International Craft Fair kicks off at Marquette church

MARQUETTE — It’s the gift-giving time of year, and a church in Marquette is selling some unique items to put under the tree that will also benefit communities worldwide.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church has been holding the International Craft Fair for over two decades as part of its outreach mission. Crafts found at the fair are produced by artisans from across the globe.

“We have pottery; our scarves are always a big hit,” International Craft Fair co-chair Karan Hendricks said. “We have jewelry, as you can see, fans, children’s toys, and all of them are made in other countries by folks that are trying to provide a living for themselves or to provide services in their communities.”

In addition to the craft fair, the St. Paul’s Men’s Kitchen will be offering soup and fresh baked bread to help raise funds for the Harbor House. Organizers encourage residents to make the stop at St. Paul’s while enjoying a weekend full of events.

“I know there are a lot of things going on this weekend in town, and you want to do all of them,” Hendricks added. “Do all of them. If it gets you out the door to do one, be sure and try to do some of the others. It is our big weekend of the year, and it’s just a fun weekend to be around town.”

The fair is already underway, and runs until 9:00 p.m. Friday night. It starts up again Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. and will include a bake sale to benefit Haiti and a White Elephant Sale, the proceeds of which will go to the Camp New Day organization.