Each Wednesday, the parish center of St. Francis Xavier prepares to welcome guests to the table. Parishioners from all four Catholic Churches in Parkersburg volunteer each week to provide a meal for any person who stops in.
Tables are set, soup is simmering, sandwiches assembled and desserts arrive from the kitchens of many homes. Students from area schools arrive to perform community service yet it is more than a requirement or the chance to be away from school. They take this “job” seriously and know that they are making a difference. Guests arrive early and sit with a cup of coffee and may even eat dessert first!. Lunch is served between 11 and 12:30. Late comers are never turned away and the flow of diners is steady. The largest number of diners has been 122.
Without question as to who they are or why they are there, each person is greeted with a warm welcome and served with care. Often a volunteer will sit at a table and eat with their guests.
Each week a team of two people coordinate the meal and volunteers. These folks often serve as the cooks as well. All food and supplies are provided by donations and generous consistent supporters.
Stone Soup Kitchen answers the call to “Feed My sheep.”
