by Logan Davis | Apr 2, 2021
First Responders Recognized by Local Church

THE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST PASTOR AND CONGREGATION OF NEW TOWN WERE HAPPY TO HONOR ALL MHA AND AREA FIRST RESPONDERS WITH A BOXED LUNCHEON
By Logan J. Davis
The importance and dedication of all area first responders have always been respected and each one of them are a critical part of any community. Their dedication and training have saved countless lives and during the pandemic, they have put their own health and safety on the line more than ever. The gratitude for their work has been recognized by tribal and community leaders and many families throughout the MHA Nation. Recently, a local church provided an appreciation meal for those brave individuals who are at the forefront of emergency services across the area and MHA Nation.
New Town United Church of Christ board member Karen Hartman revealed that there was a matching grant made available through the North Dakota Northern Plains Conference and the United Church is a member of that United Church of Christ board member available with matching funds. Recently, the church honored first responders such as the New Town Fire Department, New Town Ambulance, TAT Fire Management, MHA Fire Management, Mandaree Fire Department, MHA Nation Police Department and the New Town Police Department.
The meal and event was for all of our first responders, and that included the police dispatchers and all individuals who are a part of emergency services,” explained Hartman. “Jody Hale of TDH was the caterer who provided the ribs, brisket, cole slaw, beans, mashed potatoes and gravy and she always does a great job and is a naturally-gifted cook. We added cookies and water to the meal from the funds we had for the event. There was a lot of thanks from all the first responders and they all enjoyed the food. The grant we got was through the work of our pastor at the church.”
Hartman said there was enough food left over to have a luncheon the next day on Sunday for the congregation to all enjoy the catered food as well. Hartman said the first responders and United Church of Christ parishioners all appreciated the food.
Pastor Bill Bender was glad to joined the New Town United Church of Christ last May in the midst of the pandemic and the event for the first responders was a great way for him to finally introduce himself to the entire community.
“The New Town United Church of Christ (UCC) received a matching grant from the UCC Northern Plains Conference to show our appreciation for the local First Responders with a lunch,” said Pastor Bender. “The Church has stayed open during the majority of the Pandemic, through the practice of social distancing and mask wearing. United in Spirit and inspired by God’s grace, we welcome all. Our Service time is 10 am on Sunday’s.”