Envisioning Radical Hospitality

At the last Team Leaders and Staff meeting (February 24) we reviewed and continued the discussion started at our Leadership Retreat held at the beginning of February. Our discussion focused on how we can move into becoming a community of faith (consisting of several worshiping communities) that makes the practice of Radical Hospitality a number one priority. I have always linked Radical Hospitality with Extravagant Generosity (one example). Modeling Extravagant Generosity as a congregation is important for us to grow this holy trait in individuals. Nelson Searcy has written an article, Creating a Culture of Generosity, that gives some practical pointers from his own church. The article ends with some questions for reflection and discussion.

During our discussion I made some notes which I have been asked to share. So here they are. They are not pretty, complete, or polished. But I trust they will trigger memories and elicit responses, conversations, and the implementation of new ideas for practicing Radical Hospitality.


In addressing Issues of hospitality, how does each team plays a role?
Identifying problems - what hospitality issues keep popping up?
Getting the idea across that even if you serve an hour and your services aren't needed doesn't mean your time was wasted. "They also serve who only stand and wait."  (John Milton)
The importance of modeling Radical Hospitality (leaders first, members and regular attenders next)
How can we connect better (and help others to connect better) with our mission, vision, values?
Procedures in Care Ministry includes Guests and Members
First Impressions - Front Door Team - greeters / signage
ALL the doors.
Inside the Door - greeters - ushers - escorts
greeters inside and outside before and after services

Guest Hospitality Team

• Initial Contact with gift and information - 
• 2nd visit gets a postcard
• 3rd visit contact with Fellowship Friend

Fellowship friends - take on a family for three months - assigned after third visit

How to join - Is it too easy to join
Need to beef up new member procedure?
What do we want to cover at membership classes?
When and how often should we have the classes?

Announcements
* a nursery is available for you...
* bathrooms
Fixed column in bulletin about basic information and how to find things


Let the conversation begin. Please share.