Our community lunch

On Sunday 1 June, we held a very special community lunch at our main site ,where we invited people to bring along a dish to share, and it was a truly joyful occasion. A large number of people attended, which mean there was a generous and diverse spread of delicious food. The warm, sunny weather made it a perfect day to gather, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and meaningful conversation. The kids ran around happily, adding energy and life to the event. It was a wonderful opportunity for both church members and visitors to connect, share stories, and build relationships. All in all, it was a heartwarming day of fellowship and community. Here are some reflections on the lunch from our church family:

‘I loved the warm sense of community at our lunch! It was great seeing and tasting the different dishes everyone brought. And it was such a joy to share that meal with friends, new and old, from all different ages and cultures in a beautiful, relaxed environment. It was especially lovely to have some members of the community there, who don’t usually come to church.’

—Helen

‘I had a great time at our community lunch as it gave me the opportunity to share a meal and chat with people that I would not usually get the opportunity to be able to do that with. I think doing the community lunches regularly will be valuable, as it allows us to grow in friendship with others as we get to know one another better, and it is also a great environment for bringing along my mates to enjoy some delicious food and great conversations.’

—Daniel

‘I love getting together for a meal after church. It’s a great way to get to know people, learn more about their lives and what joys and sorrows they’re experiencing on the day. It’s a great way to share in each other’s food and enjoy the delights from all cultures represented in our community. Living in community together as Christians is encouraging and uplifting. Knowing there’s a whole group of people that care for me is a wonderful privilege.’

—Carla

‘Cornerstone’s first community lunch was such an incredible day. I throughly enjoyed being in fellowship with others, building and strengthening relationship. It was especially encouraging to see new faces joining in, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. What made the lunch even more special was how many people came together to help out—bringing along an array of incredible and delicious dishes to be shared and enjoyed by all. These community lunches are so worth doing, as they create a space for genuine connection and friendship between members of Cornerstone and the wider Box Hill Community, as we seek to make Jesus known in Box Hill.’

—Romy

‘I love the spirit of togetherness that is being cultivated through our community lunches. It is particularly significant this term, we we’ve been working through the Book of Acts where we have been reminded of the apostles coming together for communal meals. How special that we get to experience what that would have felt like to eat and fellowship together in this way! I was also encouraged by the many people that attended the lunch, the many friends and neighbours from our communities, and of course, the many dishes that reflected our diverse cultural backgrounds and that were cooked with love. The lunches are the highlight of my month!’

—Dee

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