By Denny
A new kind of meeting for Memphis Friends is our monthly game night, which started in fall 2024 – we’ve called it meeting for worship with attention to community, to fun, or to games. Danielle notes that game night is wholesome – a time to gather as a community to play and have fun without serious expectations. Zachary “Magpie” agreed, saying, “It’s a great way… to socialize, and it’s nice to hang out outside of the context of meetings.”
Many different people come to game night – a few regulars as well as many who’ve attended once or twice, including friends who aren’t otherwise associated with Memphis Friends Meeting, and kids in elementary school all the way through adults over 70 have come. We’ve played quite a few different games, repeating some and trying several just once or twice. Some that we’ve played multiple times are Dominos, Skip-bo, Phase 10, and Yahtzee, and we’ve also tried some roleplaying games and other games that are more complex. Usually a couple of people bring snacks – often candy, chips, crackers, fruit, and more.
Neal said, “My favorite game is one I brought called Everdell, although I don’t think it caught on well with the rest of the group because it is very complex. I find that the most successful games are the more simple and straightforward ones. I often come to game night fairly hungry, so the heavier snacks are to my liking, like pretzels and nuts.”
Game night is a casual gathering, and everyone is welcome. Someone can come one time and have as much fun as those who come regularly. Nobody assigns people to bring games, but there are always several games to choose from. I find that coming together as a community to chat, play games, and have fun often leaves me feeling rejuvenated and energized. I love the opportunity to socialize with and get to know local Quakers as well as others who join us.
I hope to see many of you at game night soon!