Welcome: Giving and Receiving

When I first came to St. Matthews, I hoped I would have something to offer. St. Matthews isblessed with many things. I wanted to give something to St. Matthews and it seemed that thechurch and congregation already had everything. I did find my place and I found that there was plenty of room for me. Thanks be to God!

From my experience I learned that welcoming involves giving and receiving. We can give butwe also need to be able to receive the gifts our visitors and newcomers bring with them.

On the giving side: What can we offer to those who visit St. Matthews? Are there gifts we can give them that illuminate a better way of life? In fact, the Way of Life? Can we give the gift of our genuine hospitality and welcome to each and every one? Can we listen and learn from our visitors and find ways to connect with them, whether they choose to continue at St. Matthews or just are visiting once or occasionally?

On the receiving side: If they choose to become a part of St. Matthews, can we find a real place for each one? Can we open our hearts and committees and our pews to them? Can we listen to new ideas and welcome difference and diversity? It’s not always easy to welcome change but it is essential for maintaining relevance in our changing world. And for being true to the revolutionary spirit of the Gospel.

So, why are newcomers important to St. Matthews? Why do we need more members or participants? Primarily, it’s because we have an unlimited supply of love to share. We need more folks to share it with, to embrace with all the love that is overflowing among us, around us and through us. We need more people to be in our community of love.It’s a special kind of love. It’s a Jesus love, so it’s a compassionate love. It’s a love full of hope. It’s a love that seeks and cherishes justice and mercy. It’s a love that is continually being renewed in the community of worship and fellowship and in the silence of prayer and meditation.

This love is giving and receiving, forgiving and being forgiven. For all. And it has no end.

Jill Hofler, co chair of the Newcomers Committee