A portion of Matthew 25:35-45 reads “I was a stranger and you received me into your homes.”

The church is our home.  The Triodion and many services of Great and Holy Lent offer the chance to receive people who may only participate in Pre-Sanctified Liturgies, Salutations to the Virgin Mary, Saturday of the Souls, and other services offered this time of year – services that hold a special place in their hearts. And Lent leads to Palm Sunday (and ultimately, Pascha) the most attended Sunday of church during the calendar year.

Does your parish have a welcoming ministry? Now is the time to make sure people on that team are in place to warmly welcome people to Lenten services. Instead of asking “where have you been?” say to parishioners “It’s wonderful having you in church,” ask about their well-being, their family and if there is anything the parish can do for them.

Are welcome ministry folks equipped to answer questions about the life of the parish, about stewardship, parish outreach and more? Is your parish offering texts for people to follow along? Better still, is your parish offering opportunities for people to be involved in services – making kolyva or prosphora, serving as readers, and more.

How we receive people into our homes during Lent (and every day) leaves a lasting impression, offers an opportunity to reengage lapsed parishioners and share the care and warmth of our parishes. Let us put forth our best effort, so that our guests—whether returning members or new visitors— encounter Christ in our presence, and through His Church find their salvation. A blessed Lent to all!