The sweet, hearty smell of pancakes filled the fellowship hall of Crofton's Community United Methodist Church this past Shrove Tuesday. The pancake supper was a fundraiser for the youth and adults participating in upcoming trips for the Appalachian Service Project.

In many countries, Shrove Tuesday was, and still is, a day of public revelry and carnivals before Ash Wednesday, the official start of the Lenten season. Shrove Tuesday pancake suppers began as a family celebration. Historically, for some, Lent meant abstaining from eggs and all dairy products, so all of these ingredients had to be used up before Ash Wednesday. A number of local churches acknowledged the tradition with their own suppers, celebrating faith, food, family, and friends.

"We are hoping that a lot of our members wanted to get out after all the snow," said Laurie High, one of the organizers of the CUMC dinner.

Many did take advantage of digging out and enjoying a great meal with their church family, and some celebrated by wearing their Mardi Gras beads and masks.

To view the photos below, click on the thumbnail. All photos by Laura Tayman for Suburban Scene.

Captions:

Row 1
a)  Bailey Streeter gives her covergirl smile after enjoying a breakfast favorite.
b)  What could be more delicious?
c)  Cole and Sharon Drew enjoy the good food and company.
d)  Hunter Gilbert's dad prepares some good eats, but the pacifier may win out.

Row 2
a)  Jack Schuette proves just how delicious a pancake can be!
b)  Felicia Kidney and Jennifer Snyder pose before they flip.
c)  The Staples Family shows off their masks purchased in New Orleans.
d)  Bernie Robertson and Audrey Kerge enjoy the evening together.

Row 3
a)  Jennifer Snowden serves as the critical link between the kitchen and servers.
b)  Shelby Olender, Elizabeth Trunnell, and Kristin Cassard helped manned the drinks table.
c)  Tim Stargel beats the batter.
d)  Brian Ranck and Kayleigh Fagan sell tickets at the door.