

Comment Suppers
A magazine at its heart is an aspirational community. But so often we read something, put it down, and move on. What if we could linger a little longer in the company of others whose distinct lens on the mosaic could enrich our own?
As much as hospitality—both intellectual and institutional—is part of Comment’s DNA, we’d like to nudge you, dear reader, to spark a similar spirit of trust in your own community. You could start a supper club in your neighbourhood, a discussion series in your workplace, a themed exploration in your church small group, or simply host a one-table conversation at home or in a restaurant for a meaningful gathering of faith seeking understanding.
Our goal is to awaken you to the deeply human questions that stir imagination and help bridge the gap between your agency and the varied currents of our time. We also believe in the grace of friendship, the Christian conviction that truth is never transmitted by words alone. The truths we explore in pages and podcasts are somehow alive, alive in people, perfected in a Person. Comment magazine—and the common good we’re trying to cultivate—is best enjoyed in the relational encounter.
So please invite a group of six to ten people to share a meal around the theme of our latest issue. You’ll find discussion prompts, a recipe, and a playlist to help you create an atmosphere where conversation—perhaps even communion—might just replenish your hope.


Hosting a Comment Supper.
Thinking about hosting a Comment Supper? We’ve got you covered! Below you’ll find a brief overview of the key steps to hosting a memorable Supper. For a more comprehensive hosting guide, click here
- Plan and prepare
- Decide on the theme and structure.
- Thoughtfully invite a group of four to eight people.
- Send invitations with details and reading materials.
- Plan the menu considering dietary restrictions and preferences.
- Prepare the space, table, and conversation prompts.
- Host the Comment Supper
- Create a relaxed atmosphere with adequate seating and lighting.
- Introduce guests and encourage ice-breaking conversations.
- Start the dialogue with open-ended questions or thoughts on the reading.
- Be a good listener and foster balanced participation.
- Follow up and share
- Share any additional materials with guests after the event.
- Share your Comment Supper experience with team@comment.org, providing insights, pictures, questions, stories, or feedback.
The Call to Forgive
Vol 43 | No 1

Questions
- Are private acts more genuine and authentic than public acts? Why or why not?
- What elements of privacy do you take for granted in your daily life that might need to be questioned or rethought in order for you to know your neighbours better?
- What items that are your own “private property” could, if you didn’t own them, free you up to live a better life?
- Rich Villodas mentions Henri Nouwen’s notion of “a ministry of absence.” What do you think that means?
- What leads many people today to assume biotechnology issues like gene editing and euthanasia are inherently private?
Recommended Essays
- “Keep It Private” by Antón Barba-Kay
- “Can We Go to the Neighbourhood?” by Amber Lapp
- “Biotechnology Against Privacy” by Philip D. Bunn
Dinner
Try this delicious meal of meatballs, roast ve ies, and whipped feta, recommended by Comment reader Michelle.
Playlist
Interested in hosting a Comment Supper based on a previous issue? Browse our past Comment Suppers themes featuring insightful questions, recipes, and curated playlists. Click below to explore and find inspiration for your gathering.