By By Arthur McLean
In the midst of the damage of Hurricane Ivan's aftermath, Atmore's people still found something to be thankful for when it was revealed that not a single person was killed during that terrible storm.
This week, two months after one of the worst natural disasters to strike this area, the people of Atmore and her surrounding communities are again gathering together to give thanks and share in the bounty we have received.
Thanksgiving services will about around the community leading to Thanksgiving Day Thursday.
Tonight, First United Methodist Church will host a Thanksgiving service in conjunction with First Baptist Church of Atmore, Trinity Episcopal Church, St. Roberts Catholic and Mount Olive Baptist Church.
The service is open to the public and will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Firs United Methodist Church. Rev. Leon Stewart, retired Pentecostal Holiness minister will provide the message. An offering will be taken to support the Atmore Area Christian Care Ministry.
Tuesday night, Brooks Memorial Baptist Church will host a community service in conjunction with St. Paul's Community Church and McRae St. United Methodist Church. The service will be held at 7 p.m. at Brooks Memorial Baptist Church. An offering will go to support The Samaritan's Gift, a charity that helps transients who come through the area.
The congregation of Trinity Episcopal will also be busy Thanksgiving Day, serving meals to the community. Because of damage to the church from Hurricane Ivan, the meals will be served to go. Turkey and trimmings will be served free of charge. The church is planning to serve 100 meals, with food and preparation donated by church members. If you are planning to go to Trinity, you are asked to call ahead and meals will be limited. Serving times will begin at 11 a.m. Call 368-5933 for a reservation.
McCullough Christian Center and the Wisteria will also be serving a community meal for Thanksgiving Thursday. Terry Kelly said the church plans to serve about 300 meals of turkey, ham and trimmings. It will be a sit-down meal served at the Wisteria. Church members are donating the food and preparation. Meal service will begin at 11 a.m. and run to 2 p.m. There is no charge for the meal, and no offering will be taken.