“T herefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” – Romans 15:7 ESV
Recently, I received a thank-you card from one of the participants of the Refresh! Women’s Retreat that we hosted at Resurrection a few weeks ago. 65 women spent the day here worshipping, learning, and having fun together. That participant from Rochester wrote:
“Thank you and your hospitality team members for all the special effort of hosting the women’s retreat event held in your church on Saturday. As one of the attendees, I felt welcomed from the moment I walked in and all through the day: a wonderful building stewarded by congenial Christians – greatly appreciated.”
Hospitality is one of the things that sets Resurrection Church apart. This woman’s event has been held in numerous churches over the years. The leaders said they have never been welcomed by such hospitality.
Over 30 community groups use our building free of charge each year, from the High School Respect retreat to AA, Scouts, MomCo, River Valley Band Board, and neighborhood groups. Almost universally, they comment on the welcome they receive. We do this to bless our community in the name of Jesus. We have been blessed to be a blessing.
Hebrews 13:2 says, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Well, I don’t know if any of these groups have angels in them. Not all of them are strangers, either. Most are our neighbors. What I do know is that your church is doing its best to show hospitality. And our efforts are appreciated.
Thank you for blessing our community.
Pastor Mark