''God always seems to provide us exactly what we need'

Slicing turkey at the church on Wednesday are Marlene and John Allard as well as Amanda and Brian Littlefield (Provided photos)

ROCHESTER - "God has provided for this ministry each year,." says Susan Heimann of True Memorial Baptist Church. "It is such a blessing to see how He works behind the scenes, providing what is needed as we need it."
That ministry today means hundreds of hungry Rochester area residents will enjoy a sumptuous Thanksgiving feast at the 10 Rod Road church.
Heimann, the church's secretary, said she was amazed at this year's volunteer turnout.

Joanne Sanborn, Christine Perreault, Peggy Cameron-Boyle, Sara Gibson, Paula Carr and Betsy Hayes wrapping pies on Wednesday at True Memorial Baptist Church.

"We have so many people that have come forward to volunteer from our community to serve people on Wednesday and Thanksgiving Day with this meal," she told The Rochester Voice. "Local church families have been such a huge part of this ministry, from volunteering to baking."
Among the volunteer stalwarts is Gail Littlefield of Somersworth, who has been cooking nonstop since Tuesday morning. Littlefield and many from her family are pivotal in the success of this endeavor, Heimann said.
Also pivotal has been the grace of God, she added, noting that on Wednesday morning they were short 40 pies, but miraculously, by 3 p.m. they were short only two.
In past years they have had 30 or so volunteers helping out, but this year

Elena Lauder and Cohen Lauder were among the younger volunteers

about 60 have stepped up to the plate, more than they've ever had.
Anyone wanting to come join them for the feast is welcome to stop by the church from noon-3 p.m.
Those who do will enjoy turkey, stuffing with sausage and apples, potatoes with gravy, butternut squash, peas and pumpkin bread.
Dessert will include an assortment of pies, like apple, pumpkin, pecan, cherry, blueberry, mincemeat and chocolate cream.
The church will also be delivering some 250 complete meals to elderly and disabled folk, who were advocated for by social workers and various nonprofits.
Much of the success of the effort is thanks to Holy Rosary Credit Union, WORD radio and support from local churches.
But in the end it's all thanks to someone upstairs, Heimann says.
"For me, behind the scenes, to see how God has provided over the years, is really something," Heimann said. "God always seems to provide us exactly what we need."
True Memorial Baptist Church is located at 21 10 Rod Road in Rochester.