At the Table

Faith communities gather around the Lord’s Table, i.e., the altar, regularly. It shapes our time together. What would it look like to expand on that concept and come together in community?

At the Table is a new ministry for Holy Cross. We will meet monthly at an area restaurant in a semi-private space. As we gather at the table, we will have the opportunity to share with one another through conversations about life and faith. Order from the menu and enjoy good fellowship and food. Everyone will be responsible for their own charges.

On February 9 we will discuss the topic of Mysticism and Christianity:

To many modern Christians, words like "meditation," "mystic," and "mysticism" bring to mind Eastern religions, not Christianity. Certainly Eastern religions are known for their mysticism; however, mysticism is not only a vital part of the Christian heritage as well, but it is actually the core of Christian spirituality. Mysticism simply means the spirituality of the direct experience of God. It is the adventure of "the wild things of God."

Jesus was a mystic. Jesus never said, “Worship me.” Jesus said, “Follow me.” One of the moments that Jesus expanded on this notion of following is when Jesus attaches the concept of loving God to loving neighbor.

The mystic Saint Francis of Assisi often referenced the idea of “paying attention to the presence of love.” His mystic spirituality transformed his way of framing everyday life. This perspective takes both work and surrender, and the primary work is detachment from ourselves, our conditioning, our preferences, our prejudices, our knee-jerk neurological reactions.

A contemplative and trustful mind makes this more real. Deep down, each one of us is a mystic. When we tap into that energy we become alive again and we give birth. From the creativity that we release is born the prophetic vision and work that we all aspire to realize as our gift to the world. We want to serve in whatever capacity we can. Getting in touch with the mystic inside is the beginning of our deep service.

We will meet on the second Tuesday of each month. We will begin to gather at 6:30 p.m. and will officially be finished no later than 8:30 p.m. We will respect the time boundaries and respect people joining and leaving as their schedule allows.

At the Table is for everyone and anyone in any situation. This is not limited to members of Holy Cross.