An article for July editions of parish magazines from the Archdeacon of Worcester, Mark Badger.
The ministry of welcome is at the heart of the Gospel: it is what Jesus does and teaches us to do. We need to be especially aware of this truth when new people move into the community. They come excited about a new house and new opportunities, but perhaps also nervous and apprehensive about finding their place in a new setting. Welcome and hospitality underpin all mission and ministry in our parishes and most especially in areas of new housing development.
A small token of appreciation can make a significant impact on new residents’ experience of their new community. Have you ever though how you might welcome new members to your community? How about saying welcome with a plant?
Saying welcome with a potted flower or plant is like sharing a piece of joy that keeps growing! It can be your way of saying, “We’re thrilled you’re here!” and making them feel at home in your community. This little green friend isn’t just any gift; it’s a reminder that just like the plant, their place in the community, and perhaps the church family too, can bloom and flourish in their new home.
As a Diocese we have developed a ‘welcome’ pack to help parishes to reach out to new residents and you can find out more on the website www.cofe-worcester.org.uk/news/reaching-those-moving-into-new-homes.php
We can all be involved in the ministry of welcome, helping to build and strengthen community life. Some of us will feel comfortable knocking on a door to deliver a gift of welcome, others may not, but young or old we can all get involved by taking a cutting and nurturing it until it is ready to be given as a symbol of our welcome and love.
