St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Picayune held its annual community appreciation lunch Wednesday to recognize city employees for the work they do to better the community.

During the event representatives from the police department, fire department and every other city department gathered at the church to enjoy a bowl of gumbo, bread, salad and dessert at the annual event which is typically scheduled for the same time as Catholic School Week.

Mark Glorioso, President of the School Advisory Council for St. Charles Catholic School, said holding the lunch gives the church an opportunity to show its appreciation to the city’s employees.

Glorioso said having the city officials attend the event helps the school and church spread the word about their role in the community and the services they provide.

“We have parents in the community that are interested in giving faith based education to their children and these workers help bring (those parents) to us,” Glorioso said.

During the lunch, students of the school placed stickers on the hands of each city employee in a demonstration of appreciation for their service.

Eric Morris, Public Works Director for the city of Picayune, said it gives him a kick to see the children so spirited about their job of serving food to everyone and also provides an opportunity to get together in a relaxed atmosphere and sit down to eat with people he hasn’t eaten with in the past.

Alicia Smith, Parent Volunteer Coordinator for the school and organizer for the lunch said it was an honor and a privilege to give back to the community.