Local churches gave back to the community last weekend, with two public events.
The bigger of the two events took place Sunday, September 11, at the Lake Cowichan United Church.
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of their new church building’s construction after a devastating fire, a special service and potluck dinner were held.
Making the celebration all the more special was the unveiling of four stained glass windows, created by local artist Michaela Davidson.
Davidson and her husband Bob were in attendance to help unveil the art pieces, which all don a fancily adorned cross.
“I sense beauty and peace when I gaze at them,” church member Audrey Towle said.
“This celebrates our faith. They represent the beauty of God,” reverend Greg Darjes said.
The windows were paid for in part by the estate of Dave and Anna Patrick, long time members of the Cowichan Lake Community.
One of the windows was also donated by the Davidsons.
Family members of Dave and Anna Patrick sent a message for Towle to read at the service, thanking the church for providing the couple with a loving atmosphere for so many years.
“May you be blessed with many more years of heartfelt worship,” the letter read.
During the service, Darjes reminded those in attendance of the upcoming Wednesday, September 14, choir practice at 1 p.m. There is also a Bible study, at 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 21.
“Everyone is welcome to come,” he said.
Following the service, a well-stacked table of food greeted all those in attendance, including a special 20th Anniversary cake.
At the Lake Cowichan Baptist Church the previous day, a special community spaghetti dinner was held, followed by the screening of a fantasy movie.
Although the church was relatively full of people for the dinner portion, pastor Dale Winters, looking around, noted that there was lots of room for more people to have shown up.
The dinner’s intention was an outreach to the community.
“By the middle of the month, many people on fixed incomes are reaching the end of their finances,” an e-mail from organizer Ken Jack read.
Another such dinner is being planned for Saturday, October 8, at 6 p.m.