A table, a chair and an open invitation.
Table of Grace began in a kitchen with eight women and a pot of tea. It has grown into a community with room for anyone who needs a seat.
From a kitchen to a banquet hall
In 2010, Eleanor Whitfield hosted a brunch for women in her neighborhood who felt invisible. There were eight chairs and one rule: no one eats alone. They met again the next month.
The brunch outgrew her kitchen, then her church's fellowship hall, then a local banquet room. Small groups formed from the tables. Friendships became mentoring pairs.
Today Table of Grace serves women of every age and background. We still begin each gathering with a prayer, a meal and the words that started it all: there is a place for you here.
What we practice
Belonging
Every woman is greeted by name.
Honesty
We tell the truth gently, including about ourselves.
Generosity
We make room, share resources and give freely.
Growth
Faith grows in the company of friends.
How we got here
A few moments that shaped who we are today.
Eight women
Eleanor hosts the first brunch in her kitchen.
Small groups
Eighteen women form the first circles.
Mentoring pairs
Intergenerational friendships begin.
280 women monthly
Eighteen groups and 46 pairs.
The hosts
FounderEleanor Whitfield
Still pours the first cup of tea at every brunch.
DirectorGrace Tanaka
Plans the calendar and answers every email.
Mentoring LeadDr. Renée Baptiste
Matches pairs with care and a lot of coffee.
Hospitality ChairJo Ann Peters
Makes sure every table has flowers and every guest has a seat.
What we hold dear
- Women are made in God's image with gifts to share.
- Friendship is part of how God cares for us.
- The Bible speaks into every season.
- Hospitality is a spiritual practice.
- Grace is the gift that sets the table.
Sponsor a woman's seat at the table
Join us for a brunch or a small group. We would love to save you a seat.