HOULTON, Maine — It was a return to normalcy for the St Mary of the Visitation Catholic Church in Houlton Thursday as people turned up in droves for a free Thanksgiving Day meal.
Last year’s event had to be held via a drive-thru, with 220 take-out meals passed out. This year, enough food for 300 meals was prepared with people able to do either takeout or dine-in.
Father Kevin Martin said the Catholic Church has been hosting free Thanksgiving Day meals for the past 30 years. Having people gather in person this year has proven to be extra special, with old friendships rekindled.
“It’s much more special to have people here to eat,” Father Martin said. “But for those who prefer, we are still doing takeout meals.”
A total of 18 turkeys were cooked by Andy’s IGA, while the remaining side dishes were prepared in the church’s kitchen, Father Martin said. To feed the large crowd, 300 pounds of potatoes, 150 pounds of squash and five gallons of gravy were prepared. Each meal also included a slice of pie, green bean casserole, cranberry and a dinner roll.
For many people, the church’s offering was the only opportunity to have a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
“People are so very grateful for this offering and we are happy to do it,” Father Martin said. “This is my first Thanksgiving with the community and I am so very happy to be a part of it.”
HOULTON, Maine — November 25, 2021 — A good crowd turned out at the St. Mary of the Visitation Catholic Church in Houlton Thanksgiving day for a traditional holiday meal. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
