Russellville church to host Christmas Carnival

RUSSELLVILLE -- The Russellville Community Church will hold its fourth annual Christmas Carnival on Saturday, Dec. 15.

The event is open to the public, and all are invited to share a free family event that focuses on the meaning of the season.

The Christmas Carnival begins at 5 p.m. with a light supper, followed by the telling of the Christmas Story in the sanctuary at approximately 5:30.

As in past years, there will be Christmas crafts, a game booth and "Ye Old Gift Shoppe," where children can choose and wrap a gift for their parents. There will be a visit from Santa, and parents are encouraged to bring a camera to capture the event.

Pastors Kathi and Jim Elliott invite all in the community to bring their children, grandkids or the neighbor kids and find the joy of the season.

"When we started this event four years ago, we hoped that even a few people would attend. Last year, we had close to 75 in attendance, some who came from surrounding areas because they were looking for a fun family holiday event -- It has become an important outreach from our congregation," Pastor Kathi Elliott said. "Everyone gets involved. Sunday school classes wrapped the food boxes. The youth group wrapped giving tree presents. It's a great time for all."

Families that are receiving gifts or food from the annual Giving Tree Project are asked to come between 5-7 p.m. to pick up their food and gift boxes.

Even those who don't have children are welcome to come and have a bite to eat, hear the Christmas story and maybe even sing a carol or two.

For more information, persons may call the church office at 435-2623 on weekday mornings or leave a message.

Russellville Community Church is located at 103 W. Third St. in Russellville.