Old Tennent Church’s 2000 Harvest Home Dinner was an incredible success. We surpassed our expectations by serving more than 550 turkey dinners in just four hours.
Old Tennent has had a Harvest Home Dinner for more than 100 years, when it was part of what was then the farming community of this area. Back then, along with the dinner, there were many locally made crafts. Our Harvest Home Dinner brought back the crafters, and their show was a big success — filled with people and the aroma of roasted turkey dinners.
It is one of Old Tennent’s single biggest mission efforts. This dinner is nothing less than super, thanks to those who give of themselves for the benefit of others; and when the local community supports our efforts we are able to do even more. The proceeds from our dinner go directly to the needy through the Samaritan Center in Englishtown and Freehold Area Open Door, two local food banks that do fantastic work providing food as well as help to those in need.
Our congregation is vibrant and active with outstanding Sunday school, youth and choir programs. Our vacation Bible school program is enjoyed each summer, and in just a few short weeks the annual Christmas drive-through, "Journey to Bethlehem," can be witnessed by thousands.
On the evenings of Dec. 1, 2 and 3, from the convenience of your car you can witness scenes and events leading up to the birth of Christ. Featuring farm animals, authentic props and live actors dressed in Biblical costume, this free event has become a traditional way for many people to kick off the holiday season while sharing the true meaning of Christmas with those closest to them.
So, as our community continues to grow from a peaceful rural farm area to a bustling commuter suburb, come pass through the gates of Old Tennent Church, where Christian peace and purpose have prevailed for more than 300 years.
Ed Norlander
Harvest Home chairman
Manalapan

