Once a month during most of the last ten years, the St. Lawrence youth group has hosted a complimentary dinner with entertainment for area seniors. Valley Churches United Missions, as cosponsor, pays for the rental of the Felton Community Hall, which is provided at a discounted rate. The invitation list begins with participants in area senior programs, but all Valley seniors are welcome to participate.

The atmosphere is like that of a nice restaurant. Guests are seated at attractively laid tables and are personally served by members of the youth group. Entertainment is provided during dessert. One regular guest expressed appreciation that the dinner comes with "no strings attached"-there is no sermon or pitch of any kind. It's just an opportunity for people to get together in pleasant surroundings and have a good meal and some pleasant conversation, and enjoy some quality entertainment.

Another guest was impressed that the student servers were all nicely dressed, courteous, relaxed and friendly. According to youth group assistant leader, Jill Campagna, "The kids do it all. There are six team leaders, each with a crew, and they do everything from planning to serving to cleanup. We just come and watch."

Adult help is present in the kitchen, however. The food is supplied by St. Lawrence Church and cooked by adult volunteers, coordinated by Claudia Clausing and Barb Yoakum. Their job is complicated by the fact that they never know exactly how many people will show up. One night there were 25 more guests than expected. But whatever happens, the cooks always find a way to get everyone fed.

In the ten-year history of the senior dinners, attendance has grown from 36 to a high of 92. About two years ago, the students began planning a theme for each month's dinner, and at that time the average attendance doubled. The guests appreciate the variety in the food, decorations, and entertainment. Vasili Hillhouse, youth group leader, says, "These dinners are a joy to do because the guests are so happy to be here. I wish we could do it every week!"

Senior dinners are held once a month, usually on the last Friday of the month, at the Felton Community Hall. Anyone who wishes to attend may call the St. Lawrence Church office, 335-0300, to request an invitation or to RSVP.