WE GATHER TOGETHER - GATHERING PLACE MEMORIES submitted by Alice Damp

“In 1992 when North Country Ministry was just beginning, Sr. Fran Husselbeck and Sr. Mary Flynn responded to an expressed need in Warrensburg for a place to gather for those who felt isolated and in need of hospitality.  Through the generosity of Fr. Nellis Tremblay, pastor of St. Cecilia Church in Warrensburg at that time, the parish center was offered for a “Gathering Place”.  A free, noontime meal was provided for the community twice a week; “Costs Only a Smile” the sign outside reads.  These were tasty, healthy meals put together by volunteers and the founding Sisters.  It took awhile for people to venture inside, but once they experienced the food, friendship and warm atmosphere, they gradually became regular visitors.  Some parishioners came to socialize with the guests, sometimes bringing dessert or a salad.  More than once, when it appeared that there were more people than food, Sr. Fran and/or a volunteer would check the cupboards and the refrigerator to see what could be put together to fill the gap!  The late Elaine Webber (over 15 years service) and now retired Ula Morehouse (9 years) were wonderfully creative at producing just what was needed.  Some decorative oil cloth graced the tables, and seasonal decorations were put up for a festive atmosphere, thanks to Joan Ide, recently retired after 15 years service.  Linda Apple, a valued volunteer for 15 years, began her service in the Gathering Place, and now serves in the NCM Clothing Shop.

There was laughter and smiling faces, and friendly contacts were made.  Rides back home were offered on rainy or snowy days to those who didn’t have transportation.  One talented lady offered to play the old piano and did so by ear – no music!  It was a great way to provide a hope-filled atmosphere.  There were young mothers with babies and young children who found the Gathering Place a respite.  Several retired people and widows found companionship.  A staff member of a group home brought her “crew” now and then so they could experience lunch outside of their residence and meet new people.  Not everyone came all the time, but usually, only a blizzard would keep them home!   It was a labor of love for the volunteers and staff as they created an atmosphere of acceptance for all who came through the door.  Those with fragmented lives were given hope as well as a good meal.”
                                                               
During those early days the foundation was laid for the program that continues today.  In recent years meals were under the leadership of “chief cooks”,  Caroline Sgorrano and Br. Jim Posluszny, staff, and Sue Forrest.  This year the Gathering Place has been blessed by the cooking expertise of Joe Porco (an employee of the Pathstone Program) who has brought a new dimension to lunches with his previous experience and emphasis on healthy, cost effective meals.  Guests at lunch will soon be missing Irene Harrison’s friendly smile and loving attention.  Irene will be stepping down after serving in the Gathering Place ministry twice a week for 10 years.  We welcome new volunteers, Margie Booth, Sharon LaGoy and Ken Hatch to carry on the tradition of nourishment for body and soul on Tuesdays and Fridays .  They will join Shirley Cleveland who has been the “salad lady” along with her hospitality and clean up duties for 11 years!  North Country Ministry is indebted to the extraordinary volunteers at the Gathering Place – both past and present- who truly represent the spirit of the Ministry to all who enter.