Hospitality in a Church Office

If you think about it, it usually takes a lot of courage for someone to come to the office of a church.

 Sometimes, it's for a scheduled meeting with one of the pastors -- for spiritual guidance, sometimes to plan a wedding, sometimes to share a ministry put on their heart, but always for something.

Sometimes it's a quick drop in for a hug, a cup of coffee, or a piece of chocolate. Maybe someone wants to pick something up or put something in the bulletin.  Maybe its a forgotten item.

The most touching, though, are visitors who are so broken that they simply show up; they don't know what to say or do, but here they are.  Weeping, angry, desperate...not sure where to turn, and so they are here.

In light of this, the most tragic heartbreak would be for someone to feel unwelcome at a church.  This is the place that Christ has ordained as an embassy of His Kingdom on earth.  A place of teaching, healing, correction, and overall, love. A place to begin to live out His call with fellow believers.

Sometimes, a lot of times,  the pastors just aren't available.  Or they are running late while they serve others.  God's time-table is never our time table.

The office is where people must wait.

First and foremost, the rule is that paperwork can wait.  There is a person created in the image of God in this very office and they deserve full attention and ministering.  I can listen, pray with, cry with, and sometimes even counsel during this time.

Hospitality is an asset at any time.  Food is set out--both healthy and a bit of junky.  Coffee is on, or tea.  And water.

If a person really doesn't want to talk to the secretary, there are books and magazines to keep occupied. That is also a time of silent prayer.

When the pastors do come in and meet with this person, I usually send in a plate of cookies to continue to personal touch.  And then I pray again.