By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Region – Many area residents who are having financial difficulties find a warm welcome, a hearty dinner, and pleasant conversation each Monday, Tuesday and Thursday as they come together for dinner at Our Father's Table. There are no forms to fill out or questions asked to be allowed to join in at the First Baptist Church basement on Mechanic Street in Marlborough.
Most guests learn of the dinner through church bulletins or word of mouth. Several from senior housing on Main Street find it enjoyable and walk to the church quite often to join the gathering.
It all began in 1986 when parishioners at St. Michael's Church in Hudson, Immaculate Conception Church in Marlborough, and St. Bernadette's Church in Northborough became increasingly aware of the many who needed a helping hand and began providing food. Eventually, they combined resources to form Our Father's Table. Other churches in their communities as well as those in Westborough and Southborough joined in.
Hosts greet people at the door and invite them to be seated where they find salad, rolls and beverages. Main courses vary from baked chicken, mac “n” cheese, pot roast or turkey. They keep cans of food on hand to be prepared for transitioning families.
A coordinator for Immaculate Conception, Madeline Dupuis, began volunteering more than 20 years ago after being approached by a friend to help. At that time guests were being served at the Immaculate Conception School hall on Washington Street before the program was moved to the First Baptist Church.
“My husband, Bob, and I really enjoy working at Our Father's Table. It is one way we can give back for the blessings we have in our lives,” she said. “The people are always appreciative and thank us as they are leaving the church.”
Vicky Killeen of St. Bernadette's Church, president of the organization, is assisted by Vice President Mary Ellen Duggan and Joan Anderson, treasurer.
“The dignity of our guests is our primary importance. We listen to their personal problems and make sure they are well fed,” she said.? “It is a visible sign of God's work – to have dedicated people and God's blessing.”
According to Killeen, the group found it necessary to suspend operations in January for two weeks due to the extreme cold weather that caused pipes to break at the church basement.
“We have been looking for another location in the Main Street area in Marlborough to run the program which would better accommodate our guests and be warmer as well, she said, adding that they serve as many as 80 residents a night, especially in the cold weather.
Thanksgiving is observed at Our Father's Table with a turkey dinner and all the trimmings along with special gift cards to buy additional holiday food for themselves and their families. At Christmas time, a traditional Christmas dinner is served which draws about 200 guests. All are given gift cards for groceries, toiletries, a hat, gloves, and other warm clothing items.
“We give them a full belly and a full bag of personal items,” said Killeen.
Donations of money and food are most welcome. Individuals or groups that would like to volunteer may contact Duggan at [email protected]. The project is completely funded through donations.? Anyone wishing to make a financial contribution may send it to Our Father's Table, P.O. Box 916, Marlborough, MA 01752.