ROCKFORD, Ohio (WLIO) — The Rockford community opened its hearts and doors on Christmas Day, welcoming residents and visitors for its annual “Together on Christmas” community dinner.
People from Mercer and Van Wert counties and beyond gathered at the Rockford Community Center for a holiday meal and fellowship. Each year, organizers serve about 500 turkey and ham meals, available for dine-in or takeout. What began as an effort to support those without a place to go on Christmas has grown into a long-standing tradition, bringing families and friends together to celebrate the holiday.
“it's just important to me that no matter who you are, where you come from, there's a seat for you at a table. It's a safe space. People can be vulnerable with us. We have a prayer box so they can open their hearts to us, and we can pray for them, and then just have a great meal,” says Emily Jackson, coordinator of the “Together on Christmas” meal.
“Food in the Scripture is huge. Jesus was around the table. He broke bread and, you know, and so I'm hoping that everybody here remembers Jesus as they eat and have their merry christmas smiles and celebrate not just Christ, which is most important, but celebrate the fun time of family and friends," says Pastor Bill “P.B.” Halter of Rockford United Methodist Church.
The Together on Christmas community meal has now been serving the Rockford area for 20 years.
