2nd Community Fun Day slated
CHICORA — They tried it before and they're back for more.
Once again, the ministers of the Petroleum Valley and East Brady Ministerium are joining together to battle drug addiction.
The group plans to raise awareness of the need for greater prevention efforts, share the signs of addiction and promote recovery strategies with its second annual Community Fun Day from 2 to 6 p.m., Aug. 19, at Chicora Park, Route 68.
All churches are welcome to participate this year.
Two years ago, Pastor Mark Wallace and Pastor John Pistorius, fed up with the addiction problem, organized a Walk of Hope in East Brady to raise awareness of the issue.
Pastors, church members and other community members participated.
Members of the Hope For Broken Hearts support group offered their insights and tools to help make the walk a success.
Other walks were staged, and some people asked for more information about identifying the signs of addiction and learning recovery options.
This sparked the idea of having a community event to meet those needs. The Chicora Alliance Church took the lead, and members stepped up to handle much of the planning and prep work to make it happen.
“We are not willing to remain silent and uninvolved anymore,” said Pistorius of St. John's Reformed Church, 334 W. Slippery Rock St., Chicora. “We have a duty and responsibility to join together to battle addiction and save lives.”
“This afternoon event will inform and educate the community about prevention and recovery options,” said Wallace of the Chicora Alliance Church, 310 E. Slippery Rock St., Chicora. “With the death toll lower this year, some might be tempted to reduce efforts, but we see it as a call to action. We want to reach people with a positive message because this issue affects everyone one way or another.”
Pistorius believes it is important for church leaders to cooperate to battle issues such as this.
“The unity built among local congregations benefits the whole community. Stepping over denominational lines builds teamwork and trust,” Pistorius said, “But we need help from volunteers to make this work. And we need those who offer hope for recovery to be present to share their programs.”
All exhibition spots are without cost, he said, but exhibitors are asked to provide a gift basket or gift card to be auctioned off.
Games, a bounce house and a slide will be provided free for children. It also includes live musical entertainment and speakers with interest in this issue.
Woodmen Life will provide free drinks and food.
Anyone wanting to participate, should contact Pistorius at 724-445-3540 or Wallace at 724-445-3220.
WHAT: Second annual Community Fun DayWHEN: 2 to 6 p.m., Aug. 19WHERE: Chicora ParkINFO: Call Pastor John Pistorius, pastor of St. John's Reformed Church, Chicora, at 724-445-3540
