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A reflection and prayer to start the day with the Rev Dr Stephen Wigley, Chair of the Wales Synod of the Methodist Church.

Good morning. I confess that I had no idea that today had been designated ‘Fettucine Alfredo’ day by the Italian-American chef and restaurant owner Ines di Lelio. But when I looked up the recipe for this popular pasta dish, freshly made fettucine tossed with butter and parmesan cheese, I have to say it’s got a lot going for it, especially now in these dark days of winter when people’s thoughts start to turn to the prospect of summer holidays in the sun. I spent much of my teenage years living in Rome, and since then our family have always enjoyed the climate and culture of Italy; in particular we’ve enjoyed visiting some of the amazing hill towns of Umbria and taking part in the tradition of summer open-air local food festivals or festas. Sadly, coronavirus travel restrictions have largely put an end to this over these last eighteen months, but this year the prospect of travel returns and we hope to have the opportunity to visit old haunts and see old friends again. And especially we look forward to the thought of sitting round the table at local festas to share food, wine and stories with friends and family.

There’s something about good food and company which helps bring out a welcome and generosity of spirit. That’s something which the Bible knows well, as we read the stories of Jesus being invited to meals in people’s homes and with all sorts of company. So whether it’s fettucine alfredo and whether we get to travel abroad or not, may we all learn to savour the meals we share and rediscover our common humanity.

Heavenly Father,
In Jesus you came to share in food and fellowship and in Communion you come to meet us in bread and wine; may we learn to celebrate your presence with us in all those times and occasions when we break bread and share food together.
For the sake of your kingdom, Amen.