Canadian Bacon Soup

1 16-oz pkg dried lentils, sorted and rinsed
2 (14 1/2 ozs. each) cans ready-to-serve low sodium chicken broth
1 6-oz pkg sliced Canadian-style bacon, coarsely chopped
2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium stalk celery, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
4 cups water
1 tsp dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Mix all ingredients in 3 1/2- to 6-quart slow cooker.

Cover and cook on Low heat setting for 8-9 hours or High
for 3-5 hours or until lentils are tender. Stir well
before serving. Serves 8.