In a time when so much of humankind sleeps so badly, the Caring Place Foundation brought something desperately needed this Christmas Day — hope.
The La Grange-based nonprofit held its 21st annual Christmas Day Dinner for the less fortunate at the First Baptist Church of La Grange, 20 N. Calendar Avenue.
Rev. Maurice McGee, co-pastor the church with his wife, Rev. Shawana McGee, wanted people in need to know that they were not forgotten.
“I would remind people that God is still in control and everything that happens is leading to his glory,” he said, “good, bad or indifferent, we’re headed that way. It’s very important that we celebrate Christmas. Because of the war they didn’t celebrate in Bethlehem, they said ‘we’re not going to do it … but that was man’s doing.”
McGee said that even those who haven’t accepted Jesus still have a chance if they haven’t accepted him yet.
“There’s always hope,” he said.
The day began with a Music Prelude and a Call to Worship, an opening prayer, and a congregational song, “Joy To the World.”
There followed an Advent Reading/Prayer, Ministry of Music with the Children’s Choir, and a Message of Hope from Rev. Craig Wells, Pastor of the Sign of the Cross.
After the church service, about 100 people were served dinner by volunteers. Diners feasted on fried chicken, beef, mashed potatoes, stuffing and spicy turkey. Desserts were plentiful.
(For a list of contributors making the dinner possible — and info on the Church’s other activities — visit its website fbclagrange.com)
McGee noted that the total served, about 100, was down somewhat from other years, possibly because Beds Plus, the social service organization whose clients normally come to the dinner had opened an office in nearby Summit, and many of them were living there.
Shawana D. McGee originally founded Caring Place to provide refuge for at-risk youth, formulating a vision to make a difference in the life of every child she met.
It’s mission statement lists as the Foundation’s goals to “enhance the quality of life for under privileged and children with special needs and their families.”
The mission strives to provide services and programs that reflect Christian principles and values, develop strong, bodies, minds and souls.
“We believe that every child can learn … and every child can succeed if given the right tools in life.”
Among the services provided after school tutorial and enrichment programs for children with neurological development disorders; the same tutorial end enrichment programs for students in grades K-6.
Caring Place also conducts its “Champions Road 2 Greatness,” providing year-round events for children, giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness, strength, and emotional and social courage.
In addition, the group serves hot meals on Sundays at First Baptist Church, and provides a scholarship fund to provide financial support for fatherless children.
One dinner volunteer, Pam Codilis, has been volunteering at Carine Place Christmas dinners since the beginning.
“They always have wonderful food, and it’s a safe place,” she said.
Rev. Doreen Sterba DeZur of Plymouth Place has been volunteering at First Baptist’s Christmas dinners for the past four years.
“This is super,” she said. “We’ve always had fun coming to help out.”
Shawana McGee spoke of the loneliness many experience during the holidays.
“We just want to be a blessing to those who are feeling hopeless, lonely, down and out for the season,” she said. “That’s why we continue to do it. It’s our 21st year.”
One dinner guest from Lyons, who didn’t wish to be named, echoed Shawana McGee’s comments about loneliness and the holidays.
“This dinner means a lot to me,” he said. “Otherwise I’m home alone.”
Hank Beckman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
