By James Lee
New Brunswick, NJ – March 2, 2025
The doors of the United Methodist Church at New Brunswick open each night, just as they have for five years. Inside, the scent of warm food fills the air, and volunteers line up, ready to serve. For those who come seeking a meal, it is also an offering of dignity, community, and grace.
The Dinner Ministry, a nightly meal service for those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity, has become a defining ministry of the congregation. When it first began, it was known simply as the “Welcome Table,” a name that captured its mission: to provide a place where everyone—regardless of their circumstances—would be met with hospitality. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving community effort, serving more than 100 meals every evening.
On March 2nd, the church celebrated the ministry’s fifth anniversary, marking a milestone in a journey that has been as challenging as it has been transformative.
“Every Day?!”
Rev. Myungsun Han still remembers the moment he first learned about the Dinner Ministry. “I practically shouted, ‘Every day?!’” he recalled. It had been just a month since his appointment to the church when he saw the live security camera feed—volunteers distributing meals on Liberty Street.
What he quickly discovered was that he wasn’t alone. “This ministry isn’t carried by just one person—it’s held up by an incredible team of leaders and volunteers,” he said. “They organize, they improvise, they make things happen.” On nights when food runs short, volunteers scramble to order pizza, raid the freezer, and create meals out of whatever is available. It is a labor of love, sustained by dedication, faith, and a deep understanding of what it means to serve.
A Ministry of Presence
After five years of serving daily meals, the congregation gathered to celebrate and praise God for the steadfast faithfulness that had sustained them through the ups and downs. The anniversary service was filled with moments of gratitude and reflection. Volunteers shared testimonies of what the ministry has meant to them. Some had been serving since the beginning; others were newer, drawn in by the simple but profound act of feeding others.
“This ministry is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when people come together in service to others,” said Rev. Han. “We are deeply grateful for the volunteers, churches, and organizations that have made this possible, and we invite more people to join us in this mission of compassion and care.”
The evening also included a video message from the ministry’s founder, Rev. Joseph Jueng, who reflected on its humble beginnings. He reminded those gathered that the work of feeding the hungry is deeply rooted in the Gospel.
Musical performances from Diane Booyoung Seo and Dustin Ciano filled the sanctuary with sounds of both celebration and reflection, underscoring the sacredness of the moment.
Beyond the Table
The Dinner Ministry has never been just about food. “It’s about presence,” Han emphasized. “It’s about recognizing the humanity in each person who comes through our doors.”
Every evening, the volunteers offer a listening ear, a warm smile, and a reminder that no one is invisible. Over time, those who come for meals begin to see the church as something more than a distribution point—they see it as a place of belonging.
And the ministry is not just sustained by the church alone. Local organizations and businesses contribute resources, and a network of faith communities comes together to make sure the meals never stop. Trustees, cleaning crews, church committees, and community members—each play a role in keeping the table open.
“Until the Day Homelessness is Only in the Dictionary”
As the church looks ahead, there is no sign of slowing down. “My prayer is that God fills our hearts with renewed energy so that we may continue serving—until the day homelessness is found only in the dictionary,” Han said.
For those who have never volunteered, he offered a simple invitation: “Come. Serve. Witness the grace of God in action.”
And for those who wonder whether small acts of kindness truly make a difference, the answer is found at the dinner table, in the laughter of volunteers, in the eyes of those who receive a meal with gratitude.
To those who have supported the ministry—whether by volunteering, donating, or simply offering encouragement—the church extends its thanks. “To God be the glory for the great things God has done through our Dinner Ministry!” Han proclaimed.
The work continues, one meal at a time.
Learn more at umcnb.org.
*Photos by Ginger Haithcox*