Special to Sumner Newscow — Since 1973, the Community of Mayfield has hosted two annual events that benefit the Mayfield Federated Church:  The Spring Smorgasbord and the Fall Lord’s Acre Dinner and Auction. 

The purpose of these programs is to raise money for the Church and missions, both local and global.  These types of celebrations were first introduced into Kansas in 1953 by S. Ben Finley, who at that time was pastor of the Tisdale Methodist Church of rural Winfield. Rev. Finley had no particular guidelines, but thought out the process, step by step.

When asked if this had any scriptural foundation, Rev. Finley turned to the Old Testament. References from Exodus and Leviticus gave the background for bringing the “first fruits” of harvest. It is a means of teaching stewardship whereby we share out time, our talents and our possessions with God.

“The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it; the world and all who live in it.” The second emphasis is placed on the quality of our gifts. In the Old Testament, the offering of a lamb or bullock was without spot or blemish, representing the sinless Christ who was to come. This is observed by bringing only new things, raised or produced by our own labor.

This year, Mayfield will continue the traditions above by hosting the 2017 “Spring Festival of Smorgasbord” at the Mayfield Community Center on Saturday, April 29 from 5-7 p.m.  They will serve all-you-can-eat slow pit barbecue beef, pork, turkey and lamb, homemade salads, breads and pies.  Come hungry and enjoy this one of a kind event. The cost is $12 for Adults, Kids 3-12 $6 and toddlers are free. 

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