The Sweet Home A.M.E. Zion Church celebrated another festive season with residents of both Pine Needle Retirement Home and Crowne Health Care on December 22.

The events included scripture reading, caroling, gift giving, fellowship and worship. Algia Edwards Jr., Tyleshia Hawkins, Angelica and Alonneshia Edwards preformed instrumental solos. Pastor Rev. Algia Edwards and his Sweet Home Church family also prepared food boxes for several families in the area.

"This year's event was the largest celebration we've had yet," said Rev. Edwards. "It was very emotional for all of us."

Edwards said over 20 people worked to make the event a success, though not all were able to visit.

"We've done this for the past five years or so," he said, "to show our appreciation to the elderly for their outstanding contributions to the community. We also try to take this opportunity to teach young people to respect their elders, and this year we had quite a few teenagers help out."

Rev. Edwards said he joined the Sweet Home A.M.E. Zion church as pastor two years ago, and has been preaching for over 29 years.

The church would like to thank Super Foods and Russell Stover Candies for their contributions to the event.