TEMPLE, Texas — In a bustling kitchen at Feed My Sheep in Temple, the aroma of Thanksgiving dinner mingles with something less tangible but equally powerful—a spirit of remembrance and hope. The shelter, which has served daily meals since 2010, faces a different kind of Thanksgiving this year after losing members of its community.
"It is just a time for us to reflect and truly appreciate togetherness," said Casey Mooney, Director of Operations at Feed My Sheep. "Some experiences make you experience it even more. You don't know when someone isn't going to be here."
This message of cherishing every moment has drawn volunteers from across the community, including Layla Janicek, who chose to spend her holiday serving others.
"Holidays are hard for people in general," Janicek reflected. "Making at least someone smile during the holiday is very important."
For the Moeller family, the day serves as a teaching moment. They see volunteering as an opportunity to demonstrate essential values to their children and the teenagers they mentor.
"The purpose of Thanksgiving is shining God's light out there, teaching our kids to give back to others in need," Moeller explained.
While the Thanksgiving menu might be special, Feed My Sheep's core mission remains unchanged – creating a space where everyone belongs, whether serving or being served. The shelter welcomes volunteers seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., proving that the spirit of giving isn't limited to holidays.
Mooney emphasizes that contribution doesn't always mean providing material things.
"Sometimes it's just spending time with somebody," Mooney said. "Just be with people, love them."
These simple acts of presence and connection have become more meaningful.
Feed My Sheep continues to serve as a testament to the power of community resilience. Every shared meal becomes an opportunity to honor those who are gone while celebrating the remaining connections. As Temple residents gather around tables at home and Feed My Sheep, the true meaning of Thanksgiving is expressed in these moments of shared humanity.