Grace United Church of Christ, 902 Lincoln Ave., Northampton, held a Lenten dinner, with two different platter options, in the church social hall March 10.

The choice of entree was crabcakes or chicken fingers. The dinners included a roll, baked potato and a homemade brownie for dessert.

Two more meals are planned - 4:30-6:30 p.m. March 17 and 24.

Despite the cool, rainy weather, the volunteer team cooking, serving food and selling tickets was upbeat with clear teamwork evident.

The five-member kitchen team, all Grace UCC’s fellowship committee members, labored together in sync. They said they enjoy their time working together. Charlotte Leindecker has been a beloved longtime Grace UCC dinner coordinator but has reduced her leadership role this year. She is expected to be at the March 17 dinner.

Sue Kutzler, of Lehigh Township, and Betty Miller, of Catasauqua, staffed the ticket sales table.

The dinner proceeds are earmarked for the church general fund.

Arnold “Nick” Nicklas, of Northampton, and Lisa Queen and Lauren Marchetto, both of North Whitehall Township, mentioned they enjoyed the well-prepared meals. They said they appreciated the warm welcome they received upon arrival to the social hall.

In 2023, Grace UCC celebrates 120 years as a faith community serving its members and the borough of Northampton. This longevity is a testament to many volunteers - past and present - who made the church a success, it was agreed.

The volunteers at the March 10 dinner said these meals help advance this historical legacy of selfless work serving the church and local community.