Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Romans 12:13

The Christian practice of hospitality was most definitely on the hearts and minds of the early church. The need to welcome strangers is just as important as it ever was. We all need to consider ways we can offer a warm welcome to all who enter our doors-- friends and visitors. There are specific things we can do to reach outside our comfort zones to extend hospitality. Here are some suggestions:

1. Make it a habit each worship to meet someone you have never met before. As an opening, introduce yourself and ask the person how long they have been coming here. If that person is a member, they'll let you know, but if not, you may open a door to greet a visitor.
2. During the welcome and the sharing of peace, first turn to thoses around you before greeting your family. (Trust me, you'll see your family again, but often there are those attending by themselves who wait awkwardly while families greet one another.
3. Wear a smile!
4. Invite a friend to worship.
5. Be a bread-deliverer. Mike Thilges coordinates this ministry which delivers bread to second-time visitors.
6. Become a greeter or an usher.
7. Be a Radical - intentionally sit by someone you have never met, maybe even sit in a part of the church you have never been since you might just bump into someone new there!

This list is not exhaustive, but it is a start, and a way of opening yourself up to welcome others. Let's Do It!! (Adapted from Abiding Hope Lutheran Church, Littleton, CO.)

The Evangelism committee focuses on spreading the Gospel and growing the church. Their work of out-reach and hospitality is crucial. To learn more, talk to a committee member: Sheila Bennett, Robin Floyd, Lynda Hyberger, Sheryl Nassif, Gaylene Ryan, Joy Gibbons, Cindy Sanford.

• Join the Evangelism Committee.
• Invite a neighbor or co-worker to church.
• Show off our place, inside and out. Bring a friend or neighbor up some evening to see our playground, amphitheater, and expansion.
• Give a call ... to someone you haven't seen at church in a while. Tell 'em you miss 'em.
• Add a decoration to a Sunday School room.
• Design and make a banner.
• Provide transportation to worship.
• Deliver information to the community.
• Assist with new member activities.