Bethel Bible Fellowship Church opened its doors for residents and community members to partake in its Christmas dinner Dec. 3.

The church hosted around 200 residents and had 100 volunteers serving and cooking at the event.

“We invite anyone who wants to come and get a free meal tonight,” Rev. David Schlonecker of Bethel Church, said. “We do it as a service to our community.”

Opening remarks were made by Schlonecker, Emmaus Mayor Winfield Iobst, who attended the event and a prayer was given by David Schenkel.

Live music was played over dinner and attendees were asked to sing along to Christmas carols. The church provided a Christmas program for children from ages 4 to 10 after the main course.

Patti Schenkel coordinated plans for the dinner beginning in September and volunteered to cook for dining residents who attended. Cindi Feldman, owner of 29 Cooks, served a second year as chef for the event.

Local businesses contributing to the annual Christmas dinner included: 29 Cooks, Artisan Salon, Emmaus Bakery, Feldman’s Design, Giant, Dan Schantz, Sweet Memories, Superior restaurant, Wally’s Hog Deli, The Way to Emmaus and Weis markets.