LEWISTOWN — Paul Lesher can understand how parents would treasure a few hours without having their children under foot to be able to get in some holiday shopping.

Especially with those Black Friday deals looming.

On the other hand, Lesher, a member of the Pine Glen Alliance Church in Lewistown and organizer of their open gyms, would rather skip the lines and the savings to spend it with the kids.

Which is why Pine Glen Alliance Church, located at 1058 Route 104 North, is sponsoring a Black Friday Gym Day for ages 6 to 12 in the church gym from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday.

“This event will provide an alternative to children going shopping, promoting physical activity and wellness and will encourage children to participate in sports, recreational activity and preparing for the holiday festivities through sharing experiences in teamwork, decorating cookies, singing some Christmas songs and learning the true meaning of why we celebrate Christmas.” Lesher explained.

“Since children will be making a craft for their family, they will be able to participate in giving versus being on the receiving end, which is what Christmas is all about,” Lesher added.

The Black Friday Gym Day will include a variety of activities, including open gym, Christmas games, craft time, cookie decorating, Bible lesson, singing and Lunch.

This event is free. Most importantly, it gives parents a chance to shop or do parent-oriented activities without their children.

To register, call the church office at (717) 899-7740. Leave the names and ages of children and a parent’s name and phone number. A registration form will need to be filled out the day of the event.