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This year’s Thanksgiving meal at FOCUS Cincinnati was a remarkable success—one that left us deeply grateful and even more inspired for the work ahead. Together, we were blessed to share our abundance with more than 200 friends and neighbors from across Cincinnati. Most of those who joined us were not from within the Orthodox community, making the day an especially meaningful expression of open-hearted hospitality and Christian love made visible.
As we reflected on last year’s gathering, our team identified a number of challenges in the cooking and serving process. Thanks to the dedication and thoughtfulness of our volunteers, we implemented several improvements that made this year’s meal flow more smoothly and efficiently. We’ve already begun noting additional refinements to make next year’s event even more welcoming and organized. This commitment to continual growth is part of what makes this ministry so special.
What stood out most, however, was the overwhelming generosity of spirit shown by our volunteers. Faithful servants from multiple Cincinnati parishes came together as one unified team, offering their time, energy, and heartfelt care. Their joyful presence transformed the meal into something far greater than a shared table—it became a testament to the power of community and the love of Christ at work among us.
To every volunteer who chopped, cooked, served, cleaned, greeted guests, or simply offered a warm smile: THANK YOU. Your willingness to show up for our neighbors makes all the difference. Because of you, over 200 people experienced hospitality, dignity, and fellowship.
We look forward with hope and excitement to next year’s meal—and to all the ways God will continue to bless and expand this ministry of love.
