Ministry Through the Gift of Hospitality

When Vicky, our eldest child, was on the MCEC Mennonite Youth Council of Eastern Canada in the late 1980's, she was involved in planning a one-weekend winter retreat for about 90 youth. They needed a cook. She said "Mom, you could do that." At that time I had never cooked for more than our big family gatherings.

So it began. I decided on a menu, took regular recipes, multiplied the quantities, and searched out the best prices. I picked-up what I needed in dry goods, frozen foods, and produce.

A few years later I was still cooking for the winter youth retreats. By now, the retreats were held over two weekends with 200 youth and their sponsors in attendance. I recall Andy Brubacher Kaethler, MCEC former youth minister, saying, "If the food is good, it helps make the youth retreat a memorable and good weekend." I continued to adjust menus based on what was available. The Erb-X Outlet store in New Hamburg was always generous providing: turkey, margarine, juice, frozen eggs, muffin mix, pizza dough, and large cans of tomato sauce at a reduced cost. The Wellesley Cider Mill also gave a great discount on apples and cider for church youth events.

You never know, where it will lead when you offer to help.  God has guided me through numerous doors.  For the past many years, I've also been responsible for our Fellowship Committee at Calvary Church, Ayr which includes getting meals ready for all events, and preparing food for the funeral home next door. Preparing suppers for MCEC Executive Council meetings led to preparing lunch at the MCEC Annual Spring Gathering.     

I have been truly blessed to be a part of this ministry. I have seen youth become sponsors with some even returning to the retreat as youth pastors. I am grateful for the assistance of the volunteers and parents who helped prepare and serve food and continue to be amazed and thankful for the generosity of many food suppliers. God has blessed me through this wonderful journey of meeting new friends through serving in this way.  

Thank you for this opportunity.