Coffee for A Cause
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NORTH ADAMS — It's not a real coffeehouse but it sure looks like one.
The basement of Northern Berkshire Christian Church (formerly Bethel Pentecostal) has been transformed from a concrete cave with flamboyant pink walls to a warm and welcoming cafe-style room, complete with tables and a stage for entertainment.
And tonight, the church invites the community to take a look at the newly renovated space as it offers "Coffee for a Cause," a fundraiser for missionaries running a soccer camp in Mozambique.
"It's a nice, casual atmosphere with a twofold purpose. We'll get people into the chuch and we'll help out our missionaries," said Sarah Bellofatto, who runs the church with her husband, Pastor Bob Bellofatto.
Since moving to the city in late 2006 with their son Matthew, 1, the Bellofattos have been working to not only attract new parishioners to their small church on Harding Avenue but also to spruce up their space.
With a new name and some major improvements, Sarah Bellofatto said she hopes people will take the time to see what church has to offer.
"We just want to make it friendly," she said.
Along with the building's renovations, the Bellofattos have been hosting a series of events — including family days, special services and youth outreach — at the church for almost a year.
"Coffee for a Cause" will be the latest in a host of activities that aims to make the church's message more accessible for people of all backgrounds and faiths.
"We have to make our message palatable and welcoming and friendly," said Bellofatto. "And this is probably our most exciting event yet."
Inspired by similar coffee events held in Boston, "Coffee for a Cause" will feature live music and organic coffee. Brownies and soup will be on sale.
"People should come to have a night of great music, a sip of gourmet coffee and some delicious eats," said Bellofatto.
"Coffee for a Cause" is tonight at 7. The church is located at 55 Harding Ave. Call 413-663-8998 for more information.
