Barbara Checefsky loves the feeling she gets when she comes to Friends of the Poor holiday dinners.
It's cheer that comes from the decorations, the swing of the jazz band, the atmosphere, the sense of spirit and a hot meal that keep her coming back each year.
This time she brought along two of the people who live in her Olyphant apartment building, Angelo Molinaro and Melanie Misko, an opportunity for them to come together to celebrate the holiday spirit.
"The dinner, the company, the people you meet," Ms. Checefsky said. "The music sometimes picks my spirits back up, too."
Their small group gathered with about 500 others at St. Mary's Center in Scranton on Monday night to take part in the annual Friends of the Poor holiday dinner. At each place setting was a donated ornament that symbolized the "Year of Faith" in the Roman Catholic church.
Rabbi Joseph Mendelsohn lit a menorah and offered a blessing before dinner, wishing Jewish attendees happy Hanukkah and thanking the more than 100 volunteers who prepared and served the food.
Sister Ann Walsh, I.H.M., director of Friends of the Poor, said "Year of Faith" transcended religious barriers.
"That's why we share this with you. So that the faith we have can be strengthened throughout the year," she said to the crowd.
The group had to set about 50 more places than last year and prepared enough for people to have a takeout container full of chicken, potatoes, vegetables and more.
"Happy holidays to everyone and may your spirits be lifted," Sister Walsh said.
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