I have recently been enjoying the Netflix series, Chef’s Table. Each episode gives a glimpse into the life and culinary skills of an internationally acclaimed chef, all of whom are extraordinary and unique. But by far the most inspiring has been Jeong Kwan, who makes it clear from the outset that she isn’t a chef at all. She’s a Korean Buddhist monk.
Jeong Kwan makes food as a meditation. She states, ‘there is no difference between cooking and pursuing Buddha’s way.’ She has no formal training as a chef, but has an amazing appreciation for, and delight in, the ingredients that nature gives her. She has a wish to share and communicate through food. She cooks with thankfulness, joy, tenderness and great care. Her food, (according to the chefs commentating), wouldn’t be out of place on the menu of a Michelin starred restaurant. It is beautiful to behold.
Our Patronal Festival this week is an opportunity to give thanks for the whole of our St Martin’s community, and to reflect on who we are. As a community, and individually, we are suffering the economic and psychological effects of COVID, Brexit, and the war in Ukraine. At the same time, we seem to have more activities and be reaching more people than ever before. There is energy, and excitement, but also exhaustion and anxiety. We are aware of God’s abundance, but also our own frailty.
I think of Jeong Kwan gently peeling open the petals of a lotus flower. I think of Jesus breaking apart a piece of bread. And I like to think that this is who we are… the natural ingredients that God can take, gently shape and combine, and break and share, to communicate Her love for the world. This is God’s way, and we are beautiful to behold.
Susannah Woodd
