Commitment through Service

Last year, Leigh Ann Launius did a wonderful job putting together the materials and structure for our
Wednesday Night Dinners. At one of our Women’s Ministry Leadership Team meetings, she said, “I need to
find someone to lead Wednesday Night Dinners.”

From somewhere in the room came a voice: “I’ll do it!”

I heard a few gasps and looked around to see who had responded to such a large task. To my surprise, everyone
was looking at me. It was me—I had volunteered!

My first thought was, What came over me? I already have other commitments! But almost immediately, I felt at
peace, and I knew I was supposed to take this on. I began reaching out to and working with the many small groups at Northbrook. It was my first interaction with many of these wonderful people, and I wondered if we would have enough volunteers. But every group responded with people willing to serve. The first few weeks were a little nerve-racking, but there was no need to worry. Volunteers showed up, served with enthusiasm, and provided great service and hospitality. During Holy Week, we had more than 90 people join us for dinner!

It has been a blessing to see people enjoying a meal together and then participating in the many programs that
take place on Wednesday evenings—Bible studies, children’s choir, adult choir, handbells, and more.
Wednesday Night Dinner has become so much more than a meal. It has become a place of connection,
fellowship, and belonging—a place where people can come together, slow down, laugh, talk, and truly see one
another.

One of the things I love most is watching our volunteers serve with such joy. They come ready to help, but they
also genuinely enjoy being together. They share conversations, laughter, and fellowship while serving others.
As someone who helps organize these dinners, it has been incredibly meaningful to see how serving can bring
people together and create a space where everyone feels that they have a place and they belong.

By the end of last season, 90 volunteers had given their time and talents to Wednesday Night Dinners.
Wednesday Night Dinner is a beautiful example of what can happen when we live out our commitment to
Northbrook United Methodist Church through our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. It takes many
hands and willing hearts to make these Wednesday evenings happen, and I am so grateful for every person who
has helped make them special.

As we start this next season of dinners I want to thank you for showing up, serving, sharing a meal, and helping
make room at the table. I am grateful to be part of this congregation and this wonderful ministry.

With gratitude,
Dianne Hiers
​Coordinator, Wednesday Night Meals