Hope’s Table is a eucharistic hospitality ministry of Hope Lutheran Church in Reading, and it is the newest synodically authorized worshipping community in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod.

This ministry began two years ago as Pastor Mary Wolfe and congregation leaders dreamed about expanding Hope’s ministry. The congregation already had trusted ministries of care and support for their neighbors. How could these be connected more overtly to the greatest hope we have to offer as Christians – the love of God in Jesus Christ?

Each Tuesday evening, anywhere from 40 to 125 people from the neighborhood and church community gather in Hope’s social room. There they enjoy conversation and a delicious supper prepared and served by members of the Hope’s Table family.

Following supper, most participants remain for a bilingual (English and Spanish) service of Word and Sacrament that includes a message of hope from scripture and an invitation to pray for the people’s needs and thanksgivings.

Many of those who come regularly to Hope’s Table often have felt uncomfortable in traditional worship services. As they share their concerns and joys with one another, they have begun to form a  community of Christian love and support. Thank you to the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod and the ELCA for financial support that has helped turn this dream into a reality!