A free Christmas lunch for people in need will be served at Calvary Pentecostal Church on Christmas Day.
The Westmount Drive North church has offered the free meal for the past 15 years. It began when a person in need visited the church a week before Christmas seeking help with putting food on the table for their family.
"I said we have got to do something for our community," said Pastor Lindsay Stevenson. "That year, we had about 50 people, and every year since we've continued serving."
This year, the church expects to serve around 200 people with turkey, cranberries, mashed potatoes, dessert, and other festive foods. Participants are welcome to dine in or take the meal with them.
"Much of the food comes from our members internally who have gone out and bought it," Stevenson explained. "There are also people and businesses who anonymously donate gift cards to grocery stores, money, and food items."
Stevenson says it's important for people in need to have a nice meal on Christmas Day.
"If you and your family had no food, I think you would be quite happy if somebody opened up their doors and invited you in with no strings attached," he said. "Come have a meal, listen to Christmas music as you are eating, and when you are finished you can get up, say thank you, and walk out the door."
The best part of the lunch for Stevenson is seeing smiles on people’s faces as they are served their meal.
"For me and all the volunteers, that's the joy in it," he said. "The joy of serving others is something you can't buy or replace."
The lunch at Calvary Pentecostal Church takes place from noon to 2 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Each year, 20 to 25 volunteers from both the church and the general public help cook and serve the meal. Some begin at 10 a.m. and stay until past 4 p.m. to clean up, even though they aren't required to.
"If you have a desire to come and help, you are more than welcome," he said. "We will have a meal for you, too."
Stevenson says the Christmas lunch embodies the spirit of Christmas.
"To me, it's really spectacular," he said. "I truly appreciate everybody who makes this happen."
All are welcome to show up at the church for lunch on Christmas Day.
