Rob Hoover opens every meal at the Connection Cafe with prayer. In a gruff voice, the longtime executive director calls for the room's attention, pausing his busy hands to bless the food and the people gathered for lunch at St. John's Lutheran Church. "We pray for all those who are sick and recovering from illnesses and injuries. Pray for all those who are fighting injustice," Hoover rattled off on Wednesday, Oct. 15, bowing his head. " ... We pray for all those who are missing loved ones and all those who most need our prayers." The moment of silence and announcements that often follow are part of a simple routine at the cafe, which has provided free meals to individuals in need for the last 21 years in downtown Des Moines. Tap the link in our bio for more on this story. #DesMoines #Iowa #DSMUSA #foodinsecurity