More Than a Meal

What began as a simple act of service more than 30 years ago has grown into one of St. Edward’s most cherished traditions. Held on the fourth Wednesday of every month, the Community Meal brings students, parents, alumni, and neighbors together through food, service, and fellowship. It’s more than just a plate of food—it’s a warm welcome, a familiar face, and a reminder that no one is alone.

Founded in 1994, the tradition was lovingly maintained for two decades by former faculty members Mike Reiling and Paul Bosley. Today, it lives on under the leadership of Emily McGee, Director of Outreach and Service, who coordinates an intergenerational team of volunteers—students, parents, alumni, faculty, and friends—who show up with open hearts and helping hands.

Guests gather in the Marilyn and David Palisin ’64 Commons, a space that radiates warmth and welcome.

Hours before the meal begins, the St. Edward kitchen bustles with activity as food—most of it from the Greater Cleveland Food Bank—is prepared. Some volunteers have supported the Community Meal for years, while others are just beginning to learn the ropes. The seasoned crew guides the newcomers through the food assembly line, working together to prepare for the arrival of dozens of guests.

Among them is Margie Bodle, who has volunteered at the Community Meal since 1999. She first got involved through her late husband, Tom Bodle, a beloved St. Edward math teacher and basketball coach. “The name Community Meal is very fitting,” Margie says. “To me, community means people coming together with a shared purpose. We may be strangers and don’t live under the same roof, but for one evening, we’re united—working side by side to help others.”

About an hour before dinner, the first guests begin to arrive. At the open door, a St. Edward student offers a warm greeting as they make their way into the Sean Hennessy ’75 Dining Hall.

As more guests trickle in, it’s clear many are familiar with the routine. They gather at tables to reconnect and share conversation, while others find a quiet seat to themselves, enjoying the peaceful space. Each table is set with salt and pepper, cutlery, and a small vase of flowers—a simple, thoughtful touch.

Head Chef Brian Horning ’81, who began volunteering in 2000, reflects on the power of the experience. “The Community Meal makes a real difference to those we serve,” he says. “It’s meaningful because we know it truly matters.”

Around 50 guests take their seats. A volunteer gathers everyone’s attention and invites them to join in a moment of prayer—offering words of gratitude and humility before dinner service begins.

St. Edward students take on the role of waitstaff, moving through the Rini Servery with trays in hand, coordinated by adult volunteers. They deliver steaming plates of food directly to each guest with care and a smile. The menu changes each month, but April’s meal featured a comforting spread of baked chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, fruit, and cookies. At last, guests dig in—savoring not just the hot meal, but the sense of community and kindness that fills the room.

After the meal, the spirit of service continues. Alumni wash dishes and wipe down tables. Guests are invited to visit a hospitality cart—nonperishable goods they can take with them.

Three decades after it began, the Community Meal remains a cherished tradition—not just feeding the body, but uplifting the human spirit. It’s living proof that when people come together with compassion, even a school cafeteria can become a sanctuary of hope.

Students, alumni, and friends are needed to help serve at this summer’s Community Meals. To volunteer, contact Emily McGee at emcgee@sehs.net.