The historic Salem Community Church near Paynesville will host two events Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 7 and 8. Saturday, Aug. 7, the public is invited to an ice cream social at the church from 4:30-7:30 p.m. The menu includes barbeques, hot dogs, baked beans and potato salad. Dessert will feature a selection of homemade pies with ice cream. The annual Salem Fest Pot- luck Lunch will begin at 12 noon Sunday, Aug. 8. A wide assortment of hot dishes and salads will be available. An afternoon service will follow the meal at 2 p.m. This long-standing tradition has been bringing friends, family and former members together for more than 30 years. The Salem Church Cookbook will be available at both events. It features nearly 400 recipes gathered by former members and friends of the Salem congregation. The cookbooks are especially popular as gifts and keepsakes, as family names are included with the recipes. This cookbook continues to be one of the best examples of the 133-year history of the church. Pictures of significant events in the church history are included. Though the church has been closed for more than 36 years, former members and friends have contributed to a restoration project including tuck-pointing the yellow brick exterior, refinishing the basement, installing two furnaces, and repairing the two-story stained glass windows. A free will offering will be taken at both events to benefit the continued restoration of the church. The Salem Church is five miles north of Paynesville on 220th Street. Take Hwy. 23 to Stearns County Road 33. Drive north on Co. Rd. 33 apporximately 5 miles to 220th Street and turn left. The church is 1/2 mile down the gravel road. Call (320) 243-4005 or (320) 259-9556 for more information or directions.
