Production Progress

On the 9th of January, members of the Atlanta group celebrated a dinner together. A film crew was on hand to record our gathering for the upcoming series on EWTN.

The cooks arrived early to get the meal together. They treated us to a tasty, healthy meal. Here they are putting marinated grape tomatoes in a serving bowl.

The host and hostess had a lot to juggle with the cooks, their guests, and the film crew, but they handled it well. We were all greeted warmly, and soon found ourselves seated around their table and ready to eat. After grace, we began with a toast.

As we began to eat, Our first speaker gave us a lesson on "before" and "after". You will find the topics we explored in our earlier posts.

Later, our host spoke about proper preparation for our meal and how these habits prepare us to celebrate the Eucharist.

We had a lovely meal and acquired some food for thought about the way we approach both our family meals and the Heavenly Banquet that is the Mass.

We trust you will join us on EWTN this summer for our series on the Theology of the Table. Perhaps you will want to find a group in which you can participate. You may be inspired to put together a group in your area.

Welcome

Welcome to the new blog for Daniel Rabourdin's "Theology of the Table" television series on EWTN. You will also be treated to a sneak preview of Daniel's upcoming book on the celebration of the family meal.

"Theology of the Table" is a series scheduled to air this spring on EWTN. This new Catholic ministry allows us to learn afresh the value of the family meal, in order to better live out the Catholic Mass. Our ministry is faithful to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church.

It is well known that the Holy Mass was instituted at the Last Supper. That meal established the ritual that re-presents the Sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross, throughout all time. Therefore, the Catholic Mass is largely structured according to the Last Supper. The foods used and mentioned at Mass (bread, wine, and lamb) carry a unique symbolism. Understanding that symbolism allows us to participate better in the Eucharist.

Dinners at Theology of the Table consist of a spiritual talk, followed by a cooking workshop, then a meal. Topics include:

• Mass and Meal as Rite and Custom
• Preparation for and Conclusion of Mass and Meal
• Bread of Eternal Life and the Bread of Men
• Cup of the Covenant and the Wine of Men
• Lamb of God and Lamb of Men

With Theology of the Table, participants are sure to enjoy one of the finest social events in town, great food, and a meaningful talk. The event improves both your eating habits and your soul’s participation at Mass. It is a wonderful way to fervently receive the Body of Jesus the Lord in the host, and grow in His spiritual blessings.

The original Theology of the Table dinners began in Birmingham, Alabama. They are a creation of Daniel Rabourdin, MA, producer at EWTN. Joanne Cournoyer, MA (candidate) of Steubenville, Ohio has worked closely with Daniel and will give the same workshop in Steubenville.

You too can create your own club.

Theology of the Table:

• Bolsters the faithful in understanding the sacramental nature of preparing meals and eating together.
• Deepens our appreciation the Holy Eucharist and the richness of the Mass.
• Awakens awareness of the sacred nature of the family meal.
• Encourages families in the practice of regular family meals together.
• Promotes a greater consciousness of healthy choices regarding our eating habits.
• Encourages participants to become proficient in a Catholic understanding the value of the meal and the Mass, in order to equip them to repeat the experience in their own communities.

Let us bring back the tradition of the meal. Sitting down with family and friends to a communal meal allows us to live out, in a richer way, the Sunday Mass.