Maplewood Christmas Dinner Grows from Five People to 300

A tradition that began more than 25 years ago continued Dec. 11 and 12 when Salvation Army volunteers served Scandinavian fare to hundreds of seniors during Christmas dinners held at the Lakewood Salvation Army in Maplewood.

“I’ve been with The Salvation Army since I was 13 years old – now I’m 86,” said volunteer Harry Carlson (pictured), while pouring coffee for fellow seniors during the Dec. 11 event. “I remember when this event started, only five people showed up. It’s been steady growth ever since.”

Carlson was joined by a dozen other volunteers who cooked and served Swedish meatballs, potatoes and green bean casserole to more than 300 local seniors.

“I’m truly blessed that I can help at this event,” said Kathie Johnson, a 69-year-old geriatrics specialist who took a day off of work to serve food at the event. “I’ve been (attending church) at The Salvation Army for 40 years. This is my family.”

The Dec. 11 event included Christmas carols sung by Lauren Redpath, who with her two sisters performs in the Nashville-bound group “Redpath.”

The Christmas dinner tradition began years ago on Payne Ave. in St. Paul, where the Lakewood Salvation Army used to be located. It moved to Maplewood in 1993.

View photos of the event.