Practicing Faith: Setting the Table & Doing Dishes

Sharing the stories of how MPLC folks practice their faith

By Barb Daanen

When I was a young girl, I used to wait in anticipation for my parents to host “Bridge Night”. Anticipation that built…not only because my sister and I would sometimes sneak into the hallway to listen to the banter of bidding and jolly laughter that came from the four card tables in the living room…but also because all the best of my parents’ glasses, snack dishes, and hors-d’oeuvres platters would need to be set out and inevitably need to be cleaned up the next morning. And if something in my house growing up needed to be dusted off, set-up, cleaned up, and organized - well, I was your girl. Which is why I always felt a little bad for Martha in the biblical story from Luke…not because Jesus defended Mary for not helping Martha, but why didn’t Martha just enjoy doing the work!?! 

It’s therefore not surprising to me that I have found the act of setting up and cleaning up the communion table for Saturday and Sunday worship a small introspective personal faith time. Most days it’s quiet during set-up; but on occasion the task is accompanied by Michael’s musical practice, which only adds to the pleasure of the work. Looking backward, God seems to have designed me for this service. 

Besides serving in Communion set-up, Barb also chaired the Mission Exploration Team and served on Pastor Nathan’s Call Committee. If you’re interested in volunteering as part of the small but dedicated group of Altar Care team members, please talk with Barb or Becky Litwin.