Breaking Bread, Building Bonds: Parish Breakfasts at St. John in the Wilderness

For over 20 years, the Chefs of St. John in the Wilderness have prepared breakfast for the parish family, usually on the first Sunday of each month. The original intent was to bring together the parishioners from the two services. It was as if each service was its own separate congregation, and the breakfast was the first attempt to bring us together as one parish family. With the growth of the church and the multitude of fellowship opportunities available, that is thankfully no longer the case; we are truly one congregation. 

That said, the monthly breakfast is still an important part of our parish life! Eating together, whether as a family, with friends, or in a communal setting, offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond simply sharing a meal. This practice has been ingrained in human culture for centuries and provides significant advantages for our physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, including: 

• Strengthened Relationships and Bonds: Shared meals provide opportunities for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and laughter, fostering stronger emotional ties and a sense of belonging.

• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Eating together with loved ones or friends can reduce stress levels and provide a buffer against loneliness and depression.

• Fostering a Sense of Community in a Supportive Environment: Shared meals offer a supportive environment where family members and friends can share their thoughts and feelings.

• Promoting Cultural Exchange and Understanding: Sharing meals with people from different backgrounds can broaden horizons and foster appreciation for diversity. 

  
  
  

  

Despite the numerous benefits, busy schedules can make it challenging to prioritize eating together. However, even one shared meal per month can make a significant difference. Eating together is more than just a meal; it's a valuable investment in our physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Making time for shared meals can create stronger families, foster happier individuals, contribute to a healthier and more fulfilling life, and help those who may be lonely or alone feel connected. 

The Chefs regularly serve up bacon, sausage, eggs, grits, gravy, fruit salad, potatoes, biscuits, and beverages. Each month they also prepare a special offering, such as pancakes, French toast, or waffles. The Chefs serve breakfast from 9:30 to 10:30am in the Parish Hall, usually on the first Sunday of the month. The cost is $6 per person or $12 per family. No RSVP is necessary.

Please continue to support the Parish Breakfast. It is so much more than food!

2025 Parish Breakfast Dates

July 13	October 5
August 3	November 2
September 7 (Youth Breakfast)	December 7 (Annual Meeting)