An inner‑city Boston church was located on what was called Meetinghouse Hill. People who knew what went on in the church, though, called it “Eating House Hill.” The minister, Rev. Allen, always had a huge pot of stew or chili or soup cooking on the stove in the kitchen and lots of fresh bread.

Many people came by that church during the week asking for help paying their rent or utilities. They came to discuss problems with the welfare office or the Social Security Administration or local merchants. They came becaus…