Research data indicates most churches receive more visitors in a year than their average attendance. Many churches will receive worship visitors at a rate of 150% of their average attendance per year. That means if UUMC’s average attendance is 250, we could be welcoming as many as 350-400 visitors each year. Of course, some people are only here for special occasions or family visits. Some, though, are looking for a new faith community to call home.

High-quality Christian hospitality is essential to making guests feel welcomed and affirmed. It also increases the likelihood they will return. It may help them move from guests to members of our family. Hospitality is the first step in making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

You are the most important person a guest at our church encounters. Your role in Christian hospitality is very important! Therefore, I invite you to a special workshop at University United Methodist Church: “Practicing Radical Hospitality.” This event is open to the entire congregation because it is essential that everyone practice radical hospitality.

The workshop will be held on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in Asbury Hall. If you cannot attend January 18, this workshop will be repeated on Saturday, January 28, from 10:00 to 11:30 am. The workshop will also be offered early next fall and become a regular part of UUMC’s schedule. I hope you will attend a January workshop. Christian hospitality is one of the most important ministries any disciple will ever be engaged in.