Food and friendship were offered to Lyons graduating teens at The River Church this week. Free lunches are put on by Youth Pastor Brandon Lohr and his wife Casey throughout the school year. Before the pandemic they served lunch for Lyons high school students every Wednesday, and about 75 teens usually showed up.
“We, of course, haven’t been able to do that since the pandemic,” said Pastor Mickey Lohr. “But we wanted to do it for them one more time on their last day of school.”
The students drove up in front of the church and were handed a lunch and beverage, along with a gift bag. The graduating seniors were also given a small gift. Each student was greeted by name and asked about their summer plans. Some were moving away to attend college, others were seeking work, and a few said they were taking a “gap year” off.
Youth Pastor Brandon said that the Bible Studies program was going to resume at the beginning of June and would take place outside. The program has been taking place for several years, and many young people in the classes return to the church as adults.
On Mondays, the church is also offering a free hot supper, delivered in a box, to anyone in Lyons who is in need. Also, Pastor Mickey has spread the word that if anyone in the community, regardless of their religious affiliation, wants to talk, whether seeking help or needing spiritual counseling, he is available. Call the church at 4 p.m. on Mondays to reserve a meal, or leave a message at any time to speak to Pastor Mickey at 303-823-6469.