Hopatcong Church to Host Free Thanksgiving Dinner

A free Thanksgiving feast?

That's what the will host at 12:30 p.m. Thursday at the parish center.

Byram Bay Pastor Ken Adams said the church already expects about 80 guests, but that it will prepare enough food—from turkey to stuffing to drinks—for at least 125. Adams said it's the fourth year the church has funded the dinner.

"Come and experience a community and a family in giving thanks and enjoy a great meal and a great fellowship," Adams said. "Meet somebody you don't know."

Adams said the dinner is open to all—from those in need to everyone else. He said those attending don't need to help, but if they feel obligated, they can help clean up or serve food. A Hopatcong Girl Scouts troop will also help, Adams said.

"We want people to have a Thanksgiving dinner that they normally wouldn't get," he said.

Adams said those interested in joining the buffet-style dinner should call (973) 398-1715. A bus will begin picking up people needing a ride around 10 a.m.

Adams said he thanked St. Jude's Church Rev. George Gothie for allowing Byram Bay to use St. Jude's facility for free.

Adams said last year's dinner was a success.

"It's a beautiful thing to look at," he said. "You see people dressed to the nines. For whatever reason, they feel like they need to dress up. And then you've got those in need sharing the same space. I'm telling you, it's beautiful."