Ministry in the Kitchen
Dar is the Kitchen Coordinator at the Alberta Men's Centre and is a guest blogger.
I have come to believe that some of the most meaningful ministry in my life happens in the kitchen and around the table. Whether at celebrations, in my own home, at work, or through volunteering, so much of life is shared through food and the simple act of gathering together.
My name is Dar and I’m the Kitchen Coordinator at the Alberta Men’s Center. I am blessed to witness beautiful moments unfold every day in the kitchen. Clients help one another, teach each other new skills, share ideas, and work together to prepare meals that bless the entire group. Sometimes they appreciate the quietness and peace found in the work, while at other times music fills the kitchen and laughter brings a joyful spirit to the room.
More Than Recipes
It is in these seemingly ordinary moments that God does extraordinary things. Meaningful conversations take place alongside practical skill building, helping prepare them for successful transitions into renewed and healthier lives. Friendships are formed, confidence is restored, and hope begins to take root.
After starting at Teen Challenge, I felt God speaking to me about using my skills in the kitchen to create a ministry for these men. It’s not just about feeding them physically but also feeding them spiritually. My background has been working with women, and it seems natural to gather in the kitchen with women. But why couldn’t it be the same for men? I shared my thoughts with David, our Centre Director, and he encouraged me to bring more to the table than just recipes!
The War Room
One of my first tasks after starting at TC was to organize the giant pantry. When I stepped inside, I was struck by how quiet it was. All of the chatter and white noise was shut out, and it felt so peaceful. It reminded me of the movie War Room, so I decided our pantry would be our war room (prayer closet).
I wrote down some thoughts, hung a clipboard with extra paper in the pantry and waited to see what would happen.
The men started writing prayer requests on the clipboard and as I pray for them, I put a sticker beside them, so they know this has been brought before the Lord.
First prayer request:
"Prayer for what my body needs, nutritional wisdom, talent to delight the senses, and the effort, discipline and responsibility to carry it through. Amen."
A Quiet Space
When men enter the program, they are living in community with others on their recovery journey. Sometimes, they just need a little space, a little quiet. As the guys rotate into the kitchen, I am intentional about conversation and if they’re having a bad day or just need some time alone – they know the kitchen is a safe place for that. They can come and make muffins, wash dishes, chop meat or whatever – so they can have some time alone.
Nourishment For the Soul
There is something profoundly beautiful about seeing lives nourished not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. I am continually reminded that ministry happens in ordinary places. Often, it happens around a cutting board, over a simmering pot, and at a table where people feel seen, valued, and loved.
What a gift it is to play even a small part in God's work of restoration and to witness His grace at work in such simple, yet sacred, moments. I am grateful!
