On March 25, many Christians will set aside time to contemplate the crucifixion of Jesus. Many will also gather at public breakfasts that include special speakers.

Breakfasts planned in the county this year on Good Friday include:

Meridian United Presbyterian Church

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A family breakfast will be served at 6:30 a.m. at the church, 4150 Highland Road, Butler. A musical program by Ken Metrick will follow the meal. Tickets are $3 and can be obtained at the church office. Children under 12 will be admitted for free. Deadline for reservations is March 23. For information, call 724-482-2630.

Butler County Family YMCA

- A family breakfast will be served at 7 a.m. at the YMCA on North Washington Street, Butler. The Rev. Robert Peterson, minister of St. John's Reformed Church in Meridian, will speak.

Cost to attend is $4. Tickets can be purchased at the door, but advance purchase at the YMCA or at various local churches is preferred. For information, call 724-789-9440.

Evans City Fire Hall

- A men's Good Friday breakfast will be offered at 7 a.m. at the fire hall on Jackson Street, Evans City. The Rev. Jeff McKay of First Baptist Church of Evans City will speak. Cost is $5. Tickets are available by presale only at LAW Clothing and Evans City Auto Parts, both on Main Street in Evans City.

Nixon United Methodist Church

- The church's 14th annual Good Friday breakfast will be held at 7:30 a.m. in the church social hall, 344 Airport Road, Butler. The Rev. Mary Grey Emmett, former Butler School District superintendent and retired minister from Murrysville United Methodist Church, will speak. Reservations should be made by March 21 by calling 724-586-9439. A donation of $3.50 is requested.

North Main Street Church of God

- A women's Good Friday breakfast will be held at 7 a.m. at the church, 1201 N. Main St. Ext., Butler.

Nancy Cobb, director of the Western Pennsylvania Hospital School of Nursing and president of the Pennsylvania League for Nursing, Area IV, will speak. Special music will be performed by pianist Andrea Corso, flutists Katie Gruver and Jenna Raisley and soloist Nicole George.

Tickets are available for $4 at the church office, 724-285-4214. No tickets will be sold at the door. All women, all ages are invited.

Park United Presbyterian Church

- An annual community men and boys Good Friday breakfast will be held at 7 a.m. in the fellowship hall, 115 E. Grandview Ave.

Tickets are $5 per person and available from the Rev. Pat McElroy at 724-452-9570 or at the door.

The Rev. Jim Bertoti will speak. Space is limited, so advance ticket purchases are suggested.