(Photo by Gwen Sour) Attendees to the Gospel Mission Church’s Christmas dinner enjoy the musical stylings of Chris Truman on the piano.

PARKERSBURG — On Christmas Day, the Gospel Mission Church and First Presbyterian Church helped spread holiday cheer by hosting community meals for those seeking food, fellowship, or simply a warm place to celebrate.

Both events drew diverse groups, from families to individuals, creating a sense of togetherness on the special day.

At Gospel Mission Church, volunteers welcomed guests with open arms.

“It’s going really well,” Pastor Tim Burch said. “Families are coming in, and people who didn’t plan to be here decided to join us. It’s not just for those in need; it’s for anyone who wants to share a meal and community.”

With over 30 volunteers from the congregation, the effort exemplified the spirit of giving.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Volunteers at the First Presbyterian Church of Parkersburg serve attendees a Christmas meal on Wednesday.

“It’s not normal to leave your home on Christmas to serve others, but this is what ministry is about,” Burch added.

Meanwhile, First Presbyterian Church continued its 35-year tradition of hosting a community Christmas meal.

“We prepared 500 meals and sent out 172 deliveries to those unable to join us in person,” said the Rev. Annie McMillan.

In addition to the meal, guests received handmade hats and scarves crafted by the church’s knitting group.

“Our goal is to provide fellowship and share Christ’s love with the community,” McMillan said.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) The line for the buffet at the First Presbyterian Church of Parkersburg’s Christmas meal extended out the door Wednesday afternoon.

Volunteers, including members from other churches, pitched in to deliver meals, prepare food, and engage with attendees.

For volunteers like Grace Stanley of Gospel Mission Church, the experience was rewarding.

“It’s about giving back and ensuring everyone feels the joy of Christmas,” she said, having spent hours helping prepare and serve the meal.

Attendees like Susan Buchanan see the Christmas meals as an opportunity for community engagement.

“I just need to get away from the neighborhood,” Buchanan said. “The neighborhood, it’s not always the best place to be. But here, I can be around people.”

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Volunteers at the Gospel Mission Church work hard to feed attendees to the Christmas meal on Wednesday.

(Photo by Gwen Sour) Attendees at Gospel Mission Church’s Christmas dinner came from every walk of life and every age group on Wednesday.