What does it mean to be a welcoming church? Greeting people at the front door on Sunday is a great start, but true Christian hospitality is far more. Each week the Welcome team is reminded of Romans 15:7 which provides the foundation for all we do: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”

What does welcome really mean? How do we welcome others—on Sunday morning and beyond? Answering these questions addresses the very first question asked above and what I hope Christ Church is continuing to grow in—welcoming others for the glory of God! Welcome, the word used in the ESV translation, means to receive or accept. Paul is using Romans 15 to encourage the church to accept all in the body—not to worry about the differences they faced, whether they were Jew or Gentile—and focus on their shared identity in Christ. This idea of 'receiving' goes beyond mere tolerance; it implies intentional love and hospitality.

Charles Spurgeon wrote the following about Romans 15:7, “Christ did not receive us because we were perfect, because he could see no fault in us, or because he hoped to gain somewhat at our hands. Ah, no! But, in loving condescension covering our faults, and seeking our good, he welcomed us to his heart; so, in the same way, and with the same purpose, let us receive one another.” If Christ welcomed us despite our faults, we too must actively welcome others—not because they are like us, but because they are loved by God. This reflects the grace we've received. Welcoming others is one of the ways we can truly live all of life in light of the gospel!

Understanding Paul’s Romans 15 charge provides depth and clarity surrounding the joy of welcoming others on Sunday morning. His charge moves beyond the perfunctory friendly hello and handshake that generally exists at nearly all churches today. Of course, we say good morning, but what else do we do? What else should we do? What does the way we welcome others tell them of what we believe about God? There are several things we aim to do on Sunday that reflects our commitment to welcoming everyone well. From the front door to the welcome table and the explanations in our order of worship, all aspects of Sunday morning are intended to make visitors and members feel welcomed and included. While the welcome team plays a key role in these efforts, every member of Christ Church contributes to creating a culture of hospitality by greeting those you meet, making meaningful connections, and guiding visitors to pastors or the Welcome Table for more information. We all help remove barriers that might distract visitors from hearing the sermon, understanding the gospel, and worshiping Christ. This is a shared effort of the church and truly is an act of worship.

Our church openly gathers several times a month outside of Sunday worship. Invitations to community groups and other church gatherings help visitors and members get connected. Their invitation and hopeful attendance allows them to experience further who we are and provides us with additional opportunities to welcome them well into the community. Outside of formal church events we can host people in our home, go out to dinner, call, and meet up at the park; there are many opportunities to welcome others well and practice our hospitality. Ultimately, welcoming others leads to deeper discipleship. As visitors learn more about our church through hospitality, they may feel called to pursue membership—a vital step in becoming an active part of the body of Christ.

Christ Church, let us strengthen our resolve to live all of life in light of the gospel. Greet someone you haven’t met. Open your home to someone new. Let your life reflect the gospel so that God is glorified in how we welcome and receive one another!