Church Hosts Community BBQ

The smell of homemade dinner filled the social hall of the Highgrove United Methodist Church in Grand Terrace. Barbecued beef, coleslaw, beans, and a variety of desserts were served as community church members gathered to enjoy time with their family and friends. The annual barbecue event took place Oct. 26 and serves as a long-standing tradition for the church. Gail Seekins, head of the event, said the barbecue has been a 30-year tradition that shows no signs of slowing down. “I’ve been part of the church for a very long time and it was going on before I even arrived,” said Seekins. The tables filled as church members enjoyed their meals, laughing and talking with other community members. Kids also participated in free pumpkin carving activities sponsored by the church. The barbecue is a fundraising event, but Seekins said it serves another purpose: fellowship. “It’s mainly members from Grand Terrace and the Highgrove area, but some come from far away like Riverside or Moreno Valley," said Seekins as she worked her way around the kitchen. She explained that all the desserts are homemade and contributed by members of the church, which she feels adds to the comforting and homey atmosphere. Pastor Youngstone Jhun, a new pastor at the church, claims this barbecue makes the community “feel alive.” He added, “The church seeks to make a caring and safe community.”