Hospitality is a powerful ministry. Jesus never preached to anyone before he had addressed some human need. First he fed them, healed them, comforted them, made them feel like they belonged and were welcome. He opened their hearts to the divine by paying attention to their ordinary human needs. People hear differently, respond differently, live differently, and give differently when they feel welcome.
Today: Spend a few minutes reflecting on your own parish. Sunday an out-of-town visitor will walk into your parish church for Mass. Will she feel welcomed? Do you feel welcome in your own parish? How many people do you think don’t really feel welcome in their parish?