“Home Cooked Fridays” is part two of a six-part series inviting you and a small gathering of people to share a meal and engage in intentional conversation during each meal. May this guide attune you to the mysteriously holy experience of sharing a meal.  

 

Introduction

Before the meal begins each person is invited to introduce themselves by sharing the name they prefer to be called, the pronouns they use, and one thing that drew them to participate in sharing this meal.

Blessing

Invite someone to offer a blessing—this, or their own blessing:

Holy One of abundance and welcome, we give thanks for your creation and the goodness that it produces. As we open our mouths to consume and converse, may our eyes, our ears, our hearts, and our minds also be open to the sacred that is among us. Amen.

(All are invited to eat at this time)

Read

• Invite someone to read “Home Cooked Fridays” by Mary Ann Corbitt
• As you read this together pay attention to the thoughts, the feelings, and personal previous experiences that arise.

Reflect

• What aspect of Corbett’s piece stood out to you most?
• What feelings arose in you?
• Did this piece remind you of previous experiences? Share as you are willing.
• Corbett states, “The needs of everyone must be served in some way if the community is to be sustainable.” What needs does this meal serve for you? 

• Within your community, how are you practicing “participation and ownership”?  

• Corbett believes the basic ingredients for the secret sauce of successful community are “satisfaction, structures, participation, and room for grace.” What do you believe are the basic ingredients? 

• Does Corbett’s story influence your understanding of communion? Specifically, what is the connection between communion and hospitality?  

Closing

• What is the “parting gift” you will be taking from this shared meal?
• Invite each person to share a one-word blessing before you depart.