Celebrating with Santa the Olde-Fashioned Christmas Fair recently hosted by congregants of First Baptist Church of Nashua is Pastor ‘Maggie’ Lewis, seated left, along with organizers, standing from left, Janice Miller, event coordinator and an Amherst resident, Marie Grossimon, of Nashua, Darlene Tomasso, of Merrimack, Betty Cernuda, of Nashua, and Kirsten Vargas, also of Nashua.

Dozens of members of First Baptist Church of Nashua set out tables laden with freshly baked cookies and pies, homemade soups and hot turkey platters for patrons of its recent Olde-Fashioned Christmas Fair, an event that drew patrons from many towns to FBC, now celebrating 200 years of ministry.

“The church has held fairs since the 1950s and they’ve always been a highlight of the year for us,” said Janice Miller, event coordinator and a resident of Amherst. “There is a lot of enthusiasm around them.”

Talent in diverse endeavors at the Manchester Street church was manifest in a grand display of contributors’ painted holiday ornaments, expertly knitted caps and intricately beaded jewelry, along with home-cooked fudge, oven-fresh breads and savory baked beans. Pastor Margaret “Maggie” Lewis and a crew of volunteer elves directed visitors to a bounty of raffle prizes that included a basket showcasing $100 in lottery tickets.

Santa, whose this-worldly name is withheld by request, snuggled into a plush seat of honor and in a velvety flourish of red and white greeted dozens of tots and tweens whose faith in the Christmas spirit allowed for celestial possibilities.

“The kids were great and the look in their eyes was priceless,” Santa said. “It’s the wonder of Christmas – just captivating.”

Information on the First Baptist Church of Nashua is available online: fbcnashua.org.