A new tradition of love: Holy Spirit Parish extends its mission through free community meals

By Allison Mosier

12/02/2025

When Holy Spirit Parish in DuBois served 146 Thanksgiving meals this year, no one expected the effort to become the beginning of a new parish tradition. But as the last meals were packaged and the final dishes washed, parishioners knew something important had begun — something rooted in faith, compassion and the simple power of sharing food.

For Christina McMinn, one of the volunteers helping shape this ministry, the inspiration behind it was clear. “The idea came from a simple desire to live out the Gospel by feeding our neighbors,” she said. Parishioners recognized that many in the community were experiencing financial strain, loneliness or food insecurity. A warm meal, lovingly prepared, became their way of saying: you matter, and you are not forgotten.

Thanksgiving confirmed just how deeply this ministry was needed. Christina recalls countless moments that stayed with her long after the day ended. Families expressed relief at not having to worry about a holiday meal. Some individuals shared that they had no other plans. Volunteers saw tears, smiles and quiet gratitude. “People told us the meal lifted a burden or ‘made their holiday,’” she shared. “It offered not just food, but dignity, companionship and hope.”

The initiative quickly transformed into a parish-wide mission. Parishioners donated ingredients, baked desserts and offered hours of service without hesitation. Some who couldn’t attend still dropped off supplies or gave financial support. “People volunteered without even being asked,” Christina said. “There were countless quiet acts — someone buying extra supplies, someone staying late to clean, someone comforting a visitor. That humble, joyful spirit is what makes our parish family special.”

The support of pastor Father John Malthaner added a powerful example of servant leadership. Whether stirring potatoes, washing dishes or praying with volunteers before serving began, he embodied the heart of the ministry.

What began as a Thanksgiving outreach is now growing into a consistent offering of love. The parish will host a free Christmas take-out dinner on December 23, with hopes of continuing these meals throughout the year. Christina hopes each person who comes for a meal feels something deeper than nourishment. “I hope they feel cared for, remembered and valued — that someone in their community is thinking of them.”

Launching a ministry like this didn’t come without challenges. Coordinating volunteers, estimating quantities and organizing prep work required effort and patience. But each obstacle strengthened the team’s commitment. “It showed us that service doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful,” Christina reflected. “Small acts like cooking, packing, smiling, listening, can make a real difference.”

Holy Spirit Parish hopes this ministry will continue to grow not only in numbers served, but in the relationships it nurtures. Father Malthaner shared his vision, saying, “Our hope is that this ministry will grow to extend the outreach of these dinners to serve all the communities that make up Holy Spirit Parish. These meals will foster deeper connections, more opportunities for fellowship and future outreach that extends far beyond holiday tables."

In the end, Christina says the best explanation of why Holy Spirit Parish does this comes from those who receive the meals. “Their gratitude tells the story better than we ever could. They remind us why we keep going.”