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   On the second Wednesday of each month, Salem Lutheran Church in Longville, Minn., hosts a Community Meal, welcoming everyone with freewill donations accepted. In November 2016, the church offered its first Veterans Dinner, serving a special meal to 120 attendees. Pork tenderloin was featured in both 2016 and 2017. In 2018, the menu shifted to prime rib, and the Community Choir performed a medley of official service songs in honor of local veterans.

   When COVID-19 arrived, the tradition continued through a drive-through format, offering baked bread and chili at the church’s front entrance. Since then, Salem has remained committed to serving the Veterans Dinner each November.

   This year’s event, held Nov. 12, saw its largest turnout yet, with 211 seated guests and 19 takeout meals. Attendance has grown steadily, even as the community has said goodbye to its last World War II veterans. New faces from all military branches now join in this meaningful gathering. The event remains a cherished opportunity for the community to express gratitude to those who served. This year also introduced a new favorite: homemade dinner rolls crafted from scratch by the Salem Bread Ministry.

   Special recognition is extended to all who contributed—those who prepared the food, served the meal, and stayed to clean up. Numerous volunteers from the church, community, and youth groups helped ensure the evening ran smoothly.

   While Community Meals throughout the year bring in some support, they aren’t enough to fully fund this special event. Salem Lutheran Church extends heartfelt gratitude to Crow Wing Power, the Longville Community Foundation, Women of Today, the Longville Lions, and Thrivent for their generous contributions.

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