Hosting Belonging: How Small Picnics Build Community (Trifling Picnic Update)

"Trifling Picnic Update"

In this uplifting episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson brings a gentle reminder about the power of community, laughter, and togetherness, all centered around the tradition of picnics. Drawing from years of experience holding the beloved Trifling Picnic, Phil takes us on a brief journey through the roots of this event, its whimsical connection to John Wesley, and the important changes coming this year.

For over a decade, the Trifling Picnic has served as a space for friends, families, and new acquaintances to relax, laugh, and connect. Phil playfully revisits Wesley’s admonition against clergy being “triflingly employed,” and invites listeners to reclaim trifling in today’s fast-moving world—not as something wasteful, but as essential nourishment for the human spirit.

This year brings a new twist. Instead of gathering everyone in Bloomington for one large event, Phil and the Belonging Exchange encourage listeners to host their own small picnics in their communities. He suggests that these gatherings can be especially meaningful if they bring together not only old friends and family, but also people we may not know as well—especially those of different backgrounds, faiths, or experiences. The hope is that these micro-picnics can foster new connections and encourage a genuine exchange of belonging, bridging societal gaps and building friendship across divides.

Listeners are invited to share their own picnic stories and photos with the Belonging Exchange. In fact, Phil shares that some listeners are already planning their gatherings—an exciting sign of momentum. Submissions will be shared on the Belonging Exchange website, spreading the encouragement and bringing even more communities into this growing tapestry of togetherness.

As the spirit of the Trifling Picnic spreads, Phil imagines dozens of joyful gatherings from the Midwest to Virginia, California, and beyond—each one a small act of community-building.

Key Takeaways:

1. Redefining “Trifling”: Relaxation and play are vital for healthy community, and taking time to enjoy one another is never wasted.
2. Smaller Gatherings, Broader Impact: By encouraging listeners to host their own picnics, the movement can reach more communities and create deeper, more personal connections.
3. Embracing Diversity: Phil encourages inclusivity by inviting guests from different backgrounds, highlighting the value of diverse relationships.
4. Sharing Our Stories: Community is strengthened when we share our experiences—photos and stories from these picnics will inspire others and create a shared sense of belonging.
5. A Movement, Not Just an Event: The trifling picnic tradition is evolving into a wider movement of community, stretching across states and bringing people together everywhere.

To join in or learn more, visit belongingexchange.org . Share your story, make new connections, and be part of a wider circle of encouragement!