Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality

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Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« on: December 04, 2006, 07:30:36 PM » by ALittleMore

I was wondering if any ladies on here are wives to ministers, or just to men who might bring home a bunch of people for supper with out fair warning! What are some meals that are easy to get from the freezer to the table in half an hour? What are some things to have on hand? How do you store them? What do you do for preparation? How do you make supper enjoyable for all kinds of people? Any tips on hospitality? Things you can have the kids do? Easy ways to "straighten everything up" (besides having a cleaned house anyways, of course.) And again...hospitality...?

I know that's a lot of questions! I'd appreciate any tips, tricks, tried and true, ideas, experience...etc!!!

Thanks ahead.
Samantha

« Last Edit: December 04, 2006, 07:59:09 PM by ALittleMore »
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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #1 on: December 04, 2006, 08:03:58 PM » by healthyinOhio

Are you getting married to a minister, Alittlemore? Wink

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #2 on: December 04, 2006, 08:20:19 PM » by StephTallent

I'm still very much a "Baby" wife in getting all this homemaking stuff figured out and feel like I fail miserably on a regular basis... Roll Eyes

However, in one year of marriage I've managed to learn just a few widdle tiny things. Grin

My hubby is very hospitable and likely to invite someone over at the last moment. Our problem hasn't so much been him not getting a few hour warning as it has been him forgetting to pass the heads up on to me! Wink

It hasn't happened frequently but when it has I've had to take a step back from freaking out thinking about how messy the house is...how I don't have anything company ready "Planned" for supper etc. etc. etc.

What has been SO helpful for me is to break everything down to essentials. It is essential that they have a clean bathroom to use while they are here and a place to sit. Everything else is optional.

As far as food goes remember simple is best when pulling together something last minute. People love fellowship. They will think they had the best time in the world if the atmosphere in your home is warm, relaxed and they feel very welcome. Even if your meal consisted of last minute baked potatoes and leftover chili with no dessert or veggies. Roll Eyes

Something I had to get "over" is feeling like in order to have a successfully executed visit I had to do everything myself and have it all put together perfectly. All those Southern protocols I grew up with and having a Mom that was one of the most amazing hostesses I've ever seen made it hard for me to initially realize that it's OK if you ask the guests to help! I've noticed that it actually helps the visit get off to a great start if you ask them into the kitchen to help pull the meal together, or set the table or whatever one of those last minute things is that you really needed done.

Last of all remember that you are NOT perfect and the faster people realize it the faster you will be out from under the unrealistic expectations that are often placed on women who's hubby's are involved in ministry.

Be yourself with genuine warmth and love but don't require perfection of your hospitality and housekeeping! It may come with time but having that unrealistic standard from the beginning will be more destructive than helpful.

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #3 on: December 04, 2006, 08:41:32 PM » by ShabbyChic

Can I just say, Steph, that I really appreciated that word of wisdom. I've been married for 5 years and my kids are 2 1/2 and 8 mos, and our floor is frequently covered in toys, clothes, and cheerios. Not like a pig pen, not unsanitary, but unkempt. But a dear friend whom I consider a mentor told me that if I can just light a candle, put on some lip gloss, change into a clean shirt, and pick everything up and throw it into a laundry basket it looks put together when hubby gets home... and a candle covers a multitude of kid smells. Then after dinner, I unload the basket while they play.

If I focus on keeping an immaculate house, no one is happy. I agree 100% on the things Steph said, alittlemore. I have in-laws who have shown up with a few moments notice a few times, and I start with the bathroom: spray toilet, mirror, and faucets/sink with windex and scrub. Pick up husbands underpants from behind the door...

Then throw everything in the laundry basket and put it in the laundry room. In my case, wipe the kids' faces off and put them in some clothes. Tidy myself up for a minute. And then everyone can help me get dinner out.

I always keep dry pasta, jarred spaghetti sauce, and frozen veggies. I bake home made bread each week, so I usually throw some of it under the broiler for a second to get warm. (It also makes the house smell good!) Warm bread is inviting, and holds folks over until the spaghetti is finished (about 20 minutes to the table).

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #4 on: December 04, 2006, 08:48:19 PM » by heatheronthehill

My husband is a minister and we have a lot of impromptu company. I whole-heartedly agree about the "essentials" thing! We live in the upstairs apartment of the church building, so when we invite people over spur-of-the-moment, I have a bit of an advantage in that I can dash upstairs and start getting things ready, while my husband talks to people downstairs in the church building. Wink

I usually run upstairs and do a quick wipe down of the bathroom surfaces and clear away a bit of clutter. (An empty laundry basket works great for this!) I don't even bother with the kitchen! I figure a big pile of dishes shows that we use it a lot! Grin

If I have time, I'll quickly sweep some floors, but this is because I'm kind of particular about clean floors. That's just me personally!

My standard last-minute meal is spaghetti - you can have all of the ingredients on-hand and it only takes 15 minutes to prepare! For a nice touch - add some grated parmesan or romano, which keeps for a long time in the fridge. I try to keep some loaves of garlic bread in the freezer. They thaw well enough to slice within 15 minutes, and then you can slide them under the broiler for 3 minutes or so to toast them. If I have fresh salad, I pull it out, but if not, I'll open a can of green beans and a jar of homemade beet pickles. Fruit - even canned fruit, is just fine for a simple dessert! Ice cream is nice too!

A lot of times we have people over for snacks on Sunday evening after church. I usually make a huge bowl of air popped popcorn, have some bowls of nuts, some apples, chunks of cheddar cheese, crackers, olives, tuna salad if people are extra hungry... That sort of thing always goes over well.

I guess the key is to have these kinds of things stocked in your pantry and fridge at all times, so you can rely upon them being there. Other than that - relax and enjoy your company! I tend to be a bit of a "Martha" rather than a Mary. I think I could use some tips on that in regards to entertaining if anyone has some! Grin

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #5 on: December 05, 2006, 01:32:58 AM » by ALittleMore

Quote from: healthyinOhio on December 04, 2006, 08:03:58 PM

Are you getting married to a minister, Alittlemore? Wink

And thank you ladies for the insight so far...these are things I hadn't really thought of. I just need to pray that God will help me take this wisdom to heart and enjoy everything along the way.

Thanks again!

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #6 on: December 05, 2006, 08:24:14 AM » by mexmarr

Quote from: ShabbyChic on December 04, 2006, 08:41:32 PM

our floor is frequently covered in toys, clothes, and cheerios. Not like a pig pen, not unsanitary, but unkempt.

and pick everything up and throw it into a laundry basket it looks put together when hubby gets home...

If I focus on keeping an immaculate house, no one is happy. Pick up husbands underpants from behind the door...

Then throw everything in the laundry basket and put it in the laundry room.

This is great! You make me feel SO much better!!! Wink

ALittleMore, I wish my mom was here to post. It is hard for me to imagine anyone having more unexpected company than she does. And she makes it look easy! And she has six kids still at home, ages 5-12, five of them wild little boys!

They live in the mountains of Mexico, and poeple love to visit. And no telephones... I mean 30-50 unexpected guests is not unusual! Fortunately, they often bring some kind of food, and they also plan to make a day out of it.

I remember when I was still at home, and I had the chance to get in the door first, we would grab the broom, and sweep everything into the corner. Shocked

I think that it a gift. UNfortunately, one I don;t have. When I have company, I spend days getting ready. Now that I live in CO, I found that people don't just drop in. I spent the first half of my life in GA, where people dropped in all the time, and the 2nd half of my life in Mexico, where they dropped in even more, so this is quite a change! I think thaqt even though I am releaved sometimes, I kinda miss it....

Once we get unpacked from our move, we want to stary inviting people over more often, and that will get me some more practice. Grin

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #7 on: December 05, 2006, 09:14:30 AM » by chrysalyde

When I read your post, I had the same question as HealthyinOhio ! Wink

I'm married to an assistant pastor, and we are still young and lacking experience, so hospitality is something we are working on, and unexpected compagny is not quite our gift yet ! So can't give advice from my own experience.

However, the main pastor's wife has a few years more experience, and she is a great example for me. She works all-most full-time as a doctor, has five kids (the youngest just turned one) and has a home always immaculate and ready to receive. I still don't know how she does it. When I ask her about it, she just smiles and brushes it off like it's no big deal... anyway she is still a mystery to me.
They easily have compagny 3-5 times a week (most of them being the week-end, and so she has lots of store bought nice frozen foods in the freezer (maybe not quite WTM healthy style, but oh well, it's still good). During the summer, when she has last-minute guests (and even when they are planned), she gets out of the freezer sauciges, pork ribs, chicken, etc, and has her husband grill it on the barbecue as he's fellowshipping with the guests outside. She'll come out with drinks and snacks (nuts, chips, other bought appetizers) and be very relaxed, chatting with the guests and asking the kids to set the table. Then she'll go and fix a salad, and if the guests haven't brought a dessert (usually that's the culturally correct thing to do), she will serve ice cream "fixed up" (with whipped cream, a cookie, chocolate sauce, etc).
In the winter, she will have on hand what's necessary to fix what we call "raclette". I don't know if you can find that in the States, but here is is a fun and popular meal. A heating element placed is in the middle of the table. Everybody has a little dish to insrt in the "raclette machine" with raclette cheese in it. The cheese melts and each one pours it onto their food. The food is easy and quick to prepare : potatoes cooked in the pressure-cooker (takes less than 10 minutes), different hams and "charcuteries" (salamis ans such), a green veggie (squash, green beans) or a salad. You can also have sliced tomatoes. It is easy to have all those ingredients on hand and the meal a ready in a jiffy.

Well, I don't know if that helps, cause "raclette" really is a Swiss meal adopted bu the French, and it might not be possible to fix that in the States. Which makes me think of another cultural difference in hospitality... my husband just reminded me the other day that you NEVER serve spagghettis to guests !! Shocked

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #8 on: December 05, 2006, 09:20:36 AM » by SC

I once heard the daughter of a minister say that they had a secret to getting the house instantly presentable. They had a large coffee table in the living room. The top removed to reveal a storage compartment. While someone flew around the room and attacked any dust bunnies or spot sweeping. The other person took EVERYTHING off of flat surfaces and threw it into that compartment -- while Mama made delaying conversation at the door.

Then they all sat around with "We love Jesus and are ALWAYS tidy" expressions on their faces. LOL! I need to get one of those tables.

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #9 on: December 05, 2006, 10:01:40 AM » by Whiterock

Quote

Something I had to get "over" is feeling like in order to have a successfully executed visit I had to do everything myself and have it all put together perfectly.

Even Martha Stewart says that as a good hostess you should always leave one thing undone until the the guests arrive because it will put them at ease knowing that you are not perfect. But what gets me is that she has to leave something undone on purpose! Roll Eyes

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #10 on: December 05, 2006, 11:13:44 AM » by JuliaofSunnyside

I am new at being a pastor's wife, too, and I sure need help in this area! Really the only way I can figure to make the house look clean at a moment's notice is to keep it clean - all the time! With three little kids, if it's a little messy, it exponetially grows to be a lot messy. And I think if people didn't have little kids, even a minor mess that ensues from just a couple hours of being lived in would look just plain unsanitary: smashed food on the floor, unflushed toilets, toys scattered from stem to stern, science projects (usually mine Cheesy

) on the counter, ripped papers glued to the table...anyway, that's if I don't act like the mess police preventing messes and cleaning all the time as we go. It really is much nicer just to stay on top of the mess - I wish I started learning that when I was single, though, rather than waiting till I had three kids! It's time consuming but I figure it's just a season and my kids will be able to actually help more and more as they get older. Then I can train them to fly around and pick up the house at a moment's notice.

I am pretty good at last-minute meals, being a chronic last-minute Lucy. I keep my non-perishables stocked so that I never run out of things and I freeze some of the perishable things so I have a spare. That way the only things I have to worry about running out of are milk, eggs, fruit, fresh veggies, and bananas, pretty much. I tried freezing a gallon of milk once so I'd have a spare but it took like 2 days to thaw Cheesy

! I can usually just look at what I have in the fridge - whatever meat is thawed or can thaw quickly - or whatever vegetable is available - and I can plan a meal around them. If I don't have enough meat, cutting it up small and making a stir fry or pot pie always works. My breadmaker has a rapid bread setting where I can make bread in an hour if I have an hour, and that's always a hit with guests. If you throw some herbs, salt, and olive oil together to dip it in they think they're getting a gourmet meal! I haven't found a starch to serve that's healthy and quick so I'm still working on that. I have microwaved potatoes or made a batch of muffins from a mix in a pinch. Here's my health hypocrisy - I keep brownie mixes in the cupboard because it seems my husband always wants to take a dessert somewhere and I can jazz them up with a few chocolate chips on top and have them ready in a little over 30 minutes. It's good to keep ice cream in the freezer for guests, too. I also keep a few nice homemade sweet treats in the freezer so I can have other ladies over for tea at any time. Anyway, it still takes me a good half hour to get dinner ready even if I have a clean house and I don't have any kid emergencies, but if I weren't such a perfectionist about cooking it would be a lot faster.

I'm enjoying all of everyone's tips!

« Last Edit: December 05, 2006, 11:31:48 AM by JuliaofSunnyside »
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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #11 on: December 05, 2006, 11:20:25 AM » by Kitty

ALittleMore! I've been wondering where you've been! Wink

Great idea for a topic...great responses...I was trying to stretch myself Sunday by inviting some people for lunch after church that were going to stop by to borrow our vacuum...unfortunately, the invite didn't get extended until they stopped by. Roll Eyes

That's actually growth for me, though! Cheesy

Next time, I'll invite at church.

Anyway...I took out some frozen homemade soup, put the container in a pot of simmering water to thaw quickly (not having a microwave hampers my spontaneous hospitality a bit!!). I happened to have leftover chicken/bean/rice taco mix and I heated that up...cut up apples, carrot sticks...and I don't think I would have had dessert...although I have kept chocolate pumpkin muffins in the freezer for that (one box of chocolate cake mix (or the dry ingredients from a scratch recipe) + one can of pumpkin = one of our favorite muffins! Nothing else added...bake at the temp and time for the cake recipe). They ended up having other plans, but I liked the test run. Grin

ALTHEA I should have checked w/ my husband 1st--he had other lunch ideas/activities in mind. Roll Eyes

We make a Finnish Pancake (pannukakku) that is very easy (eggs,milk, flour, sugar, and salt) that is wonderful, and a local favorite. Very quick. Homemade bread freezes well...rice is ready in 45 minutes w/ any variety of veggies...maybe having pizza crusts on hand? People can help make their own?

Tuna is great...salad: noodles, peas, and oil/lemon juice parsley, fried as patties...falafel is good (dry mix of garbanzo beans, etc.. to add water to and fry)--both like a chicken patty, to fold in a wrap.

My friend makes a lot of quiche... Tongue

Look forward to gleaning more ideas!

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #12 on: December 05, 2006, 11:39:36 AM » by healthybratt

Quote from: Whiterock on December 05, 2006, 10:01:40 AM

Quote

Something I had to get "over" is feeling like in order to have a successfully executed visit I had to do everything myself and have it all put together perfectly.

Well if EVERYTHING was done when the guests arrive, the only thing left to do would be gawk out the windows waiting for them to arrive which would be kinda creepy. Grin

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #13 on: December 05, 2006, 01:30:56 PM » by ShabbyChic

Well if leaving one thing undone makes folks feel welcome, then folks must feel REALLY welcome in this house... I might be the most hospitable person on the block... Wink

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #14 on: December 05, 2006, 01:46:31 PM » by LKS

My husband is Pastor-to-be and his current job is in sales. He has on occassion (OK, alot) either just shown up with someone or given me very short notice. The biggest thing for me is a neat house. Notice I did not say CLEAN Grin

. No coats hanging on the chairs, pick up the toys, sweep the floor, vacuum the dog hair etc. Also big for me---if the beds are made and the sink is empty the whole house looks better. So I just try to keep it that way. As for food we raise our own meat so we always have a freezer full. This is a God send because no matter what we can BBQ. A tasty meat dish with some veggies and bread is always welcome and you can whip out brownies in 1/2 hour. The Lord is still working on me but I am soooo much better. I used to obsess and if I knew someone was coming a would turn the enitre house upside down and yell at everyone so that by the time someone came the house was clean and the food was perfect but everyone was miserable Sad

. So I still obsess but I don't yell (ok, not as much) and I can sit down and enjoy people now. That is important. And letting people help makes them feel needed and wanted. So I think the key is to be somewhat prepared but RELAXED. Fellowship is more important than perfection.
LKS

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #15 on: December 05, 2006, 03:38:35 PM » by petrimama

This thread is so very important, I think. Growing up, everyone always praised my mother for having such well-mannered, neat children, an immaculate home and impeccable food...course after course. Yet we called my mother "the drill sargeant" and honestly none of us have memories of a relaxed, welcoming home. Sadly, I began to follow that pattern when I was first married. Then the Lord showed me the evil in my heart - the pride that prevented me from inviting someone over when they needed fellowship simply because I couldn't stand to have them see my weakness. Thankfully, my God specializes in miracles and we are now THE fellowship home, which brings so much joy to our guests, my husband, and even me and my kids...not to mention the Lord. Trust me, I have had experiences that make me cringe when I remember how unprepared I was. But that is how the Lord has grown me.
So, let me ask each of you to realize that no matter how it seems, every household has the same problem. There is simply no way to do everything and always be ready for guests without sacrificing something more vital (such as time with your family, sleep, or more commonly peace in your home.) On the occasions that you are drastically underprepared, make a lesson of it. Point out that you wish you could have been more prepared, but that you are just thankful for the time with your guests. I guarantee they can relate. (Unless it's my mother...she'll call everyone and tell them how messy your house was. Wink

) They might even put less pressure on themselves or their wives when they see that it can happen to anyone. Wouldn't it be great if we were all free from this vision of perfection that we try to attain? Then we could focus our attention on others instead of being concerned with how we appear.
That said, apple pie freezes nicely and can cook while you eat. So do nut breads. Homemade tomato sauce or primavera/cacciatore sauce in a gallon bag in the freezer is great to throw over whole grain pasta. I also always have frozen bags of soup and chili. I try to keep on hand a few cans of beans and burrito seasoning for a real emergency - that can be done in 10 minutes. In order to hold people over until things are ready, I keep the pantry stocked with juice, tortilla chips, salsa, crackers, and popping kernels. One trick I've learned is that sliced potatoes and veggies can be cooked on a grill along with the meat to save time, eliminate pan scrubbing and get the men outside to keep hubby company so they aren't underfoot in the kitchen. We are also blessed to have 2 bathrooms on the main floor, so we use one regularly and reserve the other for guests and emergencies. Then there is always a presentable bathroom, which I clean after the guests leave so that it's ready for the next ones. That's all I can think of that hasn't been mentioned. ~L

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #16 on: December 05, 2006, 04:51:05 PM » by Kansas Girl

Thank you petrimama. That was really well said. I needed to read this thread. My husband is not a minister, but has often expressed a wish that we could have people over more often. I am the one who always has the reason why we shouldn't. The house isn't clean enough, too much work, etc. Thank you for reminding me that my focus should be more on others and not on myself. -KG

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #17 on: December 05, 2006, 05:15:58 PM » by lewisquiverfull

This is a great thread. I am a pastors wife, and we just recently moved into a new home that we built over the course of 4 years. (paying as we build) Anyway, now that we are in, my husband wants everyone to come over. Everyone. Well, after homeschooling, breakfast, lunch, and all the other duties of every mother here, ( 7 months preggo with number 5) I don't feel like picking the house up and cooking for some people. Embarrassed

I know that sounds so terrible. But around here, most families come, parents sit on the couch and kids are free run. My children can't stand that. Either something gets broken, or lost, or the house is even worse disaster when they leave. I feel bad that my kids have to clean up such a mess from all the other kids. My husband is wonderful, but I am a neat freak, and he doesn't understand all the work that goes into keeping things tidy, and cooking extra, and the clean up when everyone else goes home (usually much later than I like). Embarrassed

Wow, I think my hormones are kicking in on this one!!
I guess what I'm getting at, is when do you say, I want to be home with my family ALONE!?! My kids are getting sick of other kids going through their stuff.

Sorry for the vent. I should stop now! Wink

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #18 on: December 05, 2006, 05:20:43 PM » by heatheronthehill

Wrong time of year, but could you plan an outdoor event?

It's perfectly fine to make some rooms of your house "off limits". Maybe having a designated children's area with activities just for them would help keep them from running amok.

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #19 on: December 05, 2006, 05:29:16 PM » by SC

This reminds me of a saying I like:
"If you're coming to inspect my house, call ahead. If you're coming to visit, drop in any time."

Regarding other children going through my kids' things: I have a rule that children DO NOT play in the bedrooms when we have visitors. They can play outside or in an adjoining room to wherever the adults are. If they needs toys, one of my children can go to the room and select a toy. Otherwise I tell the parents simply, "We'd prefer if all of the children stay in here with us." This rule cuts down on a lot of back and forth tattling, and it holds the parent(s) accountable for their own childrens' behavior.

If the children are back and forth a lot tattling, I just invite them all to join the adults with the comment, "It will be easier for you to get along in here with us."

If a parent refuses to make his/her children behave, I will look at the child and say, "We don't do that here." If the parent or the child continues the poor behavior, we schedule the fellowship elsewhere next time (a park or something) so that we can leave if things get unpleasant.

If I were better organized Roll Eyes

, I would have a visitor basket for toys that guests could play with in the living area of our home.

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #20 on: December 05, 2006, 05:33:59 PM » by heatheronthehill

Quote from: SC on December 05, 2006, 05:29:16 PM

If I were better organized

, I would have a visitor basket for toys that guests could play with in the living area of our home.

You just reminded me SC - We don't have children yet, but we have a small bookshelf with books for kids of all ages, some cheap dollar store puppets (these are a BIG hit!), two board games, some legos, animal dominos... You get the idea. Most of this stuff is from garage sales. These are available for visiting children to play with in the living room. It's an apartment, so when there are children, they play in the living room while adults visit in that room, and the adjoining dining room. The kids are responsible for picking up before they leave. This has never been a problem.

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #21 on: December 05, 2006, 05:58:41 PM » by SC

Another thought that just hit me. . .
It's really important to my husband that I appreciate his provision for me and the children. HE can say he doesn't do enough, but it would be a terrible blow if I thought or suggested to him or anyone else that he did not. He is the hardest working man I have ever known.

Whatever you serve your guests, be sure you serve them with a smile. Take pride in the home and provision your husband has made. Whether it's a pot of stew and/or beans, they're best served with a grateful heart and a joyful spirit. DO NOT apologize for your home or furnishings. You may not live in a palace with all of the trimmings, but if you have a heart that is greatful for all that you DO have, your guests will leave having been blessed by their time with you.

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #22 on: December 05, 2006, 06:01:14 PM » by ALittleMore

Quote from: SC on December 05, 2006, 05:29:16 PM

, I would have a visitor basket for toys that guests could play with in the living area of our home.

Wow...I never knew these things could be such an issue. Thanks for the heads up! Wink

I guess when I was little, my friends and I always played outside. (9 mos out of the year you didn't even need a jacket...) and now that we've moved to our current town, there's only a few families that ever come over to the house with kids.

But I guess that's just it! I don't want to know how easy it is to avoid the problems when you're hospitible only to a select few...I want to know how to avoid the problems that might put a damper on the enjoyment of hospitality.

The advice has all been great. I agree about the keeping a clean house thing...it's about keeping your house clean! Then when guests come, it's no big deal. I love a clean, homey home...so whenever guests are ready to come over, I just wipe down the surfaces, sweep the floor, light some candles and we're good to go... I know perfection isn't the key, it's about people feeling comfortable and welcome and warm.

I think my main question now is about food...thanks everyone for those ideas, too! Please keep them coming.

ALSO.....I was wondering...how do you all deal with people coming into your home who are...not Christians? Perhaps they are rough or swear? Like...let's say your husband was a youth minister and a street minister and in all honesty he could bring anyone home...not anyone dangerous (as he is by no means a fool) but someone who he really saw was hungry for Christ and he knew they needed some love and hospitality and fellowship and encouragement, or who needed to see what a family who loves God is like, and he knows that his wife wants nothing more than to assist him in his ministry...so viola! "Honey, we're home!" How do you assist your husband in his ministry in times like this? What are some ways you teach your children to "help bless daddy" by welcoming his "flock" (Jesus' flock) into your home, besides of course, the obvious "help mom get the meal ready for our guests.) How do you instill in them the part of the Bible where Jesus says, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." In fact here it is:

Matthew 25:34-40
Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

« Last Edit: December 05, 2006, 06:05:32 PM by ALittleMore »
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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #23 on: December 05, 2006, 06:07:44 PM » by ALittleMore

Quote from: SC on December 05, 2006, 05:58:41 PM

Oh wow SC. I can see the wisdom in that. Thank you for sharing.

That's definitely something I'm going to remember.

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #24 on: December 05, 2006, 06:55:47 PM » by Shaundra

I am also a pastor's wife and I have lots of ideas for you! First, we have a sign by our front door that says, "Please excuse the noise and mess, our children are making happy memories." I use this as a heads up if our house isnt perfect. (it never is!) I try to boil a chicken each week and save the meat in the fridge till someone stops by. I will use it to make enchiladas, casseroles, or soups. I just try to always have stuff on hand to make one of those things. I try to keep vanilla ice cream and brownie mix. This is a very yummy and very quick dessert. In the winter, even a mug of hot cocoa and mini marshmallows is a fine dessert. Its easy to have stuff for a dump cake or peach cobbler too. If you make soup for your family one night, double the recipe and freeze half! Its not hard when you think ahead. Just plan for at least one extra meal per week when you do your grocery shopping. Hope that helps! Its such a blessing having people over all the time. It seems like a lot of work, but if you plan ahead it can be a peice of cake! (and you can bless others and minister to them at the same time!)

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~Shaundra
happy helpmeet and
mommy to 3 crazy boys
and 2 beautiful girls!

Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #25 on: December 05, 2006, 07:27:54 PM » by leslieincali

Quote from: SC on December 05, 2006, 05:29:16 PM

This reminds me of a saying I like:
"If you're coming to inspect my house, call ahead. If you're coming to visit, drop in any time."

I think I'll cross stitch that. Grin

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #26 on: December 05, 2006, 09:51:19 PM » by heatheronthehill

I've been thinking more about this - hope I'm not being too much of a post-hog Embarrassed

, it's just a subject near and dear to my heart! I know that you were asking about impromptu entertaining and the nuts and bolts of it all... I think you really have to plan to be able to pull off spur-of-the-moment guests. It has to be something you just do and plan your life around. I know that's a bit of an oxymoron! For example - I plan on having company every Sunday for lunch and dinner. If we're not invited to someone else's house, then we are having people over to ours. This way if the opportunity comes along, I won't hesitiate to invite someone that needs a meal and cheerful company after church. In the summer months, we do a picnic every Sunday. I keep a picnic basket stocked with paper products and we plan simple sandwiches and salads, or get fried chicken from the grocery store. I bring a cooler with ice and a big pitcher of tea and water. Others like to pitch in too. Everyone from church is invited (we're a small group, so it's usually 12 or so) and any visitors are too. We get a lot of summer tourists passing through that enjoy the hospitality.

Another tip for meals - You'll probably be preparing a meal for your family anyway when you find out you will have extra people. If you think you will need extra food, it's easy just to add more side dishes!

Serve an extra vegetable or two, make some rice or baked potatoes, pull out some raw veggies & dip, open a can or two of beans... you get the idea.

Quote from: SC on December 05, 2006, 05:58:41 PM

Whatever you serve your guests, be sure you serve them with a smile. Take pride in the home and provision your husband has made. Whether it's a pot of stew and/or beans, they're best served with a grateful heart and a joyful spirit. DO NOT apologize for your home or furnishings. You may not live in a palace with all of the trimmings, but if you have a heart that is greatful for all that you DO have, your guests will leave having been blessed by their time with you.

SC - I am again awed by your wisdom! Thank you for blessing us all with your Godly insights and attitudes!

And... a near-instant recipe for you. This is surprisingly good, and would be nice with some bread and salad.

Super Quick Minestrone
Serves 6-8
2, 14.5 oz. cans mixed vegetables
2, 14.5 oz cans Italian stewed tomatoes
3 c. chicken broth
6 oz. mini bow tie pasta (or whatever shapes you want)
Combine all and simmer for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with parmesan and serve.

« Last Edit: December 05, 2006, 09:59:27 PM by heatheronthehill »
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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #27 on: December 05, 2006, 10:10:42 PM » by leslieincali

Here are some make ahead food ideas:
Taco bar (beef,chicken or pork)
Enchiladas
Lasagna
BBQ beef sandwiches(keep buns in the freezer)
Clam chowder(can keep oyster crackers in freezer) or any soup with cornbread(this might be the time to have a mix)
Regular or chicken chili

I'll try to think of some more later!

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #28 on: December 05, 2006, 10:50:49 PM » by herbalmama

My Hubby is a minister and we have 6 children (so far ! ) and one very important thing I remember is this old saying "you should treat your family like guests and then treat your guests like family." In other words if I am not ashamed to serve something to my family whom I love so much I shouldnt be ashamed to serve it to my guests.
On a practical note.We have a closet in the front entry and one in the living room if guests pull up a run around like crazy women and throw loose junk into these closets .JUst dont open the door to put a guests coat inside ,you never know what might fall onto your head!As for food every day our supper consists of something that could be extended to feed unexpectd company.The crockpot is a great friend .I will make a big pot of spaghetti sauce and if thereis company you can always make extra noodles and salad .Or make a whole chicken in the pot and a huge bowl of mashed potatos.If we end up not having company the sauce can be frozen or refrigerated as could the chicken ,mashed potatos can be used in a variety of recipes if left over.Having these extra things in the freezer is also great in the case of having a baby( which I seem to do pretty often Wink

) so hubby has some easy meals to thaw out while I am recovering.So I just find it easier to cook as if I am expecting company every night and if we dont I have lots of leftovers or frozen things that can make some great meals the second time around .

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Re: Wives of Ministers: Cooking & Hospitality
« Reply #29 on: December 06, 2006, 08:51:54 AM » by Whiterock

Quote from: leslieincallie on December 05, 2006, 07:27:54 PM

Quote from: SC on December 05, 2006, 05:29:16 PM

This reminds me of a saying I like:
"If you're coming to inspect my house, call ahead. If you're coming to visit, drop in any time."

I think I'll cross stitch that. Grin

My version is "If you're coming to see me, drop by anytime. If you're coming to see my house, then you'll have to make an appointment." I was going to post that yesterday but saw someone had beat me to it.LOL!

And lately I have seen front door mats that say "My house was clean yesterday, sorry you missed it."

Now before I get in trouble... These are jokes, not how I really feel (most of the time) Tongue

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