Donated Meals Become a Practical Miracle

 


Jesus knew five loaves and two fish could not feed 5,000 people. Nevertheless, he stretched the disciples’ faith by asking them to provide supper from these tiny staples. Crowds gathered to hear Jesus teach and learn how to live the message he was sharing. When the crowds departed, they had been fed physically and spiritually. The gatherings of people who are cared for and each shown a different way of life. The same could be said of the crowds that gather on Tuesday evenings at Circle of Hope, as each participant comes searching for nourishment and connection.

To help forge a practical miracle today in Newton, we are making a call for supper donors. We invite cooks to prepare a meal for the Tuesday gatherings, of 60-80 persons, who gather at First United Methodist Church every week. These meals bring families into the program as they build hope into their future stories and close the gap between where they are and where they want to be.

Though it will help with rising food costs for the non-profit, donors’ generosity runs deeper than dollars and cents. “These meals are building blocks of all the relationships forged at Circle of Hope,” said Kendra Davila, Executive Director. “Everyone has good feelings around food, and sharing food together casually can take away some of the pressure of socializing with new people.” Chris Allen, Associate Director, said, “When people from different backgrounds share a meal around a common table, they get to know each other, as well as communicate, on a deeper level.”

Cathy Woodward, a longtime supporter of Circle of Hope, shares her talent in the kitchen on a regular basis. She says providing meals is God’s way of calling her to serve the community. “I love to cook, and I love to serve behind the scenes, so this is a really good fit for me.”

Meals can be made by individuals, Sunday school classes, businesses, neighbors, or more! Those who wish to prepare a meal, or provide funds toward a meal prepared by others, should contact Chris Allen at 316-284-0000 or chris@peaceconnections.org


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