History of the Meal

The roots of St Ben’s Community Meal are found in the hearts of a young couple, Michael and Nettie Cullen. In 1966, inspired by the philosophy of Dorothy Day and the Catholic Worker Movement, this Irish immigrant family founded Casa Maria House, which is located about a mile from St Benedict the Moor. Casa Maria's purpose was to promote and practice direct and personal sharing with the poor by receiving guests in their kitchen for a meal.

Mike & Nettie Cullen at the 35th Anniversary celebration in Nov 2005

A growing number of men, women and children from the neighborhood joined them for this daily meal, and it rapidly outgrew their small space, and they were forced to seek larger quarters. In collaboration with Capuchin Alex Luzi, and after much prayer and reflection, the Community Meal was moved to its current location at St Ben’s on November 13, 1970.

From the beginning there was a strong emphasis on the community aspect of the Meal. This was evidenced on two fronts. First, sponsor groups from a variety of churches and civic groups throughout the wider Milwaukee community committed to providing the Meal from Sunday through Friday evenings. Secondly, a sense of community and relationship was generated within the Meal Hall itself as sponsors, volunteers, guests, and staff came together to enjoy a nutritious meal in an environment of hospitality and safety.

Forty years later St Ben's and its many supporters continue to host the Community Meal, Sunday through Friday from 5:15 to 6:30p.