A Note for Leaders:

Consider how you can create a warm and intimate environment for your group. For my first meeting, I wanted to celebrate table fellowship by "breaking bread" with them and serving a full meal as an act of love and spiritual communion. It's important to create a relaxed environment where people can feel comfortable sharing with one another. If you're hosting in your home, consider: lighting candles, diffusing essential oils, having comfortable spaces for people to sit, and playing Christian music to create a peaceful ambiance. If you're meeting in a church or another setting, use what's available to you to make the space inviting. I also recommend opening your group by singing a worship song before you begin your study (see page 38 for two of my favorites).

What You'll Need for This Study:

Your bible or bible app, a pencil, a highlighter, and an open mind! Don't worry about having all the answers; your group can look in the Bible for them together. I have also included some notes in the teacher's guide to help you out. The important thing is that you're open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and you discover the truth of God's word together.

Breaking Bread: Options to Consider

-Food Jesus ate: fish, bread without yeast (try Trader Joe's flatbread), almonds, pistachios, walnuts, cucumbers, wild greens (mustard greens) melons, legumes (lentils or chickpeas), olives, figs, pomegranates, dates, grapes, wheat, barley, farro, milk & honey, eggs (leeks, onions, garlic, mustard, cumin, olive oil, herbs & spices). Other meats available during Jesus' time include: cattle (on occasion), goats, sheep, lamb, poultry (especially pigeons). Consider serving grape juice in place of wine.

-Warm bread with olive oil, honey, or butter

-Charcuterie board

-Chicken ceasar or garden salad with beans

-Crockpot tortilla soup (recipe found on Spend With Pennies)

-Slow cooker easy chicken tikka masala (recipe found on Ministry of Curry)

-6 Ingredient slow cooker enchilada chicken (recipe found on Real Food Whole Life)

-Chicken & Feta on pita bread with tzatziki sauce and salad

-Spaghetti & meat balls

-Tacos

-Sandwiches & salads

-Barley soup (beef or vegetarian)

-Pigeon stew (OK, maybe not)

-Desserts with tea and coffee