Altha Stephens, Choir Director & Pastor Kerry Allison
Allowing the youth to participate is important to understanding this ministry
Rev. Joe bringing more food
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Last Updated December 2001
Hope Community Church - Los Angeles, CA serving the community since 1923 - in the heart of South Central Thanksgiving Dinner 2001 Commentary provided by Deacon Anthony Jones - Photos courtesy of Deacon Fred Thomas, III |
In preparation for Hope Community Church's third annual Thanksgiving feeding, the call went out to those of the congregation. Many responded with either bringing a food item or donating financial resources while others set up tables, served food, or pitched in wherever necessary. At 10:50, those volunteering met in the Social Hall to ask God's blessings on this event. Rev. Kerry Allison prayed as the group joined hands. He prayed that God would move in a mighty way and that someone that receives this physical food would be willing to receive spiritual food.
As the food was being set up on the tables, there were a number of familiar faces in the crowd. There were men and women, along with families with children. People were lined up with their plates ready to receive the delicious food. Some needed two hands to carry their plates piled high with food. Rev. Allison and others went around saying hello and making sure that people were happy. In the meantime, there were those that seemed to be down on their luck this holiday season and happy they had some place to go.
However, there was one that stood out, Ray. Ray came about 10:45 and asked what time were we getting started. I responded, "Around 11:00, so make sure you bring your appetite." He started to laugh and replied, "Don't worry I carry that everywhere I go." What stood out was the conversation we had afterward. He was raised in church, but strayed away. I invited him to attend service on Sundays at 11:00, but he seemed reluctant because of the way people would look at him. I quickly reminded him the Jesus looks at the heart whereas man looks at the outward appearance. "But I don't have a fancy suit or nice clothes. You know how people are, they look at you funny." Do not worry about people just come.
In reflecting on the day and the numerous conversations, the one with Ray impacted me the most. Has the church ostracized people to the point that those on the outside do not feel welcomed by those on the inside? Has the church lost its focus? The phrase, "Come as you are," has more meaning today than ever before. I thought if Ray felt that way, how many others feel the same way? The church is to be a place where the weary can rest and where those that are need can find shelter. My prayer is that we were able to restore hope and not just give a meal.
"This years dinner was an opportunity for anyone who was in need to be served a hot meal, but more important an opportunity for people to break bread as a family"
2001 Photos start here
