Bethlehem United Methodist Church continues Franklin's fish fry tradition

For nearly five decades, Franklin residents and visitors have feasted on pond-raised, all-you-can-eat catfish — along with hushpuppies, sliced tomatoes, white beans and coleslaw.

All for a good cause, on the grounds of the Grassland Church.

"Sharing in this summertime fun is something we look forward to all year," event chairman  Mike Loring said on the eve of the the 47th annual Bethlehem United Methodist Church’s Fish Fry, which was scheduled to take place July 15.

"People can join us on the shaded grounds of the church, have a terrific time and help us help our community.  All the proceeds help support the church’s missions abroad and locally including Kathy’s Backpacks which provides new backpacks and supplies for area school children needing assistance which we will pack the week after the fish fry just in time for school."

How much catfish was on the menu for the 2022 edition of the fish fry? Approximately 1,800 pounds.

All proceeds benefited the church's international and local initiatives, including Kathy’s Backpacks, which supplies new backpacks and supplies for local students. Bethlehem Bluegrass Band was scheduled to preform classic, bluegrass favorites. The event was scheduled to include a bake sale — from cupcakes and sour dough bread to brownies and cookies.

“The church is known for some of the best bakers in Franklin and will have a huge variety of delicious treats,” said Jan Speer, chair of the bake sale.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Bethlehem UMC continues Franklin's fish fry tradition