In order to raise funds to pay the bill for fixing its iconic New England steeple, St. Philip’s Church, Wiscasset, is holding an iconic New England event: a baked bean and casserole supper.

On Saturday, Feb. 18, from 5 to 6 p.m., people are invited to a good, old-fashioned church supper complete with baked beans, casseroles, salads, breads, beverage, and dessert: good, solid, down-home cooking for a good down-home cause.

When the bell of a Sunday morning a couple of years ago began to thud instead of ring, and the bell rope seemed longer than usual, examination revealed that the bell carriage had crumbled.  Not only that, the steps inside the steeple were too dangerous to use, and if that wasn’t enough, the copper sheathing meant to keep moisture out of the belfry, had loosened at the seams and was unable to do its job, allowing other issues to develop.

Thanks to a small group of concerned parishioners, a matching grant from the Maine Community Foundation was awarded to cover much of the reconstruction costs. Now the church is needing the help of the greater community to live up to its end of the grant.

To that end, please consider joining St. Phil’s on the 18th. The charge for the meal is by donation. No donation is too small or too big; come and join in the event. To make a reservation (not necessary but would help in the planning) or to obtain further information, call 882-7184. Leave a name and a return phone number for verification.

Can’t make it on that Saturday but would like to help out? Please write a check to St. Philip’s Steeple Fund and send it to: 12 Hodge St., Wiscasset, ME 04578…but we hope to see you there!