By Karah Wilson

karah@southerntorch.com

SCOTTSBORO, Ala.— Thanksgiving is all about being thankful and giving back what you can. Randall’s Chapel United Methodist Church (RCUM) in Scottsboro has done just that for almost 10 years. Thanksgiving 2015 marks the church’s 10th year of providing a free, hot, fresh Thanksgiving lunch to any in the community who wish to attend. On Nov. 26, this Thanksgiving Day, from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. the church will open its doors on Crawford Road once again to serve lunch to the community of Scottsboro.

Since RCUM began the yearly tradition in 2005, attendance has risen each Thanksgiving. “The first year we had about 300 people served,” church member Wendy Wilson said. “Last year was over 1,000. I love the fellowship of the meal. I love seeing the love that is spread throughout the day and the days leading up between our church family. It’s a great blessing.”

The blessings of this meal touch more than just lives of the adults of the church. “I enjoy the fellowship during the Thanksgiving meal,”  said Savannah Morris, a local college student and member of Randall’s Chapel. “People from all walks of life gather in God’s house to eat with one another and enjoy each other’s company.” Morris said she plans to be a part of the meal as long as the church continues to have one.

Randall’s Chapel uses the donations given during this event for things such as maintenance on the church, mission trips, and donations to other churches and events. Even if you aren’t involved with the church, you can still volunteer to help. You can contact the church at 256-574-6685 or volunteer coordinator Karen Stenson at 256-244-1219. Randall’s Chapel is located on Highway 35 and Crawford Road. It’s never too late to help volunteer!