St. Peter's Serves up Free Christmas Dinner

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church will host its annual free Christmas dinner on Christmas Day, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

The dinner includes a home cooked turkey dinner for those who don’t have anyone to spend Christmas with.

There will also be a gift table, desserts, live entertainment and the company of other people in the community.

Mike and Peaches Lukens started the tradition 25 years ago and ran it until a few years ago, according to Ocean City Public Relations Director Mark Soifer.

Their daughter, Holly Martinez, now organizes the dinner with a committee of volunteers.

“It’s free and they need some volunteers,” Councilman Keith Hartzell said of the event at Thursday night’s council meeting. “You can eat there or you can get food to go. It’s a great event.”

Hartzell estimates between 900 and 1,000 people have come out for the dinner in the past.

Its theme has always been “All are welcome, rich and poor, young and old, in need or in need of giving, far from home or just around the corner.”

Transportation can be provided for those who need it and take outs are available. St. Peter’s has disabled access and free parking.

Those who wish to support the dinner can make checks payable to the “Christian Community Circle” and mail them to 300 Central Avenue in Ocean City, N.J. 08226. Help is also needed for preparations on December 23.

Donations for the gift table, including gently used clothing, toys, books and household items, would be appreciated.

For more information call 609-846-5151.

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church is located at 8th Street and Central Avenue.

The attached image is a Patch file photo.