Cherie Michals applied the facial cream, and Metochantee Turner was happy to receive it.

“Anything that makes you feel good about yourself, I go to,” Turner said, with a chuckle.

And that was what Sunday’s “God in Shoes” event at Gainesville Seventh-day Adventist Church was all about.

Volunteer workers spent the afternoon giving the royal treatment to women — haircuts, facials, manicures, and neck and shoulder massages — at no charge. In addition, women got health information and new pairs of shoes.

“We’re just trying to reach out to the women in the community — a lot of them have never had a spa day,” organizer Melba Smith said. “We’re just trying to reach out … and show them God’s love.”

The annual event is open to all women, regardless of income or background, and timed with Mother’s Day falling on the next Sunday.

“I’ve never had a spa day, but I’ve enjoyed doing this,” Smith said.

Her granddaughter, Amy Gray, was one of the hairstylists at the event.

“I didn’t always grow up having everything, so I think it’s important now that (because) we are more successful than we once were to give back,” Gray said as she cut Kathy Remsen’s hair.

Remsen, a Gainesville resident, said the event’s draw for her was simple.

“I needed a haircut,” she said.

It was her first time attending the event, which Remsen described as worthy.

“It’s a wonderful gesture for people,” she said. “People need it. It’s a hard time for everybody right now.”

Cheryl Castaneda, who lives in Oakwood and is Turner’s neighbor, said the event helps lift the self-esteem of those who attend.

“I love it,” she said. “It helps make people feel better, and there are friendly people here.”

The church’s pastor, Don Jehle, said he is happy the church can serve the community in such a way.

“It is just something nice to be able to offer,” he said.