By Morgan Mizell

NATCHEZ — Trinity Episcopal Church wants residents to come enjoy good music, fun activities and delicious lobster, all in the name of charity.

The church is in the planning phase of its community outreach project, “Claws for a Cause.”

The event will take place on May 24, but organizers are hoping to get preparations done ahead of time.

“We are trying to make sure we order enough fresh lobster,” said the Rev. Walton Jones, rector at Trinity. “We will be selling the tickets for that in advance.”

Jones said the proceeds from Claws for a Cause, which will be a block-party style event complete with food, music and family activities, will benefit Pleasant Acre Day School and the Damascus Endowment, which offers scholarships to physically disabled individuals to attend summer camp at Camp Bratton Green.

“I have wanted to do more community outreach ministry since I arrived five years ago,” Jones said. “I think a project like this is beneficial for the community and the church. It strengthens the church and our love for one another.”

Jones is hoping the event will become an annual one.

“We are doing this to fulfill God’s call on us to minister to those outside of the walls of our church and we have invited folks from the community and throughout the diocese,” Jones said. “We will be supporting two great ministries with this fundraiser, and we will be sharing the love and hospitality of our church with others.”

The block of South Commerce between Washington and Orleans will be blocked off, and tables and chairs will fill the area. Also, the Tillman’s fenced-in yard across from the church will be set up to host children’s activities.

Trinity school has been designated as a secondary location, in the event of inclement weather.

“We are hoping to have such a crowd that we will not have room to put them,” Jones said. “Of course, we will open all buildings in case the heat is too harsh on anyone.”

Jones said lobster is not the only thing on the menu.

“We will also have other foods like chicken, hot dogs and hamburgers available,” Jones said. “Our main draw will be the lobster.”

The food plate prices are $40 for lobster; $20 for BBQ chicken; and $10 for the hamburgers and hotdog plates. Tickets can be purchased by calling the church office at 601-445-8432 or by visiting the website trinitynatchez.org/lobster.