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Southwest Deanery Hospitality Day

Group selfie at church leadership event

It only takes one smiling face to make a building feel like home

Members of the Archdiocese of Atlanta’s “South Deanery” gathered for a day of Faith Formation at the Saint Philip Benizi Catholic Church Campus. Church staff and leaders from nine different parishes listened to talks from Deacon Rick Medina (Office of Mission Advancement), Father Michael T. Martin, OFM Conv. (Saint Philip Benizi), and The Most Reverend John Nhàn Trần, Auxiliary Bishop of Atlanta. This time of learning invited attendees to broaden their scope so that they could appreciate the myriad ways in which we are called by Christ to be hospitable. 

Are parishioners guests or hosts?  Why is it important to be hospitable? These two main questions led to breakout discussions in which it was decided that hospitality is “not just corrective behavior but a call to greater holiness.” Many felt that it was an honor to be called through their positions to “reflect the face of Christ.” As parishioners who are proud to call their church their home, they felt it was an honor to host newcomers.  

How can we be more welcoming as a parish and as a diocese? Individual parishes and parish offices are the “Front Porch of the Church”, and it is truly the heart of discipleship- to welcome others as Jesus did.  

Please continue to pray for our diocese as we work towards a more hospitable and welcoming environment for all.