My congregation has entered into some preliminary conversations with Mount Olive AME Church, a predominantly African-American congregation in neighboring Fort Myers. Our hope is to form a partnership that crosses various boundaries, so that together we might reach out to the wider community. We have talked about the possibilities of shared mission efforts, youth work and worship experiences. Time alone will tell how all that turns out. I am excited about the prospects!
This past Sunday I was off and so I thought I'd take the opportunity to worship at Mount Olive. I called the pastor on Friday to give him a heads up that I'd be in the congregation on Sunday. He said that would be lovely.
I fully expected to do just that--sit in the pews and simply enjoy the service. But when I arrived, the pastor had stationed a layperson at the sanctuary doors to be on the look out for me. Then he invited to be sit in the chancel with him. During the service I was introduced, asked to say a few words, and very much to my surprise, presented with a gift basket filled with good things to eat! I was stunned! Person after person came up to greet me, shake may hand and tell me how glad they were that I was there.
In the United Church of Christ we talk about "extravagant welcome"--and I experienced that on Sunday! I don't imagine we could pass out gift baskets to every visitor (in season we can have fifty or sixty visitors some Sundays!) , nor ask each one to "offer a few words"--but we can, and should, be on the lookout for those who are new, offering them a warm welcome, with words and a handshake, and an invitation to Coffee Hour. Like my new pastor friend in Fort Myers, we can be watching for them at the door! And not just at church. We can be expecting newcomers in our wider communities as well, seeking to help them feel welcome. Folks who look like us--and those who don't.
Well done, Mount Olive--thanks for a great morning!
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