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Hospitality - What is the plan?
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Homily
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Bulletin Article from 2/22-23Dear Brothers and Sisters,
This weekend, I shared a plan to enhance hospitality at Saint Teresa by fostering a prayerful environment before and after Mass while also deepening our sense of community. Below is a summary of this initiative. You can also visit saintt.com/hospitality for the written homily or watch the live-streamed homily at https://www.youtube.com/@sttsvalpo/streams.
When I arrived at Saint Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center in July 2022, I was warmly welcomed. If I asked our community to describe itself, I’m confident nearly everyone would say we are welcoming. I, too, have experienced this through invitations to dinner, getting to know our staff, and meeting students and families.
Alongside this strength, I’ve also noticed a desire among many to have a quiet space for prayer before and after Mass. Our community has two great gifts: a desire for fellowship and a deep commitment to prayer. However, these sometimes conflict, as conversations in the worship space can make it difficult for some to pray.
To address this, we are making a few adjustments. Before Mass, hospitality ministers will greet attendees at the doors. While brief greetings among parishioners are welcome, I ask that extended conversations take place in the community room, downstairs hall, or outside when weather permits.
As Mass begins, our music ministry may offer a prelude, followed by my welcome and an invitation to introduce yourself to someone new—your “prayer partner” for the Mass. This practice will only occur at weekend Masses, not daily Masses. Also, this means that announcements will move to the end of Mass. After Mass, I encourage everyone to spend a few moments in thanksgiving. Those who wish to socialize are invited to do so outside the worship space.
I recognize this is a shift in our current practices, but my goal is to cultivate both a spirit of prayer and a welcoming atmosphere. This change ensures that those seeking a prayerful space can do so while still allowing for meaningful community interaction elsewhere.
Thank you for your openness to this effort. If you have any questions or concerns, I am here for you!
In Christ,
Fr. Jacob