924 Lake Street - Oak Park IL 60301 - 708-386-8036 - office@graceoakpark.org - facebook.com/GraceOakPark

Grace's Annual Black History Month Luncheon

Several years ago, a few members of Grace who are of African descent happened to be seated at the same table in the parish hall during coffee hour. Pretty soon the conversation turned to their various experiences as people who are part of the African Diaspora, that is, Black people born in the United States and those born in other parts of the globe. The conversation gravitated to food, and it was eventually decided that sharing the food and culture of the African Diaspora would be a great gift to the congregation, and Black History Month would be the perfect time to do it.

Since then the luncheon has become an annual tradition at Grace. It was suspended during Covid but will be held again this year on February 19th, immediately following the 10:30 am service. The luncheon is a happy time of sharing dishes predominantly associated with the African Diaspora. All are invited to participate by providing an African-inspired dish or donating an item for the auction.

The luncheon is free to all, but individuals have shown their appreciation for the excellent food by making a voluntary monetary donation and/or bidding on an auction item. In the past, the proceeds from the luncheon have been donated to a charitable cause approved by the vestry, and this tradition will continue.

In 2023, the proceeds of Grace’s Black History Luncheon will be donated to the Leaders Network.

Are you coming to the Luncheon?
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