A Story from Around the Table
Many years ago, Kevin and I started hosting small groups in our home. We came to love the relaxed gathering of friends who soon became family—sharing meals, spending time in the Word, and simply doing life together.
I recently ran into a friend who was part of that very first group, and it was such a joy to catch up. It brought back so many wonderful memories and reminded me of the lasting relationships that came from those evenings around the table.
Life eventually took that particular group in many different directions, but when a tornado destroyed my parents’ home and livelihood a few years ago, it meant so much to see several members of that group among the many who showed up—with meals and much-needed supplies.
I love how something as simple as sharing food and time with people you love around a table can turn into something lasting and meaningful. It’s not just a shared meal—it’s a connection that builds a bond. And despite where life takes you, something as routine as making rolls for a potluck can feel like a form of time travel.
Last night, as I was getting these rolls started, I found myself reminiscing—thinking about how much those people meant, and still mean, to me. And at the same time, recognizing how the small group we are part of now is making its own imprint on my heart.
Something as simple as food can connect two seasons of your life.
I truly would not want to do life, ministry, or especially parenting without the love, support, and prayers of our small group family. We are known by each other—not just seen.
Who you ‘roll’ with matters! Sure am glad Mrs. Shirley shared her rolls and love with us many years ago! She is apart of the love I get to share with my family and church even now.
Why You’ll Love These Rolls
- Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet
- Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weeknight dinners
- Make-ahead friendly
- A tried-and-true recipe passed down through community
Ingredients
For the yeast starter:
- ½ cup warm water
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 package dry yeast
For the dough:
- 6 cups flour
- 2 tsp salt
- ½ cup oil
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 cups warm water
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a sheet pan.
- In a large bowl, mix ½ cup warm water, 1 tsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit about 30 minutes until the yeast blooms.
- Add remaining ingredients and stir/knead until well combined.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead a few times. Roll out to about ½-inch thickness.
- Cut rolls using a biscuit cutter and place on a greased baking sheet.
- Let rise until doubled in size.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Make Ahead Option
Cut rolls and place on a parchment-lined pan. Freeze on the pan, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
When ready to use, place on a greased pan, allow extra time to rise, then bake as directed.
A Little Backstory
This recipe mainly came from Mrs. Shirley in our small group many years ago—I just use quite a bit less sugar than the original.
And isn’t that just like community? Something shared, passed down, and made your own over time.
Tools I Use (and Love)
- Large mixing bowl with lid
- Dough whisk — I feel it’s only fair to say, I use a big fork but this is on my ‘want it now’ list!
- Old-fashioned biscuit cutter — I have my grandma’s and it’s just so special to use it now!
- Stone sheet pan — I use a stone pan, but if something ever happens to it, this will be my go-to!
Final Thought
If you’re on the fence about opening your home or joining a small group—this is your nudge.
It might start with something as simple as a shared meal…
…but it can turn into something that carries you through life’s hardest and sweetest seasons.
