Introducing Foyer Groups!
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Foyer Groups
The French meaning of the word Foyer is hearth or hearthside and evokes an image of warmth and comfort. For untold generations it has been customary for people worldwide to welcome old friends, family members and newcomers into our homes by gathering around a fire or central location most often close to where food is being prepared, to celebrate special occasions, to enjoy times of fellowship and share moments of camaraderie. In tune with this time-honored tradition of hospitality the Anglican Community has for many years encouraged the formation of small informal Parish gatherings called Foyer Groups; small, close-knit groups of parishioners sharing a common bond of Christian love and concern for one another.
History of Foyer Groups
The idea originated at the Cathedral of St. Michael, in the Diocese of Coventry, England – born of the massive devastation inflicted at the height of the German Blitz on London and Coventry during World War II. During one of the many air raids conducted in 1940, the city's 14th century cathedral was completely destroyed as a result of the aerial bombardment. Rather than dwell on the violent loss of his beloved place of worship, the local Provost was inspired to found a ministry of reconciliation that he called the Community of the Cross and Nails. While sifting through the rubble of the cathedral, he gathered many of the old nails that had fallen among the ruins and was inspired to have them twisted together to form a cross. This cross of nails and the words "Father, Forgive" became the unifying symbol of the International Ministry of Reconciliation, a group of devout followers who believe that understanding between peoples, nations, and ideologies can come only when human beings meet and know each other as individuals. They truly live out the maxim “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.”
In 1967, the staff of the Coventry Cathedral began meeting together in small informal groups as a means "to bridge the divisions which subtly separate us one from another"; as a result of the meetings they noticed a powerful bond forming among the staff members who joined what they came to call the Foyer Group. Two years later, the Foyer movement spread to the congregation of Coventry Cathedral and then beyond. In time, Foyer Groups began springing up in parishes all over Britain and in America. Today, many Episcopal churches throughout the United States have foyer groups that promote fellowship amongst members and encourage the informal exchange of ideas, experiences and common problems within friendly home surroundings, in a Christian context and while breaking bread together.
So, What Exactly are Foyer Groups?
Foyer Groups are a fun and easy way for parishioners to gather together on a regular but informal basis for purely social reasons – to enjoy one another’s company, to strengthen bonds of community, to meet new members and just get to know other people who share a common interest in Grace but with whom we might not otherwise interact. They provide a means to develop new friendships and deepen old ones and are a way to make our Cathedral feel smaller and warmer.
There is no agenda or plan – just casual fellowship and a refreshing meal. Groups are made up of singles, couples, young people, retired folks and elderly, etc., in other words a cross section of the parish. Out of the meetings, friendships develop among people who might not have any other opportunity to meet and get to know each other. Newcomers are especially invited to sign up to join one of the groups.
Each small group of eight to ten people meet once each month in members’ homes during the church year, beginning with a kick-off pot luck dinner in September and continuing through May. Generally, the host/hostess provides the entire dinner; however, other variations are possible. Some groups have enjoyed gathering for a picnic lunch during good weather or even meeting at a local restaurant. Other groups have elected to study and discuss books or articles, while others gather for a purely social experience. The choice of available options is limited only by the collective imagination of the group, but the main idea is for the gatherings to simply focus on Christian fellowship, a refreshing meal and relaxed conversation.
New groups are formed in the fall, meeting each month October through May. The groups are put together randomly in order to add an element of spontaneity, such that each of us might have the opportunity to get to know others in the parish who may be outside our normal circle of acquaintance. In other words, this is a great way to meet and get to know those you might not have a chance to visit with otherwise. Each group will have a convener who is responsible for helping the group organize their schedules and distribute the prayer litany cards.
FAQS
Do I have to cook/host?
To fully participate, each member is expected to take a turn to “host,” but this can be accomplished in a variety of ways—take out, picnic-style, etc. Couples who sign up together are expected to host twice (once for each participant). Meals are intended to be casual, and participants are encouraged to avoid outdoing each other.
What time commitment is expected?
Groups will gather for a monthly meal at the day/time agreed upon by the group members. Most gatherings will likely last about 2 hours.
Can I choose my own group?
No, in order to foster new connections amongst the Cathedral family, groups are assigned by the convener somewhat randomly with a consideration for common dietary restrictions/allergies and home locations. Couples will be assigned to a group together and an individual would be welcome to pair up with another individual to form a “couple” and ensure they know at least one member of the group.
Are children included?
In general, the program is intended to be for adult Cathedral members. It is recommended that parents find childcare during their Foyer group’s monthly gathering. Individual groups could choose to invite children to one or more gatherings if all group members agree.
Please direct any additional questions to Grace Symmons: gracesymmons@gmail.com