A gathering of church members for celebratory, social, or charitable purposes, church socials in America have remained popular—while becoming more varied and elaborate—throughout the past two centuries.

Church socials in America are rooted in ancient Jewish festivals. Jews traveled to Jerusalem to participate in public worship activities that commemorated important events or celebrated the harvest. Because the tribes of Israel were separated geographically, these festivals served the additional purpose of providing the cement needed for national unity. Old prejudices and misunderstandings were often swept away by these major events.

With the birth of the church, Christians shared common meals designed to enhance relationships within the church. The Bible says in Acts 2:46, "… They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts." Eventually, the Agape meal or "love feast" became popular. It provided fellowship and opportunity to help the poor and...