Caf Theology: Food, Faith and Philosophy

Caf Theology participants from left to right: From Left: Rachel Rick (Student Leader), Tolu Odebunmi, Jenna Whitney and
Anthony Therrien-DeLine

Cafeteria, or “Caf” Theology offers a unique opportunity for college-aged adults and students to gather and talk about faith among their peers, and to build community over food. The weekly gatherings of students in Akers Dining Hall on Michigan State University’s campus and at Lansing Community College attract both believers and skeptics interested in exploring issues of spirituality, morality, and life.

Betsy Aho, Campus Ministry Director at The Peoples Church, started Caf Theology in January and has since attracted over 15 international and American students to take part in this informal group.

Caf Theology grew out of Pub Theology, a national movement that welcomes people of diverse backgrounds to share their opinions on issues of religion and life philosophy in the relaxed setting of a local pub. Aho attributes her success with students to the food.  “Conversations over food makes the interactions more authentic and easier for new people to join the group, there is less pressure.”

Aho and the students pick a different topic to discuss each week. One of their most in-depth discussions have concerned evolution and creationism and whether the two beliefs can coexist. Other topics have been the evolution of faith and religion as one gets older, and religion and spirituality and how they relate and differ. Her student leader, Rachel Rick, a sophomore at Michigan State University assists with facilitating the conversations and promoting the event.

“The diversity of students in age, religious background, and academics plays a major role in the exchange of ideas, openness, and authenticity of the group,” says Aho. The informal group of students changes in size weekly, depending on the topic. Oftentimes students nearby will overhear the discussion and join in.

Aho hopes to expand the Caf Theology program, if it continues to be a success. Currently the weekly event takes place at Michigan State University’s Akers Dining Hall on Tuesdays at 5:30pm at the large round table near the Tandoori sign. Five dollar “Eat At State” gift cards are available to off campus participants to assist with the cost of eating at the dining hall.

At Lansing Community College, students gather at 12:00 pm on Mondays in the Gannon Building’s Commons Cafeteria. Students and young adults are welcome to attend either of the free Caf Theology events.

For more information on Caf Theology contact Betsy Aho at 517-332-6074 or eaho@thepeopleschurch.com.