New Growth Post

New Growth

Written by Lauren Harkness

October 01, 2026

Dear Friend,

It has been some time since we last connected here. I wonder what these past months have held for you? For me, they have brought growth, a much-needed pause and a clearer sense of where God is leading At Her Table. I’m glad to have this moment to share a little of that story with you.

If you wish to listen instead, please press play below.

You may remember that At Her Table began during the lockdown of 2021, with a longing to help women feel a little less alone. That small beginning grew into opportunities to gather at tables in various places, share stories and get to know one another. Along the way, I kept hearing how much women valued having someone to talk to, a listening ear and a place where they could feel known and welcome.


So, I began hosting virtual cuppas with women from across the country. Before long, those conversations were booked out six weeks in advance. Behind every call was a woman with a story, making time in her day, because she longed for connection.


Those conversations helped me see that the next step was to support other women to offer that same welcome. Women who knew their neighbourhoods, noticed who might be feeling alone and had a heart for bringing people together.


This led to the development of At Her Table Way in 2025, a course to equip women to lead with confidence, host meaningful conversations and begin their own small simple gatherings where relationships can deepen, faith can be explored and everyday life can be shared, whether around a kitchen table, over coffee or on a regular walk together.


Alongside this growth, I began to recognise my own need for rest. I was on the verge of burnout, asking God for provision, support and space to breathe. I wanted to keep caring for this community, but I recognised I needed to care for myself, too.


Kylie Malcolm first booked a virtual cuppa with me in August 2025. I had no idea that our conversation would become the beginning of a friendship and, eventually, a shared calling to lead At Her Table.


As we continued talking, I came to know her heart for women, faith and community. Our friendship grew, and with it came the possibility of carrying this work together. Her presence and partnership have felt like a very personal answer to those prayers.


Kylie has now joined At Her Table Ministries as Co-Director. Together, we are listening for God’s leading, drawing on our different gifts and shaping this next season with care and hope.


There is another piece of news to share:

At Her Table Ministries is now a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). This is a meaningful milestone as we establish a foundation for the work ahead.

All of this has helped us see more clearly what we're here for: to help women feel deeply connected and supported, and to encourage them to create honest, faith-filled community wherever they are, so more women across Australia can experience the goodness of God in their everyday lives.


Hospitality remains at the heart of it all. We have seen what can happen when someone makes room, listens with care and offers an invitation to come again. We do that by walking alongside women with resources, training and encouragement as they open their own micro faith communities.


Perhaps someone in your own community comes to mind as you read this. Perhaps you have been carrying an idea for a gathering, or wondering what might grow from inviting a few people to share a cuppa. Just hit ‘reply’, we would love to hear from you and explore those possibilities together.


Thank you for being part of the story of At Her Table Ministries. We are grateful for the conversations, friendships and small beginnings that have brought us here, and hopeful about what God will grow as more women make room at their tables.

Lauren Harkness - Director At her Table

With love,

Lauren x

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