Written by Sarah McGeehan, Youth Ministry Coordinator

​

I’m pretty sure Pope Leo wasn’t referring to pouring tea when he said we are called to serve the People of God, but tea (and coffee for those java-junkies among us) is a good place to start when trying to build connections and care for others. 

After having taught in a Sisters of Mercy school for 17 years, I am very familiar with the wonderful legacy of the Venerable Catherine McAuley, the founder of the order. On her deathbed Catherine instructed the sisters ‘to get a good cup of tea... when I am gone, to comfort one another.’ 

She knew that her community would be devastated and that this was one way to help them to look after each other in the immediate aftermath of their loss. Mercy communities around the world to this day have ‘Good Cup of Tea’ gatherings to help form relationships, express care for others, and raise money for those in need. 

The humble cuppa is a powerful symbol of hospitality, a simple act of kindness which can bring comfort and tend to people’s needs. But there’s more to it than that. 

Louise Coates, a psychologist, says it’s a good brain hack. It’s one of the reasons we make a brew when we’ve had a shock. Making a cup of tea is an action which brings some normality. It gives us something to do, grounding us in the moment. It helps us to stop and take a breath as we boil and brew, giving us a sense of control. We switch our brain out of survival mode that shock can often bring, and into thinking and doing mode - how much water do I need? Is the kettle plugged in? Cups or mugs? Milk and sugar? It means we can just be with someone without the pressure of having to talk. 

But it doesn’t take a psychologist to tell us that tea is brilliant in lots of other ways. It gives us a ‘pause’ from the busyness of life, a breather when we can collect our thoughts. Holding a warm mug gives us a physical sensation of comfort. Tea is rich in antioxidants which can support heart and immune health. Studies say there are also chemicals in tea which promote a state of calm alertness by increasing serotonin and dopamine. Black tea can reduce the stress hormone cortisol. And making a cup of tea for someone is a simple act of love. 

The early Christians shared food as part of their celebration of the Holy Eucharist, a full meal called the Agape (Love) Feast. They recognised that food and spending time together were essential parts of belonging together as a group, not just the celebration of the sacrament itself. 

How can we bond with others easily in our parishes if we don’t spend social time together? Just going to Mass and then going home doesn’t necessarily build community. The parishes that appear to thrive are the ones sharing tea, coffee (and biscuits!) and chatter after the final blessing. 

So maybe serving tea is the best way for some of us to serve others – calming, nourishing, giving us something to focus on when people might feel anxious or shy, giving us time to feel comfortable until we get to know each other, a space to build connection and belonging. Young people like tea and coffee too! Don’t be afraid to invite them in to brew, serve, wash cups. It might be a gateway to greater community and greater service. 

“If you are cold, tea will warm you; 
if you are too heated, it will cool you; 
If you are depressed, it will cheer you; 
If you are excited, it will calm you.” 
― William Ewart Gladstone