Recently, for the third consecutive year, a group of volunteers and staff of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels served hot meals on Thanksgiving Day to the homeless where they live --- under the bridges and on the streets.

And, once again, "they were excited to see us, especially on this day of Thanksgiving," said Daughter of Charity Sister Patricia Geoghegan, director of Cathedral Charities. "Michael, one of the homeless who led us in a prayer, was surprised to see the hot turkey dinner with all the trimmings, instead of the usual lunches we take to them every Thursday."

Spearheaded by Gus Catipon, the group of volunteers from different parishes of the archdiocese began gathering at 7 a.m. at the Cathedral to prepare and deliver 200 hot lunches. Catipon had assigned some volunteers to do the cooking the night before.

"The group was excited and eager to be part of this wonderful ministry in helping the hungry and the homeless," he said. "Knowing how much God loves us, we are inspired to share this love and to serve others."

Volunteers and staff also provided the homeless with hygiene kits, donated by the Los Angeles Municipal Accounting & Auditing Association.

"It is important to reflect how truly blessed we are and how wonderful it is to give back as a community," said Sister Geoghegan. "It is our hope that everyone may think of ways in which to reach out in kindness to our brothers and sisters.

If you would like to be part of the Cathedral outreach program, make a donation or help on special events, please contact Sister Patricia Geoghegan at (213) 680-5225.