Families at Bethel Community Christian Reformed Church in Edmonton, Alta., are gathering around “The Family Table,” a ministry launched in September 2025, to encourage parents as they disciple their children in everyday life. The initiative includes five in-person events scheduled between fall 2025 and June 2026.
A collaboration between the church’s director of children’s ministries, Selikke Duthler; director of youth ministries, Camila Lazzarotto; and family ministries champion, Christie Thomas, the series focuses on prayer, Scripture reading, sharing the gospel, and fellowship.
“The Family Table came from a deep desire to support families in their discipleship of their children in practical, sustainable ways,” said Duthler. “We wanted to build a space for fellowship and community that would encourage and equip parents in their family faith journey, without adding stress and busyness to already complex schedules.”
Seventeen families have participated so far, with children ranging from age 5 to teens. Thomas noted that her own sons, ages 14 and 16, are among the oldest youth involved, while many participating families have elementary school-aged children.
Each theme includes a Sunday gathering built around a shared meal, along with digital support between events. Participants receive two podcast episodes per topic—one short solo recording and one informal conversation featuring the ministry leaders. Additional resources are shared through a WhatsApp group, allowing families to stay connected and encouraged between gatherings.
“When we sit around a table to share a meal, we share so much more than food,” said Lazzarotto. “We share stories, moments, memories, and experiences. Whether that table is online through a podcast or in person on a Sunday after church, it becomes an opportunity for people to share what they bring to the table and what they can receive from it.”
The format has evolved over the course of the year. Early gatherings were organized as full potlucks, but leaders realized that expectation created stress for busy families. More recently, organizers have provided the main dish and asked families to bring a simple dessert or vegetable. “We are trying to remove as many barriers as possible,” Thomas said.
For participant Erica Dunichand, whose son is 5 years old, the series has provided both encouragement and practical tools for nurturing faith at home.
“I love God, and I love my son,” she said. “I want to instill God into his life and lead him with God’s Word and love. Doing that together with other parents and kids through the church is perfect for us.”
Dunichand said the gatherings help make faith conversations accessible for parents and children. “Each time we meet, we start with a meal that we share together,” she said. “Food always brings people together. Then the rest of the time is full of interactive stories, activities, and crafts that help both parents and kids learn how God works in our lives.”
The lessons and activities often continue shaping conversations at home. “Everything we’ve learned has had a lasting impact, both in the moment and continuing at home for me and my son,” Dunichand said.
The series will conclude with a family barbecue this summer. Organizers are considering whether The Family Table might continue into the next ministry year. Dunichand hopes the idea spreads beyond Bethel.
“I think all churches should do this,” she said. “It brings parents and kids together to learn about God and how he works in our lives. It helps families grow with each other, with their church, and with God.”
That encouragement confirms the ministry leaders’ vision for the program. “We want families to know they are not alone as they disciple the children God has entrusted to them,” Duthler said.
About the Author
Dan Veeneman is a lifelong learner, avid reader, and enjoys writing almost as much as he enjoys a cup of good coffee. He lives in St. Albert, Alberta with his loving and supportive wife and three pre-teen children. They worship at Sturgeon Valley Baptist Church.