Middle School Students Shine Brightly At Thanksgiving Soup Kitchen
As Thanksgiving approaches, the spirit of gratitude and giving comes alive in many hearts. At Cape Charles Christian School, our small school with a big heart, this season provides a special opportunity for middle school students to live out their faith through acts of service. This year, their visit to the local soup kitchen was more than just a service project—it was a chance to grow in compassion, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of what it means to serve others.
Before stepping into the soup kitchen, students in all grades spent time learning about the importance of helping those in need. Our Bible teacher, Ms. Jenn, led discussions about Jesus’ teachings on serving others, focusing on verses like Matthew 25:35-40: “For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat...” This reflection helped frame the experience as a way to live out their faith and share God's love through action. Younger grades spent time during chapel creating placemats and other decorations for the meal. These items were brought along to share with guests at the kitchen, adding a personal touch to our giving.
On the day of their visit, the students donned gloves, rolled up their sleeves, and got to work. Tasks ranged from slicing pies to preparing plates, serving meals, and loading vehicles with to-go plates. For many of our middle schoolers, this was their first time volunteering in this way. “I didn’t realize how much effort goes into making these meals,” shared one sixth-grader. “It made me appreciate what I have even more and feel thankful that I could help someone else.”
As the students returned to school, they shared reflections on what the experience had taught them. Many spoke of newfound gratitude for their own blessings and a desire to continue helping others in their community. “It’s not just about food,” one student observed. “It’s about showing people they are loved and cared for. That’s what Jesus would do.”
The visit to the soup kitchen was a powerful reminder of the impact young people can have when they come together to serve. It also demonstrated the school’s commitment to fostering not only academic growth, but also the spiritual development of its students.
This Thanksgiving, Cape Charles Christian School celebrates the ways its students embody the values of faith, service, and gratitude. Their actions inspire all of us to look for ways to serve our neighbors and spread the love of Christ in our own lives.