First Methodist Church holds its fall festival

RUSSELLVILLE — Community members gathered recently inside Russellville First Methodist Church’s ministry center for the annual fall festival. The event featured games, popcorn, cotton candy and a costume contest. Seven-year-old Scarlett Sherron, dressed as a volleyball player, said she has been coming to the event for a long time.

“I like playing all the games,” she said. “I like playing with my cousin, and I like spending time with everyone.”

Twelve-year-old Hannah Adams, dressed as a princess, said she enjoys seeing the festival bring people together each year.

“I look forward to it,” she said. “We meet all a lot of new people and make so many friends, and I love watching our church family grow.”

Zoe Hartsell, 14, and Hannah Adams, 12, attend the fall festival as princesses.

Fourteen-year-old Zoe Hartsell, dressed as a princess, said she looks forward to the festival each year.

“I’ve been at this church since I was born,” said 14-year-old Zoe Hartsell, dressed as a princess. “All the people from different backgrounds get to come together and have fun.”

She said events like this help create lasting memories.

“It’s fun for the kids to dress up and get candy more than once a year with their friends. We meet a lot of new people, and I love dressing up.”

Pastor Toby Chastain, who has led the church for a little more than two years, said the event reflects a shared mission to connect with the community.

“We engage the community and open our space,” he said. “It’s a chance to share the love of Christ with our neighbors.”

Jamie Harris and his wife, Mindy Harris, attend the festival as a farmer and a bee.

Church member Justin Green, who came dressed as Elvis, said the fall festival shows what the congregation is all about. His wife, Charlotte Green, joined the fun dressed as Priscilla.

“It’s a great outreach to the community to help show them how fun and loving Russellville First Methodist Church is,” he said.