+Feast of St. Joseph+

In everything, love simplicity. [St. Francis de Sales]

St. Joseph lived a very simple life and no spoken quotes are attributed to him in the New Testament. However, he is hailed as patron of the universal church. Joseph's work as a carpenter was also a simple position, but it implies steadiness, dependability and fortitude. Think of all the gathering and conversation that happens around a table. What if that table were built with one's own hands? Simple construction, but lasting impact.

I recently spoke with a friend about his carpentry and what inspired him to build a table for his home. He responded that he and his wife had committed to sharing moments with their friends and family around that table, that he himself had built. He said it meant so much more because it was crafted by him. He also reminded me of the quote, "When you have more than you need, build a bigger table, not a higher fence," stating that he and his wife intended to open their home to many people since they did not have any children. They still needed a large table in anticipation of all the people that they would host and welcome. What a beautiful notion!

Here at Temple and Table, we have a very special offering called Table for 12. It is a chance to foster community, have meaningful conversation and enjoy a healthful meal with both strangers and friends. This event can be translated for parishes, youth groups, bible studies or any community. Our culture is starving for the simple gifts of life: good food, good company and acknowledgement by another.

All of this point back to the foster father of Jesus and the power of his simple life. Lent also calls us back to a simpler life of faith - to clear out the clutter, focus on prayer and embrace fasting. In this simplicity, we meet God where we are and grow in our relationship with Him. So let us meet each other where we are at, perhaps around a simple wooden table, with simple food, which fosters the complex meeting of souls.

+Saturari,

Amanda