Dinner Church Podcast

Why the Table Still Transforms with Mike Graves

In this bonus episode, we sit down with Dr. Mike Graves, author of Table Talk and plenary speaker for the Dinner Church Summit 2025 in Pittsburgh (Nov 6–8). He shares the personal story behind his ministry—childhood roots, encounters with Jesus, and the life messages God has entrusted to him. We also get a preview of what excites him about the Table and why it remains one of the most transformative spaces for the Gospel today. Register now for the Dinner Church Summit at freshexpressions.com/dinner-church-summit-2025 Mike Graves is Scholar in Residence at Country Club Christian Church in Kansas City, Missouri. Before retiring from teaching, he was the Wm. K. McElvaney Professor of Preaching and Worship at Saint Paul School of Theology, also in Kansas City. His most recent book is Table Talk: Rethinking Communion and Community.

From Food to Faith: Dean Miller on Emergency Response & Dinner Churches

In this episode, we talk with Dean Miller from Impact Missions of the Baptist General Association of Virginia (BGAV) about the Food to Faith Initiative and the role of Dinner Churches in emergency response ministry. Dean shares about his family, the challenges of disaster relief, and powerful stories of lives changed. We also explore how the Church is responding to Food to Faith and his vision for Dinner Churches in BGAV. Join us for a compelling conversation on meeting people in crisis and inviting them into faith—one meal at a time.

Restoring Dignity Through Dinner Church with Sandy Johnson

What happens when ministry steps outside the walls of tradition and meets people around the table? In this episode, Sandy Johnson shares her journey of planting a Dinner Church in Ocean Shores, Washington, and how this unique model restores dignity and fosters transformation. Sandy reflects on the power of simple obedience, the challenges of earning trust in her community, and the profound spiritual growth she has witnessed. Whether you're curious about Dinner Church or seeking inspiration for your own ministry, this conversation will leave you encouraged and motivated to follow where God leads.

Neighboring Around a Table with David Bennett

Even in the most robust churches, leaders can find themselves  disheartened, feeling like their efforts to share the Gospel aren’t making a real impact. The excitement and connection they long to see in their congregations just aren’t there. But what if the answer is as simple as gathering people around a table? In this episode, we talk with David Bennett, a coach for pastors who are ready to try something different. David shares how the simple act of sharing a meal can transform not only churches but entire neighborhoods. Learn how Dinner Churches are helping leaders bring their communities together, sparking genuine conversations and deeper connections. David is passionate about helping churches engage their communities in a fresh, meaningful way. As the leader of Mission 330 and Mission Converge, he works to equip pastors to build genuine relationships in a post-Christian world. Serving as a U.S. missionary with the Assemblies of God, David focuses on the power of good neighboring and the transformative impact of “table theology” on local ministries.

Big City, Part-Time Pastors and Two Dinner Churches with Ben and Jordan Arias

What does it take for bivocational leaders to build a thriving Dinner Church in the heart of a big city? In this episode, Ben and Jordan Arias share their journey from small-town Georgia to urban Chicago, where they planted two Dinner Churches. They discuss the challenges and rewards of bivocational leadership, the unexpected family they found in Chicago, and the powerful role of Dinner Church in their own lives.  Now back in Georgia, Ben and Jordan are opening their own table for a new kind of “Passover,” inviting neighbors and family to experience church as an expression of identity and calling. Listen in for an inspiring story of faith, community, and transformation.