A Tasteful Tradition

     To the casual observer Carversville, PA is just a dot on the map in Solebury township, Bucks County.  First named Aquetong by the Native Americans who lived there, the cluster of homes and businesses constructed on land granted by William Penn became known as Milton, a contraction of Mill Town due to the predominance of mills in the area.  It wasn't until sometime later that it took on its present title, borrowed from the last name of an early postmaster.  The historic Town Square includes an inn, a dentist's office and a general store that includes the post office.  And since 1838 just down the road is the Carversville Christian Church.



     Last Saturday I participated in a long standing tradition among that fellowship of believers.  It was their 143rd annual Pork Oyster Supper.  It was an amazing process to observe.  The congregation had it down to a science.  At a table upstairs I ponied up my money and was given a numbered card.  From there I went to sit briefly in the sanctuary waiting for my number to be called.  It was only a few minutes and I was ushered along with others to a long table in a large room downstairs.  Promptly those of us at our table were supplied with coleslaw, applesauce and rolls as our order was taken by a church member.  We could chose from all oysters (3 huge breaded ones), all pork (moist chopped pork loin) or a combination of the two.  In just a few minutes our orders were delivered accompanied by sides of stewed tomatoes, creamed corn and a huge helping of mashed potatoes.  We also had beverage options that included iced tea, water, coffee and milk.



     The meal was nothing short of amazing!  The oysters were lightly breaded, allowing the briny goodness of the bivalve to shine through.  The pork was fork tender, the mashed potatoes were the real deal as were the stewed tomatoes and creamed corn.  The conversation around the table was as good as the meal.  We quickly became friends in between savoring the food set before us.  It was about as good as it gets...good food, genuine conviviality and a warm and inviting hospitality all combined to create a tasteful tradition that will continue for years to come.



     But what impressed me the most was the dedication of the congregation and their cheerful service to their church.  It was an inter-generational event in which young and old were participating to build up the Body of Christ in Carversville and beyond.  From the parking lot attendants, to the ticket taker, to the take out table workers, and all the servers and kitchen help all had a smile and a friendly word.  And when it came to dessert...well, let's just say that it was delivered by the cutie pies: