By JESSA PEASE / Staff Writer

PELHAM— The homemade goods, artisan crafts and fresh produce of the Crosscreek Community Market are returning June 6 for the new summer season, according to the market’s Facebook page.

The market was created as a way to meet neighbors in the community, according to Pastor Brandon Hudson. Residents and families are all invited out on Mondays from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

“For us as a church, we think it’s important to be good neighbors,” Hudson said of the market last year.  “It’s about fostering a sense of community with both our immediate across-the-street neighbors and in all of Pelham.”

The market takes place at Crosscreek Baptist Church’s parking lot, 600 Crosscreek Trail. The market will sell items from fresh produce to handmade jewelry to pastries and desserts.

“It’s a very, very wide selection, and it kind of varies,” Hudson said. “I would say the market’s been very well-received throughout the community.”

Frios Gourmet Pops-Birmingham is usually at all the markets along with a food truck for dinner such as Lazy Boy BBQ or Saw’s Street Kitchen. Hudson said attendance varies from week to week, but there are several regulars who continue to visit.

“It’s just a chance to get some food, get some crafts and hang out,” Hudson said. “I really like it when people stay and hang out.”

His favorite part, Hudson said, is getting to know the people around Crosscreek Baptist Church.

Last year, vendors often included: Darlene’s Kitchen, Fanoula’s Baklava and More, That’s so Posh, Gemini Treats, Bare Naked Noodles, 3rd Life Baking, Earthen Realm and Coalminer’s Bottle, to name a few.

The church identifies with the slogan, “A church where everyone is welcome,” stating that the congregation has been radically diverse in its 30-year history. Children, youth and adults share worship leadership roles each week, and Crosscreek offers programming for children.

For more information about Crosscreek Baptist Church, visit Crosscreekpelham.org. For information on Crosscreek’s Community Market, visit them on Facebook at Facebook.com/crosscreekcommunitymarket.