FISHERS, Ind. — It's that time of year when people come together to celebrate and give thanks during Thanksgiving.
For some though, the holidays can be a lonely time, but they weren't at Saint Louis de Monfort Catholic Church in Fishers.
"We didn't want people to be alone on Thanksgiving Day," said Buddy LeRose.
10 years ago, Buddy and his wife, who weren't near family, decided to serve people dinner at the church on Thanksgiving — and the tradition has continued.
"We realized a number of years ago, we don't like being alone on Thanksgiving and there's probably other people that are in the same position as we are," LeRose said.
Over the years, the gathering has grown with close to 300 people coming for a sit-down Thanksgiving dinner or a meal to take home.
"People on a day like this want to know they're loved and hopefully they feel loved today," said Father Thomas Haan.
"We usually have a big family," said Rob Brennan, starting to choke back tears. "Our three boys are in the Army. It's terrible."
"It's not all about the food. It's more about the social and the talking and getting along with each other, just spending some time," said Brennan's wife Ann-Marie.
This is the couples' second year volunteering and serving food.
That's why Alice Clouse came today.
"I just think people have forgotten what it's like to celebrate people actually, what it means to be a community," said Clouse, who came to the dinner on her own, but quickly found others to share a moment of thanks.
"Anyone is welcome. It doesn't matter who you are or where you come from, the door's always open," said Mary Anderson.
That welcoming feeling brought many to this:
"It doesn't matter if they're a part of our church or not, just come on in. Let us feed you and you can be with people as opposed to being home alone," he added.