Chef James Beard described food as “our common ground, a universal experience.” The third “Banquet on the Bridge” on Saturday will be such an occasion — to bring people together who might not otherwise eat that day, as well as those serving and dining among them.
“It’s not simply a meal for the homeless or disadvantaged,” said Nathan Heald, an organizer, “but to break through barriers — people from different religious, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds.”
The 14th Street bridge, used only for pedestrian traffic and a site where many homeless gather, will be transformed from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday into an outdoor restaurant. Volunteers from about 20 groups, including churches and other nonprofits, will serve the food.
Heald is a member of RiverTown Church on Schomburg Road and works at the Homeless Resource Network on Second Avenue. The Web site ComeJointheFeast.com spells out the meal’s mission: to foster love, generosity and unity.
The effort draws from Luke 14: 16-24, in which Jesus uses a parable to encourage his disciples. Jesus says they should share food not only with people they’re familiar with, but also the poor, the lame and the blind.
“We’ll all sit down at the same table,” Heald said, “to build conversation and relationships. There’s not a program or an agenda or speaker.” No tickets or fees are required to attend.
The banquet will be potluck dishes. It will feature, among other things, hamburgers and barbecue and beef tips.
“It’s also an opportunity for churches to act together and do something together,” Heald said. About 700 people turned out last year.
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