Theology of Food

Feeding body and soul

The Welcome Table is envisioned as a space where food serves as a medium for healing, learning, and rebuilding lives. It's a place where every meal tells a story of redemption, every interaction is an opportunity for mentorship, and every success is a step towards a stronger, more inclusive community. The ultimate dream is to create and share a dining and hospitality model that can be a powerful tool for social change and restoration.

~ The Welcome Table ~ Rule of Life ~

~Prepare~
cultivating the heart

Preparing ingredients (mis en place) before cooking—a time of gathering and readiness. Setting aside intentional time to prepare your heart through reflection, mindfulness, or gentle prayer. Allow space to be honest about emotions and experiences without judgment.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." -Psalm 34:18

~Rest~
allowing dough to rise

Allowing dough to rest and rise before baking. Doubling in size takes time; feeding and discarding to bake a delicious loaf isn't always a breeze. Observe moments of rest and restoration to care for your body, mind, and spirit. This can include walks, creative hobbies, or connecting with nature.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." -Matthew 11:28

~Fast~
season with simplicity

Seasoning enhances flavor but requires restraint—less can be more. Incorporate practices of letting go—detaching from harmful habits, overconsumption, or digital overload to create space for renewal.

"Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." -Matthew 4:4

~Nourish~
savoring the feast

Eating and savoring a carefully prepared meal nourishes the body and soul. Nourishment and proper seasoning don't always happen in a rush. Nourishment takes time and doesn't naturally happen by way of drive-thru windows.

Engage with teachings, inspirational readings, or podcasts encouraging growth and hope.

"Taste and see that the Lord is good." -Psalm 34:8

~Gather~
setting the table

Setting the table for guests creates space for connection and fellowship. Build intentional relationships through shared meals, support groups, and safe spaces where trust can grow over time. We must submit our positions of power to elevate our neighbors to their rightful position as such.

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” -Galatians 6:2

~Savor~
enjoying the flavors

Practice gratitude and celebrate small wins as steps toward healing and wholeness. Taste and enjoy the flavors of a meal that reflects the abundance of love and provision you have been given to enjoy all aspects of your life. Celebrate personal and communal progress of delight and gratitude.

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." -John 10:10

~Serve~
washing the dishes

After the meal, serving others by cleaning up demonstrates humility and love. Offer acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others as a response to your own healing journey. Volunteer where you feel safe, valued, and your gifts are used to bring joy.

“The greatest among you will be your servant." -Matthew 23:11

~Reflect~
sharing the journey

Create space for self-reflection and storytelling to process the past, embrace the present, and envision the future. Share your journey in ways that feel safe, whether through writing, art, conversation, or mentoring. Honor the stories of others by listening with empathy and without judgment.

"Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story-those he redeemed from the hand of the foe." -Psalm 107:2

Feeding body and soul

~ The Welcome Table ~ Rule of Life ~

~Prepare~ cultivating the heart

~Rest~ allowing dough to rise

~Fast~ season with simplicity

~Nourish~ savoring the feast

~Gather~ setting the table

~Savor~ enjoying the flavors

~Serve~ washing the dishes

~Reflect~ sharing the journey