By Noah Kilian

Saturday evening I had the great pleasure of attending a meal provided by Abundant Table. I went knowing only that I would be taught about sustainable living. What I experienced was more than I ever could have hoped for, as I received food for not only my body, but also my mind and soul.

The event followed the general form of a Holy Eucharist, with readings about food, farming, and sustainability. Those present heard the staggering statistic that most of the food here in the United States travels on average 1500 miles to reach our tables, and that if U.S. families ate just one meal a week comprised of all local produce it would cut the U.S. oil consumption by 1.1 million barrels per week. If such a small amount could do so much it is a wonder that we have not adopted this as a common practice.

Then came the meal itself, which was put together of entirely locally grown products. In an atmosphere of fellowship those dining were encouraged to share their individual experiences with food in their lives. It was eye opening to witness the amount of diversity present just in that room with regards to food. Many experiences were represented, from the family that always had abundant home cooked meals, to the family that ate out all the time, to the family that struggled to put food on the table.

As the meal reached its close we ended with a prayer and left the room full in all aspects. I know that I will be taking what I’ve learned home with me to Portland, and I hope to make improvements in my own life and stop taking my food for granted.

Noah Kilian is from the Diocese of Oregon.