, Kairos, the Apple Tree Project, the FUMC Friendship Club, the church’s shoebox ministry that provides gifts to children, and church mission trips.
Those looking for lunch that Wednesday will want to stop by for the church’s “famous” chicken salad lunch plates that will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The plates include chicken salad, pimento cheese sandwiches, dessert, and a drink at a cost of $8. To place a take-out order call 289-1933.
Chances to take home a beautiful, cream-colored afghan are $1 and the winner will be announced at 3 p.m.
The bazaar will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The church is located at 200 E. Decatur St. in Demopolis. For more information call 289-1933.