Christ Episcopal Church, a nationally important site that gave its name to the surrounding community, is calling one and all to attend its annual Homecoming.

The pretty hilltop in the curve of Mississippi 553 at Church Hill will come alive at 3 p.m. Nov. 18.

Kicking off the Homecoming is a worship service in the 1858 Gothic Revival church that includes scripture readings, a homily, Holy Communion and, did I say, lots of wonderful music?

Yes, playing the organ during the service will be Patrick Doherty of Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchez.

Congregational singing of familiar hymns will be led by DeVon L. Smith, catering supervisor at Alcorn State University, who majored in vocal performance at Alcorn.

After the church service, about 4 p.m., a different kind of music will ring out during the always delectable dinner on the grounds.

Performing during the festive party are Natchez’s popular musicians Drew David and Bubba McCabe, known as Big Drew and the Bubbadelic.

This acoustic duo plays what they call “honest tunes for all with a Southern influence from the birthplace of America’s music.” You’ll find yourself singing along and maybe even dancing on the grass.

As usual during the Homecoming party, delicious foods of all kinds will be served.

You can eat an early Thanksgiving dinner featuring ham, turkey and cornbread dressing, or you can sink your teeth into other specialties by some of Southwest Mississippi’s finest cooks.

Whether you are a member of or have family members with connections to Christ Church or Trinity Church, whether you have never been inside either church, or whether the Episcopal church simply interests you, please know that Christ Church’s Homecoming is for you.

Please be our guest. And bring a friend.

If you wish, you can add your own contribution to the potluck dinner. Whether it’s your special salad, veggie or dessert, feel free to add to the groaning board. People do love to swap recipes.
A free bus will depart Trinity Episcopal Church, 305 South Commerce St., in downtown Natchez at 2:15 p.m. sharp on Nov.18. The bus will go to Christ Church and return to Trinity Church about 5:30 p.m.

Directions to Christ Church are easy. Drive north on U.S. 61 past Washington until you reach Mississippi 553. Turn left (west) onto Mississippi 553 and go 8 miles. Christ Church will be on the left, high on a hill.

Rain or shine, join us for an unforgettable afternoon in the country. See you there!

Kenneth Ritter is rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchez and vicar of Christ Episcopal Church in Church Hill.