Taste of Unity: A Nourishing Evening of Togetherness and Support

The Centre for Reconciliation (TCfR) hosted its first Taste of Unity evening on 8th October — a vibrant, heartwarming gathering that brought together around 50 people from across Lincoln’s diverse communities.

Held in a spirit of welcome and solidarity, the event offered far more than a hot meal — it was a celebration of connection, compassion, and shared purpose.

Cooking with Care

The evening began in the kitchen, where volunteers of all ages rolled up their sleeves to prepare a delicious spread. Laughter and conversation filled the air as people got to know one another while chopping, stirring, and plating. Among the helpers was a focused 12-year-old volunteer who took pride in preparing bananas for pudding — a small but joyful moment that captured the heart of the evening.

A Safe Space in Challenging Times

For one new volunteer, the event was a lifeline:
“It was lovely to find a welcoming space during difficult times — it felt like a little oasis of support.”

Another attendee reflected on how the gathering offered comfort amid recent distressing news affecting the Jewish community in Manchester:
“It was nice to chat and be with others.”

Unity Across Communities

Guests and volunteers came from a wide range of backgrounds and faiths, including those facing hardship and in need of a hot meal. Together they found warmth and connection, reinforcing TCfR’s mission to foster interfaith understanding and practical community support.

The Taste of Unity initiative is supported by local interfaith partners and aims to strengthen relationships through care, compassion, and shared service.

Reducing Waste, Increasing Impact

Much of the food was generously provided by Mint Lane Café, helping to reduce food waste while nourishing those in need. The menu featured:

• Mixed vegetable pasta
• Chickpea curry with rice
• Fresh salad
• Banana custard
• Cake and custard
• Tea and coffee

At the end of the evening, 78 containers of freshly prepared meals were donated to the YMCA Homeless Shelter in Lincoln.

Abdul, one of the volunteers delivering the meals, shared: “All the food donated went to the YMCA Homeless Shelter — and they were so happy to receive it.”

Benefits Beyond the Plate

Improved food security: Nutritious meals for those facing financial hardship.

Social connection: Combating isolation through shared activity and conversation.

Youth engagement: Encouraging young people to take part and contribute meaningfully.

Emotional support: Providing a safe, welcoming environment in uncertain times.

Environmental benefit: Reducing food waste through local partnerships.

Looking Ahead

This inaugural event marks a promising start for the Taste of Unity initiative — a project dedicated to building bridges across communities while addressing practical needs.

The gatherings will now become a regular monthly event, taking place on the second Wednesday of each month from 4–6 pm at Central Methodist Church Hall, Lincoln (LN5 7PR).

The next session will be held on Wednesday 12th November, continuing to serve up compassion, connection, and care — one meal at a time.