Valda Dracopoulos was the guest speaker at Central Christian Church Disciples Women’s November meeting.  This year’s theme for the monthly programs is “The Table and Beyond: Lavish Hospitality in the Bible.” 

Valda chose a lesson based on Genesis 18: verses 1 – 15: Abraham welcoming his divine guests— a story that continues to offer us examples of the power of hospitality.  To help bring the story to life, she served bread and cheese during her presentation.  

“I want you to feel like you are being welcomed by Abraham,” Valda said. “When people come before a common table and break bread together, they appreciate each other more,” she added. 

Following Valda’s presentation there was an introduction and informal discussion between the women and Central’s new Senior Pastor, Dr. Ken Crawford, who will begin Sunday morning services on November 20. 

This year’s November meeting fell on the Catholic holiday of All Saint’s Day that coincides with Dia de los Muertos, so the Disciples of Christ women borrowed from their Latin and Catholic neighbors for their luncheon theme. 

Dia de los Muertos is a two-day holiday (All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2) honoring the spirits of the deceased. 

To carry out the theme, a Mexican buffet was served.  Foods included South of the Border casserole, Pan de Muertos and a vegetable Crudité in the shape of La Catrina, Mexico’s Grand Dame of Death. 

Beautiful tables were set like “altars” with colorful Marigolds, sugar skulls and framed pictures to celebrate the vibrant and vivid holiday. 

Although the Disciples Women’s meetings are obviously lots of fun, they are also educational and support a mission.  The purpose of Disciples Women is to provide opportunities for spiritual growth, enrichment, education and creative ministries to enable women to develop a sense of personal responsibility for the whole mission of the Church of Jesus Christ. 

You do not have to be a member of Central Christian Church to attend the monthly meetings. Call the church at 214-526-7291 for more information if you would like to visit.  

Next month’s meeting with be on December 6 and local raconteur, Rose Mary Rumbley, will be the guest speaker.