Written by Niketa Woodley

Thanksgiving Day was a blessing for many Detroiters as they filled the Cathedral Worship Center for a scrumptious dinner. Several families patiently stood in line as volunteers added several delectable servings to their plates.

With the help of Bishop PA Brook’s Ten Ten Ten Plan, the support and partnership of more than a few large corporations, several dedicated volunteers, and faithful members of New St. Paul Tabernacle COGIC, there was more than enough food and supplies to feed more than a thousand people.

Bishop Brook’s Ten Ten Ten Plan kicked off during the World Missions Walk when he called for groups of ten to raise funds to help carry out the Mission Walk; the Plan sparked such a huge response, raising more than four thousand dollars, Bishop was compelled to do it again by feeding 1000 underprivileged, unemployed and homeless persons on Thanksgiving Day.

As a result, not only were families treated to a delicious sit-down meal, but many of them were encouraged to take plates to go because some of their family members were home bound.  Several guests soaked up the kind hospitality shown to them saying, “This is the way to win souls.” As the evening came to a close, some of the guests did not want to leave, so instead they sat around sharing laughs and talking about the love that embraced them at the Cathedral Worship Center.

In the spirit of spreading Thanksgiving, some of the men of New St. Paul Tabernacle COGIC walked the streets, sharing the love of God and warm meals under the bridges near the viaducts of Detroit and fed the homeless people who dwelled there. Meals were also delivered to senior citizens, sent to several homeless shelters, and several volunteer workers. Some families even received whole cooked turkeys.

Bishop PA Brook’s vision to feed a thousand underprivileged, unemployed, and homeless people was more than a success. The outreach effort was publicized on Inside Detroit Radio AM 1200.  Channel 7 news (WXYZ) was contacted and came out to cover the event, and the Detroit Free Press published an article that was instrumental in leading families to the Cathedral for Thanksgiving dinner.   “This Thanksgiving was the best Thanksgiving of my life,” said Bishop Brooks.  “I hope to do this again next year.”

Detroit Free Press article:

http://www.freep.com/article/20091126/NEWS05/911260377/Metro-Detroiters-are-pitching-in-to-assist-those-who-have-less