Religious institutions are one of the few remaining institutions that serve people for the duration of their lives. The church offers opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth across the lifespan. The Senior Luncheon is one such example of this commitment. In the spring and fall, when the weather is tame and travel is at a minimum, there is a once-a-month opportunity for seniors to gather for the Eucharist and a delicious meal. The first Thursday of the month (March-June & Sept-Dec), Lori Seibert and Sarah Bernhardt organize parishioners to offer a home-cooked meal, complete with centerpieces, coffee & dessert. Additionally, there is beautiful music played on the piano by George Ryder. The luncheon begins at 12:00 with a Eucharist. Seniors attend from town, including from Ballard Green and Laurel Ridge. St. Stephen’s parishioners and their friends are also encouraged to attend! Postcards are sent out monthly to remind folks about the luncheon. If you know someone who should receive a card, contact Ginny in the office. Table fellowship is a primary practice throughout the scriptures as a means of encountering the sacred. The rituals in the Old Testament about what to eat and what preparation was necessary to eat reflect the sacredness of the act of eating. Jesus welcomed all people to the table at which he sat, something the religious leaders found sacrilegious. It was at the table that Jesus taught his disciples. The Last Supper, when he broke the bread and shared it, as well as the wine, is the foundation for our weekly Eucharist. It was at the table, after his resurrection, that Jesus first revealed himself to Peter. Paul writes about table fellowship, what to do and not to do, in order that the holiness of eating together might be magnified. For this reason, opportunities for eating together are opportunities for holy fellowship. The first senior luncheon of the season will be on Thursday, September 5. If you would like to attend, or be a part of making it happen, please let Ginny, Lori, or Sarah know! What better way to spend an (almost) fall afternoon sharing a meal and engaging in fellowship with our brothers and sisters! By Lori Seibert, Marcy Kelly and Whitney Altopp *Belonging with Purpose is a weekly news update of how our purpose is being reflected through the collective and individual lives of St. Stephen’s. If you have a story or experience that you believe illustrates our Vision and Mission, please send it to Ginny Fitzpatrick, gfitzpatrick@ststephens-ridgefield.org The staff works together to create a schedule for highlighting our ministry as St. Stephen’s Church.

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