Every year in September we honor our foundresses spirit of caring for all with a simple meal. This year’s theme for Table of the King across Providence ministries is “Embracing Transformations and Transitions.” Providence caregivers came together and provided a special "Soup and/or Bread” dish to share the week of September 22. Along with this or alternatively, some clinics choose to provide a soup can drive for local food banks.
What is Table of the King?
Table of the King honors the practice of Emilie Gamelin, foundress of the Sisters of Providence who regularly opened her own home to those who needed a meal. She provided simple soup and bread to sustain them physically and nourished their spirit with a sense of community and connection. The title “Table of the King” was both a reference to her honoring the Divine by sharing what she had, and a reference to the dignity of those as “royalty” with whom the food was being shared. You can also watch a video highlighting Table of the King (best viewed in Chrome).
Table of the King is a meaningful reminder about our deep commitment to serving all people, especially those who are poor and vulnerable. As part of our commitment to our community, we also donate to charitable partners, listed below, as part of the celebration. We invite you to celebrate Table of the King using one or more of our virtual options or by donating to the worthy partners and funds listed below.
Charitable partners:
- System-wide support: Helping Hands fund
- Alaska: Brother Francis Shelter
- NorCal:
- Humboldt: Food for People Food Bank, Betty Kwan Chinn Homeless Foundation, St. Vincent de Paul or Eureka Rescue Mission
- Napa: Napa Food Bank or Catholic Charities
- Sonoma: Redwood Empire Food Bank or Catholic Charities
- SoCal: Rescue Mission
- Montana: Mission Valley Food Pantry, St. Ignatius
- Oregon: Blanchet House
- Texas/New Mexico: South Plains Food Bank or St. Benedict’s Chapel (Soup Kitchen)
- Washington: Regina House or Volunteers of America food bank
Below are some other ways to honor this important annual event.
- Making soup and bread recipes provided by the Sisters of Providence and Sisters of St. Joseph. View the recipes.
- Read from or display Table of the King prayer cards. Download a selection.
