I frequently hear of newer parishioners who feel welcomed here at Holy Cross… It might have been the general atmosphere of welcome and spirit that many people experience here at Mass, but I’m guessing, and hoping, that it was due to parishioners making a conscious effort to acknowledge and welcome them.

I encourage all our parishioners to be ministers of hospitality, ministers of welcome, at our Masses. Since most parishioners sit in the same area of the church each week, you would notice that someone new is sitting in your general vicinity. If that happens, it is your “responsibility” as a member of the parish to welcome them as a visitor, a prospective parishioner, or a new parishioner… “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)

Anyone who visits our church should be made to feel welcome as soon as they enter the church. If, before Mass begins, when we invite you to extend a gesture of welcome to those around you, you notice someone you don’t know, go out of your way, even out of your pew, to introduce yourself to that person and welcome them. That would make quite a wonderful impression on a visitor and a possible new parishioner. Thank you to all those parishioners who contribute to the family spirit of welcome that so many experience here at Holy Cross. In invite every parishioner to contribute to that wonderful spirit.