Real Local RVA and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church present Professor Norman Wirzba, from Duke University Divinity School, with The Gift of Food, an evening of enlightened conversation at 7 p.m., April 7, at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. Wirzba will discuss the importance of recognizing food as a gift to be treasured versus food as a commodity: a Q&A will be moderated by Real Local RVA co-chair Hunter Hopcroft. Following the program, there will be a book signing for Wirzba’s Food and Faith and a sampling of delicious local food.

              Humans are creatures dependent upon food; it is the basis for our survival and it plays a major role in determining our health and well-being. Yet, most people have lost a very important connection to this thing that has such an impact on our daily lives. Wirzba’s work speaks to the importance of that connection. He writes: “To receive food as a gift, and to share it with each other, opens up a new way of imagining a community’s economic life together and forms a tangible connection to the natural world.”

Cost is $20 for Real Local RVA participants and supporters; $25 general admission. Location: 6000 Grove Ave. For tickets and more information, visit reallocalrva_norman_wirzba.eventbrite.com.