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Local Saratoga Resident to Share Ukraine Response Story at Prince of Peace Table Talk

Community discussion series focuses on the journey from despair to hope through meaningful action

Table Talk event: Turning Despair into Hope
Table Talk event: Turning Despair into Hope (Anne Hess, Prince of Peace Church )

SARATOGA, CA – Prince of Peace Lutheran Church will host a compelling Table Talk presentation featuring Saratoga resident Bob D. on Wednesday, September 24th at 6:30 PM. Bob will share his powerful story of how he transformed personal despair over the invasion and war in Ukraine into hope through concrete action, demonstrating how ordinary citizens can make extraordinary differences in times of global crisis.

The presentation is part of Prince of Peace's Table Talk series – non-religious community events designed to foster connection, empathy, and understanding through meaningful dialogue. This year's programs will explore stories that span from local neighborhoods to global communities.
"Bob's story exemplifies how one person's compassionate response can create ripple effects that extend far beyond what we might imagine," said Drew Ajer, Prince of Peace’s Director of Social Justice and Youth. "His journey from feeling overwhelmed by world events to finding hope through meaningful action offers inspiration and practical insights for anyone who has ever wondered how they can make a difference."

Bob's presentation will be followed by guided discussion over dessert, where guests will learn how to utilize their own gifts and connections to take action on issues they are passionate about. The evening creates an intimate setting for community members to not only hear Bob's inspiring story but also discover practical pathways for channeling their own concerns into positive impact.

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The Table Talk series has become a cornerstone of Prince of Peace's community outreach, attracting residents from diverse backgrounds who appreciate the opportunity for thoughtful dialogue in a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. Previous presentations have covered wide ranging topics from the effects of fatherlessness, how to be an ally to LGBTQ+ people, a very brief history of middle-east conflict, what causes homelessness, and many more, with an emphasis on building bridges of understanding across different perspectives.

Throughout the 2025 program year, Table Talks will feature stories that stretch across the city, county, country, and globe, highlighting the interconnected nature of human experience and the many ways individuals can contribute to positive change in their communities and beyond.
Event Details:

Find out what's happening in Saratogafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • What: Table Talk featuring Bob D: "From Despair to Hope Through Action: One Resident's Response to Ukraine"
  • When: Wednesday, September 24th at 6:30 PM
  • Where: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 12770 Saratoga Ave, Saratoga, CA
  • Who: Open to all community members
  • Cost: Free
  • Format: Presentation followed by guided discussion over dessert
  • RSVP: Required for catering purposes

The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are required to assist with catering and can be made by calling 408-253-7167 or online at https://propeace.breezechms.com/form/Tabletalks09-24.
About Table Talks: Table Talks are non-religious community presentations and discussions hosted by Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, designed to foster connection, empathy, and understanding in the Saratoga community. These free public events create space for meaningful dialogue about local and global issues that matter. https://www.propeace.org/tabletalks.html

About Prince of Peace Lutheran Church: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, located in Saratoga, California, is a vibrant ELCA community committed to fostering peace, love, and understanding by creating connections to God, each other, and neighbors. As a Reconciling in Christ congregation, Prince of Peace strives to create welcoming spaces for all community members to engage in meaningful dialogue and service.

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