Rev. Mark Ehrmantraut providing the Jesus story at the Dinner Church immersion. Photo by jlynn studios.

On Saturday June, 6, more than 20 participants gathered at Legacy United Methodist Church in Bismarck, North Dakota, during the 2026 Dakotas Annual Conference for an immersive Dinner Church experience led by Justice and Advocacy Connector, Meaghan Wharton.

Rather than simply learning about Dinner Church through a presentation, participants stepped into the shoes of neighbors served through these ministries. Each person received a name tag representing a real story from the community and experienced the evening through that individual's perspective.

Through shared meals, conversation, welcome, and spiritual hospitality, participants gained a deeper understanding of the dignity, vulnerability, and hope many unhoused and food-insecure neighbors bring to the table.

"It was important for people to see it, not just hear about it," said Wharton. "You can talk about Dinner Church all day long, but experiencing it firsthand is different."

The idea grew out of Wharton's participation in a Dinner Church immersion at a Fresh Expressions conference in Florida earlier this year. Inspired by the experience, she brought the model back to the Dakotas using resources shared by the congregation that originally hosted it.

For Wharton, Dinner Church represents a simple yet powerful expression of ministry. By providing a meal and creating space for meaningful conversation, churches can build relationships and offer a welcoming introduction to faith in a low-pressure environment.

Role play helped replicate what an actual dinner church experience would be. (photo by jlynn studios)

Following the role-play experience, participants gathered for discussion, sharing their own experiences with Dinner Church ministries and asking questions of those already leading similar efforts in their communities. The conversation became an opportunity for learning, encouragement, and the exchange of practical ideas.

As the Dakotas Conference continues exploring Fresh Expressions and new ways of connecting with communities, the Dinner Church immersion offered participants a glimpse into a ministry model that is more than a program.

"It provides a meal, but it also creates connection," Wharton said. "It's a way of serving people and helping them experience community and the love of Jesus."

The experience highlighted how Dinner Church can serve as both a gathering place and a lifeline of compassion, offering hospitality, belonging, and hope around a shared table.

If you'd like to learn more about Dinner Church and how it might be an tool to help your church connect with your community, contact Meaghan.

Learn more about the 2026 Fresh Expressions Gathering and watch the This Week @ Dakotas newsletter for upcoming Fresh Expressions conversations and trainings in the Dakotas.