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Three churches host Southside party today
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Last year, New Hope Church and Family Harvest International Church decided to get together with Glory Church of Tracy at Manteca’s Southside Park.

They celebrated Christmas, receiving some donations including just enough to provide gifts for the youngsters.

Marilyn Mitchell, who is helping in organizing the second-ever event at Manteca’s Southside Park come rain or shine, also indicated that they nearly came up short in trying to feed the estimated 300 in attendance a year ago.

She’s managed to get added support for this year.

“I was determined to make sure that doesn’t happen again,” Mitchell said on Friday.

The three-church Christmas celebration is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. today at the park located at Oregon Street and Park Avenue.

Those attending can enjoy a hot lunch and sharing in the Christian message. Each youngster can expect to receive a Christmas gift and participate in doing crafts.

“Kids can also have hot dogs for lunch,” said Mitchell.

The gifts were made possible by anonymous donors dropping off gifts at the collection boxes located at various places around town.

 Mitchell, who, along with her husband Bob, attends New Hope. She noted that the idea of the three-church celebration originated at Southside Park, where she also serves as a missionary.

New Hope would meet there at least once every month. So did Family Harvest.

Folks at New Hope encountered those at Family Harvest, and a bond was soon formed between the two churches.

Family Harvest also had a strong connection with Glory Church of Tracy. All three ministries decided to come together as one for a special Christmas celebration.

In case of rain, activities at this year’s celebration will be shortened.

For more information, call (209) 858-8466.