COLUSA, CA (MPG) – After more than a decade, senior citizens returned to Trinity United Methodist Church in Colusa for a potluck-style lunch just like the days of old.
What was once known as the Senior Canteen is now Senior Spread, where older Colusa residents can gather in a congregate setting to enjoy a meal, socialize, build support networks, and spread a little cheer.
“I was involved with this way back when,” said organizer Jamie Myers, a member of the church congregation to bring back the tradition. “Now, I’m a senior citizen myself – and I’m so excited.”
The inaugural senior spread was held on Jan. 10 and will continue twice monthly inside Friendship Hall, located on the east side (Fifth Street), of the Methodist Church, 511 Oak St., Colusa.
The luncheon is held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Fridays of each month, with the meal served at noon.
Rev. Molly Knapen, who started as a lay pastor at Trinity United in 2022, has been the full-time pastor since July and said she appreciated her congregation for recognizing the need in the community to revive the luncheon and dedicating their efforts to see it happen.
“It’s wonderful,” Knapen said. “This is a lay effort, and I’m grateful to be a part of it and to see all the things people do.”
The Beulah Older Adult Grant Fund provided the startup funding for the luncheon, given to the church by the District Ministerial Association.
“We are hoping to expand the Senior Spread,” Myers said. “We want to add programs, music, and activities; maybe even people to come in and teach activities or share their travels, things like that.”
Volunteers served home-cooked meatloaf for the main dish, and many guests brought side dishes and desserts.
“Lunch was delicious,” said Mary Stilwell, who hopes to attend the twice-monthly luncheon. “Activities would be great, but this was just super because it’s nice to get together and talk and see everyone here.”
The price for Senior Spread is $5 or $3 if you bring a side dish.
Knappen said the luncheon is one of several programs the congregation has started, including an after-school music program for middle schoolers.
While the congregation of her church and many other local churches are small, volunteers have taken the initiative to bring back congregate activities post-pandemic, when people got used to staying home.
“This is a great community,” Knapen said. “These are great people. It is so much fun to serve here because people are invested; people do stuff.”
The new Senior Spread is intended for seniors aged 60 and up, although they can bring a guest or care provider for $5.
Myers said Senior Spread is intended to be more than a meal, but a fun activity for seniors to socialize, overcome isolation, and belong to a community.
“We are up for suggestions and looking forward to expanding the program,” Myers said.