Hospitality Ministry at MDUMC
Defining Hospitality
The Greek word for hospitality means "lover of strangers." In ancient cultures is was considered rude not to offer food and shelter to travelers and strangers. As God's children, we are still called to that task of offering food and shelter—shelter from life's storms and trials, acceptance and comfort—and spiritual nourishment, food that feeds the soul.
Becoming Lovers of Strangers
We should continually expect that God will be sending people our way, so it is our call to be prepared to receive them. That simply means being aware of those around us, not just the familiar faces. First time guests ask themselves three questions: Is there anyone here like me meaning age, gender, marital status, etc. , Is anyone interested in me , and Does anyone care that I am here Our answer to these questions should be a resounding "YES!"
Did You Know
First time guests make up their minds as to whether or not they will make a return visit to a church within the first 10 minutes on campus. At MDUMC, just finding a parking place can take that long! So, how do we make sure they will find a place to park and make it into the building where they can make a more informed decision about our church home
Here are some easy suggestions:
- Utilize our satelite parking to leave more available spaces at the main campus.
- Greet everyone you encounter and truly acknowlege them. If they look lost or overwhelmed, offer to help them navigate our campus.
- Act excited to be at your church home. If you're not excited, why would anyone else want to be here
- Sit in the center of your pew, don't make people crawl over you.
- Wear your nametag.
- Become a volunteer in hospitality ministries, even children are welcome to assist.
How to Become Involved
- Become a greeter, welcoming folks as they enter our campus. Volunteers work on a rotating basis.
- Become an usher or a pew pastor. Ushers choose the regularity of their Sunday duty and pew pastors do their "undercover work" in the midst of worshipping.
- Contact Joe Center to volunteer or answer your questions at 713/468-8356 or joecenter@mdumc.org.