MEALS & STORIES
All Souls began as a simple community in a living room, praying the evening hours, sharing a table, and sharing bits of our life story (who we are, what has made us who we are, where we’ve encountered deep joy and where we hope for God to make us new). Meals & Stories hopes to continue this core way of life.
Why Stories?
Stories hold immense power. They are not merely tales to entertain or pass time; they are the fabric of our being, central to what it means to be human. Each story we hold and tell carries the weight of our experiences, our joys, and our sorrows. They are windows into our souls, revealing the intricate tapestry of our lives, and the very life of the Divine Trinity.
And, the reality is we are best known—and our stories are best seen—in the company of others. The act of storytelling can be space for healing and connection. When we share our stories, we invite others into our lives, offering them a glimpse of our inner world. This vulnerability fosters intimacy and trust, creating a sense of belonging and community. We come to understand that we are not alone in our struggles and triumphs; our stories resonate with the stories of others, weaving a collective narrative of shared humanity.
Stories are sacred. They reflect the story of the Divine Trinity in our lives, and by telling our stories, and listening attentively to others telling their stories, we can bear witness to God’s grace, love, and presence.
What are Meals & Stories Groups?
Meals and Stories Groups are safe and nurturing spaces to explore and give weight to aspects of our story that have played a significant role in shaping who you are today. These groups meet twice a year in the fall and spring, and are led by trained facilitators. Groups will typically meet 8 to 12 times over the course of 4 months (frequence will depend on the size of the group) for 2 hours each meeting. Participants commit to sharing one particular story, which they will share with the group once during the course of the group.
“Listening is a form of spiritual hospitality by which you invite strangers to become friends, to get to know their inner selves more fully, and even to dare to be silent with you.”
Henri Nouwen