The Bethel Presbyterian Church BBQ, a Cornelius tradition for decades, is Thursday, Sept 24. The massive operation—planning for the next year begins almost as soon as it is over—attracts literally thousands of people to the historic church grounds on Bethel Church Road.

The A-frame BBQ signage that pops up each September has been a sure sign fall is on its way for 21 years.

“It is a marvelous ministry,” says Rev. Dr. Bill Cain. People can eat on-site, or take plates home or back to work. The cost is $9 for a BBQ plate or three sandwiches with slaw. A pound of BBQ is $12. Delivery is available for 10 orders or more.

“Every penny that we profit goes outside of us,” Cain says.

Some $60,000 was raised last year for Barium Springs Home for Children/Children’s Hope Alliance.

There is also a silent auction as well as a bake sale and handmade quilt sale.

The hours Sept. 24 are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call 704-892-0546 or email bbq@bethel-pc.org to order in advance.