I love to invite friends and family to my home for dinner! It is part of a long-standing tradition my husband, Anthony, and I began early in our marriage. Though he has gone to his eternal reward, it has brought me much pleasure, consolation, and no small amount of joy to continue this tradition.

I  have found through the years that a small gesture of hospitality has the capacity to do so much. It can be a soothing balm to a troubled spirit, a healing gesture that resolves an estranged relationship, a happy celebration to highlight key moments in a person’s life, a gift of presence when a sign of solidarity is needed. It can also be just plain fun! Today, scheudules are so busy that gestures of hospitality are frequently omitted from the family agenda.

But, as women, we have an innate desire to bring people together. And, when this desire is united to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, great things can happen.

Just this week, I hosted a small dinner party at my home. Among the guests was Father Philip Scott, F.J. It was clear that this get-together was ordained by God. The Holy Spirit was abundantly present. Indeed, the old charismatic song holds true:  “Great things happen when God mixes with man!”

One of the fun highlights of the evening occurred when Father Philip asked me for a “bib.” Given that he lives in Peru and realizing he probably didn’t mean the kind a baby wears, I asked him if it was an apron he wanted. He said, “Yes, an apron.” I offered him a variety (apron drawer open as you can see), and he selected my Women of Grace apron — once again confirming to me that “real men love women of grace.”

I would categorize this evening as one of those that is blessed  — and, as many blessings are — a great deal of fun!

Who might God be prompting you to ask to dinner and what joy might He have in mind for you? I can assure you,it is well worth extending the invitation!

Father Philip and friends, thanks for a great time!