Family, volunteer effort behind Johnson City church's monthly 'faithful feast'

St. James Church hall on Main Street in Johnson City was a hub of activity on a recent Sunday afternoon. Dozens of people gathered for a sit-down dinner where “All are welcome.”

“It’s a great meal, and I don't know what you call it, fellowship,” said a woman who shared just her first name, Carol. She’s been attending since the first meal was held back in November. “It's something to look forward to the second Sunday of the month.”

Visitors entering the large room were welcomed by smiling greeters. Behind them, tables were set up with chafing dishes awaiting food. In the middle of the room, round tables with place settings were ready for guests.

A live duo played Irish songs as some sat while others stopped at tables along the walls. Several people sorted through donated clothing. Others stopped to pick up toys and games. One area was filled with brochures on ways to seek assistance on a variety of topics.

Weaving his way throughout it all was Jan DeAngelo. He’s music director at the church and a teacher at Seton Catholic Central. DeAngelo looks toward ordination as a Roman Catholic deacon in a couple of years. With his wife Shannon, he’s coordinator of what’s called “A Faithful Feast.”

DeAngelo was inspired by a Gospel passage to name the supper.

“The king calls the feast and everybody he invites doesn't come. Then he sends out his servants to go to the highways and the byways and bring them in. That's what we're called today,” said DeAngelo.

“Last time we fed 90 — probably feed about 100 today,” he said.

“We want them to feel respected and loved and cared for and you know, give them the best meal we can,” DeAngelo said, “They're very appreciative.”

The idea at first was to get high school students and youth of the parish to serve others. But many more joined the effort. That includes parishioners and volunteers from other churches who are involved too.

Lurita Davis is in charge of clothing. She stands by boxes of neatly organized items as people come by to take what they need.

“We we had a lot of clothing given to us that we really appreciate. And people can take what they want.” Davis said.

“I have some excellent help that helped me sort the clothing and get it all ready.”

“We try to ask them what they can use and most of them just want to browse,” she added, “They can take whatever they want, doesn't cost them anything.”

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Shannon DeAngelo is amazed by the number of people who show up each time.

“I don't know what to do with all the volunteers. There's so many and that is just testament that so many people would help,” she said.

“There's so much need in our community, so much more need than people realize,” she said, “we're all called to serve each other. And my feeling is if we take care of our neighbors and then they could be healthier and then then the neighbors can take care of other neighbors and they can just kind of keep helping.”

Jan DeAngelo has involved other family members in the effort. Some work behind the scenes, preparing the food that’s served.

There’s more to the supper than a meal. It goes beyond the clothing and other giveaways. DeAngelo points to young people who make up most of the servers at the tables.

He shared the story of Carlo Acutis of Italy with the students. An expert with computers and future saint, Acutis died at the age of 15 in 2006. In his short life, Acutis often brought food, clothing and sleeping bags to the homeless.

When they finish serving the people at St. James, the students go out to serve the homeless. They bring along about 25 takeout meals, starting at the bus station in Binghamton.

DeAngelo shared a story of a visit to a “tent city” that’s no longer in use.

“The first time I took the kids with me with (their) parents, and out comes this teenager. And their mouths dropped. Their idea of a homeless person is not a kid. Looking nice, this kid from another high school.” he said. “That most rewarding moment.”

For more information

The next “A Faithful Feast Community Supper” will be on Sunday, April 14 beginning at 3 p.m. in St. James Church hall, 147 Main St., Johnson City.

Donations of food, clothing and supplies are accepted. Call 607-341-8263 for more details.

If you have a story for the Faith column which runs twice a month, send an email faithpressconnects@gmail.com

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Johnson City church hosts 'faithful feast' where all are welcome