The American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life” is a fun-filled overnight event designed to celebrate survivorship and raise money for research and programs of the American Cancer Society.

During the event, teams of people gather at schools, fairgrounds, or parks around the country and take turns walking or running laps. Each team tries to keep at least one team member on the track at all times.

The 2008 Gardner MA “Relay For Life” event is held each year at the Mt. Wachusett Community College (MWCC) track and field area from 6 pm, Friday to 6 pm Saturday. Bethany Baptist's team is called “Heaven’s Hope.”

Wayne Crespo is the lead organizer for the Bethany team; all walkers and members who want to support our team should see him to sign up or make donations.

Paula and Fran d’Entremont perform the ribbon cutting at the opening ceremony and Paula carries the banner for the survivors at the 6 pm first lap.

Bethany members Diane and Ted Cushing and others provide the music at the 9 pm luminaria program led by Paula, which can be see on local access television. Anyone who cannot be there can tune into the local cable channel, where the event is televised for the full 24 hours.

Summerfest is traditionally how Bethany Baptist kicks off the summer season. Originally an opportunity to fellowship and enjoy the first strawberries of the season, we have recently revived another tradition, the annual Talent Show, and combined these two events.

The 2007 and 2008 Talent Show performers are showcased below.