by Joy Hunter

Larissa Schiefer, left, who came up with the idea of "Feeding the 5,000," and her mother, Roma Palcan, stand in front of the banner that welcomes guests and proclaims that "Jesus Still Feeds the 5,000." (Photo: Joy Hunter)

Larissa Schiefer, a 12-year-old girl with a Christ-like spirit, approached Pastor Steve Adessa of Clearwater, Fla., Church with an idea for the congregation to do something special to help the homeless and hungry in the community. She named the event, Feeding the Five Thousand.

When the idea was brought before church members, there was a wonderful spirit of cooperation and unity. People brought packages of rice, salad items, pasta, sauce, beans, and bread. Others baked cakes and cookies. Participants cooked in their home kitchens as well as at the church. Men, women, and children worked tirelessly for several weeks.

Helpers wore special T-shirts advertising the event. A garage sale was scheduled along the street to help attract motorists. Larissa and several friends stood in front of a huge banner that read, “Jesus Still Feeds the 5,000.” Children held up other signs offering, “Free Food.”

From left: Cynthia Duncanson, Barbara Quinin, and Sandra Merton were some of the women who filled visitors' plates to the brim. (Photo: Joy Hunter)

Activities during the feeding included: vocal and guitar music, games, a bounce house, and a table with bags of food for guests to take home.

Donations and items sold at the garage sale brought in several hundred dollars for the Community Services Department.