Community BBQ Celebration
This past weekend, West Columbia, S.C., was filled with delicious aromas and the joyful buzz of community spirit as friends and family gathered to enjoy a mouthwatering feast at the 52nd annual BBQ fundraiser held at Mount Hebron United Methodist Church. From the early morning hours of 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2024, the event served as a delightful mix of good food and great company for everyone involved.
It’s no small feat to organize such a beloved event, and the church’s men’s group takes it seriously. They start planning roughly six months in advance to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. According to Jim New, the co-chairman of the BBQ committee, the food prep truly is a labor of love and is a process that spans three days!
“We light the fire on Thursday evening about 10 o’clock,” Jim explained. “The bed of coals burns down, and then we cook hams for the BBQ. Those go on the pit on Friday morning and cook all through Friday night.” The dedication is evident in every step, as the hams come off early Saturday morning, ready to be chopped, sorted, and sauced!
This year held a unique twist that added even more meaning to the BBQ. The group utilized wood from a tree that had fallen on the church property during Hurricane Helene. Repurposing this wood for the BBQ pit not only highlighted community resilience but also added a special touch to the event, tightly weaving nature’s story into their culinary tradition.
With nearly 800 people showing up for the fundraiser, it’s clear that the community has embraced this annual event as a cherished tradition. Guests could enjoy BBQ either on the carry-out line or the buffet line, and it was the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends and relish each bite. The experience wasn’t just about food; it was about the connections formed and strengthened over the years.
The true heart of the BBQ fundraiser lies in its mission. Church leaders emphasized that all proceeds from the event are dedicated to supporting important ministry efforts. The funds generated help cover a variety of needs within the community, such as mission trips, home repairs, groceries, clothes, and snacks for those who may require a bit of extra help.
This lively gathering not only filled bellies but also warmed hearts, showing how food has a way of bringing people together. The church’s commitment to serving others is evident, and events like these are crucial in fostering a sense of community and belonging.
As the BBQ flames die down and the last containers are packed away, the men’s group at Mount Hebron United Methodist Church is already brainstorming how to make next year’s event even bigger and better. Anyone looking for a meaningful and tasty way to kick off October would be thrilled to mark their calendars for 2025’s BBQ fundraiser!
In conclusion, West Columbia’s annual BBQ fundraiser is a shining example of community spirit, delicious food, and the power of giving back. It’s not just about the BBQ—it’s about the people, the stories, and the good deeds that transform lives!
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