By Robert Becker, Special To The Bulletin

ATLANTA—Patrick Kelly dedicated his working years to the service of his country in the U.S. Army. In his retirement he chose to serve the hungry and homeless of Atlanta by volunteering at the soup kitchen operated by St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in downtown Atlanta. Here he found a great need and began weekly visits to serve the homeless and hungry. That was 20 years ago.

Today the soup kitchen is Crossroads Community Ministries. In addition to serving a hot meal daily to the hungry and homeless, many other services are provided, hopefully to help these destitute people regain a place in society. Last year over 77,000 meals were served to the guests.

Patrick Kelly made many friends at his parish, Immaculate Heart of Mary in Atlanta, over the years and at Knights of Columbus Council 660. One by one, he encouraged about 20 people to join him every Friday at the soup kitchen.

Recently Crossroads Community Ministries recognized his dedication to serving those less fortunate. Stan Dawson, executive director, presented a framed letter of appreciation to him at his home where he was recovering from heart bypass surgery. He was eager to return to continue his service.

In addition to increasing in numbers, the “Friday group” from IHM has added a service to the soup kitchen. Every morning volunteers pick up unsold bakery items from a Publix store and deliver them to the soup kitchen. They have been doing this for over a year.

Those who are active have Patrick Kelly to thank for getting them involved. On Nov. 28, he died in his sleep at the age of 83.