Around five years ago, the Taumarunui Seventh-day Adventist Church (Taumarunui, New Zealand) members sought to connect more deeply with their community, realising that while many locals knew each other in their small town, few attended church regularly. This inspired the creation of a monthly community lunch.
On the third Sabbath of each month, the church relocates its services to the Senior Citizens Hall in the town centre, as their church building has no kitchen or hall space. The community hall provides an ideal setting with ample space, a well-equipped kitchen and a pleasant view of a nearby park. Through the newspaper and social media, the church invites the community to join them at 1pm for a free meal.
Led by coordinators Simone Johnston and Dy Smith, along with Jenny and Frank Mariu, Heath Johnston, Morris and Vera Gunn, Pastor Phil Laws and others, the team plans a nutritious menu each month. They prepare and serve food for 30 to 40 people in a warm and welcoming environment. The effort has strengthened bonds among church members as they organise, set up, clean and welcome guests.
While some community attendees have later joined church services, the primary goal is to serve the people and through that, show Jesus.
“Serving others is a blessing to the visitors and an event they look forward to and the service provided by the church members has worked to serve the givers,” Simone Johnston said.
“It’s a big undertaking for a small church group, but God promises blessings when we serve others, and He has not disappointed yet!”
Lynelle Laws works for the North New Zealand Conference in Partners in Ministry, women’s ministry and as the prayer ministry coordinator.
