FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What’s Dinner Church?
It’s a very old way of worshiping that is making a comeback. We are part of a movement to reclaim the simple practice of gathering people at a table to eat and talk together. Jesus did it and so did the first Christians. Everyone was welcome then and now.
Who is invited?
Everyone – all are welcome!
May I attend if I don’t attend Louisburg UMC?
Yes! We hope you will. And bring some friends!
If I am a member of Louisburg UMC, may I still attend Open Table?
Absolutely. We hope you will. We certainly do not want you to miss out on the fun, fellowship, food, and worship!
Do I just show up?
Yes! No need to tell us you are coming. We will be glad to see you. We set places as people arrive, so you can easily find a place.
Do I need to bring anything?
There’s no need to bring anything. Once you are here and decide you will come again, you can let us know how you would like to help.
What time should I arrive? How long is worship?
Doors open at 5:30PM, and dinner is served between 5:45-6:10. We then have a time of live music and worship. We finish between 6:30-6:45.
What’s for dinner?
We serve hot meals catered by a local caterer. Each meal consists of an entre, two sides, bread, and dessert. We serve water, tea and lemonade. You can bring your own food or beverage, however, alcohol is not permitted.
So that’s Dinner. What’s the Church part?
Dinner Church is Church in two ways. The Church is present because we gather in the Spirit of Jesus Christ. We are a community of love, where dividing walls are broken down. Dinner Church is also church because we are a worshiping community. We listen to the Word of God from scripture and we listen to the Word of God speaking to us. We pray for the world and one another. And we sing together!
Are children welcome at Dinner Church?
Yes! Children of all ages are very welcome. Think of this like a family reunion; everyone is super glad to see every generation. There is no “children’s table” where kids are separated out. We do have a few highchairs, and some children’s crafts and activities available. We are probably more comfortable with your children’s squirming and noises than you are, but if you feel the need to step out, there is an open space where you can stay connected to worship. If you need to get home before worship is entirely over, your time at the table is still a gift to us and – we hope – to your family.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
We try to ensure that there is a vegetarian option for dinner. Some people with special needs bring their own meal.
Is Dinner Church handicapped accessible?
Yes. If someone is driving you, you may be dropped off at the door (under the shelter at our Noble Street entrance). The dinner and worship space is just a few steps from the entry. If you’re driving, you may park in our handicap spots located to the right as you enter from Noble Street. Restrooms are close to the worship space and have handicapped stalls. The service does not require reading other than a couple of songs with words displayed on a large screen.
Where is OpenTable held?
Open Table Dinner Church is held in the Louisburg UMC fellowship hall. Please enter through our side entrance off of Noble Street.
Open Table Dinner Church is at the corner of East Noble St. and N. Main St., in the fellowship hall of Louisburg United Methodist Church, Second Wednesdays, 5:30-6:45 PM. Enter through Noble St. entrance.
Got questions? 919-496-3736 or tucktaylor@nccumc.org