After “inspiring worship,” our parish mission statement is followed by “gracious welcoming.” Time and again, the statement, “I felt so welcomed,” has been shared with the staff and me when people explain why they registered as new parishioners. Within the last year, 61 households (82 individuals) have registered at Saint Noel, and we are pleased to officially welcome them at our New Parishioner Night: Wednesday, June 18, at 6 pm. I thank you, too, for offering a gracious welcome every time a guest celebrant joins us for liturgy when I take time away from the parish.
Exercising hospitality means actively showing kindness and warmth to guests or strangers. It involves sharing our home, time, and resources to make others feel welcomed and cared for. Biblical hospitality encourages Christians to embrace this practice as a way to show love and compassion. In his letters, Saint Paul emphasizes the importance of practicing hospitality, not as a mere social obligation but as a reflection of God’s love and a way to serve one another in the Christian community. He writes to the Romans: “Contribute to the needs of the holy ones, exercise hospitality” (Rom 12:13). In Hebrews, we hear proclaimed: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Heb 13:2).
In the days ahead, our parish family will be hosting many guests. This weekend at our 11 am liturgy, we once again welcome the alumni of Cathedral Latin High School. Father Mark Hollis (retired; in residence at St. Patrick, Bridge Avenue) will be assisted by Deacon Bruce Battista (Holy Rosary, Cleveland) and serve as the celebrant. Alumni will also serve as a lector and gift bearers.
The following weekend, June 8 (Pentecost Sunday), we are pleased to welcome Bishop Michael Woost as the celebrant for the Sacrament of Confirmation at 11 am. It is our turn to serve as host; so together, with St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Willowick, we anticipate 55 Confirmandi. With their sponsors and family members, we expect a very full assembly! This liturgy will be live-streamed, and not the 9 am.
We are always looking to welcome others to help serve on our hospitality team, especially when we offer coffee and doughnuts. This ministry involves a willingness to pick up the doughnuts, set up, serve, and clean up. If interested, please let myself or a staff member know.
Graciously,
Fr. Terry