ST. JOHN — The First United Methodist Church in St. John invites the public to a ham and turkey dinner served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Christmas day. Monday’s meal has been prepared from scratch and will be served at the church, located just off of U.S. 281 at 807 E. 1st in St. John.

Church member Vic Martin said the meal became an annual tradition about 13 years ago, with people traveling from area counties to attend.
“People really look forward to it,” Martin said, adding that includes the volunteers who will be working in the kitchen on Christmas Eve so that everything will be ready Monday. The menu includes turkey, ham, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, fresh cranberries, hot vegetables, relish tray, rolls, dessert and drinks, all prepared fresh in the church kitchen.

The meal is free due to the generosity of church members, Martin emphasized. You don’t need to live in St. John or Stafford County to attend; guests from Pawnee and Barton County regularly make the trip. Last year, including meals delivered to some homes in St. John, the church provided over 130 Christmas meals. They are ready to serve at least 150 this year, Martin said.
Attendees include people who are alone at Christmas and families that want to join a community dinner. Last year a family gathering with 17 people attended.

“Everybody just likes to come together,” Martin said. “There’s no preaching and it’s absolutely free. We just ask that they come in, eat and enjoy.”