Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unaware.
The welcome table in the Queen’s courtyard on Sunday mornings is a sacred place. The members of the Welcome team spend time once a month before and after the service to welcome all visitors. We welcome visitors from our neighborhood, from across the city and from all over the United States. Recently we welcomed guest from The Anglican Church of South Kora that were looking for a Spiritual Home in San Diego. As we welcome visitors, we share information about the many ministries our Church offers and answer any questions they may have.
If the visitors are interested in learning more or joining the Church, we invite them to share their contact information, and the Evangelism team sends a welcome letter and invites them to attend special events including a newcomer’s brunch. The brunch is a time for newcomers to meet Clergy, Chapter members and other newcomers. This summer I welcomed a visitor who had attended our Light Up the Cathedral for Pride service. She said she felt welcomed at that service and wanted to come again to our Sunday service.
Recently I welcomed a woman for the first time before the service. She asked if she needed to sign the guest book before she attended the service. I explained that she did not, however if she wanted to know more about the church or wanted to join the church she could sign in after the service. As soon as the service ended, she came to me and said, “Sign me up, the music here is so beautiful and that sermon was exactly what I needed to today”. She now attends regularly.
If you feel called to join our greeter’s team or have questions about the ministry, please contact Susan Jester Jesters@stpaulcathedral.org or Martin Nace Hall hallm@stpaulcathedral.org.
Martin Nace Hall
Licensed Lay Evangelist
