Want to meet some new people? Want to reconnect with old friends? Want to have a meal, have some laughs and maybe have an important conversation, too? Then Nine to Dine is for you! It’s been bringing people together at Plymouth for more than 20 years. Come join the fun!
Q: What is Nine to Dine anyway?
A: Nine to Dine is a great way for Plymouth people to meet new friends and enjoy old ones by sharing a meal together. Nine was chosen so that singles and couples know they are welcome.
Q: Who can sign up for Nine to Dine?
A: Anyone who wants to be a part of it can sign up—members, prospective members, regular visitors, church friends.
Q: What is the “program year” for Nine to Dine?
A: Sign-ups are in September, groups begin meeting in October and continue meeting at least until each host has taken a turn.
Q: Where does Nine to Dine meet?
A: We have two kinds of groups—In-home Nine to Dine and Restaurant Nine to Dine. We also offer an option for groups who want to have Nine to Dine and do a service project together.
Q: Can I sign up for more than one kind of Nine to Dine?
A: You can sign up for as many as you choose.
Q: How do I get in a group?
A: You fill out a form that will be available in the Contact, in the bulletin and around the church in September. Then a Nine to Dine committee puts the groups together.
Q: How will I know what group I’m in?
A: Once the groups are formed, you will receive a letter and a list of your group members. That list will indicate initial hosts, and the initial host will organize your first gathering. Groups start meeting in October.
Q: Is it always dinner? Does it have to be fancy?
A: Nine to Dine groups can do whatever they choose. They can share pizza, potluck, dinner, brunch—the group and the host decide. And it certainly doesn’t have to be fancy. Simply enjoying the company of each other is just as important as the food.
Q: What if my place is too small or it makes me nervous to entertain?
A: You may prefer a restaurant group. Or you can take your Nine to Dine to the park for hot dogs. It’s OK to use your imagination.
Q: Are there any rules?
A: Well, yes, but they’re simple: 1) If you sign up, you commit to attending. 2) If you sign up for an in-home group, you will take your turn hosting.
Q: What about alcohol?
A: This question is as old as Nine to Dine itself. The host is in charge and decides whether to serve wine or other alcohol.
Q: Is the Nine to Dine group expected to talk about church and pray?
A: Each Nine to Dine group usually develops a personality all its own. There are no expectations for what the group will talk about. Prayer or table grace is up to the host.
Q: Who do I contact if I have other questions?
A: Matt Mardis-LeCroy, Minister of Spiritual Growth, 515.255.3149, Ext. 28 or via email at mmardis-lecroy@plymouthchurch.com.
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