(Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

PARKERSBURG — The McFriends-J Dollar group is preparing to resume meetings for 2026.

Started in the late 1990s, the group brings together Christian men who donate dollar bills with serial numbers beginning with the letter J, symbolizing Jesus, and provide other contributions for the host church.

They contributed $12,137 to the 10 participating churches in 2025. Their giving total is $256,867 to date. The churches use the money for youth activities, food pantries, mission work and as they deem appropriate.

The group enjoys fellowship, a breakfast provided by the church and a brief message from the pastor.

After a winter break in January and February, this year’s slate starts with a meeting at Emmanuel Baptist Church on March 18.

The group will meet at 9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at the following churches in 2026:

* March 18 — Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1710 23rd St., Parkersburg.

* April 15 — Vienna Baptist Church, 34th Street and Grand Central Avenue, Vienna.

* May 20 — Grand Central Church of Christ, 5805 Grand Central Ave., Vienna.

* June 17 — Lynn Street Church of Christ, 1714 Lynn St., Parkersburg.

* July 15 — Fellowship Baptist Church, 3300 Rosemar Road, Vienna.

* Aug. 19 — Stout Memorial United Methodist Church, 34th and Broad streets, Parkersburg.

* Sept. 16 — New Hope Baptist Church, 1777 Rosemar Road, Parkersburg.

* Oct. 21 — Wayside United Methodist Church, 3001 Grand Central Ave., Vienna.

* Nov. 18 — First Presbyterian Church, 1341 Juliana St., Parkersburg.

* Dec. 16 — St. Michael Catholic Church, 55th Street and Grand Central Ave., Vienna.