ARKANSAS—The Central and Northwest Arkansas congregations participated in a silent auction and coin donation fundraiser in Cabot on February 1 in an effort to raise money for the Philadelphia Church of God building fund.

With 41 attendees and nearly twice as many people involved behind the scenes, the annual event was a significant effort for the two congregations. Brethren placed bids on a number of items and dropped spare change they had been collecting into a 5-gallon bucket. The congregations’ hoped to raise more than last year’s $3,200.

“It was exciting to see the involvement and unity of the brethren in this activity for God’s Work,” Local Elder Robert Brown said.

Members gathered after services to share a meal, then contributed their donations.

“I was really impressed with the variety of merchandise, from hot air balloon trips to a Harley-Davidson gift basket,” said Central Arkansas member Leah Carroll. “I think it’s always great to be able to spend time with God’s people, eating pizza and shopping.”

Prices rose quickly on most items, which included items that members had made, such as scarves, blankets, kitchen towels and baked goods; or had obtained from local businesses, such as gift cards and merchandise.

Central Arkansas member Janet Thacker kept the children occupied with games, snacks and prizes while other members browsed items in the silent auction and purchased drinks and popcorn. Thacker said that entertaining the children of different ages was challenging at times.

“It’s about helping them resist the temptation to touch all the shiny and pretty packages on rows of tables,” she said. She added that the children’s smiling faces and the opportunity to bond with them made her responsibility “my favorite part of the auction.”

The combined effort allowed the two congregations to raise $4,100 and make a substantial donation to the building fund.