“We want the churches to align with the one mission to share the love of Christ.”

Elizabeth Mabie
Spur Ottawa Correspondent

Each month throughout the school year, young adults gather at Centre 454, on King Edward Street, near the University of Ottawa. They come together to enjoy a free meal in a gathering called The Open Table. While many ministries provide free meals for students and those in need, The Open Table has a somewhat unique goal: they aim for all who come to feel accepted and for those who aren’t Christians to experience what a church community feels like.

“Centre 454 is in the basement of St. Alban’s, so to get to us they first have to walk through front doors of the church,” explains Lila Ibrahim, Community Development Coordinator for The Open Table. “If there’s a service happening, they get to see and hear it before coming down. Even if they have no interest in going to church or becoming a Christian, they still have that access and exposure. It’s still experiencing church in another way and it’s completely invitational.”

The Open Table partners with several churches of various denominations. These churches help put together the meals, send volunteers to set up, and prepare the food. The volunteers are also encouraged to chat with those in attendance, listening to them and showing them kindness.

“Our underlying mission is to bring our church partners together to build a bigger Church community, and then reach out to the people who aren’t part of that community.” Photo courtesy of The Open Table.

“We hope that, in this practice of hospitality, they feel loved and welcomed,” says Chad Cecil, The Open Table’s Anglican representative. “I also love meeting new faces and hearing their stories.”

“Our underlying mission is to bring our church partners together to build a bigger Church community, and then reach out to the people who aren’t part of that community,” expresses Ibrahim. “We want the churches to align with the one mission that we all hope to achieve, and that’s to share the love of Christ with these young adults.”

According to Ibrahim, between 50 and 70 students come for each meal. Since most are living away from home, there are many who come out every month to enjoy the homemade dinners and desserts. Plenty of new faces appear at each event, though, so regular attendees and volunteers strive to help them feel relaxed and ensure they are well fed.

“Whether you come alone or with friends, you can always spend the evening laughing and meeting new people,” says Valérie Chevrier, a volunteer and attendee. “The food is amazing and you can take home any leftovers and not have to stress about making yourself a meal for the next day.”

“I’ve had some very meaningful conversations with lots of people at The Open Table.” Photo courtesy of The Open Table.

The Open Table also provides networking opportunities, where regulars and volunteers can talk about their respective churches and relationship with God.

“I’ve had some very meaningful conversations with lots of people at The Open Table,” says Rachel Moyes, who volunteers and attends. “It’s good to hear what God is doing in their lives. It’s a big encouragement.”

While the Gospel is not overtly preached at these gatherings, prayer plays a huge part in the process. Before everyone arrives, Ibrahim prays over the space, asking God to bless the evening ahead. A church leader also gives a brief talk and gives thanks before the meal is served.

“What are Christians all about? It’s not just forcing the Bible down your throat, it’s about showing love. That’s what Jesus did on a day-to-day basis; He showed people love, forgiveness, and support,” explains Ibrahim. “That’s what we hope to do through our ministry. We’re here to give them the support they need.”

Before everyone arrives, Lila Ibrahim prays over the space, asking God to bless the evening ahead. Photo courtesy of The Open Table.