It’s known that 40 percent of Washington’s army that defeated the British in our War of Independence were Presbyterians.

These male members of First Presbyterian of Natchez are of the same mold, and from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at Sherry and Lee Jones’ house on 91 Providence Road, they will descend, with wonderful dishes that we will be glad to share with you.

The cost is $20 per person, all of which goes to the Mission Committee of First Presbyterian funding of our seven to eight mission programs. One can pay at the entrance.

So, so, much good food — barbecue dishes, lamb chops, smoked chicken and turkey breasts but more — George Rutherford’s evil, delicious deviled eggs and our beloved late Steve McNerney’s potato salad, faithfully re-created by Rick Edwards.

Also, Kinney Carlton’s secret recipe for fried catfish, very secret.

By necessity, we put Kinney at the end of the aisle. I plan to skip lunch. Light, somewhat, liquid refreshments will be available.

Valet parking will be provided. You will probably leave in the same vehicle you came in.

Bring children — yours, your grandchildren and neighborhood children. The donkeys, as always, are ready to show off, and we will have a mystery animal.

A “pie face” contest between the children and me was held last year and they won. I was disgraced. I’ve been practicing. Look out, kids!

The food is, as always, outstanding, but I believe the camaraderie is better. We can’t wait.

Lee Jones is a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Natchez.