I’ve been thinking a lot about dining tables recently. I have part of my great grandmother’s dining room set including the table and while there is so much sentimental value for me attached to the table it just isn’t the most functional. So, I’ve been on the hunt for something that would work better for our family. This past week, with the help of some church friends, we moved a new-to-us table into our garage for me to refinish before it takes its place in our dining room. I am simultaneously excited about the new table and sad to think about not having my Bubba’s table in my house anymore. It is part of the larger set purchased in the 1950s; a furniture set my Bubba was so proud of! Growing up in rural Mississippi, having the money to buy a fancy matching dining set was a big deal. Bubba was so happy to have a nice table where her family and friends could gather to share meals and fellowship. For so many that table evokes memories of shared meals with family visiting from out of state, conversations lasting into the late night filled with tears and laughter, card games that went on for hours, cups of homemade ice cream after July 4th fireworks, and so much more. That table has been the setting for so many shared experiences.
I have the same hopes for our new dining table as my Bubba had for hers so many years ago. While my great grandmother’s table may no longer be the setting, its spirit and all its good memories will still inhabit our space. I can’t wait to experience family and friends gathered around our new(ish) table, sharing meals and conversations. My goal is to have it ready for our Summer Supper Club to enjoy! There’s just something so special about gathering around a table with people, sharing a meal and connecting.
This is your invitation to gather around a table with other church members and be a part of a Summer Supper Club! These small, intergenerational groups will gather periodically for meals and fellowship throughout June, July and August. These groups are a great way, whether you are new to First on Fifth or have been here for years, to build relationships. The groups will be randomly assigned. Each group will have a convener who will help each group formulate a plan. Each group will decide when, where and how their gatherings will take place. Our supper club last summer was so meaningful for us. Joey and I are already looking forward to our group this year! Don’t miss your chance to connect with others around a table. Sign up here before May 26!