BY HILLARY VIDERS
SPECIAL TO NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS
ENGLEWOOD, N.J. –– On Oct. 21, pumpkins and kids were everywhere in the Elmore Hall at the First Presbyterian Church of Englewood (FPCE). It was the church’s annual Pumpkin Festival that delighted families and people of all ages.
The Rev. Richard Hong was surrounded by his many admirers, ranging from toddlers to octogenarians.
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“Pumpkins evoke thoughts of children and at the Pumpkin Festival, we want to offer wholesome family time together,” said Hong, who is known for his vibrant personality and talent for engaging young parishioners. “This is a great time for parents to bond with their children around the ‘project’ of carving their pumpkin, and they get to take the product home to enjoy!”
This year’s event had plenty of family time and plenty of families. Some 150 people took part in the indoor party, and some ventured outside to enjoy the playground and beautiful warm weather.
Assisting Hong throughout the event was Felicia Arrigoitia, FPCE’s director of family ministries. Wearing a bright orange T-shirt, she fit right into the pastiche of pumpkins.
As Hong believes, pumpkin carving and painting is indeed a great activity for family bonding. Even pre-school kids were able to get in on the fun and paint as their parents and older siblings carved faces of all descriptions.
A highlight of the afternoon was a lively show by Morley the Magician, who kept kids spellbound with his skillful juggling and illusions. The performance was further enhanced when Morley called some children up to the stage to participate in some of his magic tricks.
There was also an award-winning balloon artist, Summer the Clown. Dressed in a colorful costume and face paint, Summer twisted balloons into wonderful creations which the children waved as they scampered around the room. In another corner of the room, a face painter decorated children with everything from pumpkin tattoos to cat eyes and whiskers.
As with many FPCE festivities, refreshments were abundant. A Sabrett hot dog stand dispensed delicious franks. There were also tables with pizza, cupcakes and leaf-shaped sugar cookies.
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The Pumpkin Festival was only one of many FPCE events that brings parishioners together and makes them realize how much the First Presbyterian Church is an important part of their life.
Photo by Hillary Viders