To the Editor
In 2004 the Archdiocese of Newark put forth the “New Energies” initiative which included 28 guiding principles for parishes to use to examine themselves in areas related to ministry. One of the Principals related to Responding to Human Needs which called for the development of ministries to meet the needs of the poor and marginalized. In response to this call three Bayonne Catholic parishes (St. Andrew’s, Assumption and St. Mary’s) came together to organize a weekly soup kitchen and on January 2008 they served their first meal. As of January 2016, Blessed Miriam Teresa Demvanovich is the host parish that runs the Bayonne Soup Kitchen.
The Soup Kitchen operates every Saturday from 4 – 5pm and serves about 60 -100 people each week. The mission is simple – provide a weekly nutritional meal to the less fortunate in our community whether they are homeless, unemployed, working poor, mentally and physically challenged, senior citizens or mothers with young children. We are open to serve all who are in need.
The Soup Kitchen is run by a cadre of dedicated volunteers who both prepare and serve the food in accordance with local Department of Health standards. These volunteers come to us through the participating parishes, from the local community and through local schools with students wanting to perform some form of community service. Most of the food we prepare is donated by local stores and individuals.
If you would like more information on how you can become a part of this community initiative contact Blessed Miriam Teresa church at +1 (201) 437-0833 and check out our page on Volunteer Spot http://vols.pt/cjvVWM
Peter Franco