The month of August is notable here on the East Coast, specifically in Northern Virginia. It marks the beginning of the end of our beloved summer weather. It also means that school is right around the corner, so many families use these last few summer weeks to take long-awaited family vacations. However, among the most notable facts about the month of August, one stands alone: It’s hot. We’re talking about scrambling eggs on asphalt kind of hotness. Fortunately, there is something more enjoyable to eat during August as well. Picnic food! And here at Holiness Tabernacle Church Of God In Christ, we did just that.
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On Saturday August 11 our church gathered at Hammermill Park for our annual church cookout. The entire membership came together, bringing side dishes, beverages, games and even inviting people from the community to join in on the fun. The sodas were flowing while the food was sizzling! With our grill master Deacon Rowe out of town, the men of Holiness Tabernacle came together and put on a bit of a show in his absence. Pastor Pruitte, along with some of the church Elders, went to work on the deep frier and Bro. Powell manned the grill. We had ribs, chicken, fish, deviled eggs, beans, baked macaroni, fresh corn and salads. We also had an assortment of different desserts to indulge the sweet tooth in us all. This may have been the most food in our picnic history, 
so much so that Pastor Pruitte suggested we feed the guests and congregants after Sunday Service the next day. Once a mission-minded man, always a mission-minded man!
In addition to having mounds of food, we also had loads of fun. The basketball court was never without a fresh pair of sneakers running across it and the pool was filled with the younger children. The picnic committee also set up sack races, a kickball game, and double dutch. Double dutch obviously brought back childhood memories for many of the older women because they eagerly jumped into the game with the younger girls, sometimes even teaching them a thing or two. For those who just wanted to relax, the canopy-covered tables were perfect for some shade-filled fellowship.
As the hours went by, the picnic ended just as it began: with a community effort. This is what plays in many people’s minds even a week later; the number of people who stayed behind to clean up. They say a family that prays together stays together. At the HTC cookout, we were reminded that a church that labors together – in and outside the church – will be showered with favor together as well.