Episode Details

Hospitality is embedded in my DNA. As an only child, my parents, who came from much larger families, encouraged family visits and meals throughout the year. Church families were also often invited to share meals with us. During these times, I learned about the gift of hospitality and how this gift fosters community. Around the dining table, delicious food was enjoyed, and the ups and downs of life were shared. Questions were asked. Advice was given. Prayers were said. Esther’s desserts were often remembered in these conversations. So, at her memorial service in 2012, I included recipes for two favorites — coffee cake and sugar cookies — in the worship folder. Memories flowed as people thanked me for these recipes and recalled Mom’s ongoing gift of hospitality and the joy they experienced around the Schini table.