This service requires little preparation and involves only three readers. The build up to Holy Communion is dramatic and scriptural, climaxing in the betrayal of Judas, the sense of corporate guilt, and the need for forgiveness.

In Table Talk we hear conversations between Jesus and his friends, enemies, and those who are indifferent. These talks occur at tables where Jesus has come as a guest. The service culminates with Jesus serving as host to his disciples.

In his own table story we learn that whether or not we come to the great banquet, the table of the Lord will be filled. It forces us to ask that if we do come and receive the bread and wine, what will Jesus say to us? What will we say to him? How can we not find our faith strengthened, our love enlarged, and our understanding deepened by the table talk of Jesus?

Marion Fairman, wife of a pastor and mother of another, received her B.A. and M.A. from Miami University of Ohio, and her Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh. She has taught literature and writing at Miami of Ohio, Westminster College (Pennsylvania), and the University of Pittsburgh. She currently writes curriculum and critiques manuscripts for The Writing Academy, an interdenominational group of Christian writers.