Saint James Catholic Church and Helping Hand of Hope partnered again this year to serve Thanksgiving Dinner for those individuals in our community who struggle financially, as well as those who are unable to prepare a Thanksgiving meal for themselves. The dinner took place on Thanksgiving Day at Saint James Catholic School.
This was the thirtieth year for Saint James to provide this meal and many churches and individuals throughout the county have partnered throughout the years in order to serve more and more people. Faith communities included in this effort are First Christian, First Presbyterian, Christ Episcopal, Memorial United Methodist, House of Prayer Lutheran, Immanuel Baptist and Northside Baptist Church.
More than 400 volunteers prepared, served and delivered nearly 1,000 meals on Thanksgiving Day. Those taking part in the offering have an option to dine at Saint James Catholic School; however, most of the meals are delivered to homes.
“It is an honor to be a part of a parish who works diligently to serve those in our community who need assistance,” said Father Martin Linebach, Pastor of Saint James Catholic Church. “The worldwide Catholic Church may close the Holy Year of Mercy on November 20, but the good people of Saint James will continue this 30 year tradition which emulates a core conviction of the Catholic faith by exhibiting God’s mercy through a corporal work of mercy.”
The Thanksgiving Dinner started in 1986 with just a few Saint James parishioners who served 48 individuals. Last year, there were more than 100 volunteers on Thanksgiving Day who served 50 meals on site and delivered more than 1,000 meals to homes. In celebrating this thirty year tradition, it is estimated that more than 15,000 meals have been served to assist those in our community.
Below is a sampling of photos from the event.
Thanks to Photographic Images by Laura for providing the photos.
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