Cove Churches Ready to Bring Thanksgiving to All

Thanksgiving is Thursday, Nov. 25, and with the pandemic continuing, many might not be spending time with their loved ones this season.

Churches are spreading unity and love to those that need it by providing free Thanksgiving meals, albeit most are takeout only.

Pastor Marlys Hershberger of New Enterprise Church of the Brethren said they have offered a meal for 10 years.

“There’s no point in cooking a full Thanksgiving meal for one person, “ she said. “That is why I’m glad we can provide another option.”

Sandy Morelli, president of St. Vincent De Paul Society at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Williamsburg said she wanted to make sure everyone had a meal, no matter their status.

“We have done this for about six years and so many are appreciative of it,” she said.

In the first year, she said they fed about 60 people. This year, she expects around 200.

“We just keep growing,” she said. “It is a blessing.”

Pastor Evelyn Madison of Trinity United Methodist Church in Roaring Spring said that they are planning on feeding up to 200 this year, as well.

“Jesus tells us to feed others and that is what we are doing,” she said.

Though she is sad that the church cannot offer in house dining, she is still happy they can serve food.

Morelli said along with takeout, the church’s volunteers do some deliveries.

“Some people are still too scared to go out, so we give to many in Williamsburg and some in Altoona,” she said.

Madison said the Thanksgiving season was a great way of showing fellowship.

“It’s a way to work with the community outside of the four walls of church,” she said.

Like Madison, Hershberger said the holiday was important in spreading joy to others.

“Thanksgiving is special time of sharing and gratitude,” she said. “This is one of the ways that we can show people that we care.”

Morelli said the volunteers were great at making the day special for all.

“Everyone who works down there is excited and happy to help,” she said. “We have our own meal together after we serve.”

Madison and Hershberger were also thankful for the volunteers.

“The congregation does a great job at uniting everyone,” Madison said. “So hopefully by next year, we can be in person again,”

Hershberger said that in house dining made it so those without family could feel less lonely.

“No one should be alone or hungry at any time, but especially not during holidays,” she said.

Meals will be available at Trinity United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.

New Enterprise Church of the Brethren will also be serving from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. with delivery options available. To place a meal or for more information, call Kelly Baker at (814) 766-2161.

To get a meal from St. Vincent de Paul Society, call Morelli at (814) 599-1196.

“It is a blessing to be able to spread love to others,” Morelli said. “We are as thankful for them as they are for us.”