The Edgewood Congregational Church at 1788 Broad St. in Cranston will hold a Mardi Gras service and luncheon party this Sunday, March 2, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The date is the first Sunday before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the Lenten season.

Mardis Gras is a communal celebration of prosperity and the enjoyment of earthly pleasure in moderation, where participants rejoice in their blessings.

Famous for its parades and parties in New Orleans, Mardis Gras is being celebrated at Edgewood Church with a church service at 10:00 a.m., followed by a march downstairs to Sawyer Hall for a typical Cajun meal and celebration.

Colorful beads direct from a member’s collection from visits to New Orleans, The Rhythm and Roots Festival and the Mardi Gras Ball at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet will be distributed to all participants.

The menu will include Chunky Crab Dip, Fried Baby Shrimp Po’ Boys, Red Beans and Rice, Jambalaya, Virgin Hurricanes (Wait ‘till you taste these!) and King Cake. Traditionally a tiny baby Jesus is hidden in one of the cakes.

Super chef, Rev. Jametta Alston will provide recipes for her Cajun delights.

A donation of $6 (Children under 12 free) will help defray the cost of food.

The community is invited to participate in this celebration. Masks and bright colors are encouraged to brighten the celebration.

Invite your friends and neighbors, as all are welcome. Please call Pat Kohler at the church office (461-1344) with a number of attendees.