At The Lutheran Church of Our Blessed Savior in Alexandria, Indiana, members of all ages marked the 27th annual Souper Bowl of Caring with a worship service, luncheon, and fundraiser to benefit Pete's Pantry.
The annual event combines youth participation, congregational fellowship, and community outreach, with all donations supporting the local food pantry housed at the church. This year’s effort resulted in numerous nonperishable food donations and $619 in monetary contributions.
The Souper Bowl of Caring is an annual, national event that churches in our Synod participate in. Thousands of non-profits, churches and other organizations come together that weekend to help curb hunger in their own communities.
Last year, more than $21 million was raised and donated to charities across the United States, with IN-KY Synod churches playing a role in that total.
During the worship service, children presented a skit highlighting the purpose of the Souper Bowl of Caring initiative and the importance of helping neighbors in need. The presentation was followed by a Pitch In Soup, Salad, and Sandwich luncheon featuring dishes prepared by congregation members.
Pete’s Pantry has operated at the church for more than 50 years, serving food insecure residents in Alexandria and the surrounding area. The pantry distributes food in an organized and welcoming setting and relies on financial gifts, food donations, and volunteers to meet ongoing needs.
In addition to support from the host congregation, several Alexandria area churches regularly contribute donations and volunteer assistance to the pantry’s operations.
Organizers describe the Souper Bowl of Caring as a long-standing tradition that continues to connect worship, service, and local outreach in a practical way for the community.
