Volunteers host Powellhurst-Gilbert’s Trunk-or-Treat night

Find out why folks from Revolution Church provided candy – and supper, too – to families in their outer East Portland neighborhood on Hallowe’en …

As the sun sets, volunteers set up for a “Trunk-or-Treat” Hallowe’en for Powellhurst-Gilbert neighbors who live in the area of Gilbert Park Elementary School.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

From the flyers handed out near Gilbert Park Elementary School and City Park, families and kids know that on Hallowe’en, October 31, 13132 SE Ramona Street was a “must stop” on their trick-or-treating route.

That’s the location of Revolution Church, whose members were hosting a “Trunk or Treat” along the street at dusk, directly across from the school.

Along with his pooch, the man welcoming neighbors who stop by Revolution Church is Pastor Alpha Hayward.

“This is our fifth annual ‘Trunk or Treat’,” pointed out the church’s pastor, Alpha Hayward, as East Portland News came by. “One of church members suggested we do this several years ago, and it’s turned out to be so much fun, we’ve continued to do it every year!”

It’s not long before SE Ramona Street is filled with Hallowe’en merrymakers.

“It’s a great way to meet more neighbors – folks who live here, in our area — and to be able to just say hello,” Hayward commented. “And, to do something fun to show them that we’re not hiding inside our church – we want them to know we enjoy coming out and hanging out with them all.”

At first, a trickle of kids came by, to enjoy the simple carnival game, and to “win” candy and treats. Then, larger groups of Hallowe’en revelers followed.

Serving up chili dogs is volunteer Butch “just one who loves Jesus” Carson.

Perhaps because it was a cool crisp evening, many stopped by the catering table for an all-beef hot dog, smothered in freshly-made chili, cheese, and onions. A couple of neighbors, driving by, applied their brakes and got chili dogs to go!

“It’s just doing something nice for the neighborhood we love and serve,” Hayward remarked.

With the hatch up, Monica Hayward is ready for more visitors to her “Candyland”.

“No, there’s no preaching here tonight; that’s not the point,” said Hayward. “Sometimes it’s better showing what loving Jesus Christ does for people just by being kind, than by telling them.”

Learn more about Revolution Church by visiting their website: CLICK HERE.

Comments are closed.