Lutheran Day of Service at Grace Diner

Last week, members of the Southwest California Synod gathered at Grace Diner, a ministry of Grace Lutheran Church in Culver City, for a meaningful Lutheran Day of Service. Synod staff, pastors, and members from congregations across the Synod came together to package meals, welcome guests, distribute groceries, and lend a hand wherever it was needed.

Before volunteering, participants had the opportunity to learn more about Grace Diner's remarkable ministry from Executive Director Lisa Skelley. Every week, Grace Diner serves approximately 800 meals using food donated by community partners, local restaurants, small businesses, and larger corporations. Their work extends far beyond providing meals. They offer clothing, connect guests with valuable community resources, host monthly resource fairs, provide free haircuts, and have helped 40 individuals secure permanent housing.

One of the ministry's most inspiring values is its commitment to preserving dignity. Guests are welcomed without having to provide a name, address, or proof of income. They are also offered choices that honor dietary needs and personal preferences, recognizing that the ability to choose what we eat is something everyone deserves. It's a simple but powerful reminder that hospitality begins by seeing every person as a beloved child of God.

The day was a beautiful reminder that service is not only about lending a hand. It's about building relationships, learning from one another, and witnessing the many ways God is already at work in our communities.

Thank you to Grace Diner, Lisa Skelley, and the dedicated volunteers who make this ministry possible every week. We are also grateful to everyone who joined us for this Lutheran Day of Service and shared their time, compassion, and gifts.

This gathering is just the beginning. We hope Lutheran Days of Service will become a quarterly opportunity to serve alongside congregations and community partners throughout the Southwest California Synod, strengthening relationships, learning from one another, and living out our shared calling to love our neighbors.

Want to get involved? Grace Diner provides free to-go meals for anyone in need every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 3:30–5:00 p.m. outside Grace Lutheran Church (4427 Overland Avenue, Culver City, CA 90230). To learn more about volunteering or to support this important ministry, contact SkelleyOne@gmail.com or visit GraceDiner.org.

God's work. Our hands.