Niwot United Methodist Church welcomes community at "Soup, Soup & More"

The Niwot United Methodist Church has thrown open its doors for 26 years to invite the community for bowls of soup, salad, bread and fellowship. "Soup, Soup & More," held on Saturday, March 9, was open to the public free of charge. Most people attending contributed to a free-will offering, and donations are funneled to different local charities each year.

According to Janet Gates, the event coordinator, 75% of the proceeds from the event this year will go to The Reentry Initiative, whose mission is to provide comprehensive services inside and outside prison walls to empower adults to achieve fulfilling and crime-free lives in their communities. The remaining funds will be used to upgrade the tech system that is used in worship at the church for both in-person and social media attendees.

Gates said participants came from Niwot, Erie, Longmont, and Gunbarrel. She said, "They like helping out local agencies and being in community, sharing, providing support for those who are in need."

Attendees agreed, citing fellowship but also, just as importantly, the tasty soups. This year twenty-three soups were offered with twelve backup soups, all of which ran dry after serving 150 people.

Gates said, "The church opens its doors to the community to share hospitality and show them what an open, loving community looks like. Without judgment." The Niwot United Methodist Church hosts this event in part to demonstrate who they describe themselves to be: "Open Minds. Open Hearts. Open Doors."