By Jackie Ruley

Picture this: The sun is shining, the air is filled with laughter, and the tantalizing aroma of barbecue wafts through the air. No, this isn’t a scene from a feel-good movie – it’s the real-life joy that unfolded at Mt. Zion Miracle Station SDA Church’s Old-Fashioned Picnic on August 25th.

Under the spirited leadership of Pastor Carlos McConico, the Wilmington, DE congregation came together for a day that can only be described as pure fun. The Relationship and Women's Ministries Departments outdid themselves, transforming a regular summer day into a celebration of community, faith, and really good food.

Speaking of food – oh, the food! Chef Billy, our grill master extraordinaire, worked his magic over the coals. The sizzle of his spatula was like music to our ears, promising juicy burgers and perfectly charred hot dogs. One bite, and you’d swear the angels themselves had a hand in seasoning those delights.

But the feast didn’t end there. weight of lovingly prepared dishes. And let’s not forget the cake. Oh, that cake! Layers of heavenly sweetness that had everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe sneaking thirds when no one was looking). It was the kind of cake that makes you close your eyes and sigh with contentment after each bite.

Sister Pompey’s creativity exceeded the kid’s imagination. She organized games to get everyone involved and exercise. The children’s laughter and the adults cheerful encouragement created a joyous soundtrack for the day.

But it wasn’t just fun and games. There was something magical in the air – that indescribable warmth that comes from being surrounded by your church family. Every interaction was infused with love and care. As the day wound down and the golden afternoon light bathed everything in a warm glow, no one wanted to leave. The event captured what everyone was feeling – gratitude for good food, great company, and the blessing of being part of such a vibrant church community.

If you missed this year’s picnic, mark your calendars now for next summer. Because at Mt. Zion Miracle Station SDA Church, we don’t just have picnics – we create memories that warm your heart long after the last crumb of cake has been devoured.

And who knows? Next year, Chef Billy might just share his secret barbecue sauce recipe. (We can dream, can’t we?)