On the second Wednesday of every November, you can count on the First United Methodist Church having its annual bazaar. The fund-raising event for the United Methodist Women is popular with many people in and around Demopolis, as it is a kind of gateway to the preparation of the Christmas holidays.

Held on Nov. 11 this year, beginning at 10 a.m., the bazaar helps the UMW raise money for missions, scholarships and other needs.

“This is our only money-making event,” said Cheryl Newell. “The whole day — the chicken salad luncheon, the silent auction and the sales at the bazaar — all goes into one thing.

“We’ve given to mission trips to Central America, to Indian reservation mission trips and to the prison ministry.”

“We’ve also given to the fire department so they can buy special helmets with visors that help them see through the smoke,” said Mary Price.

There are a number of different components to the bazaar. In the silent auction, people donate items for people to bid on.

With the attic treasures, people bring in things that they have at home that they may not use any more that others may find a use for.

In the bazaar itself, items for sale may include lots of Christmas decoration items, baby blankets, Alabama or Auburn paraphernalia, handmade items, casserole carriers, painted items and much more.

In the home accents area, there will be monogrammed items like pillow cases, purses and other things. There will be other crafts and handmade items available as well.

The bake room will also provide all kinds of baked goodies, candies, jellies and other items for every sweet tooth.

All of the items are not brought in by church members alone. The bazaar welcomes items brought in by anyone who wants to make a donation to the UMW.

“We would appreciate any items that anyone can make and bring,” Price said. “Anyone who wants to make a donation can contact the church at 289-1933.”

The annual UMW bazaar heralds the beginning of the Christmas season and serves as a great place to buy Christmas decorations, Christmas presents and other items.

Proceeds will benefit missions, scholarships and other UMW projects.