Salem, Lincolnton, hosts “Cool Event”

Salem, Lincolnton, located in a rural section of Lincoln County, and its sister congregation of Salem United Church of Christ, are unique in that they remain a “union” church; each holding worship weekly. The Lutheran congregation worship attendance now averages fewer than 25 each week, while the UCC congregation is even smaller. Nevertheless, these small congregations together accomplished a great fete when they hosted their empty pottery bowl benefit for “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday, on August 25.

This event, which is locally known as the “Cool Event” because the empty pottery bowls are filled with homemade ice cream, has become an annual event. The concept is similar to other organizations that hold “empty bowl” fundraisers in the winter months and serve soup. Two members of the congregation who are amateur potters originally initiated this idea and they invite their potter friends to donate bowls for this event. Members of the congregation make homemade ice cream, each trying to make the prize-winning flavor each year and win the trophy. Ice cream flavors ranged from vanilla to blueberry-basil and everything in between.

This is the thirteenth year this event has been held at Salem, with people from across the area partaking in the fun and fellowship. Supporters of the local Christian ministry organization attend along with ice cream aficionados. All the money raised by the congregation on this “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday benefited the Christian Ministry of Lincoln County soup kitchen, with a total of $3,532 raised this year.

“Cool Event” Is Big Success For Christian Ministry – Lincoln Herald – Lincolnton, NC

Story shared by Susan P. Harris.