Church celebrates the holidays with community

The Mennonite Brethren Church of Shafter held a Christmas Festival event on Sunday night, giving the community several ways to celebrate this holiday season. "This was a special time for our church and the entire community," said Pastor Pay Coyle, who was one of the leaders of the event.

There was something for just about anybody, including hay rides, Christmas music, story time, arts and crafts, and more. "I just love this thing," said Fred Marsh, who was at the event with his granddaughter. "This is so much fun, having a safe and positive event to go to ."

There were also food vendors, baked goods for sale, and a few vendors who were selling their holiday fare.

In the Fellowship Center, participants had their choice of creating stars out of sticks and jewels, playing activity games, or have a great time in the inflatables that were in the gymnasium.

Among the entertainers who were in the church sanctuary, the Shafter High Band performed Christmas carols, as well as a girls choir from the local elementary schools.

According to Pastor Coyle, the event was well above expectations. "We had over 400 people there. It was great," said Coyle.

Vendors included Aguas by Karen and other food trucks selling tacos and a variety of Mexican food.

Downstairs in the Children's Sanctuary, there were kids creating masterpieces that they could take home with them, as well as listening to stories from the Bible in the Story Time station.