Moms Who Lunch: Casual Connection, Catholic Community

Sometimes all it takes is a lunch break to build something beautiful.

Moms Who Lunch is a new ministry launching this summer (July 24th) at the Mother of God Family of Parishes. Founded by Ashleigh Bakos, a mom of one, a recent Catholic convert, and a parishioner at St. Charles Borromeo, this group is designed for moms in all seasons of life—from those trying to conceive to grandmothers with grown children—to come together, relax, and find friendship over a shared meal.

Ashleigh, who moved to Dayton a few years ago to join her husband Weston in his hometown, knows firsthand how hard it can be to build community in the busyness of motherhood. “As a full-time working mom, I always found it hard to join the traditional Mom to Mom groups, Bible studies, or weekday gatherings. Most things happened during the day or afternoon, when I was either working or juggling family obligations—and I started to feel like I was missing out on getting to know other moms in our parish.” she says. “I didn’t want to start something that felt like another commitment. I just wanted to take something I’m already doing—eating lunch—and turn it into something meaningful.”

And that’s exactly what Moms Who Lunch is.

This ministry is simple by design. There’s no prep, no pressure—just a casual meet-up at a local restaurant, where moms can come as they are, kids in tow if they’d like. The goal is to offer each other a bit of connection and encouragement as we each strive to live liturgically, love our families well, and make space for faith in our everyday lives.

Ashleigh, who joined the Catholic Church last year and had Bence baptized in October at St. Charles, describes her journey to faith as one led by love and guided by God’s providence. “It was really God that brought us here.” she shares. Now, Ashleigh volunteers in the parish nursery and is excited to give back through this welcoming ministry.

All moms are welcome: new moms, expecting moms, spiritual moms, grandmas, and empty-nesters. Whether you’re deeply involved in parish life or haven’t been to Mass in a while, this is a space to belong.

Moms Who Lunch is hosting their first meeting on July 14th at noon, at Doubledays in Centerville. RSVPing is recommended– please scan this QR code for more information.