cloister_credo

I believe --
in the God of the meal!

in the God who moved Abraham to
provide a simple desert meal
for strangers passing by

in the bond of table-community

in Jesus, the Christ, who by His Presence
at so many meals emphasized
the intrinsic and sacramental value of meal
in shared meal as an invitation to friendship
in shared meal as a sacramentalization
of the bond of friendship
in shared meal as eucharist
and pointing to Eucharist
in the sacredness of life and all that nourishes life --
bread, wine, fruits of the earth

in meal-time as covenant time in imitation of Him
who, at table set with simple foods, established
"new and eternal covenant" in His Blood

Ergo, I believe --
in the priestly activity of meal
preparation and service

in food preparation as contemplative
action and prayer

in responsible and respectful handling
of fruits of the earth -- Gift of God
to become the meal that nourishes
and sustains

in loving, careful, beautiful service --
a candle, a flower, a splash of color --
so that those who share may be
reminded of the Lord of the Meal

In the simple meal that does not overly
burden those who prepare and serve
so that all can be done in peace and joy

in the open table, desert hospitality--
the "stranger" is always welcome,
there is always room for one more

in kitchen as warmest, holiest, friendliest
room in the house.

And, finally, I believe --
in loving Creator who still provides
bread and wine
to become Body and Blood.

US Mission Center, 4233 Sulphur Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63109, 877-272-1870
Vocation Office, 1400 South Sheridan Rd., Wichita, KS 67213 - Telephone: 877-ADORERS (877-236-7377)
(Copyright 2005 Adorers of the Blood of Christ)