The table isn’t really ours. It’s the neighborhood’s — we just have a lawn big enough to put it on.

Ascension has been on Union Deposit Road for more than forty years, so Lower Paxton is our neighborhood too. Last September we put up a tent, fired up the grills, and invited the whole area to lunch. It went well enough that we’re doing it again.

So on Sunday, September 13, from noon to 2:00 p.m., come eat with your neighbors. Burgers and hot dogs off the grill, sides and desserts, cold drinks, and lawn games. It’s free.

Here’s the honest hope for the afternoon: that you meet somebody who lives four doors down and didn’t know your name yet. You can share a street with a person and never get past a nod or wave. Two hours, a paper plate, and a folding chair fixes more of that than you’d expect. And we’d love to meet you, too.

It’s just lunch. No offering, no sign-up, no program. Nobody will ask you for anything.

Kids are more than welcome. There’s a games area on the grass with shaded seating right alongside it, so you can sit down while they play.

Food is served just inside the building (ground level, no stairs) — grab a plate and carry it out to the tent, where the tables and chairs are. Restrooms are inside too. If the weather turns, the whole picnic moves indoors to the lower level.

Whether you just moved in or you’ve been here thirty years, there’s a seat at the table. Bring yourself and your appetite, and come find out who else lives around here.

Date: Sunday, September 13

Time: 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Where: Ascension Lutheran Church, 4768 Union Deposit Road, Harrisburg

Cost: Free

Planning to come? Let us know so we can grill enough — but drop-ins are always welcome. Questions are welcome too: email office@ascensionhbg.com or call 717-652-8285.