Every December for nearly 50 years, members of Livingston’s United Methodist Church spend a day recreating a Japanese New Year's tradition of pounding sweet rice — mochi tsuki.

“They steam the rice, then pound it with big mallets until it becomes like a powder,” said Carrie Lemos, secretary at United Methodist Church. “Then they use that that to make a dough and the dough is rolled into little patty-like balls, about the size of a person’s palm. Then they’re lightly powered with corn starch, and then set aside to cool.”

In Japan, mochi is laid upon a shrine where it’s supposed to bring good luck for the coming year.

However, UMC sells the treat as part of its annual fundraiser.

The popular delicacy goes fast so pre-orders are encouraged. And even if pounded sweet rice doesn’t sound like your thing, the church encourages everybody to come out and watch the process.

“It’s very interesting to watch,” said Lemos. “And last year, they even let a couple of spectators try it.”

The pounding event will be held Dec. 30 beginning at the church, — 11695 W. Olive Ave., Livingston — at about 11 a.m. You can preorder mochi tsuki for $6.50 per pound (about six pieces) by calling the church at 209-394-2264 or through the website (lcaumc.org) or by email (livingstonumc@hotmail.com). Visit the Church’s Facebook page for more information.

Ahn mochi, which has sweet bean paste inside the rice cake, can be purchased for $2.25 per piece.

“As long as it’s not raining, the ceremony will be outside in the parking lot,” said Lemos. “It rained last year, so we had to move it inside. Either way, the public is welcome to attend.”