REGINA — Every year, hundreds of people less fortunate gather inside the Marian Centre for a Christmas meal, hosted on Dec. 25.
The meal has been a tradition at the church for most years since its opening in 1966.
“We make it special. We try to decorate the place in a way that is special with tablecloths and flowers and music, carols, and to receive those that come in a way that we would receive our own family,” said Marian Centre director Charlie Cavanaugh.
In the few weeks leading up to Christmas, volunteers and members of the church will prepare salads, hot veggies, etc.
The food supplied is from donations from individuals and several companies.
As for the main meal, for four of the past six years, a volunteer and their family have handled preparing pork roasts, gravy, stuffing and cranberry sauce.
Cavanaugh said the family will also cover most of the food costs. He described it as a “generous offer.”
People coming receive gift bags as well.
More than just serving meals, Cavanaugh said the program supports many people who live alone and feel isolated.
“So you have people coming here just because they want to be in a warm, welcoming environment, and to share something like this on Christmas Day.”
One of those people is Frank Henry, who's been coming to the Christmas dinner for as long as he can remember.
“It's always very good. It gives you companionship [and] camaraderie.”
Meanwhile, Kelly Ford said this space has brought him and his close friends together, all of whom don’t have family nearby.
“We have a group of friends that don't have any family around, so we usually come here and then get together and hang out and play cards.”
Ford expressed his gratefulness to the volunteers and church members who spent their holidays helping him out.
“To take time out of their day with their family on a holiday is, I think, just fantastic.”
As for Henry, he spoke about his appreciation for the space and staff.
“If we didn't have a lot of volunteers, this place wouldn't be open that much.”
“It's something very beautiful,” Cavanaugh said on the impact the meal has. "It just lifts the heart, and those who come, and those who work here experience it.”
Cavanaugh is hopeful the tradition can continue for the next few decades.
