Thanksgiving meals and Black Friday deals could not hold a candle to Miss-Lou residents doing great things in our community last week.

So before we prepare for the week ahead, let’s recap some of the highlights from last week:

• At just 17 years old, Cartrell “Preacherman” Smith delivered his first sermon at his home church, Antioch Baptist Church. The Natchez High School senior wanted to become a preacher so he could touch lives and share the message of the Lord. We hope Smith found his calling and wish him the best in his future sermons.

• Evangelist Carrie Minor served up meals for the less fortunate during the seventh annual Harvest of Plenty dinner. Minor’s goal is that the people she has fed over the years will eventually go on to feed others and pass on God’s compassion. We thank Minor and all those who volunteered at the dinner for their service to the community.

• Hinds Community College student and Cathedral graduate Caleb Upton will join students in February from colleges across Mississippi being honored for their academic achievements. Upton will be welcomed by the lieutenant governor and recognized in each chamber of the Legislature. We congratulate Upton on being recognized for his hard work.

• Vidalia resident Jerry Bell only spends a few minutes at the Concordia Parish Council on Aging feeding site in Vidalia each morning, but during that time he leaves a lasting impression on the residents who eat there. Bell, who is mentally disabled, sets out the salt and pepper shakers as well as plastic utensils at each of the tables at the site. We’re glad to see the organization give Bell an opportunity to get involved and the residents welcoming him each day.

Let’s keep the good news coming as we begin another week in the Miss-Lou.