Parkersburg churches reach out to neighbors
By Paul LaPann, Managing Editor
PARKERSBURG — Pastor Brian Harrell of Liberty Street Church of God uses food as a means to extend the love of God.
By the number of people attending Harrell’s Wednesday evening cookouts on a parking lot at Latrobe and Charles streets, Harrell’s message is being well received.
About 300 hot dogs, 200 hamburgers and other picnic delights were consumed by those attending Wednesday’s cookout from 6:30 to 8 p.m. across from Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 903 Charles St.
When Harrell approached Good Shepherd’s the Rev. Arthur Bennett about having the community cookouts on the church lot, Bennett readily agreed, under one condition. Bennett told Harrell, “I can help you.” Harrell replied, “Feel free.”
Both churches, situated about eight blocks apart, bring food to the cookouts, which are open to anyone at no charge. Games are available to the participants.
The purpose of the cookouts is “for me to get to know people in the community by name,” Harrell said Thursday. “Food is a means to become part of their lives. We want to make a difference.”
Harrell has shaken many hands at the cookouts and said prayers for those experiencing problems.
Harrell said he got the idea for the cookout and its location while walking through the neighborhoods, praying over a decision.
The first cookout was held three weeks ago and they will continue through the summer. Next Wednesday’s event won’t be held, however, as Liberty Street Church of God will present a concert at the bandshell in City Park instead. The group Portal will perform at 7 p.m. before the fireworks display.
Harrell wants to include music at the July 11 gathering.
Forty youths from the church handed out fliers with information about the cookout in the neighborhood. Harrell obtained advice from Susie Meredith of North Parkersburg Baptist Church, which operates the Friendship Kitchen on Emerson Avenue, about the best way to run a community event.
Harrell said he wants to bring community cookouts to other sections of the city and has talked to churches about the idea.
