Free meals come with good food, fellowship and prayer

STRUTHERS — At the community meal offered monthly at Christ Our Savior Parish, diners get more than a good meal, fellowship and a break from routine.

They get prayer, too.

The Rev. Bernard “Bob” Bonnot, pastor, who attends all the dinners, said the idea evolved out of a parish-council meeting and the topic of community outreach. It was in response to the question, “What need can the parish address?” Council members noted people needed help sometimes at the end of the month when funds and food run low, while some would appreciate a place of fellowship.

Alvera Bell, director of spiritual growth at the parish and project coordinator, said the endeavor began its second year this month. She is a member of St. Paul the Apostle Church in New Middletown, which offers St. Paul’s Table of Plenty as part of a Springfield Township Council of Churches project.

Free meals are provided by participating churches of different denominations. Bell said she patterned the Struthers parish event after St. Paul’s. She said the dinners follow Pope Francis’ suggestion to “reach out and help.”

For the complete story, read Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com