Common Tables form the heart and soul of WIN. These monthly bring-your-lunch discussions include six to eight women of various faiths (and matching schedules!) to explore challenging topics of interest to all. The breaking-bread and bonding conversations take place on a rotating basis at the homes of members who wish to host. Each host provides beverages, dessert and a welcoming atmosphere. Here is where assumptions and stereotypes begin to fall away, while learning and understanding come into sharper focus. While the conversations are serious, laughter abounds and close friendships are formed. Political topics are not permitted.
Recent topics chosen by Common Tables include:
New ideas are welcomed at every meeting. Moreover, new Common Tables are formed as new members arrive.
Common Tables meeting regularly now:
We all look forward to our monthly meetings and cherish our time together discussing topics close to our hearts. We begin with a mini-life update–how is everyone doing? Then we dive into the subject and our bag lunches. Sometimes (OK, often!) the conversation meanders beyond the confines of the original question, but the path always leads in meaningful directions. Past topics have ranged from the gastronomic (traditional holiday foods from our ethnic roots) to the holy, including the view of Redemption across our various religions. We emerge satiated and fulfilled both physically and spiritually. And we have fun!
Our table enjoys lively and thought-provoking topics chosen by the host of the month. Recent topics include: "Did God create man or did man create God? " and "How does your faith help you during hard times?" Each Common Table contains a group of women of various faiths who trust and hear each other without judgment. In a short time, we become quite close and savor these friendships.
Facilitators for our group, who choose the topic of the month, are selected alphabetically. One week prior to our meeting, they send their discussion subject to all members of the group so we have time to prepare.