Saturday, March 1, 2014

Open your door, open your heart

                             Despite warm and welcoming parishes all over the country, many Catholics still struggle to find a parish home.  Large parishes can be intimidating while plugging into smaller, established ones can be difficult, too.  What can we do to welcome new or returning Catholics to our parish homes?
                            Open your door 
                            Masses in the early Church were held in the homes of believers.  New or prospective Christians were introduced to the faith in loving, personal environments.  Consider inviting new parishioners to your home for dinner and introduce them to other parishioners, or become part of your parish hospitality efforts to welcome new or returning Catholics.
                            Open Your heart
                             Look for those in your family, among friends, or in the workplace who might be searching for a spiritual home.  Invite someone new each month to share Mass and a meal.  Give a tour of the church and introduce the pastor.  Let your visitor know that your parish can use his gifts and he will find a new family in your parish.

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