love feast

The story

From love + feast, partial calque of Latin agape and Koine Greek ἀγάπη (agápē).

First known use, by meaning

• from 16th c. A symbolic communal meal held by early Christians in commemoration of the eucharist.
• from 17th c. A religious service held by Moravians, Methodists and some other group, in imitation of such gatherings, characterised by partaking in a simple meal.
• from 17th c. Any banquet or gathering to promote goodwill among the participants.