Across the South, few traditions are as deeply rooted as the annual church Homecoming. While the celebration is a highlight of many congregations today, its history stretches back more than a century and reflects the close ties between churches, families and rural communities.

Historians say church Homecomings became especially common in the late 1800s and early 1900s as people left small farming communities for jobs in cities and other states. Once a year, churches would invite former members, pastors and families to “come home” to the church where they were baptized, married, raised their children or worshipped for many years. The gatherings became both a spiritual celebration and a family reunion.

For many rural churches, Homecoming also served as an opportunity to remember the congregation’s history, honor longtime members and visit family cemeteries located beside the church. Special gospel singing, guest preachers, recognition of church milestones and the traditional “dinner on the grounds” became hallmarks of the occasion. In many communities, families still look forward to homemade fried chicken, vegetables, casseroles and desserts shared around long fellowship tables after the morning worship service.

Although Homecomings can be held at any time of the year, August and September have long been popular months throughout Georgia and the Southeast. The timing often follows the summer growing season and family vacations while allowing former residents to return home before the busy fall schedule begins. Many churches continue the tradition today with annual Homecoming services, revivals and gospel singings that attract visitors from across the region.

As another Homecoming season approaches, WZQZ Radio and the Chattooga Info website invite all area churches to submit their Homecoming services, revivals, gospel singings, Vacation Bible Schools, community meals and other church events for free publicity.

For more than 18 years, Mason Funeral Home in Summerville has proudly sponsored WZQZ’s free church announcements, helping congregations throughout Chattooga County and the surrounding area share their events with the community.

Church announcements are broadcast on WZQZ Radio and published on ChattoogaInfo.com at no charge. Any church in the area is welcome to participate by sending event information to WZQZ.  You may call 706-857-WZQZ (9979) and leave a detailed message or you can email WZQZ at info@chattoogainfo.com .