Stewardship Ministry

Hospitality

As described on the ‘Pillars of Hospitality’ page, eight parishioners here at St. Margaret Mary parish have been meeting monthly for about a year, discerning how we might bring stewardship to our parish and developing plans we hope will encourage all to participate. We decided to begin our stewardship journey with the pillar of ‘Hospitality’.
Why ‘hospitality’? In the Pillars of Stewardship, the Diocese of Wichita, Kansas, writes,
“When I was a stranger, you welcomed me.” (Mt. 25:35). Jesus Christ teaches that whenever we welcome one of the least of our sisters and brothers, we welcome Christ Himself. Parishioners of a stewardship parish seek to see the face of Christ in one another.
Hospitality leads to a sense of ownership among parishioners. This ownership and personal involvement fosters a sense of “belonging.” When parishioners experience a warm and sincere welcome, they in turn become open to give themselves to others.
“When I first arrived at St. Margaret Mary, I experienced such a warm welcome: the greeters at the doorways, friendly smiles while exchanging of greetings during Mass, and Father after Mass greeting everyone on their way home. It gave me a very good feeling to be part of this faith community.”
                                                                                    — A New Parishioner
Consider the following questions related to hospitality.

1. Do I take a few minutes each day to thank God for the blessings of the day?
2. Do I smile or speak to fellow parishioners and visitors to St MM?
3. Do I respond to the greeters when I enter church?
4. Have you ever complimented Father on a sermon that "touched" you?
5. Do you compliment friends and co-workers?
6. Have you agreed to take up the offertory gifts when asked?
7. Have I shared money, time, food, or clothing with those less fortunate than I?
8. Have you offered to pray for a friend, neighbor, or co-worker facing difficulty?
9. Have I offered to bring a meal or assist a friend or family member caring for an elderly relative or sick child?
10. Have I shared a "touch me" moment from God?