Nearly 400 hundred people — from single mothers to senior citizens — gathered inside the Heritage Worship Centre last night for a "scrumptious" Thanksgiving Feast.

Residents, business people and stakeholders in the Pembroke area lined up get a free plate of turkey, ham, farine and cassava pie, candied yams, green beans and carrots.

But beyond the great food was a spirit of friendship and fellowship, according to Reverend David Lambe, Pastor of New Testament Church of God.

Speaking to

The Royal Gazette Rev Lambe said: "It was in our heart to get all the neighbours together because we understand all the things that have happened out there. We have crime that seems to be on the rise and we do not want to dwell on that we just wanted the sprit of love and to show the community how much we appreciate them."

Church members knocked on dozens of doors beforehand to personally invite a cross section of people in the community.

Rev Lambe admitted he was impressed with the turn out, including people of all ages, colours and creeds.

He said: "The church used to be seen as standoffish, but we are coming out of the walls and bringing the community in to see we are just like them."

In addition to the meal, church members talked with individuals to find out if they needed extra assistance, like food vouchers, housing or childcare.

The church plans to follow up with them and provide assistance from helping agencies wherever possible.

A 34-year-old single mother who came to enjoy the meal with her three children said: "I think it is a good idea.

"It helps out the community especially those that are less fortunate and single moms like me with a lot of kids. It's very good. They try to do these annually which is great we look forward to it."

Attendee Joan Milner said it was a "great gesture from the church to have the Community Thanksgiving dinner and to open it up to all sectors of the community to come and give thanks. There is a lot to be thankful for in Bermuda."

She added: "It was a good turn out it shows the church together and they seem to have a great time working and serving the people and being friendly. And the meal of course is scrumptious."

Another woman said: "It's a great idea for the community. People from all walks of life have come out and we do see some here from (shelters) and decent homes and a nice mix of people."

Sponsors for the event included Bermuda Import and Export, the Bermuda Government, Crow Lane Bakery, BGA, Butterfield and Vallis, Market Place, Lindo's, Whites and Sons and The Cake Shop.