Holy Rosary Catholic Church is gearing up to open its doors to the public this Thursday, Nov. 25, for the annual Community Thanksgiving Feast.
Though the feast was held last year, COVID-19 pandemic restrictions prevented the church from opening up its parish center to the public, and those enjoying the meal had to do so from the comfort of their own home, with only takeout or delivery options available.
"We’re going back to normal this year, where you can sit down and eat right in the parish hall," says Holy Rosary member Matt Brenk, who along with wife Mary, has organized the event for the past decade or so.
Takeout and delivery options will also be available once again, though Brenk asks that those wishing for meals to be delivered to their homes or businesses make sure to call the church by Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 24 and indicate where, as well as how many meals to deliver.
There is no charge for the meal, though Brenk said that free will donations to help defray the costs are gratefully accepted.
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"We usually get enough (in donations) to cover the food," he said.
Volunteers are also welcome to assist, either with serving the meal in the parish hall or taking part in the pre-feast preparations, which start on Wednesday afternoon at approximately 3 p.m.
"We get the turkeys ready, and the potatoes washed and ready to boil, things like that," Brenk said of Wednesday's prep work. "Anyone who wants to help with that, or serving the meal, can call me."
Brenk's number is 218-234-7040; just call and leave a message, and he or his wife Mary will get back to you.
Serving on Thursday will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., though meal delivery gets started a little earlier. Anyone who wants to have their meals delivered should call the Holy Rosary Parish office at 218-847-1393, by end of day on Wednesday.
"I don't think there will be anyone in the office on Thursday," Brenk said.
The community feast is open to anyone, he added.
"Any residents of the Detroit Lakes area, particularly those who will be alone, or otherwise unable to participate in the celebration of Thanksgiving, are invited," he said. "You do not have to be a member of Holy Rosary to attend."
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If you go
What: Community Thanksgiving Feast
Where: Holy Rosary Catholic Church Parish Center, Detroit Lakes
When: Thursday, Nov. 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
How: There is no cost to attend, though free will donations are gratefully accepted. In-person, takeout and delivery options are available, though deliveries must be requested no later than end of day on Wednesday, for delivery within the immediate Detroit Lakes area. Call 218-847-1393 and make sure you include the number of meals that you want.
