By Sylvia Powers
Gospel and Gumbo, hosted by Giselle Fisher Ray, is a growing faith-based gathering designed to bring women together around honest conversation, spiritual growth, and community. Inspired by Ray’s early experiences at Union Baptist Church in Denver, where learning happened through open dialogue rather than formal lessons, the gathering began in 2018 with just five or six women seated around a table.
Today, Gospel and Gumbo has grown to more than 80 women, creating a welcoming space where participants can ask questions, share life experiences, and deepen their trust in God. Ray says the vision came through prayer and reflection, recalling the powerful fellowship she once experienced in women’s ministry retreats. That inspiration led to the addition of a summer retreat component to the ministry.
The name Gospel and Gumbo also reflects Ray’s roots as a native of New Orleans. “The gospel represents the spiritual nourishment, and the gumbo represents the comfort and connection that comes from sharing a meal,” she explained.
In this season, particularly during the holidays, Ray says the message of Gospel and Gumbo is especially important as many people face personal challenges. “It’s about continuing to grow in the Word, trusting God for wisdom, and moving forward even when things don’t look clear,” she said. “You don’t walk by what you see with your physical eyes, but by faith, trusting that God’s promises are true.”
