When Potlucks Go Too Far in Adventist Churches

 

When Potlucks Go Too Far: Rethinking Sabbath Meals in Adventist Churches

Potlucks have long been a cherished tradition in many Seventh-day Adventist churches. They foster community, provide a space for fellowship, and give members an opportunity to share their culinary gifts. However, as with many good things, there is a point where even a wholesome tradition like the church potluck can begin to drift away from its original intent—especially when viewed in light of Sabbath principles.

At its best, a Sabbath potluck is a time of simple joy, gratitude, and unity. But in practice, many Adventist potlucks have taken on a form that closely resembles a food festival, marked by excess and distraction. From overflowing tables stacked with casseroles, entrees, and bread to a dessert section that could rival a bakery, these meals can easily slide into indulgence. For some, the highlight of Sabbath becomes not worship, fellowship, or spiritual rest—but the feast afterward.

Overeating: A Subtle but Real Problem

One of the clearest issues is overeating. Potlucks often lead to second and third servings, not out of necessity but because of the abundance and variety available. While Adventists are often health-conscious and promote temperance, potlucks can paradoxically encourage overconsumption. This isn’t just a health concern; it’s a spiritual one. Sabbath is meant to be a day of rest and reflection, not indulgence and bloated discomfort.

Ellen White, a guiding figure in Adventist theology, warned repeatedly against intemperance—even in things that are good in themselves. "We should not provide for the Sabbath a more liberal supply or a greater variety of food than for other days," she wrote in Counsels on Diet and Foods. Yet today, Sabbath potlucks often become the biggest meals of the week.

The Dessert Trap

Desserts are a major contributor to the problem. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with an occasional sweet, the dessert tables at many Adventist potlucks are excessive, filled with pies, cakes, cookies, and puddings—many of which are loaded with sugar, cream, and processed ingredients. Instead of reflecting a spirit of simplicity and gratitude, these tables can promote a mindset of indulgence and even competition over who made the “best” dessert.

This not only undermines Adventist health principles but risks turning the Sabbath into a sensory experience rather than a spiritual one. It’s worth asking: when children remember Sabbath, will they think of the stories of Jesus and quiet walks in nature—or will they just remember the chocolate cake?

Church Is Not About Eating

Another subtle danger is the shift in focus from worship to food. Church is not—and should never be—about eating. Fellowship is important, yes, but when conversations, planning, and excitement about potlucks start to eclipse the centrality of worship, there's a deeper issue. Potlucks can unintentionally create a social hierarchy, where those who cook more lavishly or bring popular dishes gain more attention and affirmation. This is contrary to the spirit of equality and humility that Christ modeled.

Moreover, when guests or new believers come to church, the focus should be on spiritual nourishment, not culinary impressiveness. A simple shared meal is sufficient for fellowship; we don’t need to rival a buffet.

Sabbath Principles: Rest, Reflection, and Reverence

At its heart, Sabbath is about rest—not just physical, but spiritual. It is a time set aside from worldly distractions, labor, and even excess. The Sabbath calls us to slow down, to disconnect from consumption and reconnect with God. The elaborate preparation and cleanup that often accompanies potlucks can ironically add stress to the day meant for peace. Some members may feel pressure to cook elaborate dishes or stay behind long hours to clean up after others have left.

The Sabbath should not become an excuse for overwork on Friday night or Sabbath morning in the name of food. Nor should it become a platform for subtle competition or gluttony. There’s wisdom in keeping Sabbath meals simple, nutritious, and sufficient—aligned with the principles of moderation, rest, and worship.

Rethinking the Potluck

So what can be done? The answer isn’t to cancel potlucks altogether. Rather, churches can reconsider their approach. A few practical steps could include:

• Encouraging simpler, plant-based dishes in smaller portions.

• Reducing or eliminating dessert tables, or replacing them with fruit-based options.

• Rotating volunteers for setup and cleanup to prevent burnout.

• Centering the post-lunch time around worshipful activities: nature walks, small group reflection, prayer, or singing.

In the end, the question is one of alignment: Are our potlucks in harmony with the principles of the Sabbath—or have they become a distraction from them?

It’s time to thoughtfully reflect on how we honor the Sabbath, not just in word or worship, but in the way we eat, share, and gather.