Couples and singles alike are invited to attend the annual Sweetheart Banquet on Saturday, Feb. 12, beginning at 6 p.m. at Middletown First Church of God. In addition to a meal, attendees will be treated to the church's version of "The Newlywed Game."

This year's menu will feature roast beef, salad, mashed potatoes and gravy and vegetables followed by dessert. "You get a nice roast beef dinner, appetizers and dessert. It's all homemade," said church member Patty Kuharic, one of the event organizers. "One of the ladies from the church cooks the meal."

The sit-down dinner will be served in the church's fellowship hall, which will be decorated with a Valentine's Day theme. A photo booth will be available for selfies. Child care will be provided for children age 10 and under.

Kuharic said that the event is attended not only by couples but by groups of friends. "About 15 years ago, it started as a couples' event. Now, it's morphed into a whole bunch of people," she shared.

She pointed out that "The Newlywed Game" is the highlight of the evening. "We pick four couples that go up on the stage," she explained. "Some are newlyweds, and some have been married for years. Our pastor (Kim Shifler) moderates it. She asks questions of the men and the wives come back to answer and we reverse it. It's fun."

Kuharic noted that the event is not a fundraiser for the church. Rather, it is held as a community outreach and social event. "It's a great night of entertainment," she said.

Middletown First Church of God is located at 245 W. High St., Middletown. Sunday worship is held at 8 and 10:30 a.m. A coffee hour is offered at 8:45 a.m., and religious classes for all people of all ages take place at 9:15 a.m.

Wednesday Night Live, held in the church's fellowship hall, includes dinner at 5:45 p.m., followed by classes and small group discussions at 6:30 p.m.

The Sweetheart Banquet is open to anyone in the community, but tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets will not be sold at the door. The deadline to purchase tickets is Wednesday, Feb. 9.

Tickets are available after Sunday worship services or during Wednesday Night Live. For more information, contact the church at 717-944-9608 or mdtcog@comcast.net or visit http://www.middletowncog.org or http://www.facebook.com/middletowncog. The Facebook page also features daily Scripture readings offered by Shifler.