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Each year, near Thanksgiving
and Christmas, the St. Anthony and St. Gabriel Societies
host a full-course dinner for the
homeless. And many attend. At times 400 come even on the
coldest of days, especially on the coldest of days. They
are uniformly patient, clad in several cast-off coats and
ruined shoes, and uncommonly silent.
The Homeless
Some were pensive, some were doubting, watchful.
But all were shivering and hungry and almost always alone.
And they were gentle, very gentle people.
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs
is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land.
Homeless though they were, Roosevelt and Raymond
both sing in a gospel choir at a city church. They sang
for us. Deep, moving spirituals.They ate and then vanished
into the wintry twilight.
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the
children of God.
Ann looked after the desserts, pumpkin pie, while
Sam made up yet another batch of mashed potatoes. They're
good at what they do.
Each had a job, none complained. They were there for the
poor in spirit.

There was time for laughter. A reason for joy.
Time to greet and lend a hand. Joe
offers a soda and Bob helps a weary soul, not so sure on
his feet,
to find his footing
There was no need for our guests to rush away
from us...back out into the cold.

Photo courtesy of Harry Connolly
The Saint Anthony Society provided a Christmas
Dinner for the needy persons in our area on
Thursday, Dec. 16th.
The day saw the first significant snowfall of the season
and due to inclement weather, it was decided to close one
hour early so that our volunteers and our guests could
arrive home safely. We still served appoximately250 hungry
persons. The Society would like to thank the volunteers
who participated in the dinner. In addition, we would like
to thank all who donated cash, sweet goods and toys for
children. The left over food items were donated to Saint
Leos outreach program, Saint Leos Seniors and
to the Beans and Bread Outreach on Bank Street.
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