Members of New Life Church in Teulon are inviting the community to gather for their monthly Bowls of Blessing event, a new initiative offering free meals and fellowship.
Held on the third Thursday of every month from 5 to 7 p.m., the event is co-organized by Sharon Dyrda and Crystal Sarb, along with several volunteers. Everyone — adults, children and seniors — is welcome to enjoy a hearty bowl of homemade soup and a fresh bun at no cost.
Bowls of Blessing is the first event of its kind in Teulon. Dyrda and Sarb say the idea was born during a time of fasting and prayer last year, when they felt called to serve their community in a tangible way.
“We could feel it in our hearts that this was something our community needed,” said Dyrda. “It was God telling us to do this.”
Both organizers say the program is especially meaningful as grocery costs continue to rise and many families struggle to make ends meet.
“Providing even one meal a month, when money is getting tighter and tighter, can make a big difference for a family,” Sarb said.
When the idea was presented to the congregation, the response was overwhelming.
“It was amazing how our church members rallied behind us,” said Sarb. “People flooded us with vegetables. We had so much that we even have leftovers in the freezer — it was spectacular.”
While attendance at the first Bowls of Blessing was lower than expected, the organizers said the beef and barley soup was well received and they are optimistic the event will grow in the coming months.
The next Bowls of Blessing will take place Feb. 19. Volunteers are available to provide transportation to and from New Life Church with advance notice. To arrange a ride, email nlct.livinghopemissions@gmail.com.
Pre-registration is preferred, but drop-ins are welcome. For more information, contact Sharon Dyrda at 205-513-1115, Crystal Sarb at 204-224-0713 or email the church.
